The greatest battle in life is between you and yourself.
If you’ve ever dealt with skin problems, you’ll know that keeping your complexion blemish-free comes in a close second.
While I’ve never suffered from severe acne, factors like stress, diet, and drugstore face wash tend to antagonize my pores, resulting in a face peppered with blackheads.
The ladies have historically enjoyed an abundance of skincare products while the fellas have been overlooked.
But now that’s changing, as modern men’s skincare mainstays like Geologie, Tiege Hanley, and Lumin have proven.
If you haven’t developed a skincare routine, the options can be paralyzing, and going through a process of trial and error can irritate your skin and your pockets.
Experimenting with skincare is a dance you don’t want to do. Is Disco Skincare the answer to flawless skin? I’ll get into it.
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What Is Disco Skincare?
Disco was founded in 2019 by Benjamin Smith who noticed a lack of effective, male-centric skincare options in the market. On top of that, he felt that many cosmetic products contained synthetic chemicals with little available information on why they’re used. He decided to do something about it.
Disco’s no-frills assortment of men’s skincare strives to offer everything you’ll need, whether that’s a full regimen of washes and moisturizers, or just a tube of sunscreen to keep the crow’s feet away.
Supported by their in-house Chief Science Officer, Dr. Eva Simmons-O’Brien, Disco proudly declares their nine products to be vegan, cruelty free, and natural. The brand foregoes potentially harmful substances such as aluminum and parabens (an artificial preservative commonly found in cosmetics) so you can worry less about what your skin is absorbing.
Which sounds pretty good to me—it is organ, after all.
When it comes to skincare management, Disco aims to alleviate and inform. On each product page, you’ll find a list of the ingredients that are responsible for the product’s intended use and how they work.I think this is a welcomed improvement from the microscopic list of scientific jargon on most labels.
Things to Consider Before Buying Skincare Products from Disco
Before deciding on Disco Skincare, consider your personal skincare needs and how they align with Disco’s offerings.
The brand is aimed specifically at men, focusing on ease of use, natural ingredients, and transparency of their ingredients. They cater to a wide range of skincare requirements, from basic daily essentials to targeted treatments for specific issues like under-eye puffiness or blemishes.
Moreover, Disco places an emphasis on eco-friendliness, avoiding harmful substances like parabens and aluminum. This is ideal if you’re concerned about the impact of your skincare routine on your health and the environment.
Also, be prepared to develop a consistent skincare regimen as many of Disco’s products require regular application for optimum results.
Disco's male-centric skincare line does efficiently and effectively simplify your self-care routine. If you're conscious about what you're putting on your body, the brand's transparent, all-natural formulations set them apart from mass-market options. Though, their limited fragrance and sizing options are minor drawbacks.
Disco Skincare Review
Unboxing
My Disco skincare package arrived with thoughtful packaging, featuring a branded cardboard box that set the tone for the unboxing experience. Inside, the individually packaged boxes were neatly aligned like Tetris blocks.
Each box comes in a shade of sleek gray, showing off Disco’s distinctive aesthetic and creating a visually cohesive presentation. Thin, folded gray papers were placed beneath the boxes, providing both a fun touch and added protection during shipping.
An info card offered insights into the benefits of each skincare product, highlighting Disco’s commitment to customer education I mentioned earlier.
Repairing Eye Stick
A glowing complexion goes beyond smooth skin. Dark circles and under-eye bags make you look drained and old.
The Repairing Eye Stick is Disco’s remedy for puffy, tired-looking eyes.
The small tube comes equipped with a small roller ball for easy application. Disco recommends applying morning and night. It takes a few weeks to see results, and I found that you need to apply consistently to see improvements.
The liquid itself is thin, so it applies evenly and doesn’t leave any visible residue. Pycnogenol, a compound derived from the French Maritime pine tree, is an antioxidant used to reduce puffiness around the eyes and gives the product a fresh, minty sensation.
I like the small size of the Eye Stick because it doesn’t take up much room in my travel kit. Traveling tends to make my eyes dreary and swollen, so taking it with me on trips is a must. The only downside is that I’ll have to use it daily in order to maintain the benefits of the Eye Stick, so it isn’t an instant cure for travel-induced puffiness.
The Repairing Eye Stick is Disco’s remedy for puffy, tired-looking eyes. I love that it fits easily into my travel dopp kit. While it takes a few weeks to see results, I did see improvements when I applied morning and night consistently.
Charcoal Face Cleanser Stick
The unique form factor of the Charcoal Face Cleanser Stick stuck out to me. Almost all face cleansers I’ve used before were liquid inside a tube or bottle, so I was pretty intrigued to find out what a solid cleanser was like.
Charcoal, renowned for its ability to absorb toxins, has seen a massive surge in popularity in the self-care industry recently.
Its presence was noticeable on my first use. The gray residue it leaves behind made me feel like a seasoned skincare pro. After a quick rinse with wet hands, the residue is gone and you’re left with a subtle aura of eucalyptus.
The Charcoal Face Cleanser Stick works well with my oily skin. By the time I get home after a long day, the skin on my face has a noticeable shine. A quick rinse with the cleanser stick wicks away the buildup without drying my skin.
The eucalyptus fragrance isn’t as strong in the cleanser stick compared to some of Disco’s other products. I’m a fan of the scent, but I don’t mind the cleanser being less potent.
A frequent traveler myself, I like that the solid cleanser won’t be an issue going through security, since most fluids are a no-go. Plus, I can pack it in my checked bag knowing it won’t explode all over my stuff in case the luggage handlers are in a bad mood that day.
Disco's Charcoal Face Cleanser Stick works really well with my oily skin. By the time I get home after a long day, the skin on my face has a noticeable shine. A quick rinse with the cleanser stick wicks away the buildup without drying me out.
Hydrating Face Moisturizer
Attractive skin simply can’t be achieved without keeping it hydrated. A trusty moisturizer is a must-have for any skincare repertoire.
As a former health and beauty merchandiser for a national retail chain, I’ve tried out a wide assortment of face lotions ranging in quality, price, and brand familiarity. As a result, I’ve refined my tastes.
Texture will always be a matter of preference, but my oily skin type doesn’t mesh well with thick moisturizers. It turns a slight glisten on my face into a full-on oil spill.
I found the thin consistency of the Hydrating Face Moisturizer to be exactly what I like. The soft texture spreads evenly on my skin and doesn’t leave a shiny film like other moisturizers I’ve tried.
The cream is eucalyptus-scented as well but with a longer-lasting effect. I like to apply the moisturizer before I leave for the day. On days when I ditch the cologne, the eucalyptus is a nice substitute to maintain a pleasant smell.
Sometimes I go overboard with how much moisturizer I squeeze, so I’ll end up draining the two-ounce tube sooner than the two months Disco states it’ll last.
A little goes a long way with the moisturizer. Since it’s so thin, getting full coverage with the recommended amount isn’t difficult. Dry skin isn’t an issue I deal with, but the hassle-free application that doesn’t leave greasiness has worked well to keep my skin type hydrated.
They offer promotions on bulk orders that can save you some bucks if you want to apply it more frequently, but I still prefer a bigger bottle instead of multiple smaller containers in my medicine cabinet.
Exfoliating Face Scrub
When it comes to skincare, facial cleanser is probably the first thing that pops into your head. It’s the first line of defense against the buildup of oil and dirt that triggers breakouts.
The Exfoliating Face Scrub is a face wash tailored to the unique needs of men’s skin.
For years, the cosmetics industry used microbeads to act as an exfoliant in face washes. These small bits of plastic are extremely harmful to the environment because they’re hard to filter and end up in bodies of water where they can be eaten by wildlife. Their use was banned in 2015.
Disco mimics the exfoliating effect of these beads with apricot kernel seed powder. The coarse bits scrub the skin’s surface for a deeper clean that removes dead skin.
It’s easy to put off shaving if you tend to get a nasty case of razor burn. If you relate to this struggle, the apricot oil found in the Exfoliating Face Scrub eases the irritation that follows a shaving session thanks to its anti-inflammatory and moisturizing properties.
Oftentimes, I’ll skip the shave due to the burning issue, but I found this to be a viable solution. If you can relate to this struggle, using the Exfoliating Face Scrub may help you overcome procrastination and finally use the razor.
According to the label, you need to apply a ‘penny-sized’ amount for each use, which isn’t as accurate as my other face wash with a pump dispenser that delivers a consistent amount. Since the bottle is only two ounces, the packaging could be improved so that you get a predictable amount of product, making it last longer as well.
The soothing effect after a shave is nice, but I rarely shave my beard down to the skin, which normally triggers razor burn.
I wash my face daily, so two ounces of product doesn’t seem like it will last based on past experiences with other cleansers with more volume. That being said, I don’t think the Exfoliating Face Scrub will become a permanent part of my skincare war chest.
It’s easy to put off shaving if you tend to get a nasty case of razor burn. If you relate to this struggle, the apricot oil found in the Exfoliating Face Scrub eases the irritation that follows a shaving session thanks to its anti-inflammatory and moisturizing properties.
Rejuvenating Face Mask
As far as skin products go, face masks are uncharted territory for me.
Disco’s Rejuvenating Face Mask claims to be an “incredibly relaxing” treatment for inflammation, acne, and puffiness.
Opening the lid, I was greeted by a thick gray paste that gave off an invigorating eucalyptus scent—definitely the most aromatic across Disco’s scented goods. Not obnoxiously so either. If anything, it reinforced the therapeutic purpose of the face mask.
The mask spreads heavily compared to their other skincare products. Once dried, the charcoal-infused clay takes on an opaque, matte finish that soothes the skin with a slight tingle.
Disco’s grooming guide recommends keeping the mask on for 10-20 minutes, which will leave you ample time to curl up with a book or your favorite sitcom while the treatment does its thing.
I can’t lie, hopping out of the shower and applying the mud-like emulsion made me feel like the stereotypical spa-goer–minus the cucumber slices over my eyes.
They were right about a relaxing treatment, but the cleanup can be the opposite if you’re not careful.
The packaging instructs to rinse off with wet hands. Dousing your face with even a small amount of water can splash the dissolved mask all over, leaving dark splotches on light fabrics or tile.
Be aware that they suggest 1-2 applications a week on days when you don’t use the facial scrub. They don’t state exactly why, but I’ll trust the expertise of their Yale-educated Chief Science Officer any day of the week.
I can’t lie, hopping out of the shower and applying the mud-like emulsion made me feel like the stereotypical spa-goer–minus the cucumber slices over my eyes. They were right about a relaxing treatment, but the cleanup can be the opposite if you’re not careful.
Mineral Sun Block
There’s no doubt that a sun-kissed glow makes you look great, however baking in the sun can come with severe consequences.
I was blessed to inherit my father’s Mediterranean skin. It bronzes quickly and rarely burns even when I’m under the summer sun all day. Despite this, I’ve noticed a growing amount of dark spots on my arms and forehead wrinkles arriving unfashionably early.
Consider Disco’s Mineral Sun Block a part of your skin’s preventative maintenance.
The 20% zinc oxide solution gives this sunblock an SPF 30 rating, which is a solid middle-ground for most skin types.
What sets Disco’s sunblock apart from others are the tripeptide and niacinamide found in the protective cream. Tripeptide is an amino acid peptide that boosts the skin’s collagen production, preserving a youthful appearance and locking in moisture at the same time. Niacinamide is a form of Vitamin B3 and combats fine lines and uneven skin coloration.
Unlike other sunblocks, Disco’s is eucalyptus-scented. Noticing a trend here?
I can’t get enough of the soothing aroma. You might not be as excited if you prefer unscented sunblock.
It’ll take a few months to see the benefits of using the Mineral Sun Block, but my arms will thank me for keeping the dark spots at bay.
The 20% zinc oxide solution gives this sunblock an SPF 30 rating, which is a solid middle-ground for most skin types. But what really sets Disco’s sunblock apart from others are the tripeptide and niacinamide found in the protective cream. And I can’t get enough of the soothing aroma.
Pimple Sticker
Sometimes you need some additional firepower to combat stubborn blemishes, and that’s where Disco’s Pimple Sticker comes in.
The adhesive pads use “self-dissolving microneedles” combined with salicylic and hyaluronic acid to apply a concentrated treatment for pimples.
Both acids combat irritation and redness. As for the self-dissolving microneedles, Disco isn’t clear on exactly what this treatment is.
My own research found that the microneedles are tiny, hollow rods made of a hard substance such as silicon or polymers that penetrate the skin for a deeper application.
The Pimple Stickers round out their lineup of regimented skincare offerings, but it would be nice if more than nine were included in one pack. Dealing with multiple pimples at one time is common, so I can see these getting used up quickly despite the two-month supply the product description suggests.
If you’re looking for a quick fix for noticeable whiteheads, these won’t be your silver bullet either. The Pimple Stickers require quite a bit of time investment per treatment—2+ hours or overnight for best results.
On the flip side, sticking them on while you kick back on the couch makes for a mess-free way to tackle troubled areas.
Sometimes you need some additional firepower to combat stubborn blemishes, and that’s where Disco’s Pimple Sticker comes in. The adhesive pads use “self-dissolving microneedles” combined with salicylic and hyaluronic acid to apply a concentrated treatment for pimples.
Daily Skin Supplement
I like to think I’m well-versed in the art of skincare, but this is the first time I’ve seen a brand offer something that works from the inside out alongside its topical goods. I was intrigued.
The Daily Skin Supplement comes with 60 yellow capsules, good for 30 days. Each dose contains a custom blend of vitamins, minerals, and probiotics suited for male skin health such as vitamin B6, niacin, and zinc.
The pills are larger than average, but nothing I can’t handle. I was worried that they would taste bad based on the deep yellow color, however, the capsules are packed tightly and don’t dissolve on the way down.
If you’re someone who already takes daily supplements, make sure you look at the full list of ingredients so you don’t stack doses. For example, I take a daily zinc supplement, but the Daily Skin Supplement contains it too, so I took a break from taking my standalone supplements while testing these.
This is an efficient way to get the vitamins you should be taking daily if you want to improve your skin. Each dose contains a custom blend of vitamins, minerals, and probiotics suited for male skin health such as vitamin B6, niacin, and zinc. The capsules are packed tightly and don’t dissolve on the way down.
Invigorating Body Wash
Disco’s Invigorating Body Wash is their largest product by volume, which means you’ll probably have to keep it at home if you plan on doing any traveling.
Shower gel is one of the main self-care products that use parabens and sulfates, so this Body Wash is a good choice if you’re looking to benefit from their all-natural formulations without changing your existing skincare routine.
The aloe found in the Body Wash moisturizes the skin to keep it hydrated and smooth. My oily skin type stays consistently hydrated, so I haven’t seen any immediate improvement.
Horsetail, a plant extract, helps wash away dead skin and promote new skin growth. This benefit is something I haven’t seen from other body washes in the market, so I’m eager to see how my skin responds over time.
I’m a huge fan of botanical scents, and the eucalyptus-scented gel is so pleasantly-potent it makes my shower smell like a spa. However, this is their only scent, so if you prefer milder soaps, the eucalyptus might be too strong for your taste.
On the value front, considering its ten ounces of all-natural body wash with skin-enhancing benefits that I fail to see from other brands, the price is pretty fair for what’s on offer.
What Do Other Reviewers Say About Disco Skincare?
Customers frequently praise Disco for its light, non-greasy formulas that deliver real results, from immediate hydration to the reduction of fine lines.
Users with sensitive and dry skin have found the moisturizer product particularly helpful, noting its immediate soothing effects and long-lasting hydration. Despite eucalyptus being their only fragrance, many reviewers enjoy the relaxing mintiness of the scent.
One reviewer, a 62-year-old construction worker from NYC, commended Disco for how quickly his skin rebounded after using their product and the compliments that followed. Some customers who bought the Repairing Eye Stick complained that the metal ball didn’t dispense serum easily. It wasn’t something I experienced, but it might be worth checking for faulty packaging if you try this product.
Disco's male-centric skincare line does efficiently and effectively simplify your self-care routine. If you're conscious about what you're putting on your body, the brand's transparent, all-natural formulations set them apart from mass-market options. Though, their limited fragrance and sizing options are minor drawbacks.
Disco Skincare Alternatives
Geologie
When it comes to skincare, both Disco and Geologie stand out in their unique ways. Your choice between the two might hinge on how you value personalization.
Geologie prides itself on offering customizable skincare routines tailor-made for your skin type based on a personal diagnostic quiz. Conversely, Disco offers a standard but versatile line of products that address general skincare needs.
You can still shop a-la-carte products from Geologie, but the real value comes from creating a personalized regimen to manage your skin’s unique needs. If you don’t know where to start, their questionnaire is a helpful tool to get a pulse on what your routine should include.
If you want to treat your skin well and not think too hard about how to do it, Geologie is a great place to start. Their well-known Complete Skincare Trial set checks the major boxes of healthy skin maintenance in an easy-to-use system.
Tiege Hanley
If you prefer skincare products with a more robust, masculine scent, then Tiege Hanley could be the superior choice. Their daily wash, for instance, offers a distinctive cedar citrus scent, which could be more appealing compared to Disco’s eucalyptus fragrance.
Also, if you’re seeking sun protection within your skincare routine, Tiege Hanley’s AM Moisturizer is integrated with SPF 20. This dual function of moisturizing and shielding your skin from harmful UV rays is something you won’t find in Disco’s Moisturizer, making Tiege worth your considerating.
Often hawked by YouTube superstar Aaron Marino, Tiege Hanley offers varying levels of skin care systems based on how much care and attention you're willing to give your face. Despite the hype, the brand lives up to their word with an uncomplicated skin care system that offers surprising value.
Lumin
If you’re looking for a one-stop-shop for grooming head to toe, Lumin may be worth a look.
With men’s hair products like Keratin Recovery Shampoo and Strengthening Conditioner, the brand serves as a comprehensive solution for your male beauty needs and covers categories that Disco currently hasn’t expanded into.
Lumin really shines with their face wash and moisturizer. Their products go on smoothly and don't leave any residues. Most importantly, they work. The brand also carries several spot treatments to help with specific skin care issues.
My Overall Thoughts on Disco Skincare
What I Like
- Clean, fresh-feeling eucalyptus scent that is consistently pleasant across its product categories.
- The benefits of their all-natural ingredients are communicated clearly.
- Moisturizer has a thin consistency that doesn’t leave residue.
- Unique solid Cleanser that’s a great option for travel.
- Cost-effective pricing structure when you subscribe or buy in bulk.
What I Don’t Like
- Rinsing off the Face Mask can be messy.
- Only one sizing option for each product is a little rigid and may make testing expensive.
- 9 Pimple Stickers seems low for one pack.
Who Is Disco Skincare For?
Disco’s passion for natural and clean ingredients makes it appealing to guys who prioritize using skincare products with minimal additives or harsh chemicals. Oh, and you need to like the smell of eucalyptus.
The Verdict
I’ve dabbled in a whole bunch of skincare remedies in my time, and Disco’s brand ethos is a standout quality.
They’re enthusiastic about all-natural skincare for men without leaning too hard into the green, eco-friendly aesthetic that is now so widespread in the industry that it can seem insincere at times.
My favorite product from them so far is the Repairing Eye Stick. I hadn’t used an eye stick before, so I appreciate the convenient and easy-to-use packaging and I can finally see my under-eye bags starting to pack their bags.
If you’re looking for a solid lineup of clean skincare essentials at a decent price from a brand with an admirable ethic, you’re unlikely to be disappointed if you boogie down with Disco.
Disco's male-centric skincare line does efficiently and effectively simplify your self-care routine. If you're conscious about what you're putting on your body, the brand's transparent, all-natural formulations set them apart from mass-market options. Though, their limited fragrance and sizing options are minor drawbacks.
FAQs
Who owns Disco skincare?
Benjamin Smith launched Disco in 2019. In 2021, he was featured in Forbes 30 Under 30.
You can follow Benjamin on Twitter.
Is Disco just for men?
Disco’s product line is designed for men’s skin, but women could use it and still see results.
How often do you apply Disco?
How often you apply something from Disco varies across their selection.
Products like the Daily Skin Supplement are directed to be taken twice daily for best results, whereas the Pimple Stickers are only to be used as needed.
Refer to the instructions on each product for the most accurate guidelines.
How do you use Disco skincare?
Disco’s nine specialized skincare products allow you to create a customized skincare routine based on the specific needs of your skin.
If you’re looking for a particular benefit like cleansing or anti-aging, Disco makes shopping their mix easy with a selection of kits that contain products.
Once you’ve received your new skincare goods, use them as directed and you’re good to go.