In recent years, male grooming practices have evolved significantly, with an increasing number of men opting for hair removal across various body areas. This trend is highlighted by high-profile figures such as England football star Jude Bellingham, who recently showcased a meticulously hairless look in his campaign with Kim Kardashian's underwear brand, SKIMS. The phenomenon is prevalent among other celebrities too, including Cristiano Ronaldo and Chris Hemsworth, who frequently appear with smooth, hairless torsos.
This shift is also evident on popular reality shows like ITV1's Love Island, where contestants, including Will Anderson and Omar Nyame, flaunt hair-free chests. Reality TV personalities such as Joey Essex have also contributed to popularizing this trend.
Notable Hollywood actors like Jake Gyllenhaal and Matthew McConaughey have been sporting hairless looks in various films, further propelling the manscaping movement. Sports stars, particularly Ronaldo and Australian cricketer Michael Clarke, show a preference for smooth, shaven legs which can enhance performance and prevent infections.
Research by Dr. Matthew Hall at Lancaster University suggests societal pressures and evolving norms significantly influence male grooming behaviors. Dr. Hall's studies indicate that consumerist and capitalist pressures are partly responsible for the increase in male grooming products and practices. Men cite reasons such as better hygiene and enhanced sexual experiences for their grooming habits, often framing their motivations in traditionally masculine terms.
As the trend continues to grow, it's becoming increasingly common across diverse socio-economic, ethnic, and age groups, suggesting a broader cultural shift towards more meticulous male grooming.