2026 is shaping up to be a compelling year in the sphere of beauty. The shift towards minimalism that we’ve witnessed in recent years – fewer steps, fewer products, but far more intention – will strengthen.
We’ll continue to move away from complicated 10-step routines, reaching instead for streamlined formulas that deliver both immediate aesthetic pay-offs as well as long-term benefits for overall skin, hair and nail health.
Skincare
Expect fewer products on the shelf, but the ones that remain will work harder, with concentrated, skin-loving ingredients taking centre stage.
New product launches will focus on repairing and protecting the skin while simultaneously making it look and feel good. An emphasis on barrier repair will continue, with products that nourish, strengthen and balance the skin barrier, from daily moisturisers to skin tints and multitasking serums.
Aesthetics and injectables
Medik8 Advanced Pro Collagen+ Peptide Cream (€91 from Space NK)
The rise in regenerative treatments will continue apace this year. Collagen-boosting treatments – such as microneedling and laser and light treatments – will continue to grow in popularity, but more will be paired with injectable treatments and biostimulators that don’t just enhance appearance but actively improve skin health and encourage the skin to behave more youthfully.
Anyone with a passing interest in beauty treatments will have heard of Profhilo at this stage, the hyaluronic acid-based injectable that plumps and hydrates the skin, and polynucleotides, derived most commonly from salmon DNA. In 2026, you’re likely to hear about NAD+ for cellular energy, PDRN (polydeoxyribonucleotides), which are also derived from salmon DNA but have even greater rejuvenating capabilities, and Poly-L-Lactic Acid (PLLA), the collagen-stimulating compound best known from Sculptra.
High-tech at-home devices
Tria Hair Removal Laser (€569.99 from trialaser.ie)
From LED everything – face masks, lip treatments, hair growth helmets, neck and chest masks, spot zappers and full-blown LED light panels – to microcurrent and nanocurrent devices, radiofrequency treatments and lots more, the use of at-home beauty devices will continue to rise this year. Professional-level treatments are increasingly more sophisticated and accessible, offering (almost) clinic-level results in the comfort of your livingroom.
At-home hair removal devices are better than ever, too – more effective, skin-friendly options that help with upkeep while reducing the need for salon visits.
Eye care
Optase Life Sensitive Eye Makeup Remover (€12.99 from Boots)
From everyday eye make-up to skincare and removers, consumers are becoming more discerning about what comes into contact with the delicate eye area, and brands in turn are responding.
This year you can expect to see greater emphasis on products that support moisture balance, promote lash health, avoid irritation, and even help ease symptoms of dryness and blepharitis – small details that make a considerable difference.
Make-up
Dior Forever Nude Bronze Glow (€59 from Brown Thomas)
Among the many make-up trends we’ll see in the year ahead is the welcome return of all-over bronzer. In a delightfully nostalgic twist, it’s powder-based – bringing back the best of ’90s beauty. No sculpting or specific application techniques are required here, it’s an all-over dusting (or heavy-handed application – you do you) resulting in a universally appealing, healthy, glowing complexion.
The lip-stain trend will also continue its rise – if it can climb any higher. From glossy, sheer washes to soft-focus matte finishes, stains are accessible across every price point, from mass brands to prestige. It’s a flattering, easy-to-wear approach that gives that relaxed, lived-in look but in the most intentional, beautiful way.
Hair and scalp care
Mixsoon Scalp & Hair Essence (€23 from iherb.com)
The “skinification” of hair shows no signs of slowing down. Products and treatments are becoming more sophisticated, targeting scalp health and hair strength.
A noteworthy development is the emergence of hair “essences” – once reserved for skincare – formulated to balance the scalp, support follicle strength, and reduce hair loss. Bio-stimulating ingredients traditionally found in high-performance skincare, like exosomes, peptides, and more – are increasingly appearing in our everyday hair care products.
This week I’m loving … 
Eleven Australia Heat Styling Protection Spray (€26 from elevenaustralia.ie)
Eleven Australia’s new Heat Styling Protection Spray (€26 from elevenaustralia.ie) is, as the name suggests, a heat protectant for your hair – but it’s also much more. The super-fine mist speeds up drying time and reduces frizz, it’s excellent for adding a bit of grip (without weight) when restyling dry hair while keeping it sleek and shiny – and it smells delicious. Like powdered sweets, vanilla and pineapple in one.
