Shock-value humor returns in divisive big-game commercial

A brand that leans into discomfort

February 9, 2026: Manscaped once again delivered a Super Bowl commercial designed to make viewers squirm. Known for blending grooming products with body-focused humor, the brand doubled down on its signature shock tactics, ensuring its spot became one of the night’s most talked-about — and most polarizing — ads.
No subtlety.

Image Credit: Manscaped

The gag that pushed buttons

The commercial relied on exaggerated visual metaphors and awkwardly intimate scenarios to hammer home its message about personal grooming. While the imagery stayed just within broadcast limits, it was explicit enough to trigger audible groans, laughter, and immediate social media reactions.
Line tested.

Why Manscaped keeps doing this

Manscaped’s strategy is simple: memorability over likability. By embracing discomfort, the brand cuts through Super Bowl clutter, making its ads instantly recognizable. For a product category many advertisers avoid mentioning outright, the gross-out approach becomes its differentiator.
Brand math.

Image Credit: Manscaped Via Business Wire

Audience reaction splits fast

Viewers were sharply divided. Some praised the ad for committing fully to its brand voice, while others called it juvenile and unnecessary for a family-heavy broadcast. As usual, the controversy fueled the conversation Manscaped thrives on.
Love or hate.

Image Credit: Manscaped

How it compares to past spots

Compared to earlier Manscaped Super Bowl ads, this year’s version leaned further into visual shock rather than clever wordplay. The result was louder, messier, and impossible to ignore — even if viewers wanted to.
Escalation noted.

Final thoughts

Manscaped didn’t aim to win universal approval. It aimed to be remembered. And once again, discomfort proved to be its most effective marketing tool.
Mission achieved.

FAQs

Q1: What was Manscaped’s Super Bowl commercial about?
It used exaggerated, gross-out humor to promote personal grooming products.

Q2: Why did viewers react so strongly?
The ad leaned into awkward and uncomfortable visuals uncommon in family-friendly broadcasts.

Q3: Is this Manscaped’s usual style?
Yes. The brand is known for shock-value humor and bold messaging.

Q4: Did the ad go viral?
Yes, reactions quickly spread across social media platforms.

Q5: Was the ad well received?
Reception was mixed, with strong reactions on both sides.