Brands like Melvita, Erborian, Nivea, Clarins, and Clinique all offer men's products or dedicated lines. In late 2018, Chanel launched Boy de Chanel, a makeup range for men with the bold slogan 'Beauty is not a gender story.' We agree—yet wonder if 'gendering' cosmetics truly adds value. Men's skin is often thicker, especially around the beard area, drier, or more sensitive, so tailored skincare matters. That said, 'men's' labeling isn't essential. Universal actives like hyaluronic acid for hydration and nourishing oils work effectively regardless of gender, as long as they match your skin type—even if the packaging screams 'feminine.' The true men's exclusives? Beard care products, absent from women's aisles.
Male beauty influencers are thriving, showcasing flawless makeup looks that outshine most. Do they rely on men-only formulas? Rarely. Eyeshadow palettes, foundations, and more are unisex. Differences are mostly marketing-driven: overly feminine packaging deters men. This ties into the notorious 'pink tax'—supermarket shelves stock identical deodorants, shower gels, shampoos, and toothpastes for both genders (bar fragrance), yet women's versions cost more. Men's treatments often undercut women's prices too, with no clear justification.
In practice, we freely share skincare with partners of matching skin types, men's line or not.
