It looks like seeing pretty boys on screen in China is officially a thing of the past now that the country’s ever-growing list of entertainment industry no-nos includes “sissy” and “effeminate” male celebs.

And these aforementioned pretty boys are definitely taking the new ban very seriously, judging from some of their responses on social media.

Last week, Chinese pop idol Huang Zitao, 28, posted two photos of himself working out shirtless in the gym, making sure to show off his muscles and presumably prove how ‘tough’ and ‘manly’ he actually is.

It’s been noted just how much this more ‘masculine’ display contrasts with the former EXO member’s flamboyant styling in the past, where he was not afraid to wear heavy make-up, coloured contact lenses, earrings, and nail polish.

Even though Zitao was not singled out as one of the “effeminate” artistes who must be banned, the media have speculated that this is his way of nipping potential problems in the bud and securing his future as a performer (in other words: prevention is better than cure).

Fans certainly aren’t complaining, though, with many leaving thirsty comments praising his ripped bod.

Other stars who appear to be trying to shed their ‘pretty boy’ images as well are Cai Xukun, 23, and Wang Yibo, 24, two of China’s hottest It boys.

While Xukun announced that he plans to grow out his beard with a selfie of his less clean-shaven self, Yibo sported noticeably shorter hair in the latest episode of Street Dance of China.

Both were seen as gestures to avoid being blacklisted in accordance with the new regulations, which state that male celebs must exude ‘masculinity’ and are strictly forbidden from wearing heavy make-up.

Not all Chinese netizens seem to be on board with these drastic restrictions.

Comments include: “It’s the 21st century and the Qing dynasty has ended, and there are still people deciding what men and women should be like?”, “I don’t understand why ‘effeminate’ has become a derogatory term”, and “So you can’t even have your own personality now?”.

Photos: Huang Zitao/Weibo, Street Dance of China/Weibo, Cai Xukun/Weibo, Wang Yibo/Weibo