Do you love all things makeup? Dream of a career as a professional MUA? Then here are 17 upcoming makeup trends in 2022 that need to be on your radar!
17 of the Hottest Makeup Trends in 2022
#1. Natural Skin
Over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic, many of the world’s hottest makeup trends saw a shift back towards more simplistic, natural looks. Embracing one’s fresh-faced, authentic inner glow quickly became the new norm… and this won’t be going anywhere in 2022!
So, embrace the skin that you’re in and show it off with pride!
Want your skin to look its best? Get properly trained and certified in skincare by enrolling in QC Makeup Academy‘s online Skincare certification course! In as little as 2-6 months, you’ll become a master of your own skincare game – and be able to get paid to help others with theirs, too!
#2. A Bold Lip
In terms of hot makeup trends in 2022, we’d be making a HUGE mistake by not including a stunning, bold lip. After all, this is one of those beauty trends that’s been around forever – and rightfully so.
A nice, bold lip can pair effortlessly with almost any look. It can accentuate a dramatic, smoky eye, or give some POP to an otherwise soft, natural glam application. Either way, a bold lip has been popular for as long as we can remember.
So, it’s absolutely no surprise that it’ll continue being just as popular for countless years to come!
#3. Embracing “Imperfections”
This makeup trend ties back to the first one on our list, in that it’s all about accepting who you are and what you look like in all of its forms. Imperfections are beautiful. At their core, they’re what make us who we are as individuals.
So, as we welcome 2022, don’t try so hard to cover up your “flaws”. Rather, be proud of all the little quirks that make you, YOU! Remember: confidence and self-love are the sexiest qualities a person can have.
(And, hey, if you struggle with that, we totally get it. All we’re saying is, give it a try. We have no problem showering you with all the love and support you need until you feel within yourself!)
#4. Colorful Eye Makeup
Playing around with boldly colored eye looks has been a thing throughout all of history. Back in the 80s, for example, eyeliner was worn in all sorts of crazy hues, as was eye shadow. Since then, this long-standing makeup trend has had its up and downs, in terms of popularity.
But in recent years, it’s made quite the comeback!
A striking, colorful eyeliner can elevate nearly any look and give it a unique edge. Moreover, this trend can also be a great go-to if you don’t feel like wearing much on a given day, but still want to add a little va-va-voom to your appearance. (I’m thinking a bright, colorful liquid eyeliner to create a sleek cat-eye on an otherwise au natural face!)
#5. Natural, Fluffy Brows
Since we’re reminiscing, remember in the early 2000s when pencil-thin eyebrows were all the rage? Yeah… That time was a lawless wasteland… 😅
In the years since then, the trend has shifted in the opposite direction. These days, and as we’ll continue to see in 2022, it’s all about those natural, full brows. After all, our eyebrows help frame our faces and give us a healthy-looking glow.
If you’d like some tips on achieving this gorgeous look with your own eyebrows, this article by Greatist will teach you everything you need to get started!
#6. Neon Shadow
Hey, remember that time back in the 90s when blue eyeshadow was a thing? Okay, this makeup trends is basically like that – but better.
In recent years, bold, colorful eye looks have started trending again. If done improperly, with a lack of fundamental makeup technique, the results can be a little… well… scary. However, when done right, you’ll create something truly stunning.
It’s not just us who predicts this makeup trends in 2022 either! In fact, the Spring/Summer 2022 Fashion Week runways had a lot of models and celebs alike sporting dramatic, colorful eye looks. And if it’s Fashion Week-approved, you know this is a trend train to hop onto ASAP!
#7. Embellishments
According to Vogue, embellishments “catapult otherwise bare complexions to a different dimension”. For this reason, it’s one of the hottest makeup trends we can expect to see in 2022.
But what exactly are embellishments? This trend first started back in the disco era, and is all about adding a little (or a lot of) pizzazz to any given makeup look. Embellishments can be added to eyes, lips, brows, cheekbones, and so much more through the use of gems, jewels, sequins, crystals, etc.
You can even take things one step further by using any of the above items to create the illusion of 3D embellishments. So long as you’re feeling creative, you can get as funky as your heart desires!
#8. Dyed Brows
Note: Let me preface this by saying that when dyeing any hair on your body, it’s always safest to seek out the expertise of a certified professional (namely, a trained hair dresser). Therefore, when we discuss dyeing your brows here in this article, we do NOT recommend doing this yourself. Rather, consult an expert and have the dye job done properly, in a professional environment.
As I mentioned earlier, eyebrows are one of the single best ways to frame the face. Because they’re a natural focal point, there’s also a LOT of room to get playful, make your brows stand out, and use them as a statement-maker.
For this reason, getting creative with our brows is a trend that’s gotten pretty hot over the past few years – and is something we’ll keep seeing in 2022. While many are choosing to dye their brows one solid, vibrant color (often, in contrast to the color of hair on their heads), you can also do partial dye jobs, if you’d prefer.
That said, if you’re not comfortable with the commitment that comes with permanently dyeing your brows, never fear! You can use your professional makeup training and knowledge of core techniques to instead use makeup to create a similar effect.
#9. Russet-Flushed Eyes
Another makeup trend worth knowing about in 2022 is russet-flushed eyes. Other popular hues in-line with this trend would also be pink and/or peach. One way to maximize this trend would be to use these colors as an eyeliner. Another would be to go full-out and use them as eyeshadow, both on top of and below your eyelids.
Pro Tip: You can achieve a pretty whimsical look if paired with an otherwise natural application. Take it one step further by finishing off your look with a bold lip!
#10. Purple Blush
If you’ve ever found yourself on the beauty side of TikTok, you’ve likely seen this makeup trend already. More and more makeup connoisseurs are now sporting purple blush, which is why countless beauty sources are predicting this trend to continue with full force in the New Year.
If you like this particular trend and want to give it a try, we recommend either cream or powder blushes in violet, lavender, or plum colors. These seem to work best on a wide array of skin tones (and undertones) while delivering the most aesthetically-pleasing results!
#11. Face Paint (But for Adults)
As kids, didn’t we all love to have our faces painted at one point or another?
This awesome makeup trend of 2022 will allow us to tap back into our childhood – except with a mature, grown-up twist! Spotted at shows like Rodarte and Paul & Joe, the beauty industry can expect to see an increase of whimsical, artistic expression being incorporated into makeup applications.
For example, rainbows, clouds, flowers, and galactic imagery have become quite popular staples of this trend. Really, though, you can get as imaginative as you want. Let your creativity guide you and see what you can come up with!
#12. Lower Waterline Eyeliner
Yes, winged eyeliner and cat eyes will always be a popular makeup trend. However, the beauty industry has seen a bit of a shift down south as of late – wherein the focus of eyeliner is now more below the eye than above it.
Of course, this particular trend won’t necessarily work for every makeup look. It’ll be up to you to apply it at your discretion, based on what you’re trying to achieve and what the makeup is being worn for. For example, bold eyeliner on the lower waterline might not be the most appropriate choice for a bride on her wedding day.
But it most definitely can be the right choice for a high fashion editorial look, runway look, or for performance art!
#13. Eyebrow-High Shadow
I won’t lie – whenever I think of eyeshadow going all the way up to the brows, I can’t help but picture Mimi from The Drew Carrey Show. Rest assured, this is NOT what we’re referring to when we discuss this makeup trend.
Instead, what we’re talking about is eyeshadow properly blended up to the eyebrow (and, of course, with hues that compliment the overall look and skin complexion). When executed using proper, professional technique, this look is absolutely perfect for editorial looks and/or high fashion photography.
If you’re someone who likes going out of the box, taking risks, and getting experimental, this is definitely one trend you’ll want to try in 2022!
#14. Creamy, Warm Bronzer
This makeup trend in 2022 will be especially useful for you if you offer bridal makeup services as part of your business. Indeed, the demand for soft, brown tones is here – and moreover, it’s here to stay.
The beauty of brown hues is that it naturally warms up any complexion. While it’s forever a popular go-to for brides’ eye makeup, we also recommend incorporating it into their bronzer application. This will add a subtle, sun-kissed touch to their already glowing skin (which is always perfect for wedding photos, regardless of the season).
#15. Pastels
The pastel craze has been at its pique for quite some time now, and it shows no signs of ebbing or slowing down next year. These soft yet bright pops of color can turn an otherwise natural look into something funky and distinctive. On the other hand, it can be added to an already dramatic application in order to enhance it that much further.
When playing with pastels, you can incorporate them into your makeup look via:
- Liquid eyeliner
- Graphic eyeliner designs
- Eyeshadow(s)
- Lipstick or lip stains
- Embellishments
- Brow colors
- Blush
- And more!
#16. Juicy Textures
According to M.A.C Cosmetics’ senior national artist, Keri Blair, “juicy textures are going to be huge for 2022”. Now, you might be looking at this and wondering, “What are ‘juice textures’?”
Think of it this way: you know what it looks like when you apply a fresh coat of shiny lip gloss?
That’s basically it in a nutshell – except for this trend, it can be applied in other areas of the face as well.
Dewy, shiny lip and/or eye products will be your best bet if you want to to jump on this trend. Use these as finishes on lip and/or eye applications. Blair also recommends taking it one step further by focusing on “fun, berry shades”.
#17. Clean, Safe Beauty Products
This trend isn’t so much a makeup look as it is a makeup lifestyle. These days, consumers want the peace of mind in knowing that the products they’re buying are ethically-sourced, cruelty-free, and eco-friendly. What’s more, you want to ensure that they’re actually good for your skin and won’t cause any unwanted damage.
So, we recommend doing your research before purchasing any new items, regardless of how well-known the brand may be. For instance, this article by Eco Friendly Habits, lists their Top 15 organic and toxic-free makeup brand suggestions. In contrast, this article by Her Agenda provides a list of brands to avoid.
It’s also just as important that your skincare products contain only the most trustworthy ingredients. Not sure which ingredients to look for and which to steer clear of? Watch this informative webinar, hosted by QC Makeup Academy executive instructor and celebrity MUA, Nathan John!
Which of these makeup trends in 2022 are YOU most excited to try out? Can you think of any others to add to this list?
Share your thoughts with us in the comments below! 💕
