In Japan, economic conditions may be challenging, but male cosmetics are selling increasingly well. Social media and the normalization of remote working have contributed to a growing concern among men about their appearance. The increasing popularity of hair removal treatment is evidence of that trend. But looking back at Japanese history, we see that for over a thousand years, it was normal for men to wear makeup. We look at the evolution of male aesthetics in Japan.
Japanology Plus presents a special episode exploring the evolving beauty standards of Japanese men, from ancient times to the present day. Join host Peter Barakan and cosmetic psychologist Ryuen Hiramatsu as they delve into the fascinating history of men's make-up, hair removal, and changing attitudes to beauty.
In recent years, the market for men's make-up products has exploded in Japan, growing more than sixfold in just four years. But did you know that men's make-up has a long history in Japan, dating back to the Heian period? Nobles in ancient times routinely applied white powder, drew their eyebrows, and wore lipstick. It's only in the last 150 years or so that men have stopped wearing make-up. Today, gender-neutral cosmetics and the popularity of K-POP idols and Korean dramas have sparked a new trend among younger generations.
In this episode, we'll explore the cultural, social, and historical factors that have shaped Japanese men's beauty standards over time. From the traditional chonmage hairstyle of samurai warriors to modern hair removal, we'll examine how Japanese men have redefined masculinity through their beauty practices.
Don't miss this insightful and informative episode of Japanology Plus when it airs on NHK World on Thursday 27 April 2023 at 11:30-11:58am (international broadcast) and on BS1 on Tuesday 2 May 2023 at 4:30-4:58pm (domestic in Japan broadcast). Available in around 150 countries worldwide, Japanology Plus is your window into the rich and diverse culture of Japan.
*First broadcast on April 27, 2023.
