6 makeup trends to try in 2026, according to the pros

While makeup is inherently a tool of self-expression, some of the most dominant trends from the past few years would have you believe otherwise (think the subdued “clean girl” esthetic that’s been all over social feeds). But it’s a new year, and the good news for those who’ve been itching for a break from the no-makeup makeup look is that beauty trends are becoming a lot more expressive these days. 

Here, two Canadian makeup pros — Montreal-based Brigitte Lacoste and Vancouver’s Becca Marie — share what’s in store for face, lips, eyes and cheeks in the months ahead. 

Uncanny beauty

Whether we like it or not, AI is now influencing makeup trends, particularly when it comes to our complexions. “People want a smooth appearance that reminds [them of] an idea of perfection, often seen in highly retouched or AI-generated images,” said Lacoste. This dovetails with the industry’s huge emphasis on skincare and esthetic treatments, she explained, but takes things up to an “almost artificial” level.

The key to this look is products that impart a lit-from-within radiance. For Lacoste, that often means glowy primers applied directly to the skin or mixed with a foundation. Traditional base products are often visible, she pointed out, which “can break the illusion of retouched, perfect skin.”

On the bright side

According to the experts, the future is looking bright. Marie anticipates colourful shadows will be back in a big way this year. Stay tuned for blues, greens, pinks and purples to make appearances in more editorial-inspired looks. “Just some really punchy, matte, bright colours paired with more neutral lips and really flawless skin,” she said.

Lacoste agrees and pointed to the sweeps of vibrant colour that were seen on the Spring 2026 runways at shows like Leonard, Anna Sui and Chopova Lowena. “[It’s] expressive and maximalist, a complete opposite to the minimal ‘clean girl’ esthetic,” she said. Expect to see graphic shapes, colour-blocking, watercolour washes and bold lines to trend, too. “Makeup will not simply enhance, but will show a strong identity and a style.”

Fluttery fun

Beauty-lovers are going to accessorize with their lashes in 2026, just like they would with a sleek hair clip or a piece of statement jewelry, said Lacoste. She predicts we’ll see stacked, colourful, feathered and asymmetrical designs, like the bold sets created by makeup artist Isamaya Ffrench at recent Thom Browne shows.

False lashes are the go-to for these dramatic looks, but Lacoste also believes many will opt for coloured and glitter mascaras, too. “Overall, lashes are now a fun tool for personal expression,” she said. 

Focused flush

Vibrant and glowy cheeks will be sticking around. But perhaps in light of the recent “blush blindness” phenomenon, expect to see more precise and intentional application techniques to trend in the months ahead. 

First up is blush layering, in which different formulas are carefully applied to the cheek to build up colour and intensity. Marie nods to the work of celebrity makeup artist Patrick Ta, who is known for perfecting the cream-over-powder technique. 

Then there’s blush draping, which was spotted on the Spring 2026 runways. With this technique, “blush is applied closer to the eyes and higher on the cheekbones, which creates the illusion of lifting the face,” Lacoste said. A fun bonus? “It reduces the appearance of dark circles.”

Loud mouth 

Expect an emphasis on pouts this year — another trend spotted on the Spring 2026 runways. “Lips will become the primary focal point of makeup looks,” said Lacoste, pointing to the powdery neon pink lips at the Chloé show. She’s also banking on intense reds to come back around, plus the reappearance of unexpected patterns as seen on models at Simone Rocha. 

Marie predicts this trend will be paired with the ghost lashes look that started to gain traction last summer. “I think we’re going to see a lot more people ditch mascara and focus on accentuating their lips,” she said.

Sparkle and shine 

HBO’s Euphoria had everyone talking when it first aired in 2019, not just for its controversial subject matter, but for its memorable jewel-encrusted makeup looks. Marie foresees a renewed interest in these gemstone-heavy beats once again, thanks to singer Zara Larsson’s striking Midnight Sun tour glam by makeup artist Sophia Sinot. You’ll be especially likely to spot similar makeup looks on nights out and at festivals, she said.