When Tom Holland posted wearing under-eye masks before a "secret shoot day," it sparked a wave of interest in celebrity skincare. Spider-Man's approach to his skin might surprise you—it's not about 10-step routines or luxury brands. Instead, Holland keeps things simple, practical, and honest. For anyone looking to build an effective routine without the complexity, a multifunctional face wash that combines cleansing, exfoliation, and hydration in one step aligns perfectly with this no-nonsense philosophy.
Key Takeaways
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Tom Holland's skincare approach centers on simplicity and practicality, not extensive product collections
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His verified routine includes under-eye masks, electric face massagers, LED treatments, and sheet masks—all prep tools rather than daily essentials
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The minimalist philosophy extends from his disciplined lifestyle: over two years of sobriety and consistent fitness habits
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For actors and busy professionals, multifunctional products that combine exfoliation, cleansing, and hydration save time without sacrificing results
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Holland's honest assessment of products ("probably doesn't do anything, but it makes me feel good") shows he's pragmatic about skincare
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Building a routine inspired by his approach means focusing on fundamentals: cleanse, exfoliate, hydrate, and protect
What Tom Holland Has Actually Shared About Skincare
Tom Holland's skincare reveals have been sporadic but telling. Unlike celebrities who partner with beauty brands, Holland shares what he actually uses—usually right before photoshoots or press events.
In September 2024, Holland posted about using under-eye masks before a shoot. Under-eye masks are typically used to reduce dark circles, fine lines, and hydrate the skin, though Holland didn’t mention a specific brand. The timing matters—he uses these tools for high-pressure situations when his face needs to look camera-ready.
A year earlier, in June 2023, he shared an Instagram clip using an electric face massager before an Entertainment Tonight press appearance. He swept the device across his cheeks, showing how it worked his facial muscles. Again, no brand name—just a glimpse into his pre-camera prep.
Perhaps the most revealing moment came in a 2021 GQ video where Holland mentioned Omnilux's LED-powered face mask. His take? "I was unsure if it actually does 'anything' for skin. Probably not. But it makes me feel good about myself." That honest assessment cuts through typical celebrity product hype.
Verified skincare tools Holland uses:
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Under-eye masks (brand unspecified)
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Electric face massager (brand unspecified)
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LED face mask (Omnilux)
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Sheet masks (brand unspecified)
Notice what's missing from this list: daily cleanser, moisturizer, serum, or SPF. Holland hasn't publicly shared those core routine steps, which tells us something important—either his daily routine is extremely minimal, or he keeps the basics private.
The Minimalist Philosophy: Why Less Often Works Better
Holland's approach to skincare mirrors how he handles other parts of his life. At 28 years old, he's been sober for over two years—a commitment that started with a simple January challenge in 2022. When he tried to take just one month off from alcohol, he realized how difficult it was and extended it indefinitely.
His quote reveals his mindset: "I'm quite strong-willed. When I decide to do something, I'm really gonna do it." That same discipline applies to physical fitness and likely extends to skincare routines.
When it comes to grooming products, Holland's Target picks from a February 2025 campaign show his everyday preferences lean affordable and accessible. He mentioned Old Spice Men's Deodorant in Fiji scent as "a special product for me, because it's really hard to get it in the U.K." No luxury brands, no pretension—just what works.
This minimalist approach makes sense for someone constantly traveling for film schedules. Holland mentioned in an Esquire interview that fragrances "always come in bottles bigger than 100ml, so you can't travel with them"—showing he thinks about TSA compliance and practicality.
For busy professionals, athletes, or anyone who values their time, the lesson is clear: a simple routine you'll actually stick to beat an elaborate one you'll abandon. Consistency matters more than product count.
The Foundation: Why Cleansing Matters for Healthy Skin
Every effective skincare routine starts with proper cleansing. Your skin faces a daily barrage of impurities—excess oil, environmental pollutants, sweat, and dead skin cells that accumulate throughout the day.
For actors like Holland who spend hours in makeup for film shoots, thorough cleansing becomes even more important. Makeup, stage lights, and long working hours can clog pores and stress the skin. A cleanser that removes all that buildup without stripping the skin's natural moisture barrier is essential.
What to look for in a daily cleanser:
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pH-balanced formula (4.5-5.5 to match skin's natural pH)
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Removes impurities without tightness or residue
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Gentle enough for twice-daily use
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Hydrating ingredients to prevent moisture loss
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Quick absorption for efficient routines
Most conventional cleansers handle just one job—removing dirt and oil. That means you need separate products for exfoliation and hydration, adding steps and time to your routine.
The Kipi Exfoliating Daily Cleanser was formulated for exactly this problem. It combines triple-action hydroxy acids (2.4%) for chemical exfoliation, charged hyaluronic acid (0.1%) for hydration, and DL-Panthenol (1%) to soothe skin—all in one step. For someone with Holland's minimalist approach, a multifunctional cleanser replaces three separate products.
The science behind multifunctional cleansers centers on cellular energy and skin barrier support. When a cleanser maintains the skin's natural pH while delivering active ingredients, it allows the skin to function optimally without disruption.
Exfoliation Essentials: Clearing Pores Without Irritation
Exfoliation removes the layer of dead skin cells that builds up on your skin's surface. Without regular exfoliation, these cells accumulate, leading to dull complexion, clogged pores, and rough texture.
The question isn't whether to exfoliate—it's how. Physical exfoliants (scrubs with beads or particles) can be harsh, especially if you're already dealing with sensitivity or if you scrub too aggressively. Chemical exfoliants work differently, using acids to gently dissolve the bonds between dead skin cells.
Types of exfoliating acids:
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Alpha-Hydroxy Acids (AHAs): Water-soluble acids from fruits that brighten and smooth skin surface
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Beta-Hydroxy Acids (BHAs): Oil-soluble acids like salicylic acid that penetrate pores to clear debris
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Polyhydroxy Acids (PHAs): Larger molecules that exfoliate while hydrating, gentler than AHAs
For daily use, a blend of these acids at lower concentrations delivers consistent results without the irritation risk of high-strength treatments. The key is formulation—combining acids with hydrating and soothing ingredients prevents the dryness that makes people avoid exfoliation.
Athletes and fitness enthusiasts face unique skin challenges. Holland works with trainer Duffy Gaver for intense HIIT workouts that include pullups, dips, pushups, sit-ups, and squats. That level of physical training means more sweat, which can lead to breakouts if not properly cleansed.
Post-workout cleansing with an exfoliating formula helps prevent sweat-induced breakouts while removing the buildup that occurs during exercise. The Kipi Exfoliating Daily Cleanser's triple-acid blend—AHA complex at 1%, BHA complex at 0.4%, and Gluconolactone at 1%—clears pores without over-drying, making it suitable for men's daily skincare needs.
Hydration: The Missing Step in Most Men's Routines
Hydration keeps skin plump, smooth, and resilient. When skin lacks adequate moisture, it compensates by producing more oil, leading to a cycle of oiliness and dehydration. Proper hydration supports the skin barrier—the protective layer that keeps irritants out and moisture in.
Many men skip hydration entirely, thinking their skin doesn't need it or that moisturizers feel too heavy. This is especially true for those with naturally oily skin who assume adding moisture will make them greasier.
The reality is more nuanced. Dehydrated skin—regardless of whether it's oily, dry, or combination—needs water-binding ingredients that don't feel greasy or leave residue.
How skin hydration works:
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Humectants (like hyaluronic acid) draw water into the skin
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Emollients smooth the skin surface
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Occlusives seal in moisture
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pH balance ensures the skin barrier functions properly
Hyaluronic acid is a powerful humectant that can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water. Charged hyaluronic acid carries a positive electrical charge that enhances binding to skin cells, meaning the hydration effect lasts longer, even after rinsing.
The Kipi cleanser includes 0.1% charged hyaluronic acid plus moisture-locking natural sugars that maintain water levels and improve barrier function. For busy professionals who want healthy skin without multiple steps, getting hydration from a cleanser eliminates the need for a separate toner or hydrating serum.
Understanding Your Skin: The Male Celebrity Perspective
Male skin differs from female skin in key ways. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, men's skin is approximately 25% thicker and produces more sebum due to higher testosterone levels. This means men often deal with oiliness and larger pores but may age differently, with collagen density remaining higher until later in life.
For actors who spend significant time under harsh lighting and heavy makeup, skin concerns multiply. Stage lights generate heat that triggers oil production. Makeup can clog pores if not thoroughly removed. Long shooting days mean skin doesn't get its usual recovery time.
Holland mentioned he's becoming aware of aging—he recently pulled "every muscle in my stomach" doing a backflip for his cousin. At 28-29, he's at the stage where preventative skincare starts to matter. Fine lines, uneven texture, and skin dullness begin showing up in your late twenties if you're not supporting your skin's natural renewal process.
Common male skin concerns:
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Excess oil production and enlarged pores
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Shaving irritation and ingrown hairs
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Rough texture from environmental exposure
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Early signs of aging (fine lines, loss of firmness)
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Dehydration masked by surface oiliness
The right cleanser addresses multiple concerns simultaneously. Chemical exfoliation refines texture and clears pores. Hydrating ingredients balance moisture without adding greasiness. pH-balanced formulas prevent disruption of the skin's protective barrier.
For those dealing with oily skin, avoiding harsh, stripping cleansers is actually the solution. When you remove all the oil from your skin, it responds by producing even more. A balanced cleanser removes excess oil while maintaining the skin's natural moisture barrier.
Building a Tom Holland-Inspired Routine: Practical Steps
Based on what we know about Holland's approach and the science of effective skincare, here's how to build a minimalist routine that delivers results.
Morning Routine (2-3 minutes)
Step 1: Cleanse Massage a nickel-sized amount of cleanser onto damp skin for 20-30 seconds. Focus on areas prone to oiliness—forehead, nose, chin. Rinse thoroughly and pat dry.
For a multifunctional approach, the Exfoliating Daily Cleanser handles cleansing, exfoliation, and hydration in this single step. The triple-action hydroxy acids gently exfoliate while charged hyaluronic acid delivers moisture.
Step 2: SPF This is the non-negotiable step most men skip. According to the Cleveland Clinic, UV exposure is a primary cause of premature aging—fine lines, sunspots, and loss of elasticity all trace back to sun damage. Use a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher that absorbs quickly.
Evening Routine (2-3 minutes)
Step 1: Cleanse After a full day—workouts, environmental exposure, natural oil production—your skin needs thorough cleansing. Use the same cleanser as morning, but take a few extra seconds to ensure all impurities are removed.
If you've worn sunscreen or any styling products during the day, double cleansing (once with an oil-based cleanser, then with your regular cleanser) ensures complete removal. But for most days, a good multifunctional cleanser handles it in one pass.
Step 2: Moisturize (optional) If your cleanser includes adequate hydration (like charged hyaluronic acid), you might not need a separate night cream. Listen to your skin—if it feels tight or dry, add a lightweight moisturizer. If it feels balanced and comfortable, skip it.
Weekly Additions (5-10 minutes)
Under-Eye Treatment: Celebrity makeup artists use under-eye patches before events to reduce puffiness and dark circles. Brands like 111Skin, Grace & Stella (around $24 on Amazon), and Knesko show up in celebrity routines. Use these once or twice weekly, or before important events when you want to look refreshed.
Face Massage: Holland's electric face massager clip shows he uses this before press events. Face massage increases circulation and can temporarily reduce puffiness. You don't need a device—using your hands with upward and outward strokes works too.
What You Don't Need
Holland's honest take on the LED mask—"probably doesn't do anything, but it makes me feel good about myself"—is worth remembering. Not every trendy device or product is necessary. If something makes you feel good and you enjoy the ritual, that's valid. But don't feel pressure to add gadgets or steps that don't fit your lifestyle.
Skip these if you're building a minimalist routine:
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Multiple serums targeting different concerns
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Toners (if your cleanser is pH-balanced)
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Face oils (if you have naturally oily skin)
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Clay masks (unless you enjoy them—they're not essential)
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Specialized eye creams (a good moisturizer works for the whole face)
The Science of Consistency Over Complexity
Skincare routine statistics show that adherence matters more than product count. People who use 3-4 products consistently see better results than those who cycle through 10+ products inconsistently.
Why? Your skin needs time to respond to active ingredients. The outermost layer of your skin (stratum corneum) renews approximately every 28 days according to research. That means you need consistent use for at least a month before judging whether a product works.
For chemical exfoliants, benefits accumulate over time. The first week, you might notice a smoother texture. By week four, pores look clearer and skin appears brighter. By week eight, fine lines may appear less pronounced as cell turnover improves.
The minimalist approach works because:
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Fewer products mean fewer potential irritants: Complex routines increase the risk of ingredient interactions or sensitivities
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Consistency is easier to maintain: A 2-minute routine happens daily; a 15-minute routine gets skipped
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Multifunctional products deliver multiple benefits: One step can replace three separate products
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Less decision fatigue: Simple routines don't require remembering which product goes when
Holland's disciplined approach to sobriety and fitness shows the power of commitment. He didn't gradually reduce drinking—he stopped completely when he realized it mattered. That same decisive approach works for skincare: identify what matters (cleanse, exfoliate, hydrate, protect), eliminate the rest, and stick with it.
Advanced Ingredients Without Complexity
The best formulations combine advanced science with simple application. You don't need to understand peptide synthesis or ceramide chemistry to benefit from these ingredients.
Key active ingredients that work:
Pro-Vitamin B5 (DL-Panthenol): Soothes skin and supports barrier function. It attracts and holds moisture while calming irritation. At 1% concentration in the Kipi cleanser, it helps prevent the tightness some exfoliating products cause.
Beta-Glucan: Derived from oats, this polysaccharide soothes skin and supports the immune response at the cellular level. It helps skin recover from environmental stressors.
Natural Sugars (Xylitol, Xylitylglucoside, Anhydroxylitol): These moisture-locking sugars form a hydrating matrix on the skin's surface, optimizing water reserves and improving barrier function for both immediate and long-term hydration.
Citrus Fruit Extracts: Australian finger lime and native citrus extracts provide natural AHAs that brighten complexion while offering antioxidant protection.
The formulation science ensures these ingredients work together without canceling each other out. pH buffering keeps acids at the right strength for gentle daily exfoliation. Hydrating ingredients prevent the dryness that acids can cause. Soothing agents calm any potential irritation.
You don't need to layer multiple products to get these benefits—a well-formulated single product delivers them all.
Travel-Friendly Skincare: Why Size Matters
One practical consideration Holland mentioned in passing was TSA compliance. The 60ml (2oz) size of the Kipi cleanser fits carry-on restrictions, meaning you don't need to check bags or transfer products into smaller containers.
For actors filming on location or anyone who travels frequently for work, travel-sized doesn't mean compromise. A 60ml bottle lasts around two months with daily use—enough for extended trips while remaining portable.
The consumption period matters for both convenience and freshness. Products that take six months to finish may oxidize or lose potency before you use them up. A two-month supply means you're always using fresh, effective products.
Putting It All Together: Simple Routine, Proven Results
Tom Holland's approach to skincare—minimalist, honest, and focused on what actually works—offers a blueprint for anyone tired of complicated routines that don't fit their lifestyle.
You don't need to know his exact products to adopt his philosophy: keep it simple, be consistent, and choose multifunctional products that deliver results without adding time to your day.
For building a one-step skincare routine that handles multiple concerns, start with a cleanser that exfoliates, removes impurities, and hydrates. Add SPF in the morning. That's it—two products, three benefits, visible results.
The science backs this approach. Chemical exfoliation with hydroxy acids improves skin texture when used consistently. Hydration with charged hyaluronic acid maintains skin moisture levels throughout the day. pH-balanced formulas support the skin barrier, which is essential for healthy skin at any age.
Whether you're preparing for photoshoots like Holland, heading into long workdays, or just want clearer skin without the fuss, the fundamentals remain the same: cleanse thoroughly, exfoliate gently, hydrate effectively, and protect consistently.
Start with what matters. Skip what doesn't. Stick with it long enough to see results. That's the Tom Holland approach to skincare—honest, practical, and surprisingly effective.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to see skincare results?
Your skin's outermost layer renews approximately every 28 days according to research, so you need at least one full skin cycle before evaluating a product's effectiveness. For chemical exfoliants, you might notice smoother texture within the first week as dead skin cells are removed. Deeper benefits like improved pore clarity and brightness typically appear around week four. Fine lines and overall skin quality improvements become more obvious after 6-8 weeks of consistent use. The important thing is consistency—using a product sporadically won't give it a fair chance to work.
Do men and women need different products?
Male skin is approximately 25% thicker and produces more sebum due to testosterone, but the fundamental principles of skincare remain the same regardless of gender. The biggest difference is that men often prefer lightweight textures that absorb quickly without residue—exactly what minimalist, multifunctional products provide. What matters is choosing products appropriate for your specific skin type and concerns. Men may need stronger oil control or products that address shaving irritation, while some women might need richer hydration—but these are individual needs, not gender-based requirements.
How important is SPF daily?
SPF is arguably the most important skincare step for preventing premature aging. According to the Cleveland Clinic, UV exposure is a primary cause of visible facial aging—fine lines, wrinkles, sunspots, and loss of elasticity all result from cumulative sun damage. Using SPF 30 or higher daily protects against both UVA rays (aging) and UVB rays (burning). Even on cloudy days or when you're mostly indoors, UV radiation reaches your skin through windows. For men who might resist adding multiple skincare steps, SPF is the one non-negotiable addition to cleansing.
What's the difference between chemical and physical exfoliation?
Physical exfoliation uses abrasive particles (scrubs, brushes, or manual tools) to mechanically remove dead skin cells. Chemical exfoliation uses acids or enzymes to dissolve the bonds between cells, allowing them to shed naturally. Physical methods provide immediate texture smoothing but risk micro-tears and irritation if done too aggressively or frequently. Chemical exfoliants work more evenly and can penetrate deeper to clear pores and promote cell turnover. For daily use, gentle chemical exfoliation with AHAs, BHAs, and PHAs at appropriate concentrations is generally safer and more effective than daily physical scrubbing.
How do I know if my cleanser works?
A good cleanser should leave your skin feeling clean and refreshed without any tightness, dryness, or residue. After rinsing, your face should feel smooth and balanced—not squeaky clean (which indicates stripped natural oils) or still oily. Within a few weeks of consistent use, you should notice improvements in skin texture, pore appearance, and overall clarity. If your skin feels tight or looks red after cleansing, the formula is too harsh. If you're still experiencing breakouts or dullness after 6-8 weeks, the cleanser might not be addressing your specific concerns effectively.
