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<h1>Makeup's Big Reset: 2026 Will See a Return to Natural Beauty, Says Leading Editor</h1>
<p><b>New York, NY –</b> Hold onto your highlighters, makeup lovers! A bold prediction from beauty editor Melanie Wenzke is sending ripples through the industry. Forget the sculpted, hyper-contoured looks of recent years. Wenzke forecasts a significant shift in 2026, with a strong embrace of natural features and a rejection of overly-engineered makeup styles. This is breaking news for anyone following the fast-paced world of beauty, and a potential game-changer for brands and consumers alike. This article is optimized for <a href="https://news.google.com/">Google News</a> indexing and features the latest <a href="https://developers.google.com/search/docs/fundamentals/seo">SEO</a> best practices.</p>
<h2>The Demise of the "Lifted" Look</h2>
<p>Wenzke, known for her “chronically online” approach and close observation of celebrity makeup artists, believes the trend of aggressively lifting facial features with makeup – think dramatically angled eyebrows and blush extending towards the eyes – is on its way out. “The extremely brushed, fanned and flattened eyebrows become rounder again,” she predicts, “and the make-up no longer only points upwards.” She cautions against the “Pink Undereye” trend, popularized by figures like Kylie Jenner, arguing it rarely translates well in real life without the benefit of professional lighting and filters. Essentially, the days of trying to fundamentally alter your face shape with makeup are numbered.</p>
<h2>What *Will* Be Trending in 2026?</h2>
<p>But don’t throw out your makeup bags just yet! Wenzke’s forecast isn’t about abandoning makeup altogether, but about a more mindful and authentic approach. Several trends are predicted to endure, and even strengthen:</p>
<ul>
<li><b>Fresh, Glowing Skin:</b> Full-coverage foundations are predicted to be replaced by skin tints and lightweight, liquid textures. The emphasis is on a natural, healthy glow, often achieved by mixing skincare with makeup.</li>
<li><b>Brown Eyeliner's Revival:</b> Kajal liner is making a comeback, even on the waterline, signaling a move towards a more relaxed, “French-Partygirl-Chic” aesthetic. Brown liner is also extending to the lips for subtle contouring.</li>
<li><b>Painted Freckles:</b> This trend has staying power, becoming a staple in many beauty routines.</li>
<li><b>The "Sunburnt" Look & Blush:</b> The love for blush isn’t fading, but it’s evolving.</li>
<li><b>The "Midnight Sun" Effect:</b> Inspired by stars like Zara Larsson, expect to see a resurgence of bolder eye makeup, a welcome change from the recent minimalist trend.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Beyond Trends: A Shift in Philosophy</h2>
<p>Perhaps the most significant takeaway from Wenzke’s forecast is a shift in mindset. She envisions a future where makeup is less about perfection and more about fun and self-expression. “Sometimes it's just red lipstick, while the skin and eyes remain bare,” she suggests. “Or you make the base but don't apply mascara.” This casual approach reflects a growing desire for authenticity and a rejection of unrealistic beauty standards. It’s a move towards celebrating individuality rather than striving for a homogenous ideal.</p>
<p>This isn’t just a prediction about color palettes and techniques; it’s a reflection of a broader cultural shift. Consumers are increasingly seeking products and routines that enhance their natural beauty rather than mask it. Brands that embrace this philosophy – like Hailey Bieber’s “Rhode,” which focuses on nourishing, skin-friendly formulas – are poised to thrive in the coming years. The future of makeup isn’t about covering up; it’s about celebrating *you*.</p>
<p>Stay tuned to archyde.com for the latest in beauty, fashion, and lifestyle trends. We'll continue to provide expert insights and breaking news to keep you ahead of the curve.</p>
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