Men & Make-up

Recently, I was watching The Only Way is Essex and two male characters were discussing cosmetic products their girlfriends had given them and another character was given some beauty products to try out. All of their reactions were that of laughter and awkwardness as though it's a taboo for men to wear make-up. This is something that has always toyed with me and has always crossed my mind. Is it deemed unacceptable for men to wear make-up? And if so, why?

This specific idea was brought up for me again when Glossybox released their recent male orientated beauty box - something that has never really been looked into before. I thought this was in some sense a turning point for male beauty although the fact of it being brought out only once every 4 months still tells me that cosmetics for men are still a slightly 'taboo' subject. A lot of men seem to be taking care of their skin more with exfoliations and creams etc but, talking to one of my close friends, he still does not openly share it with his other friends. It's not something he would look into - skin or face care - and largely gets given products. So he does not know what is good for his skin type or even what his skin type is, let alone buying products himself.

Although I feel like men are more open than what they used to be several years ago about their use of face products or make-up I feel they're still trapped in the use of fake tan or concealers but don't branch to any other products. My question is: why? A lot of women use make-up to feel happier within themselves and to boost their confidence. Why can't men? A lot of men seem to see it as 'too feminine' or feel as though they're being somewhat 'stripped' of their masculinity. I don't believe this is the case. I believe if it makes you feel confident to put on make-up and cover up: whether it be bronzer, concealer or a full face of foundation and mascara then so what?! Irregardless of your sex, whether you're male or female: society should be much more  accepting to let people feel comfortable however they want to look or whatever products they do or don't want to use.

Several years ago men wearing eyeliner was a trend that was encouraged and, although some opinions were divided, the 'guyliner' range was brought out to accommodate for this. But why? Using the word 'guy' in a product shouldn't have to make men feel more comfortable or secure in order to buy cosmetics. 'Girliners' aren't products that are encouraged - an eyeliner should be considered an eyeliner and not be gender-bound. Again, when you walk into your local make-up counter you are greeted by a female to apply make-up and give you tips. When are we ever greeted by a man? Or when do you ever see men fronting cosmetic campaigns? Very rarely - if ever. 

I don't think men & make-up should be a taboo any more, I think in today's society nobody should be made to feel that products are based on gender. What do you think about this subject? Please leave your comment.