August 2, 2026
by Dr. Jennifer Aranda

The Skincare Benefits of Maca Root

August 2, 2026
by Dr. Jennifer Aranda

The Skincare Benefits of Maca Root

Maca root, known botanically as Lepidium meyenii, grows at high altitude in Peru's Andes. In Peru, it has been cultivated and used for generations, traditionally valued as part of everyday wellness practices long before it reached the rest of the world.

Maca Root: What It's Traditionally Known For

Maca root is naturally rich in vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids, which is part of why it has held a place in Andean tradition for so long. A few things made the root valued long before skincare took notice.

A nutrient-dense staple. Traditionally used as a food source valued for its density of vitamins and minerals.
A resilient plant. Grown in some of the harshest high-altitude conditions in the Andes, giving it a reputation for hardiness.
A wellness tradition. Used across generations as part of everyday nutrition in Peru.

Maca Root Benefits for Skin

Maca's nutrient profile has been studied for a few specific effects when applied topically. It's generally understood to:

Help support the skin's natural moisture levels and barrier function.
Contribute antioxidants that may help defend against everyday environmental stress.
In animal studies, maca extract has been shown to help protect skin from the effects of UV exposure, though this hasn't been confirmed in human skin.

For men, daily habits like shaving and sun exposure can leave skin feeling dry or stripped. Maca is included in moisturizing formulas for that reason, supporting the skin's own barrier rather than sitting on top of it.

Why We Included It in HIDRÁTATE

HIDRÁTATE Moisturizer is formulated with Maca root and Açaí, alongside retinol, the formula's primary active. Maca and Açaí are included to help support hydration and the skin's antioxidant defenses, working alongside retinol rather than competing with it.

That pairing sits inside a dermatologist-developed formula built around ingredients working together, rather than a single active carrying the whole formula on its own.

How to Get the Most Out of Maca Root: The Men's Night Routine

Because HIDRÁTATE contains retinol, it's meant for nighttime use, and skin can be more sensitive to sun the next day.

Step 1, LÁVATE Daily Cleanser. Clears the day's buildup so the skin is ready to absorb what comes next. Moringa and Yerba Mate prep the skin before the rest of the routine.
Step 2, HIDRÁTATE Moisturizer. Applied to the rest of the face to lock in hydration overnight.
Step 3, RECUPÉRATE Eye Cream. Use your ring finger, the lightest touch you have, and pat gently along the orbital bone. Avoid rubbing, the skin here is thinner than the rest of your face.

If you'd like to learn more, check out these other reliable sources

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18201354/
https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-basics/care/skin-care-for-men

Men's retinol moisturizer jar with purple acai & maca label

Men's retinol moisturizer jar with acai & maca, surrounded by ingredients

Man applying retinol moisturizer to face with purple jar container in hand

Men's retinol moisturizer jar opened, creamy lotion scooped with hands

Retinol moisturizer jar on comparison chart with check and cross icons

setu moisturizer for men with retinol, acai, and maca products on a marble surface with a plant in the background

Four-step retinol routine bundle with labeled bottles and moisturizer jar

37 total reviews

Retinol Moisturizer for Men

Best For: Fine lines, wrinkles, dry skin, dullness, uneven texture, loss of firmness.

The retinol moisturizer built for men who believe in better skincare — powered by Açaí & Maca from Latin America.

$25.00

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Formulated by a Dermatologist

(not just endorsed by one)

Setú was created by a board-certified dermatologist — not an actor, not a supermodel. Every formula carefully reflects her clinical expertise, not a licensing deal.

Original Latin American Formulas

(not more-of-the same stuff)

This isn't your girlfriend's beauty cream in a black bottle. Each formula blends the best in science with Latin American ingredients chosen for their legendary benefits.

Keeping It Simple, For Men

(No ten-step regimen required)

Unlike black and white bottles with endless steps, our color-coded system makes it clear which product to use, morning or night, so an effective routine doesn't require extra effort.

FAQs

What makes Setú's Moisturizer different from other moisturizers?

HIDRÁTATE is formulated around Açaí and Maca, two Latin American botanicals chosen to support hydration and skin's barrier alongside retinol, so every ingredient has a job instead of just adding fragrance and filler. It's dermatologist-developed by a board-certified dermatologist, not just marketed that way.

What does "made for men" actually mean here?

Men's skin is roughly 25% thicker than women's and loses moisture differently, and daily shaving adds a layer of stress most moisturizers aren't built to address. HIDRÁTATE is formulated around those specific differences, not a women's moisturizer repackaged with different branding.

How long does this actually take?

About 30 seconds. Apply a small amount evenly across the face at night, right after cleansing.

What if it doesn't work for me?

You're covered by a 30-day satisfaction guarantee. If it's not right for your skin, contact us and we'll refund you in full, no return required.

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