THE HOTTEST BEAUTY IDEAS FOR 2025

From make-up to hair and nails, we've got you covered with the hottest beauty ideas for 2025

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Happy New Year! One thing’s for sure – there’s something magical about a new year.

It’s like a fresh start wrapped up in glitter and excitement, full of new trends just waiting to be discovered. So, let’s dive into what 2025 in the beauty world has in store for us.

1. ‘BEAUTILITY’ IN BODY CARE
Gone are the days when bodycare products were just about hydration and smelling good. The bar has been raised, and 2025 is the year of ‘beautility’ and 2025 is the year of ‘beautility’ – where beauty meets utility. Now, your body products need to do more than just keep your skin soft. Think of them as multitasking superstars that tackle specific skin concerns, like hyperpigmentation, dryness and uneven texture.

Brands have been stepping up their game, infusing body washes and lotions with powerhouse ingredients like salicylic acid. Once reserved for facial products, now we’re seeing it in everyday body care, and we’re loving it! Not only are you left with silky, smooth skin, but it’s working on real skin issues too. Like getting a mini spa treatment in the shower. Talk about levelling up.

2. EXPERIMENTAL BEAUTY
Say goodbye to the old rules and hello to a new era. In 2025, it’s all about breaking the mould and getting creative. Forget subtle – we’re going bold! Think creative. Forget subtle – we’re going bold! Think bright-red eyebrows, yellow eyeshadow or mixing bright red eyebrows, yellow eyeshadow or mixing red and pink. Oh, and using liquid lipstick as blusher? Yes, please. It’s the year of “Why not?” and we’re totally here for stepping out of our comfort zones. 

Last year, blusher made a serious comeback, and it’s set to evolve made a serious comeback, and it’s set to evolve even further, becoming a staple for adding that perfect flush to the cheeks. Nails are having a moment, too. The multidimensional ‘cat-eye’ manicure, with its subtle metallic line running diagonally across the nail, is set to be a huge trend.

3. GOING RETRO
Ah, the power of nostalgia. If you thought certain trends were gone for good, think again. Like fashion, the beauty world loves to recycle, and 2025 is bringing back some of our favourite retro looks. Remember yaki braids from the 2000s? Well, they’ve returned, now reborn as mermaid braids. These loose, carefree braids are perfect for the beach or a casual summer day – think boho, but with a modern twist. Another timeless trend coming back in full force is the colour red. Whether it’s a classic red lip or a crimson red pop on your cheeks, you’ll see this colour everywhere.

And for those who prefer a softer touch, berry lips are gaining traction. It’s a universally flattering look, and the best part? Anyone can pull it off.


Text: Nozuko Tshangela
Photos: Gallo/Getty Images