Cult Beauty reveals top beauty trends of 2023

As the year draws to a close, Cult Beauty has revealed the top beauty trends that have dominated social media in 2023.

The online retailer's trends report has been developed through analysis of Instagram, TikTok and Google search data.

Top Makeup Trends

1. Skinimalism

• 42,283 Instagram hashtags.
• 52 billion TikTok hashtags.
• 135,000 monthly Google searches.

Skinimalism reigns as the number one beauty trend of 2023, according to the Cult Beauty's research. This trend encouraged a minimalistic approach to makeup. Whether it was less foundation for a natural look or the use of hybrid formulas, the end result was a maximum impact.

2. Siren Eyes

• 35,664 Instagram hashtags.
• 1.6 billion TikTok hashtags.
  52,000 monthly Google searches.

Transforming the classic wing eyeliner into a smoky masterpiece, the Siren Eyes trend grew in popularity over the year. Dark and flicked outward at the corners, this cat-eye silhouette technique emerged in the summer of 2022 and continued to flourish throughout 2023.

3. Barbie makeup

• 206,586 Instagram hashtags.
• 1.2 billion TikTok hashtags.
• 61,000 monthly Google searches.

With the release of Greta Gerwig's highly-anticipated Barbie movie, consumers were influenced by Barbie-inspired makeup trends this year. This includes flushed cheeks, rosy lips and blush lids.

Top Skincare Trends

1. Korean Skincare

• 2.5 million Instagram hashtags.
• 5.3 billion TikTok hashtags.
• 120,000 monthly Google searches.

Ranked as the third most popular beauty trend of 2023,  Korean skincare flooded our social media feeds during the year. Fusing traditional ingredients with cutting-edge techniques, the 10-step routine garnered global attention for delivering radiant and enduring results.

2. Glass Skin

• 888,836 Instagram hashtags.
  3.3 billion TikTok hashtags.
• 26,400 monthly Google searches.

The Glass Skin trend focuses on reducing the appearance of pores and uneven textures while revealing a dew-drenched finish. During 2023, this trend was embraced by consumers worldwide in the quest for flawless, luminous skin.

3. Dewy Skin

• 801,878 Instagram hashtags,
• 436 million TikTok hashtags.
• 1.5 million monthly Google searches.

Dewy skin secured its place among the top three skincare trends of the year. It is all about achieving a fresh-faced, glowing complexion, with modern solutions - such as cleansers, exfoliators and serums - making it easier for consumers to embrace the timeless allure of dewy skin.

Top Haircare Trends

1. Heatless Curls

• 101,226 Instagram hashtags.
• 6.9 billion TikTok hashtags
• 138,000 monthly Google searches.

Heatless Curls emerged as the top haircare trend of 2023, whilst also becoming the second most popular beauty trend overall. With an effortless and efficient overnight technique, achieving bouncy curls without heat has become a favourite among beauty enthusiasts. Cult Beauty predicts this trend will continue into 2024.

2. Short hair

• 842,837 Instagram hashtags.
• 3.7 billion TikTok hashtags
• 166,000 monthly Google searches.

Short hair styles were all the rave this year. Tapping into the overarching ‘lazy girl’ aesthetics, Cult Beauty believes this is because these lengths being easy to maintain and can be styled in a plethora of ways.

3. Sleek back buns

• 3 Instagram hashtags.
• 406 million TikTok hashtags
• 10,000 monthly Google searches.

With endless TikTok tutorials revealing tips and tricks, the slick style allows consumers to feel and look put together in one quick swoop. It is a trend Cult Beauty believes will continue to flourish in 2024 and beyond.

Other key trends include long lashes, faux freckles, soap brows, latte makeup, graphic liner, and glazed donut nails.