Time to tear off the mask of masculinity
Women in India and other developing countries have been suppressed for a long time, prompting various campaigns to stop gender inequality.
Women today can cook, drive, do laundry, run a business or work a 9-to-5 job, raise children, manage finances and much more.
However, in modern society, the empowerment of men is often neglected and overlooked, as their primary focus has traditionally been on empowering women.
Facing societal pressures, men are conditioned to “tough it out”, suppress their emotions and remain resilient regardless of their struggles. Do you think “toughing it out” perpetuated and impacted men’s mental health?
Historically, societal expectations of men have limited their ability to express themselves freely.
Strict gender roles and societal expectations have shaped societal views on masculinity. Men may face rejection from family, ostracism from social groups, or even physical violence if they dare to go against the set societal norms.
As a consequence the idealisation of hypermasculine behaviour discourages men from showing vulnerability, emotions, or traits that deviate from traditional notions of masculinity, forcing them to suppress authentic aspects of themselves.
Palpable change
It is about time we unmask outdated stereotypes and actively support men in embracing vulnerability, creativity and individuality, for a more inclusive society.
Expressing yourself can be a powerful way to combat societal pressures, but insecurities often linger.
Many men struggle with acne, hair loss, or the constant pressure to appear "professional" while trying to stay true to themselves.
These struggles can be deeply personal and anxiety-inducing. It’s easy to tell someone to embrace who they are or openly talk about their insecurities, but doing it is far harder.
Insecurities vary from person to person. For some, it might be their height or not feeling muscular enough.
Society has not simplified matters; there is a long history of equating masculinity with physical strength and bulk. Media and advertising further perpetuate this notion, reinforcing the belief that a man’s appearance should conform to specific standards.
Research indicates that approximately 30% of men experience dissatisfaction with their bodies due to these cultural pressures.
Fortunately, things are starting to change. More men are seeking therapy, adopting self-care routines, and opening up about their struggles. Campaigns like Movember are helping reduce the stigma surrounding men’s mental health, making discussions about vulnerability more mainstream.
Clothing, makeup and other cosmetics serve as tools for men to redefine masculinity, break free from societal stereotypes and confidently present their authentic identity to the world.
Men have increasingly embraced bold clothing and makeup as powerful tools for self-expression, breaking away from traditional gender norms. Bold clothing involving vivid colours and prints, loose-fitting silhouette garments and vintage references with traditional embroidery and gender-neutral designs. This shift reflects changing societal attitudes and growing acceptance of individuality and diversity in fashion and grooming.
Additionally, in the beauty industry, there is a growing acceptance of makeup and skincare products for men.
The men’s skincare market is booming, along with the rise of gender-neutral beauty brands. Makeup, whether subtle concealer for blemishes or bold eyeliner for self-expression, is starting to be viewed as more like a tool for confidence and creativity rather than as a taboo.
These shifts are significant. They demonstrate that men do not have to fit into outdated stereotypes of masculinity. Rather, they can accept themselves, imperfections included and cultivate their confidence uniquely.
True empowerment begins with dismantling taboos and embracing who you are. It is about reminding men they are more than their insecurities.
Reaching out for help or finding ways to express oneself isn’t just brave — it’s a reminder that no one has to face these challenges alone.
The more we normalise practices like therapy, skincare and the use of beauty products for all, the closer we get to a world where everyone feels free to be themselves without fear of judgment or hatred. Furthermore, that’s the world worth striving for.