The Next Big Trend / Male Makeup

The Next Big Trend / Male Makeup

Makeup is often regarded as a feminine indulgence, however existing research disproves such an accusation. In 2010 The University of Bristol found evidence suggesting Neanderthals wore makeup over 50,000 years ago. Much like the Neanderthals, Egyptian males’ masculinity was never compromised by their use of makeup. Eye makeup is said to have been used within their culture as early as 4000BC. Midway through the 1^st century AD, Men using makeup was commonplace within Roman society. Roman men were renowned for their cosmetic use – powder was used for lightening the complexion, rouge was applied to cheeks, and nails were painted using a blend of pig fat and blood…a look that would be referred to as ‘gender bending’ within contemporary society.

Whilst these deeply historical examples illustrating the use of makeup by males, why did men stop wearing makeup. It maybe the many societal factors in recent years that have influenced the use of cosmetics by men- for instance, the pressure to be masculine and homophobic society. However, In a social driven internet world where the importance of aesthetics is as prominent young men have begun to explore the use makeup again. 

So much so that cosmetic  giant L'Oreal sees Men's Makeup becoming common place within the next five to seven years  Today there's a very small proportion of men who want to use makeup products however that proportion is growing and it will continue to grow according to  l'Oreal. 

The driving force behind men wearing makeup is that its no longer a taboo for the "Selfie Generation." The taboo's of the past generation to the present is very different. This generation simply wants to find ways to look their best everyday. Additionally men want to use makeup like the entertainment stars they admire, and they can see how it improves their appearance when they use it. 

CINEMATIC INFLUENCE
MODERN MEN AND MAKEUP

A turning point in male cosmetics was the arrival of the cinema. The silver screen showed man how they could look  like the handsome, mustached Clark Gable and Errol Flynn. Elvis Presley, Jonny Depp and John Travolta were rarely featured in a film without styled hair and  makeup for a flawless tanned complexion. 
Cosmetic company normally catering to the female gender  begin formulating  hair shampoos, dyes, tonic, gels and lotions, shaving creams and skin care treatments and now basic makeup for the male half of the cosmetics industry. Tanning powders, gels,  lotions and creams for a natural healthy looking complexion and under eye cancellers are now available for men who want to look their best.

A new generation of male makeup products are set to gain popularity due to the increased focus on appearance driven by social media.  "Rather than being a minority, men who buy grooming products to boost self-esteem or feel more attractive are now on the way to being a  majority." Based on current trends, it is only a matter of time before a full portfolio of men's makeup becomes part of daily grooming. That time is coming, watch it happen.