There’s a new bro-cabulary word that’s been making global news this year and it’s called “brotox”. Yes, it’s exactly what you think – Botox for men. The US news show Good Morning America launched the buzz during a segment where men volunteered to get injections and reported that overall, they were really happy with the results.
This whole thing really got me thinking…are men becoming too image conscious or are we just stepping up our game?
Nip & Tuck
This trend of non-invasive surgeries is on the rise for the global male population. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons reports that last year there were over 300,000 “brotox” procedures, followed by laser hair removal and microdermabrasion. Australian men spent over $560 million on similar treatments in the past 12 months, which is a rise by 25% from 2010. We’re now more interested in looking young and taking a special interest in perfecting our skin. I mean they don’t call it a billion-dollar business for nothing.
Tight Jeans
When I was younger, I used to hate the feeling of freshly washed jeans. I’d wear them out until they fit perfectly, then the smell or ketchup stain meant it was time for a good rinse and it was back to square one. Walking around the house for an hour trying to stretch them back out. Now I actually pay stores for trendy skinny jeans. Thanks David Beckham and New York Hipsters. Not only have I caved in, but sometimes I actually roll the cuff as well. Never say never, right?
In terms of suits, the boxy straightjacket look is out. Now most men have embraced tailoring and opt for a more figuring-hugging silhouette. Red carpet premieres are filled with male celebrities sporting slim fit trousers, single-breasted jackets and skinny ties. Not only does it look smart, but makes you feel good. Women have their little black dress; I’ll take a nice suit jacket any day.
A new grooming routine
I can now honestly say I’ve wised up to the ways of grooming and embrace a medicine cabinet full of products. Sorry lady love, I’ve got my own moisturiser too so make some room!
When I think about my dad’s grooming products I can recall shaving cream, a disposable razor and cologne. He had just the essentials to keep his Burt Reynolds moustache intact for the past two decades. But oh no, that’s just not going to work now. There has been an explosion in male grooming products over the last few years with everything from dyes, gels, pomades, make-up and skin creams. More and more men are willing to extend their routines a few extra minutes each morning to lather up, scrub on or rinse off.
So maybe we have become more image-conscious and trend-focused. Have I read Perez Hilton before or browsed my lady’s Cosmopolitan in the bathroom? Maybe. I think it’s good to embrace the change, find inspiration and make it your own. What about you? Have you embraced new grooming trends more than your dad used to?
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