As the clock ticks down on 2025, the beauty industry is undergoing its annual ritual of reflection and resolution. While some trends earn a permanent spot in our vanities, others have clearly overstayed their welcome. A recent analysis points to five specific beauty trends that have reached their expiry date and are being officially dumped before we ring in 2026. These trends, often amplified by social media platforms like Instagram Reels and TikTok, are now being called out for being unsustainable, impractical, or simply bad for your skin.
The Burden of Over-Complication
First on the chopping block is the era of the excessively complicated skincare routine. While a segment of the beauty world championed minimalism, a counter-movement saw influencers promoting daily regimens with 16 steps or more. This approach is now being rejected for multiple reasons. It is not environmentally sustainable due to excessive product consumption, creates a significant financial burden, and is unsuitable for many skin types. The practice of heavy layering often leads to adverse reactions, giving users what is popularly termed the 'beauty ick'. This hefty routine is being labelled as unnecessary baggage best left in 2025.
Chasing Every New Viral Product
Closely related is the problematic habit of hopping onto a new skincare routine every month. The constant churn of trends on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok has led many to frequently switch products. This impatience is harsh on the skin's surface layer, which requires time to adjust to new formulations. By not allowing this acclimatization period, users risk negative impacts like breakouts and acne. The trend of perpetual experimentation is being abandoned in favour of consistency and giving products a fair chance to work.
Why Cheap Dupes Are a Costly Compromise
The culture of using 'dupe' or duplicate products is also getting a firm 'no' as we head into the new year. In 2025, many turned to platforms like Meesho, Flipkart, and Amazon for cheaper alternatives to popular brands like Rhode, Fenty Beauty, and Rare Beauty. While the price point is attractive, the compromise on quality can be severe. These lower-cost products often use cheaper ingredients that can lead to skin issues such as redness, irritation, and acne. The consensus for 2026 is clear: never compromise on quality when it comes to what you apply to your skin.
In the makeup arena, the cakey makeup look is finally being phased out. Characterised by heavy, patchy, and creasy application, this finish often ruins a look within seconds. The global makeup community is shifting towards airbrush techniques and lighter formulations that allow skin to look real and fresh. This shift is particularly relevant in India's warmer climate, where heavy sweating can make cakey makeup look worse. The demand is now for comfort and a natural, skin-like finish.
Finally, the excessive hype around lip gloss is losing its sheen. While the product offers a nostalgic Y2K vibe, the trend of hoarding massive amounts of lip products is being called out as environmentally unsound and financially imprudent. The sticky formula of many glosses can attract dirt and bacteria, potentially weakening the natural lip barrier and leaving lips looking dull. The focus for 2026 is shifting towards better formulations that prioritize long-term lip health without breaking the bank.
As we bid farewell to these five trends, the beauty resolution for 2026 is shaping up to be one of smarter, more sustainable, and skin-friendly choices. The move is away from viral, short-lived fads and towards practices that offer genuine, lasting benefits for both your skin and your wallet.
