One on One: EvolutionMan's Marco Berardini Talks "MAN-icures"

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Earlier this week, we wrote about how men's beauty line EvolutionMan recently put out a line of nail polishes. We even conducted a poll on whether or not the trend would take off, and the results were pretty evenly split three ways, between "Yes, definitely," "Maybe in Brooklyn," and "No Way." Racked special reporter Yale Breslin sat down with EvolutionMan founder Marco Berardini to get his thoughts on the line, and of course, men's manicures.

Hairstylist and makeup artist Marco Berardini launched EvolutionMan, what he deems the next advancement in grooming. Sure, he's created cleaners, concealers, and revitalizing eye gels for the aesthetic-conscious guy, but his latest product takes it one step further. He's concocted a line of men's nail products (varnishes and paints) that he expects guys around the globe to start adapting to?.or flocking to. While this guy may steer clear of anything that resembles something even remotely referential to a Pantone color, Berardini is here to prove me wrong.

Why did you decide to launch EvolutionMan? What inspired the line?
I personally went to buy skincare products for myself, and I was confused. Many lines seemed overly complicated and I wanted products that minimized the amount of steps, but gave maximum results. I also wanted products with a high-end look and mid-range prices, products that also work but sit well on your bathroom counter, and of course, doing my part for the environment by using post-consumer recycled materials in our tubing.

What differentiates EvolutionMan from other skincare brands catered to guys?
I felt that there was no men's skincare grooming line for the modern man. Most skincare lines cater to shaving, while we try to focus men's needs for products not on the market. Clear skin, anti-aging and sun protection with niche products for the man who wants to go a little bit further with his grooming.

Tell me exactly what the MAN-icure is?
A MAN-icure means different things to different men. Either out of function (like for the nail chewer), or to make an individualistic statement with a bold color, our line caters to a variety of men.

Do you think guys will be adept to applying polishes to their nails? If so, why?
I think a lot of men are already wearing nail polish. From rock stars to high-end men's campaigns, it is definitely a way to make bold statement in a temporary way.

What's the difference between Pure Matte and Pure Bling? Who do you see applying these coats?
Pure Bling can be used on nails alone to create a buffed look to the nail, or on top of any color for longer-lasting results. It is also enriched with Vitamins C and E to help strengthen the nail bed. Pure Matte, when used alone, is invisible to the naked eye, but will still offer protection. The coolest part of Pure Matte is that you can mattify any nail polish you already own for a more modern, matte finish.

How did you decide to pursue nail polishes (in different colors) for guys? What inspired this?
Nail colors on men are becoming more relevant in today's society, and I wanted to give men a more interesting, masculine option. After noticing that most men were wearing white, blue, and black nail colors, I wanted to offer an alternative. Much like the newer car finishes, I wanted matte, metallic looks that would feel familiar, but new.

· Nail Polish for Men: Can It Work? [Racked]
· EvolutionMAN [Official Site]