Think Gen Z beauty trends are just for twenty-somethings? Think again.
TikTok’s latest beauty trends are worth a closer look, swapping heavy coverage and heat styling for skin-first routines, clever hair hacks and a more natural approach. Think fresh, lit-from-within skin and healthier-looking hair that embraces the way beauty evolves with age, without hours in front of the mirror or expensive treatments.
From no-makeup makeup and heatless curls to softer alternatives to black mascara, these are social media trends to try at any age.
The ‘no-makeup makeup’ look
Heavy foundation and sharp contour are giving way to a softer, fresh-faced look. The ‘no-makeup makeup’ aesthetic centres on dewy bases, lightweight tints and cream formulas that enhance rather than mask your complexion. Gen Z beauty favourite Hailey Bieber has helped popularise the trend, with her skincare brand, rhode, championing healthy-looking skin.
The trick is keeping things light. Start with well-moisturised skin, apply a sheer tint, dab concealer where needed, blend cream blush onto the cheeks and add a touch of bronzer for warmth.
Better still, the look works at any age. Minimal coverage and creamy textures can be particularly flattering on mature skin, delivering a radiant finish without looking cakey or emphasising fine lines. Fewer products, less blending and a quicker morning routine? We’re sold.
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The sock trick for heatless curls
Yep, you read that right – people are wrapping socks and robe ties around their hair before bed to wake up with bouncy, blow-dry-style curls.
The technique is surprisingly easy: wrap slightly damp hair around a long sock or robe tie, secure near the roots with a claw clip and leave overnight. In the morning, unwrap and separate the curls with your fingers for soft, undone waves. It’s a clever way to save time on styling while giving your hair a break from heat, helping reduce damage and breakage as hair becomes drier and more fragile with age.
Admittedly, it took me a few attempts to master – and I looked ridiculous sleeping with socks on my head. But it costs next to nothing, saves time and gives your hair a much-needed break from the heat. Worth the clown act, I’d say.
If you don’t have socks or a robe tie at home, try:
The bare lash
As someone who considers mascara a non-negotiable, I struggled when I noticed everyone online ditching the classic black lash. But this pared-back trend fits neatly into the clean-girl movement, favouring a softer look without requiring you to go completely makeup free.
The idea is simple: leave lashes bare or apply a light coat of mascara for subtle definition. Even curling your lashes alone can help open up the eyes without adding a single product.
Not ready to ditch your wand altogether? Swap black for brown for a softer finish, particularly if you have lighter eyes or a fair complexion. And if you’re firmly committed to black, try a tubing formula, which wraps each lash in tiny water-resistant ‘tubes’ to help prevent those dreaded panda eyes by 5pm.
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And there you have it: proof that not every Gen Z beauty trend belongs on TikTok alone. These low-effort, affordable hacks are surprisingly age-inclusive. Whether you’re 25 or 55, it might be time to take a few tips from Gen Z and give your skin, hair and morning routine a little refresh.