I’ve Conducted the Research: These Beauty Trends Are Set to Make a Major Comeback in 2026

      While I find the relentless wave of new trends somewhat overwhelming, one aspect I truly enjoy exploring in my role as an editor is the resurgence of past trends. Maybe it's the nostalgia that comes with writing about these styles, or my love for '90s and early 2000s beauty that excites me—seeing certain makeup, hair, and nail trends make a comeback fills me with delight. As it happens, 2026 is poised to be a significant year for beauty revivals. After consulting with experts, browsing social media, analyzing top-selling beauty products, and reviewing the major beauty looks from the spring and summer 2026 fashion weeks globally, I’ve curated a comprehensive guide to beauty trends returning in 2026. As you will see, these '90s and '00s styles have been updated for the new season with modern elements, making them more suitable for the upcoming year. So, what are you waiting for? Keep reading to discover the comeback trends worth your attention.

      1. Thin Brows

      (Image credit: Getty Images Francois G. Durand / Contributor) Let’s start with eyebrows. “Say farewell to fluffy, brushed-up brows,” advises makeup artist Buster Knight. “Natural, tamed, thinner brows are making a return.” Pamela Anderson has recently embraced thin brows, and I must confess, I’m tempted to reach for the tweezers again. Knight also mentions that strong brow highlights will be back. However, with many natural-looking highlighters available, I anticipate this trend will adopt a softer finish in 2026.

      Shop the Trend:

      - Tweezerman Slant Tweezer Midnight Sky: My essential tool for shaping those brows.

      - Benefit High Brow Duo Eyebrow Highlighting Pencil: This convenient pencil from Benefit will enhance and lift your brows in moments.

      2. Neon Lips

      (Image credit: Launchmetrics Spotlight: Chloé) Next up, we have neon lips. I used to wear a vivid pink lipstick all the time during school, but according to designers like Chloé and Conner Ives, these bold shades are returning for 2026. They were seen on numerous spring/summer runways, and while I recognize that this might not be the most practical lipstick for daily wear, I'm very excited about the possibility of experimenting with bright colors in my makeup once more.

      Shop the Trend:

      - Clinique Pop Longwear Satin Lipstick: How fun would this be for the summer?

      - MAC Macximal Silky Matte Lipstick: MAC knows how to create a standout lipstick shade.

      3. Beach Waves

      (Image credit: Launchmetrics Spotlight: Michael Kors) Did anyone else crimp their hair every day before school? I was eager to achieve those beachy waves, so I was thrilled to see this trend coming back in 2026. I saved a photo from the Michael Kors show as soon as I saw it earlier this season, already brainstorming ways to recreate the style. The good news is that hair tools (and styling products) have significantly evolved, allowing you to invest in curling wands that create soft beachy waves instead of a harsh crimped look.

      Shop the Trend:

      - GHD Wave Triple Barrel Waver: This is my new favorite hair tool, producing beachy waves in no time.

      - Davines This Is a Sea Salt Spray: For a tousled texture, this sea salt spray is perfect.

      4. Metallic Nails

      Although it may not be exactly like Barry M's Crackle Nail Polish (if you know, you know), metallic nails are making a comeback. In fact, experts have mentioned that metallic and “mixed metal” manicures will be in vogue next year. While Barry M's iconic polish is no longer available, there are plenty of elegant metallic shades and innovative top coats available for achieving the look at home.

      Shop the Trend:

      - Essie Winter Collection Apres Chic: This polish offers a slightly sheer effect, ideal if you prefer a more subtle look on your nails.

      5. Colourful Eyeshadow

      (Image credit: Launchmetrics Spotlight: Frederick Anderson) Blue! Green! Pink! Purple! Colourful eyeshadow was prominent during fashion month and is set to be a major beauty trend for 2026. I’m delighted to see this trend returning, as I personally love getting creative with my eye makeup. I often wore frosted blue eyeshadow in the early 2000s, and I plan on recreating that look, hopefully with a bit more skill this time.

      Shop the Trend:

      - Natasha Denona Roxa Palette: This palette is filled with vibrant pink and purple shades.

      - Charlotte Tilbury Eye Colour Magic Liner Duo: For a splash of blue, I’m reaching for this eye pencil duo from Charlotte Tilbury.

      6. Powdery Perfumes

      Any overview of beauty trends wouldn’t be complete without a mention of fragrances. In my research on the leading perfume trends for 2026, I spoke with Floral Street’s