Emerging Themes in Beauty: Early Trend Signals with Big Potential

Trends Agency

The rules of beauty are being rewritten, and we’re seeing a shift toward something more personal, more purposeful. Consumers today are seeking products that work, align with their lifestyle, and reflect their individuality.

Skincare, for one, is getting a wellness upgrade. Interest is building around barrier-strengthening ingredients, microbiome-supportive formulas, and treatments that mimic clinic-level results. These aren’t just buzzwords — they signal a growing demand for products backed by science, education, and transparency. Still, the average shopper is just starting to scratch the surface of what these solutions actually do, which leaves room for brands to lead with clarity.

On the other hand, beauty is also becoming a platform for self-expression. Vivid trends like sunset hair and patchwork-style dyes are making it clear: consumers want to experiment, especially with their hair. They're not afraid to mix it up, and they’re seeking out products that let them do just that, without long-term commitment or complexity.

Convenience, meanwhile, remains a non-negotiable. Beauty routines are getting faster and smarter, with products that multitask, from SPF-infused setting mists to lip glosses that hydrate like serums. These hybrids are winning over consumers who want effectiveness without the extra steps. Social media, especially TikTok, continues to shape these preferences, turning viral trends into instant must-haves.

These emerging habits offer a window into where beauty could be heading next. By tracking real-time digital behavior — from search spikes to social chatter — this report captures the early momentum behind the trends poised to define the future. For brands, tuning into these shifts now means staying one step ahead of what consumers will want next.

Get the full reportto explore the signals driving tomorrow’s beauty landscape — and how to move with them.

Spate analyzes over 20 billion search signals and 700 billion TikTok views to identify the next big trend in beauty. Through search, consumers reveal their most secret selves, offering a clear and honest picture of consumer interests to brands. Over 100 of the top beauty brands, such as L’Oreal, Estée Lauder, and Olaplex, leverage Spate data for product development and marketing. Contact Spate today to learn more.