MANicures & MANscaras: Finally, Self-Care is Normal for Men

How our emphasis on “self-care” is reaching a male client base.

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Cosmetics are becoming increasingly available and popular for a male client base.

Veronica Castillo, Staff Writer

In Glen Jankowski’s article “Why More Men Are Wearing Makeup than Ever Before,” he states that in 2016, James Charles broke history by being the first “Coverboy” for the makeup brand Covergirl. Charles’ rise to stardom is reflective of the wider array of self-care products offered for men in recent years. Due to gender stereotypes and “toxic masculinity,” self-care has been a taboo subject for men in the past. Now, FINALLY, cosmetic products like nail polish, make-up, face masks, and skin care are becoming normal and are being marketed toward men.  

Many men have made their presence known on YouTube as beauty influencers. They review products and some have even started to put out cosmetics lines themselves. Patrick Star, a YouTuber, has been one of the most successful men in the beauty industry. Star collaborated with MAC Cosmetics, a well-recognized makeup brand. Jeffree Star, another beauty influencer, has his own make-up brand called Jeffree Star Cosmetics. Drag Queens like RuPaul and Trixie Mattel also have a big role in influencing men in the make-up industry. More men (straight and part of the LGBTQ community) have started to experiment with makeup, some going full glam and some stick to basics like concealer and mascara.  

Manicures and pedicures are also increasing, so that men of all races and sexualities can take care of their harsh cuticles. Men wearing nail polish also goes back to the grunge/rock days. Icons like David Bowie, and Freddie Mercury made headlines for wearing nail polish in a time when gender fluidity wasn’t accepted. In 2017, Jaden Smith wore nail polish for a photo shoot with Vogue Korea. While some men go for the clear topcoat look, others are going for more vibrant reds, blues, and greens. 

Whether it be the rise of gender fluidity or just the rise of the overall idea of self-care, it’s an amazing time for men to be men. It is more accepted for men to love themselves and be emotionally vulnerable. It’s about time that men are “allowed” to take care of themselves like women have for years.