Experts share the ultimate 2025 beauty forecast

From Cherry Cola Hair and Korean Glass Skin to Blush Blindness and Black Cherry Lips, 2024 was a whirlwind of bold, out-of-the-box beauty moments that kept us all on our toes. Now, as we step into 2025, a new era of evolution of makeup trends is set to begin—think nostalgic comebacks, daring textures, and fresh takes on familiar favourites.

“We’re set to witness a beauty renaissance in 2025,” says Hitesh Dewett, National Makeup Artist at House of Beauty, Kylie Cosmetics. “This year will be a playground of diverse influences, blending the whimsical charm of ’80s purple blush and glittery eyes with the rebellious edge of ’90s grunge aesthetics and multidimensional eye looks. Glossy lips? Still reigning supreme—but now swinging from juicy, natural finishes to unapologetically bold statement shades.

“We can expect fresh, dewy satin skin to stick around, but with a more refined, radiant glow rather than an oily sheen. Meanwhile, Saikat Chakraborty, India National Artist at MAC Cosmetics, is calling it 2025 the year where where shimmer will take center stage. “We’re seeing a reinvention of shimmer across the board, from reformulated classics to groundbreaking innovations like fluid highlighters and liquid eyeshadows that reflect light in entirely new ways. Shimmers are now leaning into ethereal, crystal-inspired finishes, while mattes are becoming softer, more skin-like, and beautifully polished. Chromatic hues and ethereal glows will dominate the runway, with more wearable, Insta-ready versions finding their way into everyday makeup bags.”

Classic reds or playful hues?

“Classic reds will always hold their iconic status, but 2025 is all about breaking boundaries with bold, experimental lip colors,” says Zoya Ali, National Learning & Development Head, Amorepacific India. Expect deep mauves, sultry berry tones, and muted browns to steal the spotlight. Taking the conversation a step further, Saikat Chakraborty, India National Artist at M·A·C Cosmetics, shares a fresh perspective: “We’ll also see a shift in warm tones—rich brick and earthy orange shades will reinvent the usual peachy palette, offering a striking yet wearable twist on everyday glam.”

The year of comebacks

Some trends are timeless, and others—well, they pull a full-circle surprise. One retro favorite making a modern, unexpected comeback is visible lip liner. “I never thought I’d see this trend again,” shares Hitesh Dewett, National Makeup Artist at House of Beauty, Kylie Cosmetics. A defining beauty statement of the ’90s and early 2000s, visible lip liner,often darker than the lipstick, had long been out of vogue. But thanks to trend queen Kylie Jenner, it’s back with a chic, polished twist that’s all about contrast and precision. Meanwhile, another nostalgic nod from the past is raising brows, quite literally. “Skinny brows are back,” reveals Saikat Chakraborty, India National Artist at M·A·C Cosmetics. “But this time, they’re softer, with subtle arches and a feathered finish. It’s like a perfect hybrid of ’90s overplucked brows and today’s fuller, bushy look.” The result? A playful blend of retro nostalgia with modern sensibility that proves great beauty trends never truly fade—they just evolve.

Colour palette for the year

When it comes to the color palette of 2025, the makeup girls can expect a fresh twist on familiar favorites. According to Zoya Ali, National Learning & Development Head at Amorepacific India, soft pastels will reign supreme—but not as you know them. Think warm mocha-infused tones that blend sophistication with versatility, perfect for effortlessly chic, natural looks or layered with complementary hues for added depth. But it’s not all about subtlety. Jewel tones are set to dazzle, with deep emeralds, sapphire blues, and regal amethysts injecting a luxurious pop of vibrancy into eye makeup.

Another game-changer making waves? Clean beauty. From waterless wonders to refillable innovations, sustainability has never looked so chic. “Water scarcity is a growing concern, and these innovations are perfectly aligned with global sustainability goals,” shares Saikat Chakraborty, India National Artist at M·A·C Cosmetics. “It’s not just about reducing environmental impact—it’s about empowering consumers to make eco-conscious choices without sacrificing quality or performance.” In 2025, beauty isn’t just skin deep; it’s a movement that merges conscience with couture.