Invisible Consumption – The starting point
Read the paper here > ‘He wouldn’t be seen using it…’ Men’s use of male grooming products as a form of invisible consumption
AI Artist’s Statement: “Invisible Reflections” is an exploration of the nuanced interplay between public identity and private self-care within the context of male grooming, inspired by the scholarly paper on men’s invisible consumption of skincare products. The artwork juxtaposes a shadowed figure engaging in the private act of applying an unseen cream with a vibrant, colorful mask reflected in the mirror. This mirror reflection represents the societal expectations and public perceptions that shape and often constrain personal behaviors and identities. Through this piece, I aim to provoke contemplation on the often unseen pressures that guide personal choices and the invisible routines carried out in solitude, which are deeply influenced by cultural norms yet remain concealed from the public eye. The artwork invites viewers to consider the layers of visibility and invisibility that permeate our daily rituals and the complex dynamics between personal agency and social expectation.
Who is it for?: The paper on men’s use of skincare products and the concept of invisible consumption holds relevance for several key groups and stakeholders beyond the academic sphere:
- Skincare Industry Professionals: Manufacturers and marketers in the skincare and broader beauty industry would find the insights into male consumer behavior valuable for developing targeted marketing strategies and product lines.
- Consumer Behavior Analysts: Professionals who specialize in studying market trends and consumer behavior could use the findings to better understand shifts in societal norms and their impact on consumption habits.
- Gender Studies Community: Activists, educators, and professionals within gender studies could utilize the paper to discuss and teach about evolving gender norms and the pressures of masculinity.
- Business Strategists and Retailers: Those involved in retail strategy, especially in beauty and personal care retail, could apply the insights to enhance their approach to the male consumer market, focusing on discretion and privacy in their sales techniques.
- Advertising Professionals: Marketers and advertisers could use this paper to craft campaigns that resonate more deeply with male audiences, potentially rethinking how they address and dismantle stigmas around male grooming.
- Mental Health Advocates: Understanding the pressures and social stigmas men face in regards to personal care could aid in broader discussions about male vulnerability and mental health, promoting more open conversations about self-care among men.
- Policy Makers: Those in roles that influence public policy could use the insights from this paper to support gender equality initiatives and educational campaigns aimed at breaking down stereotypes associated with gendered behavior and consumption.