2020 has left its mark on everything, including the beauty industry. During the pandemic, self-care, sustainability and DIY beauty were at the forefront of beauty’s reigning moments. As we set forth into the new year, these trends will undoubtedly continue to evolve and grow. If you’re keeping a pulse on the latest game-changers, here are all the beauty trends to watch out for in 2021.  

Skincare first

2020 saw a huge emphasis on skincare, in part due to maskne – acne caused by long hours of donning on restrictive face masks – as well as a stronger need for self-care.

We can expect to see this focus on skincare to continue to thrive in 2021. As terms and ingredients like AHA/BHA, niacinamide and hyaluronic acid continue to enter different beauty lexicons, the conversation regarding the do’s and don’ts of skincare isn’t going to die down anytime soon. Plus, we might also see a greater interest in skincare from the neck down.

Sustainability

As per most things, sustainability continues to be a growing conversation with more beauty brands hopping onboard. 2021 will see an even deeper commitment to reducing beauty waste.

Clean beauty is slowly but surely becoming the name of the game. More beauty brands are now walking down the zero-waste path, with many introducing sustainable packaging that can be recycled, reused, or are biodegradable. Ethically-sourced ingredients benefits both our skin and the planet will also be a reigning topic that many will keep their eyes on.  

Extravagant eyes

With mask mandates still going strong, it thus falls onto our peepers when it comes to statement looks. Boredom during lockdown saw a rise in experimental make-up, which was also boosted by trends and tutorials from social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram.

Whether it’s colourful liners or Euphoria-style glamour, vibrant eye looks will continue to reign on the makeup front. The best part of this trend? There’s no right or wrong, it’s just all about having fun.

DIY beauty procedures  

The temporary closure of beauty salons and services during lockdown pushed many to re-create temporary beauty oases in the comforts of their homes.

DIY spa facials using popular ingredients like avocado and honey domineered during the peak of lockdown, courtesy of celebrities like Hailey Bieber and Kendall Jenner. Other DIY trends that peaked include self-bleaching and self-colouring hair, lash extension hacks and at-home brow lamination. This wave of at-home beauty procedures will continue to ride into 2021.

Shopping local

Small business owners are amongst those who took the hardest tolls due to the pandemic. This has led many to lend their support to local brands, and in turn, they discovered game-changing products and formulas that are available locally.  

This heart-warming, unwavering support towards local beauty labels will continue to peak as people turn their focus from mainstream brands. Brands that are making headway in the beauty scene in Singapore include Re:erth, a local beauty brand inspired by Japanese skincare and ingredients; Allies of Skin, a clean and minimalist skincare label; and Two L(I)ps, a luxury intimate skincare brand.