"As a beauty editor who has been in the industry for almost a decade, beauty trends rarely surprise me. This year alone, we’ve seen grungy eye makeup make a comeback, graphic eyeliner take center stage, and daring hair colors everywhere we turn. However, after the 2024 Met Gala, there was one makeup trend that truly shocked me: the lack of mascara. Celebrities like Jennifer Lopez, Gracie Abrams, and Riley Keough hit the red carpet with dreamy makeup looks consisting of colorful eyeshadow, effortless contour, and glossy lips—but not a dash of mascara in sight. And, while the lack of dark, bold lashes was unanticipated, it’s a beauty trend we can get behind. Ahead, we’ll fill you in on everything you need to know about 2024’s biggest makeup trend.
Why No Mascara Is Trending
Natural beauty is having a moment right now, driven by a desire for authenticity and simplicity. Because of this, people are opting for less mascara—and makeup—overall. With a focus on paring down both makeup and skincare routines, beauty enthusiasts are choosing looks that highlight their natural features rather than ones that involve heavy makeup. If we dig deeper, this trend really aligns with a growing shift toward sustainability and mindful consumption, which has people more inclined to use fewer products while also appreciating their natural appearance. (Even though beauty buffs and celebrities are coupling their no-mascara looks with eyeshadow, lip gloss, and blush, they’re still choosing less heavy makeup looks.)
The Importance of Skin Prep
At its core, the no-mascara trend is about celebrating natural beauty. By skipping mascara, people can actually highlight the texture and color of their lashes, which are often completely hidden under layers of product. The result? A fresh, clean-girl aesthetic that allows other features (like dewy skin and naturally flushed cheeks) to stand out. What the no-mascara look is ultimately doing is proving that less makeup is more.
Because the no-mascara trend focuses on natural beauty, it also highlights the importance of good skincare. With more emphasis on natural beauty, having healthy-looking skin becomes the focus. What we’ve already seen is that this shift is encouraging people to invest more in skincare products and routines that promote their skin health (think hydrating serums, sunscreens, and gentle cleansers), as opposed to makeup products that conceal their appearance. The no-mascara trend goes hand-in-hand with skinimalism, where fewer, more effective products are the key to a radiant complexion.
How to Nail The Look
Want to embrace this year’s hottest (and perhaps most controversial) beauty trend? Same. Luckily, there are a few ways to do so. First, you can cheat the system a bit by getting a lash lift and tint, or opt for faux lashes instead. Both of these options will still make your lashes pop without the help of mascara. On the flip side, if you really want to embrace the trend, do your makeup like usual and forgo the mascara. You can also try toning down your makeup and go for a no-makeup makeup look, which is one of the best ways to execute this trend. The choice is yours!
Here’s the thing, the no-mascara trend is more than just a fad; it’s proof of a big shift in the beauty world. By celebrating and appreciating natural beauty, promoting better skincare practices, and embracing a minimalist aesthetic, this trend shows that there’s a desire to move closer to authenticity and sustainability. While no mascara might be controversial to some, it’s a trend we’re here to support and flaunt every chance we get.