Male Existential Crisis: Women change their hair, but what about men?

Changing one’s look has always been a symbolic act. For many women, a new haircut or a change of color represents renewal, the closing of a chapter, or simply a boost of self-esteem in the form of an aesthetic indulgence. And this has been amplified by the media, which portrays image changes as turning points, new beginnings, or a firm commitment to starting a more authentic and happier stage of life .

But what about men? Why is it so hard for us to look in the mirror and dare to reinvent ourselves physically, even when our mind is screaming “I need a change”? If we connect this to the idea of an existential crisis, in men it often manifests in many ways: work-related stress, personal dissatisfaction, or a sense of stagnation…

Hair becomes a reflection of our confidence, our identity, and our desire for growth. So it’s not far-fetched to say that image also plays an important role in men’s process of change after a crisis. The thing is, it doesn’t happen in the same way as it does for women. That’s why today we explore why a change of look can mean much more than aesthetics, how it influences male psychology, and what real benefits it can bring .

Why Men Avoid Changing Their Look

Although today’s society encourages innovation and self-expression, many men are still tied to a rigid ideal of masculinity that associates “self-care” with superficiality. Studies show that male body image directly influences self-esteem and the perception of attractiveness (Rudd & Lennon, 2001). However, unlike women, men receive fewer forms of “support” that encourage them to experiment with their hair. In fact, look changes perceived as too bold in men are often met with mockery, which only makes things worse.

The fear of change, of not being recognized, or even of being judged for daring to try something new, is real. That’s why many men end up stuck with the same haircut for years , while watching friends, partners, or even female colleagues constantly reinvent themselves. The paradox is that physical change can act as a catalyst for mental change, a way to reconnect with one’s identity and explore new sides of the personality .

Hair as a Reflection of the Male Existential Crisis

When we talk about the male existential crisis , we’re not just referring to age or the passage of time. It’s about a feeling of disconnection from oneself, of not feeling enough, or of asking, “Who am I now?” And this is where, among other things, a haircut comes in—it becomes a kind of thermometer for that discontent. Subtle changes, like growing a beard or switching up your style, can be understood as signals that you want to gain more control over your life or that you’re in need of renewal.

Many men going through an existential crisis admit that a change of look allows them to regain a sense of control over their lives . It’s a symbolic act that marks the beginning of a new chapter: leaving the old behind and opening up to new opportunities, relationships, or personal challenges. Even a seemingly small haircut can generate a powerful psychological effect: improved self-esteem, a feeling of freshness, and an increase in perceived attractiveness.

Changing Your Look and Its Impact on Confidence and Sexuality

The link between image and sexuality is stronger than it seems. Research in sexual psychology shows that feeling good about one’s appearance boosts confidence in intimacy and sexual desire (Duncan et al., 2014). A man who experiments with his style not only feels renewed when he looks in the mirror, but also bolder in his relationships… more willing to play, seduce, and explore his erotic side.

In addition, small changes like a modern haircut, a new hair color, or even grooming one’s beard can create a kind of “ self-affirmation effect ,” reinforcing the sense of control over the body and life in general. This translates into a greater openness to enjoying sexuality without guilt, more willingness to experiment, and a deeper connection with a partner or even in casual sexual encounters.

Ideas to Reinvent Your Look Without Fear

1. Start small : if you’ve never tried anything different, begin with details: part your hair differently, add a subtle fade, or try a new styling product that enhances your hair.

2. Get inspired : social media, magazines, or even certain movies can help you visualize styles that fit your personality.

3. Consult professionals: a good stylist doesn’t just cut, they also advise on color, shape, and maintenance according to your hair type and face shape.

4. Take care of your scalp : healthy hair doesn’t just look better, it also reflects your overall health and well-being. It might sound trivial, but certain specialized care products, like nourishing shampoos and hydrating treatments, help keep it in top condition.
   
   

These steps don’t just improve appearance: they boost self-esteem and can become part of a male self-care ritual , a small gesture that reinforces the feeling of control and well-being.

Changing Your Look as Part of Mental Health

Aesthetic transformation, beyond the superficial, can have a real therapeutic effect. In psychology, it is recognized that symbolic acts of renewal generate positive emotional changes: they reduce anxiety, increase motivation, and encourage introspection (Duncan et al., 2014). That’s why, in moments of existential crisis, a change of style can be more than just an indulgence. It’s a tool for self-knowledge and personal expression.

By integrating physical changes and daily care, men not only improve their appearance but also connect with their emotional well-being. A new haircut, a different style, or a bold color symbolically represents the beginning of a deeper process of self-care, conscious sexuality, and self-confidence.

Tips to Maintain the Change and Enjoy It to the Fullest

1. Haircare routine : in products suited to your hair type; a healthy scalp helps your cut and color last longer.

2. Style and personality : choose changes that match your character; a forced look can create more discomfort than confidence.

3. Experiment without fear : try new hairstyles, styling products, or even temporary dyes; the change doesn’t have to be permanent. And if you don’t like that buzz cut you tried… just remember, hair grows back.
   
   

Connect with your body and sexuality : external change opens the door to exploring new ways of feeling attractive, more confident, and more open to enjoying intimacy.

Conclusion: Reinventing Yourself Is Also an Act of Self-Care

If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Why can they change their look and I can’t?”, remember that reinventing yourself is everyone’s right. Changing your haircut, style, or color not only improves aesthetics. It has a direct impact on men’s confidence, sexuality, and mental health . In times of existential crisis, looking in the mirror and deciding to transform something about yourself can be the first step toward a more authentic and confident version of you. Ready?

References

Rudd, N. A., & Lennon, S. J. (2001). Body Image: Linking Aesthetics and Social Psychology of Appearance. Clothing and Textiles Research Journal, 19(3), 120-133. https://doi.org/10.1177/0887302X0101900303 (Original work published 2001)

Duncan, D. T., Wolin, K. Y., Scharoun-Lee, M., Ding, E. L., Warner, E. T., & Bennett, G. G. (2014). Does perception of attractiveness affect sexual desire and activity? Journal of Sex Research, 51(3), 281–289. https://doi.org/10.1080/00224499.2013.841737

Taylor, S. E. (2011). Health psychology (8th ed.). McGraw-Hill Education.