The first months of 2021 are likely to be much the same as the last months of 2020. Most of us are working from home and going outside only when strictly necessary – for supplies or sanity.

For many, the recent change in lifestyle has impacted on the way we look, and our product choices. An overview of the market would suggest that lockdown has sent men in two very different directions in 2020. So which category do you fall into?

Makeup soars while shaving sinks

Reports into the male grooming market for 2020 have shown some surprising results. Shaving product sales have fallen sharply, while beard care has seen interest increase. Skin and hair products for men have also sold less this year than previously, but more men than ever are taking an interest in makeup.

Long-haired layabout

Requiring the least effort, this is certainly a tempting option. With fewer and fewer reasons to leave the house and little to no social contact, many men have decided to let it all hang out.

Why shave a face that no one is going to see, let alone touch? And if washing your hair seems like too much hassle, you can always declare yourself a devotee of the ‘no poo’ movement and let nature take its course.

If it comes to that, why even bother getting dressed? If loungewear is the new workwear, sleepwear is the new loungewear.

This look best suits: Those for whom working from home requires very little in the way of Zoom ‘meetings’. It’s also more appropriate if you’re currently single – or want to be.

Concealer guy

For some, lockdown has sent them in a very different direction. Where once meetings involved sitting in a boardroom looking around at other people, or at Powerpoint presentations, these days it’s more a case of sitting in your bedroom, constantly distracted by the sight of your own face in the corner of the screen.

These guys haven’t just continued with their normal grooming habits in lockdown, they’ve gone into overdrive. Facial imperfections they’d never even noticed before are being covered with makeup. Research is being conducted into Brotox injections, with a view to getting those pesky frown lines frozen just as soon as clinics reopen.

This look best suits: The go-getting career man – keep on top of your grooming and you’ll certainly leave a good impression on your superiors. You might even catch the eye of a potential mate while you’re at it.