As the year changes, it is time to look ahead, that is, what to expect in 2026? 🔮We look at this from the perspective of Korean cosmetics and also global trends. These trends will help you know what to expect and what kinds of products you will likely see in 2026.

K-Beauty is still at the center and continues to be a trendsetter in cosmetics and wellness in 2026. K-Beauty is a pioneer in innovative technology and serves as a major inspiration for Western countries. In Korea, the significance of cosmetics in everyday life is much greater than in many Western countries, so innovations and trends are growing at a record pace in Korea. That is why Korea is the right direction to look when you want to know what is trending and what is not. 

We go through the 12 most important trends of 2026 in skin care, makeup, and hair care and explore what influences lie behind these trends 💁🏻♀️

Skin care trends 2026: Holistic wellness, sensuality, and preventive skin care

1. Wellness from within — cosmetics as a promoter of general well-being

The role of cosmetics in people's lives has grown tremendously in recent years, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic, and the role and impact of skincare on people's well-being have given it a new status in everyday life. Skincare is no longer about correcting mistakes or just achieving softer, more radiant skin but a ritual that brings at least one small peaceful moment to the day. Good skincare is not about doing as much as possible but about considering what is the best way for me to take care of my skin. Skincare has clear mental health benefits when done with a gentle and compassionate attitude towards oneself – not looking for flaws but taking care of oneself. 

Therefore, in 2026, the focus will be even more on the holistic nature of skincare and how skincare is more than just treating the surface but promoting health and well-being. We know how the mind and body are in perfect connection, so by taking care of our body, we also take care of our mind 💜

2. Sensoriality of skincare and neurocosmetics

A strong connection to holistic well-being and the emotional impact of cosmetics lies in the sensoriality of skincare. In the coming year 2026, we will see even more incredible cosmetic textures that are both visually beautiful and interesting as well as sensorially pleasant. Cosmetics aim to affect all our senses more and more so that their effect and efficacy are more comprehensive.

In K-beauty, we are already used to unusual textures, whether it's snail mucin or various foams. These different innovative textures are likely to be seen even more! A few examples of innovative textures can already be found in Some By Mi's new retinol products (foamy toner!), as well as in boba-like VT Cosmetics' and Medicube's face creams.

In addition to the sense of touch, the sense of smell is one of the most significant senses affecting us on an emotional level. Scents evoke memories and can strongly trigger both positive and negative feelings. The role of fragrances is growing in the future, and our selection will also include more fragrances from K-beauty brands. No worries – those sensitive to fragrances can avoid this trend by choosing from our large selection of fragrance-free products 😘

Strongly related to the senses is one of next year's biggest trends: 'neurocosmetics'. It goes even deeper into the effects of cosmetics on our minds and emotions and how in the future cosmetics could promote mental health even more strongly, for example by calming the mind and even promoting sleep. Note! In cosmetics, neurocosmetics does not mean products affecting the nervous system or psyche, but cosmetics targeting the senses.

3. Strengthening the skin and sustainable thinking in skincare

In Korea and Japan, fermented ingredients have been used for centuries, but their popularity is only growing in 2026. Postbiotic ingredients, i.e. those produced by fermentation, will be seen in an increasingly important role and the microbiome's well-being will be supported by bringing to market more gentle cleansing products and products containing fermented ingredients. Fermented ingredients have long been used in Korea and have many benefits, including their ability to deliver active ingredients more effectively and gently to the skin and fermentation's ability to make ingredients more biodegradable, i.e. more environmentally friendly.

A K-beauty brand that has long considered the microbiome is Ma:nyo, found in Yeppo's selection, whose Bifida Biome line has long been popular among many. 

The focus of skincare is still on strong skin and prevention of problems, not fixing problems that have already occurred. Skin is treated with a long-term perspective, sustainably and thoughtfully, focusing on well-researched and innovative ingredients. Longevity is a term that may (hopefully) surpass the long-used and emotionally divisive anti-aging term, because the purpose and goal is not to try to turn back time, but to act preventively and protect the skin from external stressors and strengthen the skin's natural functions. With the longevity trend, protection from UV rays and the role of antioxidants will continue to be strongly highlighted. Sunscreen technology is constantly advancing and the aim is to bring to market more accessible and pleasant sunscreen products that exclude no one. Ingredients that strengthen the skin's protective barrier, such as peptides, ceramides, and urea, are also among the most sought-after ingredients. 

4. Versatility of products, personalization, and skinimalism

For skin wellbeing, a simpler skincare routine is always superior. In 2026, we will see more multifunctional products where one product can replace two or more others, making skincare more effective and accessible. Life is busier than ever, and skincare is not meant to be a burden but to bring joy and wellbeing to everyday life. For this reason, skinimalism, i.e., simple skincare that avoids unnecessary extra steps in the routine, will be more popular next year because it meets people’s need for relief in a busy life.

The trend of multifunctionality is also seen in product formulations and packaging design. The previously mentioned VT Cosmetics and Medicube face creams, which resemble boba, enable a personalized and customizable experience tailored to individual needs. Similarly, the d'Alba White Truffle Double Serum & Cream two-part packaging allows providing the skin exactly what it needs, as often the need varies across different areas of the face. More such innovations are expected, promoting multifunctionality and individuality in skincare ✨

5. The rise of biotechnology

Biotechnology has long had a rising role in cosmetics and will become even more prominent in the future. Biotechnologically produced ingredients, often mimicking natural particles, aim for multifunctionality and environmentally respectful beauty care. 

An ingredient to keep an eye on is exosomes, which will be one of the most talked-about ingredients in 2026. Exosomes surfaced already this year but will be even more prominent and the most popular ingredient of 2026.

What are exosomes? Exosomes are very small, naturally occurring particles encapsulated in lipids (fats) that almost all cells in our body secrete. Exosomes are found in both animal and plant-based sources, such as algae. Exosomes act as messengers between cells and carry biologically active compounds such as proteins, lipids, growth factors, and genetic material, and can thus influence the function of recipient cells. They play a key role in intercellular communication, for example in regulating immune responses, inflammatory reactions, and recovery. 

Another biotechnological ingredient that will continue to be seen in K-beauty is PDRN, which is very popular in Korean injection treatments and whose benefits are also being harnessed in cosmetic products. More information about PDRN can be found here in this article! 

Find these innovative active ingredients, including in Medicube's One Day Exosome Shot 7500 serum and VT Cosmetics' PDRN Capsule Cream 100 cream

6. The luxury of beauty treatments as part of everyday life

In 2025, Medicube’s skincare devices, AGE-R Booster devices, went viral, and this is not slowing down in 2026. The need to achieve the effects of clinical treatments at home, in a milder yet still safe version, is growing. This is seen in familiar ingredients from treatment procedures such as PDRN and PLLA (poly-l-lactic acid used in Sculptra), as well as in the use of skincare devices. While it cannot yet be expected or claimed that any of these can replace a professional treatment performed at a clinic, their purpose is to make skincare at home more effective and bring a touch of luxury to everyday skincare.

Explore Yeppo’s skincare devices here! 

Makeup trends 2026: Messy girl, skincare benefits, and maximalism

7. “Messy Girl” — casual and authentic

Clean Girl is giving way to Messy Girl – we know life isn’t polished and flawless, and we are ready to show it. K-Beauty features a combination of Messy Girl influences with a watery glossy base makeup that reveals the skin’s own texture. K-Beauty will continue to be a source of innovative and skin-texture-smoothing base makeup, but the trend toward grunge is clear and the need to avoid pretending to be perfect. 

While the skin is still desired to look as radiant and hydrated as possible, the lips are soft and hazy, like a cloud, as seen in Muzigae Mansion's velvety lip products ☁️

8. The fusion of makeup and skincare

As a continuation of the skinimalism trend, makeup and skincare products will become increasingly inseparable. Makeup is not only meant to enhance and highlight but also to provide skincare benefits. This is seen in the increased amount of active ingredients in base makeup products and nourishing and growth-promoting ingredients in mascaras, such as in Cosnori's Perfect Setting Waterproof mascaras. 

To achieve a natural makeup base, mixing skincare products into the foundation is also popular to create the most translucent finish possible. Primers are also excellent hybrid products that both care for the skin and prepare it for a perfect makeup base. 

Behind this trend, there are also higher expectations from consumers towards brands because consumers want value for their money and investment. However, the best makeup base is a good skincare routine, so makeup products must work well in cooperation with skincare products. 

9. Colorfulness and maximalism

Again, as a contrast to the Clean Girl trend, there is a big return of colors in 2026! This has already been seen with Zara Larsson's makeup going viral, and this trend is predicted to rise even more in 2026. 

Maximalism and bold use of colors open the possibility to express oneself more freely and boldly. Dramatic makeup is no longer reserved only for celebrations; unique styles are part of everyday life and self-expression, just like clothing. This trend can also be seen as a reaction to the post-pandemic era, when carefulness, precision, and caution were essential. Now, as a contrast and a need to see and experience something authentic, we can expect more breaks and boldness in beauty trends as well. 

In K-Beauty, this trend is not yet as strong but is better represented by indie brands such as Muzigae Mansion, glow, and Unleashia.

💫 We are still monitoring K-Beauty makeup trends and will update the article when more information about upcoming directions is available 💫

Hair trends 2026: Scalp wellness and Glass Hair

10. Scalp balance and strengthening as promoters of scalp wellness

In Korea, there has long been a much greater focus on scalp wellness compared to Western countries. However, scalp care is equally skincare, and in 2026 this will be even more in the spotlight! 

Ingredients familiar from skincare such as exosomes, PDRN, and fermented ingredients are increasingly seen as part of hair care as well. Also, products familiar in skincare, like essences, will be seen in the future for hair and scalp care. Their role is to bring soothing ingredients to the scalp and ensure a healthy scalp microbiome, which generally supports hair strength and health. 

11. From skincare to hair: "skinification of hair"

Continuing with scalp well-being, the external ideals for hair also reflect skincare ideals. Glass skin has been one of K-beauty’s biggest trends and now this is also seen in hair. The Glass Hair trend aims to bring strong shine to hair by focusing on smoothing ingredients such as plant oils and peptides.

Already in Yeppo's selection, there are some products that bring strong shine, such as Growus hair oil containing a pearl complex, which adds shine and smoothness to all hair types.

12. Other K-beauty phenomena and trends in 2026

• From cosmetics to accessories: key rings and other collectible accessories
  • In Korea, it is very popular to incorporate different travel-sized products as part of an outfit. These especially include lip balms as key rings, which have also been seen in hwarang's lip masks. 

• More eco-friendly packaging and formulations
  • With Korea being a significant cosmetics manufacturer, the need to create more ecological alternatives has also grown. Environmentally friendly packaging and refill packs will therefore be seen more and more! 🌱

Summary

2026 is the year where technology, science, and holistic well-being meet aesthetics. K-beauty remains a trend leader in innovation, but global phenomena such as acceptance of imperfection and wellness-centered thinking broadly shape the concept of beauty care.

We constantly expect more from cosmetics, with trends and brands promising more and products expected to deliver genuine, visible results, not just a good feeling. It will be interesting to see how this will be adapted to cosmetics legislation and what we will be watching with interest!

What thoughts do these trends and directions evoke in you? Do you think they are a step towards better or worse? Comment and share your thoughts!

Sources:

1. in-Cosmetics: 2026 Skincare and Beauty Forecast – Data-Driven Insights
   https://connect.in-cosmetics.com/trends-en/2026-skincare-and-beauty-forecast-data-driven-insights/

2. Cosmetics Business: Top 5 Beauty Trends
   https://cosmeticsbusiness.com/cosmetics-business-predicts-the-top-5-beauty-trends-1

3. Trendalytics: Top Beauty Trends Forecast 2026
   https://trendalytics.co/insights/top-beauty-trends-forecast-2026

4. ELLE: Korean Beauty Trends 2026
   https://www.elle.com/beauty/makeup-skin-care/a69428959/korean-beauty-trends-2026/

5. BeautyMatter: 2026 K-Beauty Forecast – Top 7 Data-Backed Trends
   https://beautymatter.com/articles/2026-k-beauty-forecast-top-7-data-backed-trends

6. Nargis Magazine: From Clean Girl to Messy Girl — Why Beauty’s Latest Era Is Embracing Imperfection
   https://nargismagazine.az/en/articles/from-clean-girl-to-messy-girl-why-beautys-latest-era-is-embracing-imperfection/

7. Camille Moore: K-Beauty Trends 2026 https://www.instagram.com/p/DSCykaRjt4C/