Makeup and skincare products may once have only belonged in the world of women. But since the coining of the term "metrosexual" in 2002, thanks to footballer and fashion icon David Beckham, a bridge has been built for men to cross into that once forbidden world.

Judging from the increasing numbers of men's grooming products on the Thai market within the last three years, plus the growing numbers of straight men who are shopping for skincare supplies, it looks like the trend is here to stay.

"The metrosexual trend is not yet as strong in Bangkok as it is in more metropolitan cities like Tokyo or New York, but it's definitely growing" says Thanawat Niyomwan, grooming editor of Mars magazine, a Thai monthly publication for men.

According to his observations, the trendy men of Bangkok are getting less timid about taking better care of their appearance.

"Take a look at any beauty department these days and you'll see that more guys visiting counters on their own. Of course, there're some who still let their sister or girlfriend do their shopping. But more are learning to become familiar with the idea of grooming, starting with something as minimum as a manicure or pedicure. Then they will feel safe enough to move on to using skincare products."

In fact, using skincare products is considered as very normal now among men, and many are venturing into the makeup zone, as long as products have a masculine enough image, like those from Jean Paul Gauthier. Of course, makeup for men isn't as colourful as what you find in the women's range, but rather is for now confined to "just a dust of powder to even out their complexion and maybe a little of colour and moisture on their lips" according to Thanawat.

Piyada Nanta, public relations manager of MAC Cosmetics, which recently launched its Boy Beauty Collection, considers it normal now for men to experiment with a little colour to enhance their looks.

"Guys are becoming more exposed to fashion. And makeup is becoming another tool for them to experiment with it, especially with the young ones who closely follow the trends of the world. But with the more mature age group, makeup is used to correct flaws like using concealer for dark circles under the eyes or to cover a few spots or using a clear brow gel to keep their brows looking groomed. This, plus skincare, gives them confidence," she says.

Karn Kittivech, a television news anchor, says that he takes special care of his appearance. Having to be in the makeup chair five days a week for the past five years, he says he simply cannot neglect the obvious - the crucial daily routine of cleansing, toning and moisturising, and not to mention a monthly facial as well.

"It's a more popular practice now but I didn't do it because it's a trend or anything. With all the makeup being put on my face, I feel that my skin needs a bit more attention when it comes to daily cleaning. A lot of my work depends on how I look, so I have to do my best to take care of my appearance," he says.

Looking great can also mean a huge boost for a man's self-esteem.

"People are usually surprised when I tell them my age. The best feedback is from the makeup artists because they're the ones touching my face every day. It also feels kind of good when you go to reunions and meet friends of the same age. I'm quite glad I take care of myself and if I had known it'd work this good, I'd probably have started doing this early on in my teens" he says.

So don't be shy to show some of your "feminine" side guys. After all, a clean, well-groomed man is considered attractive by 90 per cent of gals any day.

Rangsita Sirivanich

 The Nation