From Blush Blocking to Cloud Skin—6 Makeup Trends Set to Dominate in 2026

      Each year introduces fresh fashion and beauty trends that, while often subtle to the average person, are influenced by the world around us. The resurgence of maximalist fashion and longer hemlines in 2025 may signify economic challenges, and the shift from “clean girl” beauty to more unkempt and edgy makeup can be seen as a creative reflection of global discontent. The practice of using aesthetics for self-expression has ancient roots, which helps to explain why beauty trends in 2025—especially during a pivotal American election year—favor bold hues and striking looks over understated styles. Within the beauty sphere, makeup stands out as a powerful means of aesthetic expression. Red lipstick can symbolize freedom as much as it can suggest sensuality, among other interpretations. Although we can't predict specific cultural trends or fashion moments that will shape makeup in 2026, we have insights from a group of seasoned celebrity makeup artists who are closely observing the evolving beauty environment and offering valuable predictions.

      “Currently, fashion leans toward subtle structures with unexpected elements, and beauty reflects that,” states celebrity makeup artist and Ciele Cosmetics creator Nikki DeRoest in an interview with Who What Wear. “I think people are drawn to looks that appear deliberate yet not overly refined.” Fellow celebrity makeup artist Kelli Anne Sewell shares this sentiment, anticipating “a lot of blurring, soft matte finishes, [along with] rosy complexions and lips” in the approaching year.

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      From luminous skin to vibrant lips, upcoming trends focus less on “adding” to your appearance and more on “streamlining” your makeup routine. Here are six makeup trends to embrace before they gain widespread attention this year.

      Top Makeup Trends of 2026

      Blush Blocking

      Beauty enthusiasts have been generous with their blush over the last couple of years, but this year will see these rosy shades used in a more calculated, multifunctional manner. “2026 will emphasize a ‘cheek-first’ approach to makeup,” DeRoest explains. “Blush is no longer merely an accent but is becoming central to the entire look.” Expect to see everything from soft, diffused shades to more sculpted placements, whether they be soft, doll-like pinks or deep, jam-like tones. Consider using toasted blush in the hollows of the cheeks instead of bronzer (similar to Marianna Hewitt’s “blonzer” technique) and tapping cream blush onto the lips for a blurred, French-girl aesthetic as showcased by Mario Dedivanovic in his party-ready makeup tutorials.

      Shop the Trend:

      Ciele

      Flush & Protect SPF 45+ Powder Blush

      “Ciele’s Flush & Protect SPF 45+ is perfect for this moment as they’re buildable, blend beautifully, and impart a vibrant finish while providing sun protection,” notes DeRoest.

      Westman Atelier

      Baby Cheeks Blush Stick

      Armani

      Cheek Tint Longwear Lightweight Liquid Blush

      Cloud Skin

      Celebrity makeup artists strongly advocate that complexions will shift away from the ultra “wet” appearance this year. “Skin will remain radiant, but the finish is evolving,” DeRoest explains. Although skincare may still be in the “glass skin” era, the makeup industry is moving past this overly polished look in favor of dreamy, softer, blurred skin. Sewell observes this as a direct response to the highly dewy-skin trend that has dominated in recent years. “Glassy, glazed-doughnut skin is out, and soft blur is in,” she asserts.

      DeRoest characterizes this ethereal, cloud-like complexion trend as a “smoother, gentler glow—similar to light reflecting off well-hydrated skin.” To achieve this effect, opt for moisturizing skin tints with sheer coverage or buildable foundations that offer natural or satin finishes. “For added dimension, layer a cream blush for radiance or incorporate a small amount of powder to soften the finish,” suggests DeRoest.

      Shop the Trend:

      U Beauty

      The Super Tinted Hydrator

      This skin tint is a premium option well worth the investment. It features flexible shades that beautifully blend with various skin tones and provides a radiant look that appears lit-from-within without being greasy.

      Ciele

      Tint & Protect SPF 50+ Serum Foundation

      DeRoest recommends the Ciele Tint and Protect Serum Foundation as her “go-to” for achieving the cloud skin effect. “It provides fresh luminosity without masking the true complexion,” she explains. “Apply it with a sponge for a refined, silky glow.”

      Outside In

      Silk Serum Foundation

      Feathered Finishes

      This trend isn't about the products used but rather the technique applied. Fortunately, it’s very beginner-friendly. “Feathered” makeup is characterized by soft, blurred edges, commonly achieved by using one’s fingers. Sewell has noticed the subtle gradient of luminous blush transitioning into flawless