We all want to turn into an Aussie Boy The men’s makeup look proving that a tan can have serious lasting power
If it’s true that holidays have now become a memory we cling to whenever we need a quick escape from the monotony of city life, none of us is really ready to say goodbye to our tan. Men included. For years, they have been at the centre of a repetitive and rather sterile debate around the use of makeup and skincare in everyday life. But something seems to have shifted on social media. Everyone brave enough to challenge toxic masculinity and traditional gender standards seems to have surrendered to the Aussie Boy trend, a grooming look that lets us show off a healthy, glowing complexion without too much overthinking, even miles away from a paradise beach.
Men’s beauty trends 2026: what is Aussie Boy makeup?
@samdavidish Trying @Shannon James Julian Williams famous Aussie Boy Glam. Shannon’s videos are what made me what to try makeup in the first place. Trying his style in earnest knowing i can’t get close to the work he does! #aussieboyglam #mensmakeup #makeupforguys #manmakeup #boymakeup using @rhode skin @Haus Labs @Diorbeauty @Hourglass Cosmetics @Charlotte Tilbury Can't Get You out of My Head - Kylie Minogue
Made famous on TikTok by makeup artist Shannon James Julian Williams, Aussie Boy makeup is a men’s makeup trend that has already won over it-boys around the world. Inspired by the healthy, golden complexion of Australian surfers, this grooming look can be the perfect solution for anyone looking for a sun-kissed makeup effect that can be personalised according to their needs. The final result mimics the glow of a sunny day spent riding waves in dream locations such as Bells Beach, and can be recreated by following a few simple steps as part of your makeup routine.
Tips and products for creating an Aussie Boy-style men’s makeup look
After hydrating and prepping the skin with a primer, the first step to recreating an Aussie Boy makeup look is to start with a lightweight base. A skin tint or tinted serum can even out and enhance the complexion while keeping the finish natural. For those harder-to-reach areas, a concealer is all you need to brighten the parts of the face you want to highlight. Only once you have achieved an even base should you warm up the perimeter of the face with a bronzer stick, paired with a blush to create an impeccable sunkissed cheek look. If you want to add an extra touch of luminosity, simply layer the blush with a little highlighter to achieve that healthy, holiday-ready glow. The finishing touch for an on-point grooming look? Fake freckles. All you need is a dedicated freckle pen applied across the cheeks and the bridge of the nose. To complete everything, add a layer of scented lip balm and a refreshing mist to keep the look fresh whatever the occasion.