From animal-print nails to grungy make-up and supplements, our expert shares her projections
Below are some of my predictions for what will be the big trends in the coming 12 months. I can’t wait to see how these trends shape the beauty landscape in 2026!
Hailey Bieber’s leopard mani. Photo: Instagram
Nails
Looking to switch up your look? Your nails are the easiest way to make a statement. In 2026, we’re definitely heading to the wild side and animal prints are the trend to watch.
I’m reminded of fashion designer Jenna Lyons’s iconic saying, “Leopard is a neutral”, so I’m all about incorporating these fierce designs into my nail game. Just take a cue from Hailey Bieber – her cheetah-print pedicure and leopard mani is an instant mood booster for spring and summer! (FYI Bieber made green nails a standout choice BEFORE the rise of ‘Brat Summer’ so I always look to her paws for inspo.)
But it doesn’t stop there; while leopard and cheetah are stealing the spotlight, cat-eye nails are still bringing that dreamy vibe we crave. And let’s not forget my love for chrome nails – still shining bright in my beauty routine! So, whether you’re going wild with prints or rocking that metallic finish, let your nails reflect your unique style this new year.
Make-up
AI has made everything seem so perfect, but in real life, I definitely feel like I want to look a bit messy and effortlessly cool – like I just rolled out of bed and threw on some vibrant colours.
I’m not alone it seems: the young wans are calling it ‘Glitchy Glam’. After the whole ‘clean girl’ vibe, it’s time to embrace bold and playful make-up again. I love how we’re switching things up with finger-blended edges, two-tone lips, and asymmetrical lines with graphic eyeliner making a fierce return.
Searches for blue eyeshadow are skyrocketing, and I’m here for it. So let’s smudge, mix it up, and ditch that flawless look. Bring on the punk-grunge vibes!
Skin minimalism is set to be a game-changer in 2026. Photo: Getty
Skin
Skin minimalism is set to be a game-changer in 2026. We’re moving away from complicated routines and embracing a simplified approach, focusing on a few effective products that truly work for our skin. Sustainability is still key, with brands innovating in eco-friendly packaging and ethically sourced ingredients, which I absolutely love.
Personalisation will take centre stage, thanks to technology. Imagine skincare tailored to your unique needs! Augmented reality will let us virtually try on products.
I’m particularly thrilled about the growing focus on body care. Skincare is extending beyond the face, with luxurious body washes and treatments infused with active ingredients like retinol and peptides. All those amazing ingredients we’ve loved for our faces are finally making their way into body care.
Aesthetics
Get ready for the beauty revolution of 2026! AI is transforming aesthetics with microneedling devices like Morpheus8 Burst leading the charge. Imagine starting every clinic visit with an AI-driven consultation that tailors your treatment to perfection, using advanced technology to customise skin tightening and collagen stimulation just for you?
With smarter diagnostics and data-driven insights guiding your beauty journey, you can expect safety, precision and stunning results. The future is here and it’s all about personalised beauty!
Though it’s been much talked about, the filler era isn’t over; it’s just been refined. We won’t be seeing any more overfilled faces. Instead, 2026 is all about natural, undetectable enhancements that look effortless. The focus is shifting to precision over projection – it’s not about size any more, but about shape and balance. Filler done right means subtle, artful placement that restores youthfulness without ever looking “done”. It’s exciting to see this evolution in aesthetics.
I’ve noticed that the rise of biohacking has officially hit the treatment room. It’s no longer just about supplements and sleep routines; skincare is evolving. Treatments like skin cellular detox procedures are designed to recharge our skin’s systems, almost like gym training for our cells. By improving lymphatic flow, oxygenation, and cellular renewal, we’re enhancing how our skin functions from the inside out.
I’ve also seen a significant shift toward inside-out beauty. True skin health starts beneath the surface, and we can’t just use creams for nutrient deficiencies or inflammation. People are realising that supplements are now essential for nourishing skin energy, collagen, and barrier function. The supplement shelf is becoming the new skincare cabinet.
Teeth
I’ve observed how the “health is wealth” mindset is reshaping our view of beauty. Dentistry is stepping into the spotlight as part of the overall wellness conversation. A confident smile is now seen as a key element of self-care, influencing not just our appearance but our overall vitality. It’s clear that wellness and aesthetics are going hand in hand, and I’m excited to see where this evolution takes us.