It’s no secret that men’s care products and grooming practices are on the rise. According to Global Newswire, the men’s personal care market is expected to reach $75.8 billion worldwide by 2027. But what is contributing to the sharp incline? Here, Nathan Layne Institute of Cosmetology in Chubbuck, ID, provides some insights into the latest trends in male fashion and what cosmetology students need to know to work in this growing field.

Men’s Personal Care Trends

Style and self-care aren’t just for women. As more men are becoming creative with their physical appearance, grooming and hygiene practices have changed. And many brands offer unisex skincare lines and other products, making it easier than ever for men to broaden their self-care routines and update their everyday looks. From beard balm to nail polish, this product segment has vast opportunities on the shelves and in the salon.

The salon also is becoming a more popular space for many men. A salon and spa is a place where men can seek informed recommendations, as well as enjoy a broad range of services tailored to their needs. Today’s male clientele come to the salon for several reasons, such as:

  • Professionals who can create personalized, razor-sharp cuts
  • Manicure and pedicure services (with and without polish)
  • Skincare products from high-end brands
  • Relaxing spa services

Cosmetology students today have numerous opportunities for success in the field outside of traditional barbering. Novice and seasoned cosmetology, esthetics, and nail technology professionals have even greater opportunities to innovate and grow their client base.

Popular Male Fashion Trendsetters

As seen with leading celebrities, social media influencers, and other personalities, more men are seeking products they can incorporate into their everyday routine. Many also are bending gender expectations in the process, experimenting with fashion, makeup, cuts, and colors. Here are some noteworthy names in the industry:

  • Pharrell Williams is a Grammy-winning artist who knows a good skincare routine when he sees one. He’s spoken about the stigma around skincare for black men and has even developed his own line called Humanrace. The brand creates gender-neutral face and body products, such as the Three-Minute Facial Routine Pack. Humanrace is designed to support everyone on their journey to well-being, believing that taking better care of oneself can lead to taking better care of each other.
  • Harry Styles isn’t just a singer and songwriter. He’s also a male fashion icon and much more. While many men have been emulating his long locks for years, more are relating to his new beauty brand. Pleasing by Harry Styles is a “life” brand that includes nail polish, as well as serums for the eyes, lips, and face. With the former One Direction member wearing makeup and a well-defined manicure on stage and in print, a beauty line is very on-brand for this celebrity.
  • Jonathan Van Ness does more than encourage his fan base to live their best lives. The multifaceted TV personality from Queer Eye is a celebrity hairstylist, as well as a podcaster and best-selling author with a haircare line. JVN Hair focuses on inclusivity and accessibility, making it easier for people to find their own hair care routine and bring out the beauty within.
  • Machine Gun Kelly (MGK) has been spotted on stage and in public sporting his signature glam rockstar style – vibrant hair and all. But what many people are enjoying today is the singer, rapper, and actor’s nail polish brand, UN/DN LAQR. This brand features a unisex polish line that encourages self-expression, making it easy for anyone to change up their look to mirror their mood.

Breaking Into the Male Fashion Industry

For those who are looking to enter the male fashion industry, enrolling at the Nathan Layne Institute of Cosmetology is a great first step. Throughout your program of choice, you’ll have numerous opportunities to flex your creative muscles and find innovative ways to serve a diverse client base. Our cosmetology students are supported by dedicated instructors who are well-versed in traditional techniques and business practices, as well as the latest beauty trends.

Nathan Layne Institute of Cosmetology serves the Chubbuck and Pocatello, Idaho, area. For more information about our programs or enrollment, contact us today.