Men are becoming more interested in manicures, and it’s not just because of social media.

Women aren’t the only ones who want to paint their nails bright, crimson, or black, or get a chic French manicure. Manicures, like facials, waxing, and haircare procedures, appear to be something guys appreciate as well, and not only on social media.

Manicures appear to be gaining popularity among men. And, while rappers, singers, and other well-known entertainers started the trend, a new generation of males is standing up to prove that manicured and colored nails aren’t just for women.

Self-affirmation and self-expression

Beauty, like fashion, is evolving into a new kind of self-expression that appeals to both men and women. Despite the efforts of pioneering artists and celebrities such as David Bowie and Johnny Depp, who experimented with more androgynous styles, the 2020 decade may appear to be a true turning point, with a real blurring of gender lines, particularly in the cosmetics sector.

Treatwell, a European online beauty booking company, released a poll in March that showed these shifts. According to the report, three out of ten French men are eager to receive a manicure and pedicure, and manicures are one of the most popular treatments for males. Prior to the holiday season, the specialty site observed a 23 percent rise in nail care. Overall, these data indicate that such services are addressing men’s new needs.

Harry Styles, Lil Nas X, and the rest of the gang

Men’s manicures have lately become part of the routine for several celebrities, ranging from the catwalks to the red carpets, to the music business, and even street trends, helping to make male nail care more popular globally. We’re not talking about black nails, which are frequently associated with the punk or grunge image, but rather colorful nails or nails with various designs. Harry Styles, as is customary, emerges as one of the industry’s leaders, frequently posing or stepping out with flawlessly manicured and painted nails.

He is not, however, alone. ASAP Rocky, Lil Nas X, J. Balvin, Bad Bunny, Pete Davidson, Jared Leto, Marc Jacobs, and Machine Gun Kelly are among the many males who have shown up with their nails painted in a variety of colors.

UN/DN LAQR, the latter’s own brand of unisex nail polish, reflects the popularity of this trend, which appears to be on its way to becoming a norm outside of social media.