Men’s makeup has definitely gained traction lately. More guys are getting into the game, using cosmetics to highlight their best features and add some extra confidence—whether it’s accentuating those full brows or contouring to bring out their masculine jawlines. But did you know that men have been wearing makeup for centuries? Yup, it's true! While it may not have been as popular in recent decades, a shift in attitudes toward gender norms has sparked a renewed interest in makeup for men. It's all about self-expression and looking your best. So, whether you’re a complete beginner or just curious, let’s break down some of the basics of makeup for men with a few simple DOs and DON'Ts to help you enhance your look and feel more confident.
Should You
Wear Makeup?
Some folks still think it’s weird for guys to wear makeup. They
often link it to femininity or even question someone’s sexuality, which,
honestly, is just outdated thinking. Here’s the deal: makeup is for anyone who
wants to wear it—whether you're straight, gay, masculine, feminine, or
somewhere in between.
It’s completely up to you. If makeup isn’t your thing, that's
totally cool. But if you’re thinking about giving it a try, we’ve got you
covered with the essentials. No pressure, no judgment. Let’s get into the DOs
first!
DOs of Men’s Makeup for Beginners
DO: Moisturize Your Face & Neck
First things first—moisturizer. If you want your makeup to go on
smooth, healthy skin is a must. Don’t forget about your neck too! Using a
moisturizer that hydrates, renews, and refreshes your skin, like Gentlehomme Face Moisturizer for Men, is key. It’ll
keep you looking fresh and help your makeup go on evenly.
DO: Choose the Right Base
When it comes to covering up uneven skin tone or blemishes,
remember: less is more. You don’t need both a tinted moisturizer and foundation—pick one depending on the coverage you
need. A tinted moisturizer will give you light coverage with the bonus of moisture,
while foundation is great for a more flawless, even look.
DO: Lay the Foundation
Now, I know some guys hear the word "foundation" and
panic, thinking it’s too much. But trust me, when used right, foundation can do
wonders. It helps even out skin tone and hides imperfections. Just be sure to
pick a shade that matches your skin, and apply it lightly to avoid that cakey
look.
DO: Keep It Natural
There are so many products out there promising to give you
glowing, perfect skin, but some can end up looking a little too... shiny. Stick
to products that are light and matte, and avoid anything with glitter or
shimmer. You want a natural, fresh look, not a disco ball moment.
DO: Build a Skincare Routine
Good skin is the foundation for any great makeup look. Keeping
your skin clean, exfoliated, and moisturized ensures that your makeup goes on
better and lasts longer. Here’s a quick skincare routine:
- Exfoliate -
Use a gentle exfoliant to remove dead skin cells. This will help your
makeup apply more evenly.
- Tone - Use
a toner after washing your face to keep your skin hydrated.
- Moisturize
with SPF - Always use a moisturizer with at least
SPF 15. Sun protection is key.
- Remove
Your Makeup at Night - Make sure to wash off all your
makeup before bed. It's vital for your skin’s health!
DO: Believe That Less Is More
When you’re just starting out with makeup, the goal is to keep it
light and subtle. Avoid heavy layers and focus on enhancing your features, not
covering them up completely. Skip your sideburns or beard area—otherwise,
people might notice your makeup more than your face!
DON'Ts
of Men’s Makeup for Beginners
Now that we’ve got the basics down, let’s talk about some common
mistakes to avoid.
DON’T: Skip Skin Prep
Prepping your skin is crucial. A good primer creates a smooth base
for your makeup and helps it stay put all day (from your morning commute to
after the gym). Skipping this step could lead to makeup that doesn’t last or
looks uneven.
DON’T: Overdo the Brows
We all love thick, bold brows, but there’s a fine line between
defined and overdone. The trick is using the right shade and making sure your
brow color matches your natural hair or beard color. Too dark, and it’ll stand
out in an odd way. Keep it subtle for a more natural look.