Male police cadets in Japan are receiving training in makeup skills at the Fukushima Police Academy, which began offering makeup classes in January to approximately 60 cadets to enhance their professional appearance. The curriculum includes lessons on makeup application, skincare, and grooming, with cosmetics company Shiseido involved in the program, as reported by the South China Morning Post.
The training encompasses essential makeup techniques such as using eyebrow pencils, moisturizing, and applying primers. Cadets also learn grooming skills, including eyebrow trimming and hairstyling. Shiseido’s involvement ensures the course maintains high professional standards. Takeshi Sugiura, the vice-principal of the police academy, highlighted the importance of maintaining a neat and professional appearance for officers in public interactions, stating, “We want to remind students that as both members of society and future police officers, maintaining a proper appearance is crucial.”
Cadets participating in the program have expressed awareness of the significance of personal presentation in law enforcement roles. One male cadet remarked on the importance of presenting oneself well in public, stating, “I’ve never worn makeup before. I believe that being a police officer means often being in the public eye, so I want to ensure that I present myself well before going to work.”
The initiative has triggered varied discussions on Japanese social media, with some users making humorous comments while others endorsed the idea. One user joked about using makeup tactics to apprehend suspects, while another suggested that makeup courses are beneficial for both men and women.
Traditionally, Japanese police academies concentrated on physical and legal training, but the addition of grooming-related courses is seen as a move towards enhancing professionalism and community engagement. Alongside the Fukushima academy, the Yamaguchi police academy has also adopted a similar program, instructing male cadets in proper face-cleaning techniques.
