In the world of beauty, a new trend has emerged: the male gaze versus female gaze makeup. A concept that started with film theorist Laura Mulvey in 1975 has now found its way into the world of social media, particularly TikTok, where women are redefining their relationship with desirability through their beauty choices.
The male gaze makeup, inspired by the idea of effortless beauty, focuses on a soft, clean, and universally pretty aesthetic. Men are said to prefer women wearing about 40% less makeup than they actually do, per a recent psychology study. This preference translates into makeup looks that are subtle yet appealing, such as glossy pink lips, dewy skin, fluffy brows, and minimal mascara.
On the other hand, female gaze makeup flips the script by prioritizing play and personality over conventional beauty standards. This approach includes bold choices like graphic liner, blush draping, vampy lips, clumpy mascara, and colorful smoky eyes. These looks are meant to be interesting and authentic to the wearer, rather than conforming to societal expectations.
The male gaze versus female gaze makeup trend reflects a larger shift in how women navigate beauty in a digital age. It challenges traditional norms and embraces individuality, signaling a pushback against external expectations. As women reclaim beauty as a form of self-expression, diverse trends like “tired girl” makeup, “butter glam,” and “disco lips” are gaining popularity, highlighting the democratization of beauty standards.
In a time where women’s rights are increasingly under threat, the evolution of beauty trends underscores a reclaiming of autonomy and selfhood. From subtle, natural looks to bold, experimental styles, makeup has become a tool for self-expression and empowerment. In a landscape where everyone is both the viewer and the viewed, beauty is no longer one-dimensional—it is a reflection of personal identity and authenticity.
As women continue to challenge societal norms and redefine beauty on their terms, the male gaze versus female gaze makeup trend serves as a powerful reminder of the evolving landscape of self-expression. Through bold choices and authentic styles, women are taking ownership of their beauty and reimagining what it means to be confidently true to oneself.
Peace Nero is a writer and blogger who loves to explore different topics of self-development. She shares her personal experiences in order to help people discover their true purpose in life.