Top Makeup Trends to Watch This Year

There’s something inspiring about a fresh makeup trend—it brings a spark to your morning routine, lets your personality shine, and, most importantly, helps you feel like yourself wherever you go. Whether you're packing for a weekend road trip, a family vacation, or a spontaneous flight abroad, keeping your look updated and travel-ready is easier than ever this year.

This guide will walk you through the top makeup trends to watch—and how to make them work when you’re living out of a suitcase. We’ve included 7 must-have travel-friendly products along the way, plus tips and personal moments that bring each trend to life.

1. Natural-Looking, Glowing Skin Is In

The heavy, caked-on look is officially out. This year, it’s all about glowing skin that looks like… well, actual skin. Think tinted moisturizers, BB creams, and sheer foundations that let your natural beauty come through. For travelers, that means less fuss, less product, and more glow.

Recommended Product: A tinted moisturizer with SPF for all-day hydration and protection.

Imagine starting your day in a small Italian village, brushing on a lightweight skin tint as the sun rises. You’re covered (literally), glowing, and ready for espresso and adventure.

Try it: Click here to view this product on Amazon.

2. Multi-Purpose Cream Blush for That "Just Back From the Beach" Look

Cream blush is back in a big way. And not just for cheeks—it’s being swept across eyelids, noses, and lips for that sun-kissed flush. It’s especially great for travel because it eliminates the need for three separate products.

Recommended Product: A multi-stick blush that works on cheeks, lips, and eyes.

Imagine you’re rushing to meet friends in Lisbon after a day of sightseeing. One quick swipe, a tap with your fingertips—and you’re glowing like you spent the afternoon on a yacht.

Try it: Click here to view this product on Amazon.

3. Colored Eyeliner & Bold Lids

Graphic liner and bold colors are no longer reserved for makeup artists or influencers. This year’s trend encourages you to play—with deep emeralds, electric blues, and even hot pinks taking center stage.

Recommended Product: A waterproof colored liquid eyeliner with lasting power.

You don’t have to be in Paris Fashion Week to rock a violet wing. Even a subtle pop of color in the corner of the eye can elevate your look at the airport or during a sunset dinner cruise.

Try it: Click here to view this product on Amazon.

4. High-Shine, Glossy Lips (No More Matte Madness)

The matte lip had its moment, but gloss is stealing the spotlight in 2025. Juicy, plump, reflective lips are in—and today’s glosses are more hydrating and less sticky than ever.

Recommended Product: A sheer tinted lip oil that hydrates and shines.

You’re walking through an outdoor market in Marrakech, sipping fresh juice, and your lips feel soft and fresh. That’s the magic of a great lip oil.

Try it: Click here to view this product on Amazon.

5. Sustainable, Refillable Beauty

More travelers are going green, and makeup brands are listening. Refillable compacts, eco-friendly packaging, and “clean” formulas are everywhere—and it makes packing lighter so much easier.

Recommended Product: A refillable foundation compact with buildable coverage.

Instead of juggling multiple bottles, you toss one compact in your bag and go. Bonus: It looks sleek, saves space, and helps the planet.

Try it: Click here to view this product on Amazon.

6. Travel-Friendly Highlighter for Instant Glow

Subtle shimmer is the way to go this year. No chunky glitter—just a light-reflecting touch on the cheekbones, nose, or collarbone. When you’re on vacation, this step instantly elevates your look, even if you’re just wearing SPF and mascara.

Recommended Product: A pocket-size highlighter stick that gives a natural glow.

Picture this: you’re getting ready in a dim hostel mirror in Thailand, and one swipe of this stick makes you look radiant and fresh—no full glam needed.

Try it: Click here to view this product on Amazon.

7. All-in-One Makeup Kits for Minimal Packing

The biggest trend of all? Simplicity. Makeup kits with everything you need—eyeshadow, blush, lip color—are perfect for carry-on-only travelers who still want to look put together.

Recommended Product: A compact all-in-one makeup palette.

When space is tight, this little palette becomes your best friend. Pull it out on the train to Prague, or in your hotel bathroom in Tokyo—it’s got everything in one tidy place.

Try it: Click here to view this product on Amazon.

Bonus Tips for Makeup-Loving Travelers

• Pack minis or sample sizes whenever possible.

• Use makeup bags with compartments to avoid spills and messes.

• Opt for cream products that can be applied with fingers, no brushes needed.

• Set everything with a multi-tasking mist—a good setting spray can double as a refresher mid-flight.

Makeup trends may change each year, but the feeling of putting on a little glam while discovering new places? That never goes out of style.

Ready to Refresh Your Makeup Routine?

Want to try these trending, travel-friendly products yourself?
Click here to view these beauty picks on Amazon and start your glow-up—wherever you go.

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