John Koten on the Great Skincare Experiment

At 70, journalist John Koten never expected to become an authority on skincare, but that’s exactly what happened. After 20 skin cancer surgeries, he set out to understand what actually works–and what doesn’t–when it comes to caring for aging skin. In this episode of The AGEIST Podcast, John shares the scientific and personal insights from six months of testing top-rated products and interviewing experts. Take a listen to walk away with specific routines, surprising product recommendations, and a new perspective on men’s self-care. John was also kind enough to share his skincare routine with us and you, so read on.

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Key Moments

“Most of the companies say men’s skin is thicker and needs different formulas—I’m not buying it.”

“This whole thing blew up online…and most of the letters I got were from men.”

“You start using this stuff and your skin looks nicer…why wouldn’t you keep using it?”

Connect With John Koten

The Wall Street Journal article: “A 70-Year-Old Man’s Search for Younger-Looking Skin”

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Why a 70-Year-Old Journalist Became a Skincare Authority

John Koten didn’t set out to become an expert in skincare. But after enduring 20 surgeries to remove sun-induced skin cancers, the longtime sailor and former editor-at-large at The Wall Street Journal decided that enough was enough. What followed was a rigorous six-month self-experiment that now positions him as a compelling voice for men—and women—navigating skin health later in life.

Skincare Isn’t Just Cosmetic—It’s About Health

What makes Koten’s perspective so impactful is that it’s grounded in both personal necessity and investigative rigor. His routine wasn’t shaped by brand deals or influencer culture. Instead, he approached skincare like a journalist: testing products head-to-head, reading peer-reviewed studies, and calling dermatologists to get the facts straight.

Among his takeaways? Most “men’s skincare” lines are limited in quality and variety. Many of the best formulations, he found, were technically for women, but worked better across the board. He also demystifies what ingredients actually make a difference: niacinamide for pigmentation, vitamin C for oxidative damage, and retinol for long-term improvement.

It’s Never Too Late to Start

Koten’s story defies a common myth: that skincare, especially for men, is something you either commit to early or miss out on. His experiment began at age 70. The results? Noticeably healthier skin, a newfound appreciation for daily self-care, and a growing fanbase of readers—including dermatologists—who now look to him for product recommendations.

In a media landscape filled with gimmicks and misinformation, Koten’s grounded, curiosity-driven approach feels refreshing. He isn’t selling anything. He’s not angling for endorsements. He simply wanted better skin and now generously shares what he’s learned.

The Takeaway 

This episode of The AGEIST Podcast offers a mix of practical guidance and engaging storytelling. Whether you’re new to skincare or already committed to a routine, Koten’s insights challenge assumptions and offer immediately useful ideas. All in all, his methodical approach reminds us that good skin isn’t about vanity—it’s about taking control of your health, no matter your age.

Tune in to hear more from John Koten on this episode of The AGEIST Podcast or check out the full interview transcript.

And stay tuned for what’s next from John Koten. A Substack? A book? If the reaction to his first article is any clue, his skincare journey has only just begun. And now, without further ado, here is John’s skincare routine.

John Koten’s Skincare Routine

Morning Routine:

1. Cleanse: Usually just rinses with water. If sweaty, use Vanicream’s Gentle Facial Cleanser (minimal residue and scientifically trusted).
2. Essence (optional): Augustinus Bader’s The Essence (refreshing and bracing, better than alcohol-based aftershaves)
3. Treatment: Plated Skin Science Serum (peptide-based, derived from expired human blood for skin regeneration)
4. Antioxidant: SkinMedica’s Vitamin C+E Complex or SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic (protects against oxidation)
5. Moisturizer: Augustinus Bader’s The Rich Cream (luxurious and effective, also available at Costco for less)
6. Sunscreen: EltaMD UV Clear or Augustinus Bader’s Sunscreen (the latter pairs better with the Bader moisturizer)

Daytime Alternative (When Outdoors All Day):

1. Skip: Plated, SkinMedica C+E, and the Bader Rich Cream
2. Use: Cielelements MD (CBD-infused, nano-pouched for deep skin penetration, superior UV protection and antioxidant benefits)
3. Then Apply: Regular sunscreen over it

Evening Routine:

1. Cleanse:
   • Elemis Cleansing Balm (luxurious, scented [e.g., Black Cherry, Green Fig])
   • To double cleanse (if needed): Add oil cleanser to remove heavy sunscreen
2. Essence (optional): Filorga Global Repair Essence (for an anti-aging boost)
3. Retinol (every other night):
   • Start with 0.25% and work up to 1%
   • Ursa Major Retinol (a gentler option)
   • Tretinoin (Rx only) (most effective)
4. Treatment: SkinMedica TNS Advanced+ Serum (rich in growth factors; pricey but effective)
5. Moisturizer: Eminence Bakuchiol + Niacinamide Cream (soothing, brightens skin, supports retinol)
6. Eye Cream:
   • Kiehl’s Avocado Eye Cream (nourishing and affordable)
   • SkinMedica Instant Bright Eye Cream (optical brighteners for instant results)

Bonus Products:

• Dominas (Korean product): Used on arms for fading brown spots
• One Skin (body lotion): Great for travel; simplifies routine

Image credit: Bobby Doherty / AGEIST image created by Drew Green