Why don't Gen Z wear mascara?

Gen Z is moving away from traditional black mascara to embrace a minimalist, "no-makeup" makeup aesthetic, focusing on healthy skin and raw, natural beauty. This shift towards low-maintenance routines saves time and avoids the hassle of daily removal, with many opting for "naked" lashes or just a touch of tint. The trend, often described as a "high fashion," "cool," or "clean girl" look, prioritizes comfort and individuality over heavy, dramatic eye makeup.

Why is Gen Z ditching mascara?

It makes sense in a post-COVID-19 world. We spent time at home learning about skincare—during that time, it had been rebranded as self-care. So when it was time to return to life outside of quarantine, we took our new beauty routine with us, no mascara needed.

Why does Gen Z wear less makeup?

This suggests that Gen Z treats make-up more as an option for special moments rather than an everyday necessity. Only 6% of Gen Z wears make-up every day, the lowest among all age groups, showing a more relaxed attitude compared to Millennials or Gen X.

Is wearing no mascara a trend?

Mascara is now optional, thanks to the minimalist shift toward “undone” aesthetics. But the no mascara trend isn't about abandoning glam—it's about choosing what works for you. Bare lashes can complement any look, adding a sense of lightness and freshness, even to bold makeup styles.

What makeup is popular for Gen Z?

Generation Z makeup enthusiasts prefer multi-purpose cream products, buildable coverage foundations that look like skin, long-wearing lip stains, versatile eyeshadow palettes with both neutral and bold options, and products from brands that prioritize sustainability and ethical practices.

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What is the 3 1 1 rule for makeup?

The 3-1-1 makeup rule refers to the TSA guideline for liquids in carry-on bags: 3.4 ounces (100ml) containers, all fitting in 1 clear, quart-sized bag, with 1 bag allowed per passenger, applying to liquid/cream makeup like foundation, mascara, and gels, while solids and powders have different rules.

Do people not use mascara anymore?

The no-mascara trend is exactly what it sounds like—either skipping mascara in your daily makeup routine or using a mascara that is less dramatic for a more natural, low-maintenance look. Instead, the focus is shifting toward soft, fluttery, and healthy lashes that enhance your features without looking overly done.

How does Gen Z do makeup?

Gen Z makeup focuses on a "skin-first", fresh-faced look with lightweight base products, dewy finishes, and natural-looking brows, but also embraces bold creativity through graphic eyeliner, colorful accents, rhinestones, and "W" shaped blush, often using multi-purpose products like lip/cheek tints and lip oils for a versatile, self-expressive style. Key trends include fluffy brows, glossy lips, skin tints over heavy foundation, and fun, artistic eye details inspired by TikTok and shows like Euphoria.
 

Is mascara out of style in 2025?

Even with a more natural lash look trending for 2025, mascara still belongs in your makeup bag. Mascara is a timeless staple for good reason. Here's why we're all-in when it comes to mascara: Enhances Natural Beauty: Mascara opens up your eyes and makes them look more awake.

Why doesn't Gen Z smile?

So the stare could be a rejection of the “smile for the camera” culture of Millennials and Gen X. It could indicate an embrace of authenticity, irony, and even boredom as past aesthetic values. Many Gen Zers grew up online, being constantly exposed to endless imagery and emotional content.

What is the biggest makeup trend in 2025?

Powder blush and blurring complexion products have been immensely popular in 2025, and the two categories come together for your winter makeup looks. “I see the continuation of natural, blurred skin and soft-focus, almost hazy color on the cheeks,” says Dedivanovic.

What race wears the least makeup?

Black women are the least likely to use makeup and skin-care products, Grant reported. That may be because they probably have the hardest time matching these products to their skin color and treatment needs. They are, however, the biggest users of fragrance.

Why is Gen Z the unhappiest generation?

They were the first to grow up entirely immersed in the digital age of social media, many spent much of their formative teen and college years stuck at home due to the COVID pandemic, and a poll earlier this year found that Gen Z carries the highest average personal debt of any generation.

Why can't Gen Z flirt?

Gen Z grew up being online, we have no option but to make social media and the internet an inherent part of us, more than socialising, and so performative affection feels easier and safer than a genuine, direct one.

Will I age better if I don't wear makeup?

Although it may be counterintuitive, it is better to apply less makeup as you age, rather than more. You may feel like more lines and wrinkles need more coverage, but heavy foundations and cream blushes tend to sink into creases in the skin, thus exaggerating their appearance.

What is the 2 3 rule for makeup?

Makeup looks bad because you don't know the 2thirds rule. This means only two out of three parts of your makeup must stand out. The three parts are your eye makeup, blush, and your lip. If all three parts are really emphasized then it can look messy and just too much.

How to look 10x younger?

While aging is inevitable, you can slow down visible signs by focusing on hydration, sun protection, antioxidant-rich foods, and regular facial exercises. These help maintain skin elasticity and reduce wrinkles naturally.

Why did Gen Z abandon mascara?

This return to minimalism is a social trend that we're also feeling in the beauty world. Forgoing mascara helps us save time. Make-up enthusiasts now focus on quick routines, which often look much better than time-intensive, full-face looks.

Is there a no mascara trend?

On TikTok, the “no mascara” search topic has taken off, with millions of views on videos explaining how to master the trend. And on YouTube, detailed tutorials offer step-by-step guides for achieving a full-face of glam, minus the mascara.

Do Gen Z wear eyeliner?

"Gen Z trends tend to favor more natural makeup styles that enhance features without heavy application. Winged eyeliner can sometimes appear too dramatic, which contrasts the minimalistic, effortless vibe many prefer."

Can I bring mascara on a plane?

Liquid Makeup (Foundation, Mascara, Lip Gloss, etc.)

Any liquid makeup you plan to take in your carry-on, such as foundation or mascara, must adhere strictly to the 3-1-1 rule. This means each product needs to be in a container that is 3.4 ounces (100 ml) or smaller.

Which makeup do you put on first?

We'll break down each makeup step and explain what order to put on makeup ahead.

1. Prep your skin with skincare and SPF. ...
2. Start your makeup application with a primer. ...
3. Color-correct if needed. ...
4. Apply your foundation. ...
5. Add concealer as needed. ...
6. Apply bronzer, highlighter, and blush. ...
7. Fill and tame your brows. ...
8. Apply eyeshadow.

Can I leave my makeup on for 12 hours?

"However, it's generally recommended to limit makeup wear to a maximum of 10-12 hours per day," she adds. As per Dr Yadav, wearing makeup for too long can have the same impact on the skin as leaving residue—clogging pores, skin irritation, premature ageing, and drying out the skin.