Police training in Japan is evolving beyond traditional physical and legal instruction. A police academy in Fukushima Prefecture has introduced grooming and make-up lessons for male cadets to ensure they maintain a professional and polished appearance while serving the public.

Why Grooming Matters for Police Officers

In January, the Fukushimaken Keisatsugakko police academy launched this initiative, training 60 cadets—including male officers nearing graduation—in essential grooming techniques. The session, led by beauty consultants from Japanese cosmetics giant Shiseido, covered skincare, eyebrow trimming, hairstyling, and applying primers for a refined look.

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Vice-principal Takeshi Sugiura explained that officers frequently engage with the public, making a clean and professional appearance crucial for trust-building. “We want to remind students that as members of society and future officers, maintaining a proper appearance is vital,” he told Japanese broadcaster Nippon TV.

How Cadets Are Responding

For many male cadets, this was their first exposure to make-up. Some struggled with application techniques, but by the end of the session, many appreciated its importance. One cadet admitted, “I’ve never worn make-up before, but as a police officer, I want to present myself well in public.”

The initiative has sparked mixed reactions on social media. While some users joked about officers using loose powder as a weapon, others saw value in the training. “This may seem odd, but isn’t it good for both men and women to learn make-up?” one commenter noted. Others cautioned against adding unnecessary performance criteria for officers.

Expanding the Initiative

Fukushima isn’t alone in this approach. A police academy in Yamaguchi has also introduced grooming lessons, starting with skincare and facial cleansing techniques. Additionally, a Tokyo school launched a similar program in 2021 as part of a “gentlemen’s education” initiative, teaching boys about personal grooming and uniform maintenance.