The Hottest Gen Z Makeup Trends You Need to Try Right Now

If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for the next big thing in makeup. Gen Z is all about breaking the rules and redefining beauty standards. From bold graphic liners to embracing our natural skin, here are the top makeup trends that are blowing up our feeds and why they’re so fire right now.

1. Graphic Eyeliner

What it is: Think bold, unconventional eyeliner designs—geometric shapes, negative space, and vibrant colors.

Graphic eyeliner

Why it’s hot:

Self-Expression: It’s all about showcasing our unique styles and creativity.

Social Media Influence: TikTok and Instagram are flooded with these eye-catching looks, inspiring us to experiment.

2. Bold and Bright Eyeshadows

What it is: Vivid eyeshadow colors like neon pinks, blues, and greens applied in creative, non-traditional ways.

Bright eyeshadow

Why it’s hot:

Playfulness: Bright colors bring a sense of fun and experimentation.

Cultural Influence: Trends from music festivals, pop culture, and influencers keep us daring and bold.

3. Euphoria-Inspired Makeup

What it is: Sparkling, glittery looks with rhinestones, sequins, and shimmering shadows, inspired by the HBO series “Euphoria.”

Euphoria makeup

Why it’s hot:

Media Influence: “Euphoria” has had a massive impact on makeup trends.

Escape and Fantasy: These looks offer a fantastical escape, especially in uncertain times.

4. Natural, Glowing Skin

What it is: Dewy, fresh-faced skin with minimal foundation. Think skin tints, BB creams, and illuminating primers.

Perfect skin

Why it’s hot:

Authenticity: Embracing natural beauty and skin texture. Also, looks better in person.

Skincare Focus: Increased focus on skincare routines means we want to show off our real skin.

5. Soap Brows

What it is: Full, fluffy, and well-groomed brows achieved using brow soap or clear brow gel to brush the hairs upwards.

Extreme close-up of a closed eye with gold glitter eyeshadow across the lid, the same glitter scattered through a blunt fringe above

Why it’s hot:

Natural Beauty: Soap brows give an effortlessly groomed look.

DIY Trend: It’s an easy, cost-effective trend that anyone can try at home.

6. Blush Draping

What it is: Using blush not only on the cheeks but also extending it to the temples and around the eyes for a lifted look.

Blush draping

Why it’s hot:

Retro Revival: This trend from the ’70s and ’80s is back in a big way.

Youthful Look: Blush draping gives a fresh, youthful vibe that’s perfect for adding a pop of color.

7. Lip Gloss

What it is: Glossy lips with natural or lightly tinted shades for a fresh, hydrated appearance.

Person with curly hair applying pink lip gloss with a wand applicator against a lilac background, wearing shimmering eyeshadow

Why it’s hot:

Nostalgia: We’re bringing back the early 2000s with glossy lips.

Freshness: Glossy lips create that perfect fresh, dewy look.

8. Freckles

What it is: Enhancing natural freckles or creating faux freckles using brow pencils, freckle pens, or even henna.

Young woman resting her chin on her hand, wearing drawn-on faux freckles across her nose and cheeks

Why it’s hot:

Natural Imperfections: Celebrating natural skin features aligns with our beauty philosophy.

Youthful and Playful: Freckles add a playful, youthful touch that’s super cute and on-trend.

9. Monochromatic Looks

What it is: Using the same color for eyes, cheeks, and lips for a cohesive, harmonious look.

Monochromatic makeup

Why it’s hot:

Simplicity and Coordination: It simplifies the makeup routine while creating a harmonious look.

Versatility: Monochromatic looks can be both subtle and bold, making it easy to match any outfit or mood.

10. Skipping Concealer

What it is: Embracing natural skin texture and imperfections by skipping concealer to achieve a more authentic and less “perfect” look.

Skip concealer

Why it’s hot:

Authenticity and Realism: Promotes a more realistic beauty standard.

Skin Health: Avoiding heavy concealer lets our skin breathe, reducing the risk of clogged pores and breakouts.

These trends are all about embracing who we are, having fun, and pushing the boundaries of traditional beauty norms. Whether you’re going for a bold graphic liner or rocking your natural skin, there’s something for everyone to try and make their own. So, go ahead and experiment, express yourself, and most importantly, have fun with it!