The Effects of Appearance Perception of Fringe Directional Bias on Stress and Beauty-Related Behavioral Characteristics among Men in Their 20s

The fringe is a key element that determines facial image and significantly influences the overall impression. “Fringe bias”—a condition where the hair flow of the fringe heavily leans toward a specific direction or splits unnaturally—acts as a critical constraint in men’s hairstyling. Given the recent segmentation of the men’s beauty market and the surging demand for customized procedures, it is necessary to identify and academically analyze the specific factors causing consumer dissatisfaction. Therefore, this study aims to conduct an in-depth analysis of appearance perception, stress, and beauty behavior characteristics related to fringe bias among men in their 20s, and to explore practical solutions to alleviate these issues. Furthermore, the findings of this study intend to provide foundational data for practitioners in the beauty industry. This study conducted a self-administered survey using Google Forms from May 14 to 23, 2026, targeting men in their 20s nationwide. Exceeding the minimum required sample size of 129—calculated via G-power 3.1.9.4 (significance level α=0.05, power 1-β=0.95, effect size f²=0.15, 4 predictors)—data from a total of 145 respondents were utilized for the final analysis. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS 25.0 statistical software. Frequency analysis, factor analysis, reliability analysis, descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and regression analysis were conducted. The results demonstrate that higher social and importance perceptions of appearance aggravate individuals’ social and emotional stress. Consequently, this elevated perception and stress ultimately drive more active beauty management and consumption behaviors. While previous beauty research has predominantly focused on women’s overall hairstyles and appearance satisfaction, this study distinguishes itself by focusing on men in their 20s—a demographic with recently surging involvement in beauty—and the specific variable of the “fringe,” a core element in impression formation. Furthermore, it holds significance in empirically verifying the relationship between the discomfort caused by the fringe, the subsequent stress, and beauty behavior characteristics. Finally, this study offers academic value by expanding the scope of men’s beauty research and establishing an academic foundation for related studies by identifying the fundamental difficulties consumers experience during hairstyling and uncovering the underlying psychological mechanisms driving their beauty behaviors to resolve them.