Over the last 10 years, the male cosmetic industry has exploded. Procedures that once were only socially acceptable for women, are now not only being utilized by men, but are becoming common place in some areas. While there are some who find these treatments to be very strange, there are more and more converts for male beautification every day. Here are some of the most common practices that men are now adopting.
1) Botox
Once only used by Hollywood starlets, Botox has become the most popular cosmetic procedure that men undergo. While men have been willing to undergo other cosmetic procedures in the past, the previous leaders were hair restoration and liposuction. Over the last ten years, Botox has become more popular, and now, more men are getting this procedure than any other. This is likely due to how convenient Botox is, and how easy it is to hide that you’ve had it done.
2) Manicures
Manicures for men have passed in and out of style for thousands of years. In the past, nail care treatments have been used by the wealthy and royal, sometimes with polish, sometimes without. In the last ten years or so, male manicures (usually done without polish) have been offered at many male hair salons, and many consider the treatment a sign of good grooming. In some cases, it can be a professional necessity for those who work with their hands.
3) Skin Care
Historically, men generally washed their face with whatever soap they used on the rest of their body. However, men’s skin needs the same amount of TLC as women’s. Because of this, skin care products for men are becoming just as varied as the treatments their female counterparts use. Male versions of skin cleanser, toner, and moisturizer are now widely available at every nearly every drugstore.
4) Hair Removal
While shaving the face has been standard male practice for as long as something sharp enough to do the job existed, body hair has been something that has mostly been left alone. While some cultures like the ancient Egyptians would remove male body hair, for most of human history, hairy chests have been associated with masculinity. Recently, men waxing or shaving their bodies is becoming not only common, but for some potential romantic partners, a requirement.
5) Make Up
This is one that’s still on the outer fringes, but we’re seeing signs that make up for men may slowly make its way into the mainstream. While some of the more flamboyant celebrities may regularly sport eyeliner, gloss and mascara, not every man who wears makeup is so obvious. Men’s current makeup trends are mostly in the form of corrective make up for covering up blemishes and scars, as well as creating an even skin tone.
Everyone wants to look their best, so it’s not surprising that men would begin to borrow some of women’s long held aesthetic practices. In modern times, masculinity is being redefined, and we may see more and more men adopting typically female practices.
