The age-old question of whether a man is single or taken has taken a new twist in the age of self-care and luxury beauty products. Lizzie Kane found herself pondering this very question while on a fourth date at the home of a man she was seeing. What sparked her curiosity? The array of niche, luxury skin care brands in his bathroom that seemed more fitting for a woman’s touch.
After capturing the scene on video and confronting him, the man insisted that he didn’t have a girlfriend and had ordered the products himself. However, the internet had a different opinion, with many users on TikTok weighing in and concluding that he must have a girlfriend based on the selection of products.
While it’s becoming more common for straight men to pay attention to their self-care, the specific brands and products in question raised eyebrows. From Ouai hair care to Goop face oil, these are typically favored by women, leading many to believe that a woman must have influenced his choices.
Despite the debate sparked by the video, some defended the man, suggesting that he may have had help from an ex-girlfriend or simply wanted to create a comfortable space for his dates. However, for some, the bathroom’s ambiance was just a bit too feminine, raising suspicions.
As the discussion continues, it’s clear that self-care and grooming routines are evolving, and it’s no longer unusual for men to invest in high-quality products. Whether it’s a sign of a girlfriend’s influence or simply a man who knows his way around a skincare routine, the debate rages on.
What do you think? Have you ever encountered a similar situation? Share your thoughts, stories, and tips with us at thirdwheel@nytimes.com.