Makeup forecast 2026: Minimal and natural looks will rule, say celebrity makeup artists

Celebrity makeup artists Namrata Soni and Daniel Bauer believe 2026 is going to be all minimal looks. Know which trends will be in, and which ones will be out!

Published on: Nov 11, 2025, 15:45:47 IST

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Every season and year brings a fresh wave of creativity in the world of makeup. But there's one thing constant: makeup is not only about looking good, but feeling good from within. Year 2025 was about a fascinating blend of minimalist beauty and bold colour statements. The question is what follows next year? At the recently-concluded Nykaaland, team HT Shop Now caught up with celebrity makeup artists Daniel Bauer and Namrata Soni, to discuss the trends worth looking forward to

Year 2026 is going to be all about minimal makeup, expert says (Instagram)

By Shweta Pandey

Shweta Pandey is a Senior Content Writer at Hindustan Times, with over 12 years of experience in beauty and wellness journalism, specialising in makeup, skincare, and hair care.

She began her professional writing journey in 2011, entering the evolving world of digital lifestyle journalism as beauty and wellness content rapidly transformed in India. Over the years, she has worked with reputed digital media houses like India Today, the Times of India and Skymet Weather, steadily building credibility through well-researched features, product reviews, and trend analyses. Her career reflects consistent growth, moving from content contributor to senior writer. She now plays a key role in shaping editorial strategy, social media content, and ensuring high-quality, reader-focused content that aligns with evolving audience needs.

Shweta’s core expertise spans makeup, skincare, hair care, and holistic health and fitness. She specialises in in-depth beauty product reviews, ingredient analysis, skincare routines, and evidence-based wellness advice. Known for her analytical and data-driven approach, she relies on verified sources, dermatological insights, and expert consultations to ensure credibility. Her field experience includes interviewing Bollywood celebrities, beauty and makeup professionals, tracking consumer trends, and simplifying the top picks.

Shweta holds a Master’s degree in Mass Communication, Advertising, and Journalism and has done Bachelor’s in Commerce from Delhi University. She believes in delivering reader-first insights that empower informed decisions while maintaining transparency, credibility, and trust.

Beyond her writing desk, Shweta enjoys exploring new destinations, experimenting in the kitchen with delightful recipes, and staying in tune with the latest beauty and wellness trends.

Minimalist, natural makeup looks may rule

According to Namrata Soni, semi-matte skin - “basically very cloudy, gorgeous natural skin” - is here to stay.

Daniel Bauer, who has styled celebrities like Katrina Kaif, Priyanka Chopra, and Anushka Sharma, says, “I don't see a lot of highlighting and contouring happening next year. I think that should go! In fact, I wish it should go."

At Nykalaand, while Daniel showcased bold makeup styles, Namrata Soni, best known for styling Sonam Kapoor, Rani Mukerji, and Isha Ambani, was all about bridal glow.

Interviewing Daniel Bauer and Namrata Soni at Nykaaland (Instagram)

A makeup trend that should make a comeback

If there's one makeup trend that should make a comeback, Namrata Soni wishes it is dark, beautiful eyes should definitely make a comeback. “I think eyeshadows should definitely come back in trend. People have veered away from eyeshadows, and a good eyeshadow, powder eyeshadow, can really amp up your look. So I hope that trend comes back”, says Soni.

Most loved makeup technique

Bauer loves to mix a lot of things together. “I like mixing contouring, highlighter, foundation, all together to create a new look. It's always a little bit better, a little bit more blended”, says Bauer.

Three makeup products to create a glam look

If there were only three makeup products to create a glam look, it would be a kajal, eyeliner, and mascara for Bauer. While for Soni, it would be red lipstick, black eyeliner, and a beautiful contour and blush.