Makeup Labs

Are 2016 Makeup Trends Back in 2026? Everything You Need to Know

Written by

Sara Elhazimy

in

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Remember the 2016 makeup era? Sharp contour, bold brows, matte lips and a highlighter glow that could probably be seen from across the room.

Well, that whole aesthetic has been everywhere again recently, especially on TikTok. The good news is you don’t need to recreate the exact look to get the vibe.

The beauty trends coming back now are all about bringing back the definition and glam of that era, but making it softer and easier to wear. Think sculpted cheeks, bronzed skin, defined lips and makeup that still looks fresh rather than heavy.

The structure is back, but the technique has changed. Everything is blended more, the finishes are more skin-like and products are being used with a lighter hand.

Here are the products you need to recreate the look.

In This Guide:

  1. Brows that mean business
  2. Sculpted cheeks and nose
  3. A peachy, bronzed flush
  4. Highlighter in all the right spots
  5. A satin finish that isn’t flat
  6. Defined, hydrated lips
  7. The full product list

1. Brows That Mean Business

The brows are probably the most recognisable part of this whole makeup look.

Defined, shaped brows are making a comeback, but the goal is to create structure without making them look too harsh.

The Benefit Precisely, My Brow Pencil is perfect for this because the ultra-fine tip lets you create small hair-like strokes rather than filling the entire brow with one block of colour. Focus on adding definition where you need it, then use the spoolie to soften everything so the brows still look natural.

The trick is keeping the front of the brows softer while adding more shape towards the arch and tail.

One thing to note: Benefit is not considered cruelty-free and does not hold recognised cruelty-free certification.

2. Sculpted Cheeks and Nose

A sculpted cheek is a must for this look.

The Too Faced Chocolate Soleil Matte Blurring Bronzer is perfect for adding warmth and definition without making the skin look overly flat. Apply it underneath the cheekbones, around the forehead and lightly down the sides of the nose, then blend everything out properly.

The aim is to create shadows that look like natural dimension rather than obvious lines.

Too Faced is considered cruelty-free, although its parent company Estée Lauder is not considered cruelty-free.

3. A Peachy, Bronzed Flush

Bronzer and contour do most of the sculpting, but blush is what makes the whole look feel fresh.

The Too Faced Cloud Crush Blush adds the perfect peachy warmth to bring the complexion together. Apply it high on the cheeks and slightly towards the temples for that lifted, sun-kissed effect.

A little goes a long way here. You want the colour to blend into the bronzer rather than compete with it.

4. Highlighter in All the Right Spots

Highlighter was a huge part of this makeup trend, and the placement is still one of the best parts of the look.

The e.l.f. Halo Glow Silky Powder Highlighter works beautifully for adding that glow to the inner corners of the eyes, the bridge of the nose, the tip of the nose and the cheekbones.

The difference is all in the application. Instead of packing on a thick layer, use enough product to catch the light and create that bright, fresh effect without it looking like a strip of shimmer sitting on the skin.

e.l.f. is vegan and cruelty-free.

5. A Satin Finish That Isn’t Flat

A completely matte base can look beautiful, but it can also make skin look a little too flat.

The Kosas Cloud Set Loose Setting & Blurring Powder in Candy helps set your makeup while still keeping your skin looking like skin. The soft pink shade brightens the complexion while lightly blurring the skin, making it perfect for setting under the eyes and anywhere your makeup tends to crease throughout the day.

Instead of applying it all over your face, focus on the areas that need it most, like the under eyes and T-zone. That way, you’ll keep a soft satin finish that still lets your natural glow come through instead of looking completely matte.

Kosas is vegan and cruelty-free. 

6. Defined, Hydrated Lips

A defined lip is essential for this look, but comfort matters too.

The Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Lip Kit makes recreating that sculpted lip simple. Start with the lip liner to shape and define, then layer the matching lipstick on top for a smooth, long-lasting finish.

The result is a polished lip that looks put together without feeling dry or uncomfortable.

Charlotte Tilbury is cruelty-free, although not every product across the brand is vegan.

The Full Product List

Some trends are worth bringing back, and this is definitely one of them. The best parts of this makeup era are the definition, sculpting and glam details that make the face look polished.

The key is not doing every step as heavily as before. A little more blending, slightly softer finishes and the right products make the whole look feel fresh again.

Featured Products

References:

 

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