With social media shaping so much of how we shop, it’s no surprise that beauty trends now move at the speed of a swipe. A single TikTok review can send a product around the world in hours, and 2025 was no exception. Skincare and makeup launches dominated feeds, filled shopping carts, and sparked debates about what actually works versus what simply photographs well.
Some of these viral favourites genuinely earned their moment. Others… well, they reminded us that hype doesn’t always equal performance. Here’s a closer look at ten of last year’s biggest beauty products, and whether they deserve to follow us into 2026
Chinese brand Flower Knows became one of 2025’s most talked‑about beauty labels thanks to its whimsical packaging and intricately embossed shadows. The Swan Ballet Palettes — available in White Swan, Black Swan, and Pink Swan — soared in popularity, especially among fans of the soft, feminine “coquette” aesthetic.
I’ve been using the White Swan palette for most of the year, and it’s been a standout. The shadows blend beautifully, the glitters catch the light in a way that feels almost ethereal, and the pigmentation is buildable without being overwhelming. Yes, the price is higher than your average palette, but the quality and artistry justify it. With the brand already making waves with its new Bunny Garden collection, Flower Knows absolutely deserves to stay on trend in 2026.
K‑beauty continues to dominate the skincare world, and COSRX’s Snail 92 line was one of 2025’s biggest success stories. The cream’s star ingredient, snail mucin, promises deep hydration and a glass‑skin finish.
I relied on this cream during the driest months of the year, especially after swimming in salt water or spending time in the cold. It soothed irritated skin instantly and never stung, even on cracked areas. Lightweight, calming, and genuinely hydrating, this product earns its reputation. COSRX should remain a staple.
Hailey Bieber’s Rhode brand exploded online, and the Peptide Lip Tint became one of its most recognizable products. I picked up the shade Ribbon, the soft pink tone that dominated social feeds.
At first, I liked it. But after a week, the downsides became hard to ignore. The formula felt stickier than other lip tints I use, the wear time was short, and the packaging was surprisingly bulky — not ideal for pockets or small bags. With so many excellent lip tint launches on the horizon, this one doesn’t need to follow us into 2026.
Glow Recipe rarely leaves the spotlight, and the Cloudberry Bright Essence Toner was one of its most hyped releases. Packed with vitamin C, it promises brighter, more even skin.
While the toner left my skin soft and hydrated, I didn’t see the brightening results I expected. It’s pleasant, lightweight, and refreshing — but not a standout in the vitamin C category. A nice product, but not one that needs to carry over into 2026.
The “clean girl” aesthetic dominated 2025, and Glow Recipe’s Dewy Flush — a hybrid blush and skincare tint — fit the moment perfectly. I tried the shade Berry Flush and was pleasantly surprised. Despite its skincare base, it layered seamlessly with makeup and blended effortlessly into a natural, glowy finish.
As someone who usually prefers powder blush, this product won me over. It’s easy to use, flattering, and ideal for anyone chasing that fresh‑faced look. This one deserves to stay in rotation for 2026.
Sometimes the classics come back for a reason. As consumers pushed back against over‑complicated routines, micellar water saw a resurgence — and Garnier’s version led the way.
I’ve used this product for years, and it remains one of the most reliable, affordable makeup removers on the market. It’s gentle, effective, and far less drying than many rinse‑off cleansers. For anyone looking to simplify their routine, this is a must‑keep for 2026.
NYX has always excelled at affordable, trend‑driven makeup, but the Smushy Matte Lip Balm was a genuine standout. I picked up the shade Snuggle SZN, and it quickly became a favourite.
Despite its matte finish, the formula is soft, hydrating, and comfortable — a rare combination. It lasts well, feels great, and offers a unique texture that sets it apart from other drugstore options. This one absolutely deserves to stay trending.
Hand sanitizer isn’t usually a beauty trend, but Touchland changed that. Their ultra‑soothing mist formula and sleek, flat packaging made it one of 2025’s most unexpected hits.
Skeptical at first, I ended up using it more than any other sanitizer I owned. It’s hydrating, gentle on winter‑dry hands, and far less messy than traditional bottles. The packaging is practical and leak‑proof — a small but meaningful detail. This is a trend worth keeping.
Although originally launched in 2018, Charlotte Tilbury’s Flawless Filter Foundation had a major resurgence in 2025 thanks to its popularity among celebrities and makeup artists. The formula offers a rare combination: a glowy finish with a blurring effect.
While I usually prefer full coverage, this foundation impressed me. It’s lightweight, blends beautifully, and doesn’t crease. It works well with other products and delivers a natural, radiant look. This one absolutely deserves to stay in the spotlight.
Anua became one of the year’s most beloved K‑beauty brands, and the Peach 70% Niacinamide Serum was a major reason why. Designed to brighten, exfoliate, and hydrate, it quickly earned a loyal following.
I used it to reduce redness and revive dull skin, and it delivered noticeable results. My complexion looked more even, hydrated, and smooth within days. The slightly tacky finish actually makes it a great makeup base, helping products grip better. This serum should definitely remain a trend this year.
Last year was defined by natural finishes, dewy skin, and a return to simplicity — a refreshing shift from the heavy, full‑glam looks of past years. Whether these trends continue or give way to something entirely new, one thing is certain: beauty consumers are more informed, more discerning, and more willing to experiment than ever.
This year, it will be fascinating to see which products rise, which fall, and which unexpected favourites take over our feeds next.
