The Rise of the “Masculine Energy” Trend and Its Impact on Male Beauty Standards
In recent years, a growing trend has emerged among men in various parts of the world, including the United States, to trim or even completely remove their eyelashes. This practice, which may seem counterintuitive given the protective and aesthetic functions of eyelashes, is being driven by a broader cultural shift toward redefining masculinity.
Eyelashes serve multiple critical functions beyond their visual appeal. They act as a natural barrier against dust, dirt, and other foreign particles, while also triggering the blink reflex that protects the eyes. Additionally, they help reduce airflow over the eyes, maintain moisture, and filter intense sunlight, all of which contribute to eye health and comfort. Despite these benefits, some men are choosing to alter their lashes in an effort to conform to evolving standards of masculinity.
This trend has gained traction on social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and X, where videos show men undergoing the process of trimming or shaving their eyelashes. Some barbers use electric clippers, while others rely on hairdressing scissors, often with a steady hand and a willingness to take risks. While the motivations behind this behavior vary, many are influenced by the idea of embracing what is being called “masculine energy.”
The concept of “masculine energy” has been popularized by figures in the online “manosphere,” including controversial personalities like Andrew Tate and tech bros such as Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg. These individuals have advocated for a more aggressive, traditional form of masculinity, which some men believe is necessary to assert dominance in both personal and professional settings. In January 2025, Zuckerberg expressed support for a corporate culture that celebrates aggression, suggesting that such traits could have its own merits.
This cultural shift has led to a growing desire among some men to distance themselves from features traditionally associated with femininity. Long, thick eyelashes, for example, have historically been seen as a sign of attractiveness or femininity. However, in the current climate, some men are actively seeking to eliminate these features in order to align with new, more rigid definitions of masculinity.
The influence of this trend can be seen in political discourse as well. Vice President JD Vance, who has spoken out about the importance of “masculine urges,” faced criticism during the 2024 election debate for his dark, heavy-lashed look. Speculation on social media suggested that he might have used eyeliner to achieve this effect, despite his long lashes being a natural feature. Former Republican congressman George Santos even weighed in, stating that Vance had never worn eyeliner and that his lashes were naturally long.
Despite the controversy, there are still many men who value their natural lashes. Spencer Bailey, a 48-year-old IT professional in London, shared his experience of receiving flak for his thick, dark eyelashes. He noted that comments often come from other men who describe them as “girly,” even though he is 6-foot-2 and not typically seen as feminine. His wife, however, appreciates his lashes, highlighting the subjective nature of beauty standards.
The Political and Social Implications of Changing Masculinity Norms
The rise of gender traditionalism among Republican voters in the United States reflects a broader societal shift. According to data cited by The New York Times, recent surveys indicate that more Republicans are endorsing traditional notions of masculinity. A study conducted by The Democracy Fund foundation and YouGov found that over three-quarters of Republican men and women agreed that the meaning of being a man has changed in ways that are not beneficial to society.
Additionally, 48% of Republican men now agree that women should return to traditional roles in society, a significant increase from 28% in May 2022. This trend is not limited to men; the proportion of Republican women agreeing with the same statement rose from 23% to 37% in the same period. These findings suggest a growing preference for rigid gender roles, which may influence how men perceive and modify their appearances.
Meredith Jones, an honorary professor of gender studies at Brunel University of London, explained that as societies become more conservative, they often emphasize clear distinctions between genders. She pointed to eyelashes as a strong binary marker, noting that long, thick lashes are often associated with high femininity. In response, some men are opting for shorter, stubbier lashes to appear more “masculine.”
Jones also highlighted the case of JD Vance, whose eyelash appearance sparked online speculation about whether he was wearing makeup. She noted that while President Trump is known for his makeup use, it is aimed at making him look more tanned, toned, and chiseled—traits that are perceived as more masculine.
The Evolution of Beauty Trends and Their Cultural Significance
While the trend of shaving eyelashes may seem extreme, it is part of a larger pattern of shifting beauty standards. Influencers and celebrities have begun to embrace a minimalist approach, with some adopting the #fullfacenomascara movement. This trend emphasizes natural features and avoids the use of bold cosmetics, reflecting a growing interest in authenticity.
However, despite these changes, mascara remains one of the most widely used cosmetic products in the United States. Clare Hennigan, principal analyst of beauty and personal care at Mintel, noted that mascara continues to be the most commonly applied eye makeup, indicating that the no-mascara trend may not gain widespread adoption anytime soon.
Jones emphasized that fashion trends are cyclical, and the current focus on masculinity may eventually give way to new styles. She referenced the 1960s, when conservatives criticized the blurring of gender lines due to bell-bottom trousers and long hair. Similarly, the 1980s saw a reaction to conservative leadership, with London’s club fashion becoming more adventurous.
Ultimately, the decision to shave or trim eyelashes reflects a complex interplay of personal choice, cultural norms, and societal pressures. As beauty standards continue to evolve, it remains to be seen how these trends will shape the future of male aesthetics.
