The beauty industry is ever changing, driven by evolving consumer demands, technological advancements, and societal shifts. It is essential, especially for us enthusiasts to keep up with the latest beauty trends so we don’t get lost. In this article, we will be looking at 10 trends according to Harper’s Bazaar that will evolve the beauty industry in 2024.
Integration of artificial Intelligence (AI), continued commitment to sustainability, viral trends like coffee-inspired makeup, you name it! Each trend shows us something special about how the beauty industry is changing, not just because of what people want but also because of how creative beauty brands are becoming all over the world. If you are excited to find out what the beauty industry has in store for us this year, then read on!
Interesting reads for beauty enthusiasts: Beauty from within, Sustainable brands, Better than botox.
1. AI and the Beauty Industry
The beauty industry has long been undergoing digitalization, but its evolution is now taking a remarkable turn. This is largely due to the incorporation of artificial intelligence (AI). This fusion of beauty and technology is sparking the emergence of inventive solutions, revolutionizing product development, marketing strategies, and customer experience.
Today, beauty brands leverage AI algorithms to analyze individual skin types and preferences, offering tailored solutions that resonate with customers. Virtual try-on experiences powered by AI enable users to experiment with makeup looks instantly.
Artificial intelligence will continue to evolve the beauty landscape and bring about new innovations. With the steady rise in the use of AI, the future of retail is set to embrace AI and AR (augmented reality). With augmented reality mirrors and AI-driven algorithms, customers can expect tailored beauty recommendations and virtual makeup trials in-store.
Moreover, advancements in skincare analysis will likely introduce sophisticated apps for tracking skin conditions and adjusting routines using smartphone cameras. In addition, the role of AI will also extend to product development using market trends analysed by algorithms.
2. Viral Beauty Trends as Inspiration
#lattemakeup and #espressomakeup was everywhere in 2023. With social platforms like TikTok and Instagram still in the limelight, more viral beauty trends are still very likely to emerge in 2024. Influencers and everyday users alike showcase their creativity and experimentation with various products and techniques.
Whether it’s a bold new lip color, a transformative skincare hack, or an unconventional hair trend, these viral moments capture the attention of millions, sparking conversations and influencing consumer behavior.
It might start off hated by the majority but then you start seeing comments like “she kinda ate with this one” and suddenly everyone is in on it. As long as social media is around, new and creative beauty trends will continue to be seen in 2024 and the coming years.
According to Beauty Pie, the beauty trends to be seen in 2024 are scandi hairline, cherry cola lip and much more.
3. Gen-alpha’s Influence
One significant prediction explores how Gen-Alpha consumers will gain more influence. According to co-founders of Indu, these young consumers are set to impact brands and the economy.
On TikTok, some are called “Sephora Kids” and they are everywhere at least on my for-you page. This generation Alpha kids are very much invested in selfcare and skincare. They create content on social platforms doing “Sephora hauls”, “GRWM while I do my skincare” and related content so it’s safe to say that their take-over is on the horizon.
Although Gen-Zs are still very much in the limelight in the beauty industry, beauty brands are noticing the next generation and already creating products according to their wishes and desires.
According to a NYC Sephora employee who spoke to CNN, Gen Alpha kids come into the store not seeking advice or recommendations. They head straight to the trendy and expensive stuff. The generation is hyped by influencers, the employee adds.
4. The Rise of Bodycare
Skincare goes beyond the face and the neck and people are starting to see that. Sharing facial skin problems on social media and seeking help from the public has become a normal thing.
It is only until recently that poeple started opening up about body skin problem. The most popular being Keratosis Pilarisis or Bacne (Back Acne) as it is popularly called and scarring from back acne or other causes.
Many skincare brands are adopting this trend and have already released lines and collections of body care with actives that target different body skin issues. Actives like retinol, AHA and BHA acids can now be found in body soaps and lotions.
Another trend that made way for the rise of bodycare is the “how to smell good” trend. This trend gave spotlight to OG bodycare brands like Dove. Influencers were and are still seen sharing their shower routines with products that make them smell “so good”.
Body oils are also becoming very popular especially among coloured women. Most people want to look like a glazed donut not just on the face but below as well.
5. Beauty and Emotion
Understanding emotional beauty is gaining momentum in the beauty industry. As brands delve deeper into consumer psychology, they’re realizing that emotions play a pivotal role in how individuals perceive beauty. By acknowledging and addressing emotional needs, brands can forge stronger connections with consumers and cultivate loyalty.
Moreover, research is shedding light on the profound impact of emotions on skin health and appearance. Studies suggest that stress, happiness, and other emotional states can directly influence factors like skin aging, hydration levels, and overall complexion.
This insight underscores the importance of holistic approaches to skincare that encompass both physical and emotional well-being.
Moving forward, expect to see beauty brands embracing emotional intelligence in their product development and marketing strategies. From formulations designed to uplift the mood to campaigns that celebrate diverse expressions of beauty, the focus will shift towards enhancing emotional well-being alongside physical beauty.
Ultimately, as emotional beauty becomes better understood, the beauty industry will evolve to prioritize products and experiences that resonate on a deeper, more meaningful level with consumers.
6. Plants in Clean Beauty
Potent plants are set to revolutionize the ‘clean’ beauty conversation, ushering in a new era of natural skincare.
As consumers increasingly seek transparency and sustainability in their beauty products, the focus is shifting towards harnessing the power of botanical ingredients.
These potent plants not only offer effective solutions for skincare concerns but also align with eco-conscious values.
By incorporating botanical extracts rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and other beneficial compounds, brands are redefining clean beauty standards.
This trend underscores a growing preference for plant-based formulations that deliver results while minimizing environmental impact. As we embrace the potency of nature’s bounty, the clean beauty movement evolves to embrace the transformative potential of botanicals.
7. Sustainable Progress
Sustainability in the beauty industry is undergoing continuous advancements. As consumer awareness grows, brands are actively implementing eco-friendly practices and seeking sustainable alternatives.
Transitioning to renewable resources, reducing carbon footprints, and implementing recyclable packaging are just a few examples of the proactive steps being taken. With each innovation and improvement, the beauty industry moves closer to a more sustainable future, driven by the collective efforts of brands and consumers alike.
Movements like clean beauty are driving this progress, advocating for products that are not only effective but also environmentally responsible. In today’s climate-conscious era, consumers prioritize their environmental footprint, pushing brands to take proactive steps.
Cosmetic companies are heeding this call, embracing eco-friendly packaging solutions. Anticipate a surge in biodegradable materials, refillable containers, and minimized plastic packaging in 2024..
8. Protective Personal Care
As the landscape of personal care evolves, prioritizing protective measures is gaining traction. This trend emphasizes actively safeguarding one’s well-being through skincare and hygiene practices. Transitioning from reactive to proactive approaches, individuals are increasingly seeking products that fortify and shield against external aggressors.
From UV protection to pollution defense, new formulations actively combat environmental stressors, preserving skin health. Embracing this trend signifies a shift towards proactive self-care, where prevention takes precedence over remediation.
As awareness grows, protective personal care emerges as a cornerstone of holistic well-being, empowering individuals to nurture and safeguard their skin for the long term.
Additionally, protective formulations are now being seen in makeup products. Many brands now produce foundations and BB/CC creams with SPF because beauty consumers now understand that prevention (of skin aging and other skin issues due to external factors) is better than cure.
9. The Rise of Regenerative Aesthetics
Regenerative aesthetics are poised to revolutionize skincare by ‘biohacking’ our skin. This trend entails harnessing cutting-edge techniques and technologies to stimulate the skin’s natural regeneration processes actively. By utilizing advanced ingredients and treatments, regenerative aesthetics actively promote skin rejuvenation, repairing damage and enhancing vitality.
This approach empowers individuals to optimize their skin health and combat signs of aging effectively. As the trend gains momentum, it signals a new era in skincare. Science and innovation converge to unlock the full potential of our skin’s regenerative capabilities.
Dr. Sach Mohan, founder of Harley Street-based Revere Clinics, agrees with the idea that beauty treatments are evolving. He envisions a shift towards more meaningful rejuvenation rather than just superficial changes. According to him, the focus will move away from simply filling faces to utilizing technologies that naturally rejuvenate the skin.
Furthermore, he predicts a future where beauty treatments prioritize gradual and sustainable rejuvenation, fostering a deeper connection with one’s body to restore and renew its innate capabilities.
10. Epigenetics in Skincare
Epigenetics is the study of changes in gene expression that occur without altering the underlying DNA sequence. In simpler terms, it’s about how our lifestyle and environment can influence which genes are turned on or off.
Now, in the world of skincare, epigenetics takes center stage as a cutting-edge approach to beauty. Rather than simply targeting surface-level issues, epigenetic skincare works by influencing the way our genes express themselves, promoting healthier and more youthful-looking skin.
Researchers have discovered that a high-quality, scientifically based skincare product can actively influence a multitude of genes in the skin’s DNA. These products instruct genes to perform various functions. Functions such as preventing aging, increasing skin hydration, enhancing immunity, and producing collagen and elastin.
This demonstrates that using carefully chosen skincare products can effectively counteract the aging genes in skin cells and restore the skin’s DNA genetic messages to a more youthful level.
Beuaty industry giants like Estée Lauder are already taking charge of this trend with the release of products like the Re-Nutriv Ultimate Diamond Transformative Brilliance Soft Crème. This trend is only more likely to grow as people are leaning toward more longer lasting, advanced solutions.
