Top Makeup Trends That Are Popular This Year

Have you ever stood in front of your makeup mirror, feeling overwhelmed by the countless products and trends out there? I’ve been there too. With so many new makeup trends popping up each year, it’s hard to keep up. But don’t worry—I’ve done the research for you. I’ve tried, tested, and compiled the top makeup trends that are making waves this year. Whether you’re a makeup pro or just starting out, there’s something here for everyone. Let’s dive in!

1. The Skin-First Approach

Gone are the days of cakey, heavy foundations. This year, it’s all about embracing your natural skin. The skin-first approach focuses on hydration, glow, and a natural, dewy finish. If you’ve struggled with finding the right foundation or felt like your makeup looks too heavy, this trend is for you.

How I Achieve a Skin-First Look

Here’s my step-by-step process for a fresh, glowing complexion:

Step 1: Start with a hydrating primer. I love using a primer with hyaluronic acid to give my skin that extra boost of moisture.
Step 2: Apply a lightweight, sheer foundation or tinted moisturizer. The goal is to even out your skin tone without covering up your natural texture.
Step 3: Skip the powder—well, mostly. If you need to set your makeup, use a light, translucent powder only on oily areas.
Step 4: Finish with a dew-dropping highlight. A liquid highlighter mixed with a small drop of moisturizer gives me that lit-from-within glow.

Pro tip: Skip heavy concealer and opt for a brightening concealer instead. Apply it only where needed—under your eyes and on any redness—and blend it with your fingers for a natural finish.

2. Graphic Liner and Bold Brows

If you’re looking to make a statement, graphic liner and bold brows are the way to go. This trend is all about creativity and self-expression. Whether you prefer dramatic wings, sharp angles, or bold brow shapes, there’s no wrong way to rock it.

How I Pull Off Graphic Liner

Here’s how I do it:

Step 1: Start with a clean, bare lid. I like to use a concealer to cover any discoloration or unwanted pigment.
Step 2: Use a liquid or gel liner to create sharp, defined lines. You can go for a classic wing, a geometric shape, or even a bold, solid line across your lid.
Step 3: Set your liner with a matching eyeshadow or powder to make sure it stays put all day.

As for bold brows, I like to use a brow gel to fluff them up and a brow pencil to fill in any sparse areas. The key is to keep them natural-looking but slightly more defined than usual.

3. Glossy Lips and Glass Skin

Glossy lips and glass skin are two trends that just won’t quit. If you love a high-shine finish, you’ll adore these looks. The goal is to create a wet, glass-like effect on your lips and skin.

How I Get Glossy Lips

Here’s my go-to method:

Step 1: Start with a moisturized lip. I like to exfoliate my lips with a sugar scrub and then apply a hydrating lip balm.
Step 2: Line your lips with a nude lip liner to define them and prevent feathering.
Step 3: Apply a glossy lipstick or a clear lip gloss. If you want extra shine, layer a clear gloss over your lipstick.

Pro tip: Apply a small amount of highlighter to the center of your lips for an extra glossy, plumped effect.

How I Achieve Glass Skin

For glass skin, follow these steps:

Step 1: Start with a hydrated base. Use a hydrating toner or essence to prep your skin.
Step 2: Apply a lightweight, dewy foundation or skip foundation altogether and use a tinted moisturizer.
Step 3: Skip powder and instead use a liquid highlighter mixed with a drop of moisturizer for a wet, glass-like finish.
Step 4: Finish with a spritz of setting spray to lock in the dewy effect.

4. Colorful Eye Makeup

This year, bold eye makeup is in, and I’m all for it. Whether you prefer bright blues, shimmery pinks, or electric purples, there’s no limit to the colors you can experiment with. If you’re new to colorful eye makeup, start with a wash of color on your lids or a bold liner.

How I Experiment with Colorful Eye Makeup