I have a confession: sometimes I suspect that nearly all men wear makeup, but no one will admit it. Men and makeup are as normal a pairing as men and kopi-o in the morning — you just don’t talk about it. Yet, if you peek behind the Instagram filters and the high-definition cameras, the evidence is everywhere. Every celebrity, actor, or sports hero that guys look up to wears makeup at least some of the time. And when they’re on TV or film, cameras will reveal every pore, shadow, and blemish. Without makeup, they would look… well, alien.
Ironically, men were wearing makeup long before women turned it into a billion-dollar industry. Before lipsticks and contour kits were a thing, it was all about theatre. When men were the only ones allowed on stage, they painted their faces to play women. Imagine the first Malay actor in Singapore stepping onto a stage with kohl-lined eyes, a rouged cheek, and a carefully powdered forehead — and suddenly masculinity wasn’t a problem.
This is the kind of historical trivia you don’t usually hear in a Kopitiam over kaya toast, but it’s important context: makeup is not a betrayal of masculinity. It’s performance, confidence, and perception. And studies confirm it. A 2018 research study in Psychology of Aesthetics, Creativity, and the Arts found that subtle facial enhancements significantly improved perceived confidence and attractiveness — for men and women alike. Men using light makeup were seen as more competent and approachable, without any hit to their masculinity.
Skin as Canvas, Not Statement
For Singaporean men navigating urban life, especially those of us in the arts or media, looking presentable is part of the gig. Less is more, though. A powder foundation that matches your skin tone — perhaps with a subtle matte finish to reduce the midday haze on Orchard Road — can make you look naturally radiant. Choose a shade that complements your real tan; don’t pretend to be sun-kissed if you’ve only been out for MRT stops. Friendly makeup counters at stores like Sephora or Kiehl’s have staff accustomed to men experimenting, so go ahead, ask for a shade match without fear.
Eye makeup? Totally optional. Subtle crease shading using a powder slightly darker than your base can open up your eyes, making you look more awake for those endless script readings or Zoom auditions. Mascara — or ‘manscara,’ if you like — is acceptable, just don’t go full K-pop glam unless you’re actually auditioning for a boy band. Studies from the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology suggest that subtle enhancement of eyelashes makes men appear more approachable and engaged, which is a social win in both dating and networking contexts.
Contouring Confidence
Blusher or contouring can help define cheekbones, especially under harsh office lighting or studio flashes. A shade two or three tones darker than your foundation can add definition without making you look like a drag performer at Little India’s Deepavali parade. Avoid heavy application around your neck — nothing kills an outfit faster than a mismatched collar.
Bronzer can subtly warm the skin, especially in Singapore’s tropical climate where air-conditioning makes faces look pale. Choose matte products; shininess can read as sweat or over-enthusiasm. Remember, makeup for men is about subtlety and enhancing natural features — not creating a theatrical mask.
The Simple Skincare Backup Plan
If makeup feels too intimidating, start with basic skincare. Cleanse, tone, and moisturize. Research by Dermatology Times (2020) shows that consistent skin care improves both appearance and confidence, reducing spots, pigmentation, and the visible effects of urban stressors like pollution and humidity. Exfoliate thrice weekly and use a mask once a week to stay ahead of fine lines. Your skin isn’t just a canvas for makeup; it’s a statement of care and self-respect.
Masculinity, Makeup, and Perception
Here’s where it gets interesting: Asian cultural norms often equate grooming with femininity, especially for men. In Singapore, a man wearing a bit of concealer or brow gel may still get eyebrow raises in kopitiams or at hawker centres. But studies in Social Psychological and Personality Science (2017) show that men who engage in subtle grooming are often perceived as more competent and socially adept — traits historically associated with leadership. So in essence, a little makeup doesn’t make you less masculine; it makes you more effective.
Humour helps here. When I first wore concealer on set, a fellow actor whispered, “Bro, you look different today.” I replied, “Yeah, I applied my confidence directly onto my face.” Laughter diffused the tension. Sometimes, your own attitude towards grooming affects how others perceive it more than the products themselves.
Singapore-Specific Notes
For city-dwellers, climate matters. Humidity can make even the best powder slide off by lunchtime. Opt for lightweight, breathable products and keep blotting papers handy — especially if you’re heading from an MRT to a client meeting or a late-night film shoot. And sunscreen, always — urban pollution accelerates skin damage, as noted in a 2019 study by Environmental Health Perspectives. SPF is non-negotiable.
Also, the cultural lens cannot be ignored. Male beauty norms are evolving: K-pop and Taiwanese dramas have normalized groomed, dewy-faced male leads. In Singapore, younger generations are increasingly accepting of men who take care of their skin and appearance. So the next time you see a Malay actor subtly wearing concealer in a local ad, remember: he’s part of a quiet revolution challenging outdated masculinity.
The Takeaway
Men and makeup is not a contradiction — it’s a tool. It’s confidence, professionalism, and personal care rolled into one. Start small: powder foundation, a touch of eyebrow gel, maybe a subtle lash lift. Learn to apply lightly; study your angles in natural light. Embrace skincare as a foundation for any cosmetic enhancements. And laugh about it — humour is the best way to normalize something historically taboo.
In a city like Singapore, where appearances still subtly affect opportunity and perception, grooming and makeup for men are less about vanity and more about participation. It’s not about tricking anyone — it’s about presenting the best version of yourself, both for the camera and for real life. And if you ever feel self-conscious, just remember: Edwardian actors did this centuries ago, and they were considered the epitome of sophistication. So, go ahead — powder your way to confidence.
Written by: Adi Jamaludin
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