kiss without makeup

The band KISS first performed without their iconic makeup on October 11, 1983, during the opening of their "Lick It Up" World Tour in Lisbon, Portugal. Prior to that, their makeup had been a defining part of their image since their formation in 1973. Their public unmasking began with a revealing appearance on MTV on September 18, 1983. The move was significant as it marked a new era for the band, shedding the theatrical look that had set them apart and presenting their natural faces to fans for the first time in a decade. This was described by band members as a comfortable and positive step, and it coincided with the release of their album "Lick It Up," which was well received and helped the band regain popularity in the 1980s. They remained makeup-free until 1996 when the original lineup reunited with their classic look.