In the realm of beauty and self-care, there is the stereotypical notion of men being less interested in receiving professional treatments. However, in recent years, a remarkable shift has taken place with an increasing number of men who are now embracing various beauty treatments and procedures to enhance their appearance and boost their self-confidence. Let us delve into the rising trend of men seeking beauty treatments, shedding light on the underlying factors and societal impact, while exploring the reasons behind this transformative shift.
Society has historically perpetuated traditional gender roles that emphasise rugged masculinity for men. As a result, grooming and beauty rituals were often considered exclusively feminine pursuits. More and more these days though, gender norms are being challenged, and men are encouraged to embrace their individuality without fear of judgment. This cultural shift is providing the space for men to explore beauty treatments without feeling emasculated, contributing significantly to the rise in male clientele at beauty centres and clinics.
Celebrities have always played a vital role in shaping societal trends; the beauty industry is no exception. The rise of male celebrities openly endorsing beauty treatments has had a profound impact on shaping perceptions. From actors and musicians to athletes and even politicians, many men in the limelight now openly discuss their grooming routines, normalising the idea of masculine beauty treatments and making it more accessible and acceptable to a broader male audience.
The advent of social media has revolutionised how information spreads and trends take hold. Platforms like Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok have become hubs for beauty influencers who can explicitly display the benefits of treatments they receive and administer. The reach and engagement of these influencers, either directly to their male followers or through second-hand sharing, is a major contributing factor in the surge in interest for beauty treatments among men. Social media platforms also create safe spaces for men to share their experiences, further normalising masculine beauty goals and helping to foster a sense of community.
The beauty industry is aware of the growing demand from men and has already responded by introducing a wide array of male-specific products. From skincare and hair care to makeup and fragrances, brands are recognising the immense potential market for male beauty products. This increased availability and targeted marketing have made beauty treatments and products more appealing and relatable to men, further fuelling the trend.
In today's competitive world, personal presentation is increasingly linked to professional success. As we discussed in our June blog The Link Between Physical Beauty and Mental Health, positive feelings about your physical appearance leads to general benefits in your mental health, including a sense of empowerment and confidence. It is repeatedly shown that confident individuals tend to find more opportunities in their careers. As a result, many men are turning to beauty treatments to address concerns like skin aging, hair loss, or unwanted body hair. The boost in self-confidence achieved through such treatments can have a profound impact on various aspects of their lives, both personal and professional.
The range of beauty interventions sought after by men is diverse, encompassing everything from simple cosmetic products to advanced laser treatments. Some of the most popular treatments include:
The rising number of men seeking beauty treatments signifies a cultural shift toward breaking down traditional gender norms. Men are now more open to exploring various beauty procedures, encouraged by a combination of societal changes, celebrity influences, and the power of social media. With an ever-expanding range of male-specific beauty products and treatments, the beauty industry is witnessing a transformative era that embraces all genders in their pursuit of self-confidence and personal enhancement.
For practitioners within the dermal therapy and clinical aesthetics industry, this represents a fantastic opportunity for growth. It’s as simple as this: men represent approximately half the population. Therefore, if beauty treatments for men become as normalised and common as they are for women, the client base for salons and other beauty treatment providers could double.
In short, this is a great time for men seeking beauty treatments and providers of these services alike.
Smith, J. (2022). Redefining Masculinity: The Changing Face of Male Grooming. The Journal of Modern Culture, 36(2), 45-58.
Brown, A. (2023). The Impact of Social Media on Male Beauty Trends. Social Media Studies, 11(3), 221-238.
Williams, R. (2022). Male-Specific Beauty Products and the Expanding Market. Journal of Marketing Insights, 17(1), 78-91.
Johnson, M. (2023). The Relationship between Self-Confidence, Beauty Treatments, and Professional Advancement. Career Development Quarterly, 28(4), 315-329.
National Institute of Health. (2021). Trends in Male Beauty Treatments: A Comprehensive Study. NIH Publication No. 21-4567.
