Make-up trends change so frequently, it’s hard to keep up with what’s good and what’s downright bad. Some might even argue that there’s no right or wrong trend. While I support everyone’s choice to do make-up their own way, some trends are just so easy to hate. Here’s my light-hearted and not serious take on the five trends I hope will go away soon.
1. Glitter lipgloss
Earlier this year, I predicted that metallic lips would become a trending must-have. I happened to predict correctly, and every big beauty brand from Becca to Fenty Beauty to Huda Beauty has some variation of a metallic or glitter lipgloss in their collections. No matter how much they promote it, this trend is going to be a ‘no’ for me. I find them to be way too reminiscent of ’90s teen make-up for my comfort. There are some exceptions to this rule, of course; the Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb, which has a very fine glitter, is a handbag staple for me.
Do this instead: Opaque lip colours with metal tones — much more refined.
2. Nose highlight
Among the many Instagram make-up abominations I’ve seen, the one that annoys me the most is the saturated spot of highlighter right on the tip of the nose. It looks absurd in pictures and I can’t imagine it looking any better in real life.
Do this instead: Lightly dish highlight over the bridge of the nose.
3. Heavily edited pictures
‘Don’t believe everything you see on the internet’ is the common saying, and this is especially true for images of beauty influencers online. Some editing is acceptable and can enhance the look. What is unacceptable to me is the trend of heavily edited pictures where the person in the picture has no pores, no facial hair, no skin texture and no sense of humanness at all. Beauty does not mean perfection, and I appreciate seeing all types of skins — young and old, clear and blemished.
Do this instead: To look your best, focus on good, natural lighting when taking pictures, not on ‘fixing’ pictures.
4. Concealer everywhere
The way beauty influencers use concealer these days confuses me. Have they forgotten what it is meant for? It certainly is not meant to be used in a huge triangle from the under-eye area to the cheek, or to completely cover a blemish-free chin. A lighter hand in just the required spots makes for a much more smooth and less cake-y finish.
Do this instead: Spot conceal with a small brush and dab over it lightly with a finger.
5. OTT over-lined lips
I’m totally for this trend, especially since not everyone wants to jump on the lip filler bandwagon. But there IS a limit on how far away from the lip the liner should go. A subtle over-lining with a steady hand can make the lips look fuller. If I can SEE the lipstick go past the outline of the lip and onto the upper lip, you’ve gone too far.
Do this instead: Use multiple shades to create the illusion of fuller lips.
