Bidding farewell to outdated beauty FADS

With the turn of another season, it’s time to bid farewell to some favourite beauty fads that have now become outdated

In case you missed the memo, these five trends have had their moment in the sun. Get ready to make way for some fresh and exciting looks, which we also update you on.

1

BAKE A CAKE, NOT YOUR FACE

‘Baking’ is a technique where heavy amounts of translucent powder are applied and left to ‘cook’ on the skin. As we move towards a more minimalist way of doing things, the beauty community is looking for more lightweight and breathable make-up. The heavy powder look (which actually magnifies skin texture and creasing) is being replaced with luminous and dewy finishes that let your skin breathe, creating a more youthful and glow-from-within appearance. 

2

MIDDLE MOVES ASIDE

Favoured by Y2K enthusiasts, the middle parting hairstyle is slowly making an exit (for now). Although it’s a classic, the side parting has been freshly popularised on high-fashion runways and celebrities like Kim Kardashian, Zendaya, Megan Thee Stallion and Lizzo. A side parting adds a touch of old-school glamour, whether you have a sleek, straight hairdo or some voluminous curls. The versatile style can be worn with a casual weekend get-up or for attending a formal evening event. 

3

FLORALS FOR SPRING? OH NO!

Nail art inspired by ‘flower power’ is always worn to mark the beginning of spring. But this year, people are more interested in experimenting with alternative, eye-catching ideas. Selena Gomez had social media buzzing with her multi-coloured pastel Skittles candy-inspired nails. And Serena Williams smashed it with her glittery Frenchie tips – a simple way to transform the classic French acrylics into a party-perfect manicure. Not keen on acrylics? This style can be achieved with gelish and press-on false nails too. 

4

DON’T DRAW THE LINE

Ladies, the ‘Kylie Jenner lip’ is no more. Although we loved emphasising our pouts by over-drawing them with lip pencil, 2023 has called for more balance and subtlety. The trend leans toward a softer, more natural mouth that signals ‘hydrated and nourished’. Use a lip liner that closely traces your natural lip shape to define without exaggeration. 

5

CONTOUR CONTROL

Chiselled cheekbones and a sculpted jawline were all the rage. Now the beauty world is kicking ‘extreme contouring’ to the curb and embracing a more natural and effortless look. Which leads us to underpainting – a technique where you apply your liquid products (contour, blusher and concealer) first, underneath your foundation! Instead of harsh lines and heavy-handed application, the result subtly enhances your features. Also go for softer bronzing and highlighting techniques to achieve a more realistic glow that complements your natural bone structure. 

Photographs: Gallo/Getty Images, Instagram