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Trends are a reflection of our time, but they can also signal a fresh start—especially when it comes to the beauty industry. In honor of a welcome New Year ahead, we tapped a stable of beauty world heavy-hitters to help us sift through fleeting fads and pinpoint their best bets for 2024 beauty trend predictions.

While compiling the following beauty trends, we noticed that most fell into the skincare realm (a reaction to a consumer shift toward serums and moisturizers over makeup), and often speak to the sophistication of today’s buyer. The market may feel saturated, but skincare lovers are more educated than ever. They’re seeking out what actually works for them and are understanding the science as to why.

It’s an exciting, innovative time in the beauty world. The following 2024 beauty trend predictions feel like a hopeful response to that fact.

Featured image from our interview with Mary Ralph.

Quiet Luxury, The Beauty Edition

“The rise of ‘quiet luxury’ we saw come to the forefront of consumer consciousness in early fall ’23 is here to stay. A term initially coined for fashion—timeless, understated pieces that look expensive due to their high-quality materials—will influence the beauty industry as consumers seek effective, high-quality products that are both sophisticated and simple. (This doesn’t mean a steep price tag!)” — Monique Meneses, a 15-year former beauty brand consultant and founder of IOTA

Functional Fragrances

“In 2024 I’m pretty sure we’ll continue to see the rise of the functional fragrance movement as the next big perfume trend—where fragrance isn’t just about smelling good but is scientifically designed to be a powerful catalyst for mental well-being. I think we’ll see more scents that help with stress reduction and mood enhancement, ushering in a new era where fragrance not only awakens the senses but also contributes to a balanced mind and body.” — Rosie Johnston, Founder/CEO of By/Rosie Jane. 

Regenerative Aesthetics

“People are looking for a much more “natural” look now, particularly the younger generation. They are less interested in that “high cheek contour” and “extra full” lips—prejuvenation is much more popular. The trend is moving to less filters and less makeup, with more focus on skincare and anti-aging.” — SkinSpirit Physician’s Assistant Kristin Polega

Polega does recommend dermal fillers for that rejuvenated look, but not just any kind.

“I love Sculptra Aesthetic because we remove the “shock factor” that some people feel with filler. It provides a gradual build-up over time, so the results are subtle yet impressive when comparing photos.”

Scalp Care is Here to Stay

“Throughout 2023 we saw a comparison drawn between scalp care and skincare. As many companies move into the space and capitalize on the trend, our job as stylists is to further learn and educate clients about what we think are the most effective solutions available.” — Jay Small, Celebrity Hairstylist and Co-Founder of Arey

Regardless of hair texture, density, or style preference, Small recommends two things when treating the scalp at home.

• Ditch the added fragrance in scalp serums. “Scent is more for the experience and less about the health of your scalp,” Small explains. “I would also look for a water-based formula that is free of oil—preferably one that is backed by research and science.”
• Look for gentle products. “Scalp scrub doesn’t have to literally scrub your scalp!” Small adds. “The most common causes of buildup on the scalp are oil and dead skin cells. Using a product that is less abrasive and contains ingredients that target that build up is key.”

The Skincare-ification of Nails

“2023 was a big, bling-filled nail year where studded talons and metallics prevailed, but I predict that 2024 nail trends will be dialed down with more of an emphasis on flaunting the underlying healthy nail, à la the no-makeup-makeup looks that have prevailed.” — Dr. Dana Stern, Board-Certified Dermatologist and Founder of Dr. Dana 

For reference, Dr. Stern nods to fashion: “Helmut Lang’s spring/summer show models wore sans-serif typeface nails, which have a minimalist tattoo-like vibe. Jin Soon created a similarly chic, understated yet edgy look for Jason Wu’s show where black dots and lines were used over a clear base, again flaunting the underlying healthy, well-cared-for nail. Also, Holly Falcone created a clean, but playful and somewhat fanciful look for Sandy Liang’s 2024 runway show where nails were painted with an almost translucent pearly base and accented with satin bows and delicate gems, again flaunting the underlying clean, healthy nail.”

The Rise of the Trichologist

“A trichologist is a professional that studies the hair and scalp. Often we don’t know who to turn to for matters of scalp health—is it our dermatologist or our hairstylist? A trichologist bridges the gap between both, helping to diagnose and advise on everything from dandruff, hair loss, damaged hair strands, and overexposure to chemicals or styling. More and more I am speaking with hairstylists that are getting certified in trichology.” Jay Small, Celebrity Hairstylist and Co-Founder of Arey

Less Sameness on the Shelves

“Given the oversaturation in the market and overflowing shelves, as well as economic pressures across the board, I believe customers will invest in brands that are truly innovating with a clear point of difference that goes beyond trendy marketing. The last few years have seen a lot of ‘sameness’ on the shelves and I think we’ll start to see that fizzle in the spirit of focus and customer-led innovation.” — Stephanie DiPisa, CEO + Founder of Solara Suncare

Wellness 2.0

“The mind-skin-gut connection will inspire more brands to highlight how comprehensive well-being and physical appearance are interconnected as the lines between wellness and beauty become even more blurred.” — Monique Meneses, a 15-year former beauty brand consultant and founder of IOTA

Science-Backed Ingredients

“I think consumers will be moving past some of the latest social media-driven ingredients or marketing trends in a return to craving more science-backed, high-performing ingredients. Brands that take that seriously and remain transparent and focused in their expertise will continue to thrive.” — Stephanie DiPisa, CEO + Founder of Solara Suncare

Beige and clean white kitchens had a good run, but it’s thrilling to witness a move toward bolder hues and unique touches as we head into the New Year. To get a temperature check on what’s to come, we tapped talented designers to share their 2024 design trend predictions.

Warm hues and maximalism are in, as are bathrooms (or wet rooms) that feel more like spas. There’s a focus on mixed metals, sculptural wood, and sustainability done well. A crisp, clean white will always be in, but as Chicago-based designer Devon Wegman says, “People are tired of playing it safe—at least we are—and sticking with neutrals everywhere. Today, we’re incorporating more and more graphic stone, provocative artwork, and statement chandeliers. People no longer want their home to look just like their neighbors, and in order to do that, it’s critical to take risks.”

These are the experts’ best bets for the top design trends of 2024.

Featured image from our interview with Amanda Gunawan.

No More Gray Haze

“Any remnants of the gray trend for paint and flooring stains will officially say goodbye in 2024—finally!” says Eddie Maestri, principal architect and founder of Maestri Studio in Dallas, Texas.

Peak Peterson, interior design principal at Hoedemaker Pfeiffer in Seattle seconds that sentiment. “Cool gray rooms are on the way out, as a preference for warmth and dimensionality is becoming more popular,” she adds.

The Rise of the Wet Room

“Something I hope more people will lean into is the concept of a wet room,” shares Devon Wegman (she/her), Founder and Design Director of Devon Grace Interiors. Incorporating a bathtub right into your shower space (and not the tub-showers you had growing up) allows you to soak while capturing the steam and heat in the space, making the tub experience even more luxurious.”

Spa-Like Amenities At Home

And speaking of wet rooms, several designers are predicting more luxurious bathrooms all around.

“With the push to work from home and exercise at home we’ll see more spa time at home,” shares Brad Ramsey of Nashville-based Brad Ramsey Interiors. “Steam showers, infrared saunas, and cold plunges are being incorporated more and more into our designs as they get more affordable and accessible.”

Designer Peak Petersen also envisions elevated bathroom lighting in 2024. “A step past a simple sconce pair flanking the mirror, 2024 will explore the options of backlit mirrors and wall washing with integrated ceiling lighting which adds a minimalist edge to the bathroom,” shares the interior design principal of Hoedemaker Pfeiffer. 

The Power of Purple

“We saw this emerge slowly, but a new color family has now taken the town by storm: purple–but not the purple that pops to mind!” shares Joshua Smith, principal and founder of Joshua Smith Inc. “Think deeper shades like plum and amethyst, even deep magenta. Apart from being aesthetically pleasing, from a psychological perspective, purple promotes harmony of the mind and the emotions.”

Demaudecia Taylor, a color consultant for Farrow & Ball, notes that this 2000s trend resurgence comes with a modern twist. “Instead of using these colors solely for small powder rooms, people are now using rich shades like Preference Red No. 297 and Brinjal No. 222 to create intimate and cozy spaces in large areas such as bedrooms and formal dining rooms,” Taylor notes.

Sleek Sustainability

Smith expects an even greater push toward green living this year, with better education for clients and transparency for vendors. And when it comes to recycled materials, architect principal Tori Masterson of Hoedemaker Pfeiffer anticipates a more polished look.

“Rustic reclaimed materials are on their way out, to be replaced by reclaimed materials that have been refurbished and revived for their next life,” Masterson notes.

Beyond Bringing the Outdoors In

“Nature will be embraced in design in 2024, but it’s not just about bringing the outdoors in—it’s making a part of the design,” shares Katie Browning and Heather Lucas of Lucas Browning Designs. “We will be incorporating large windows framing picturesque views, skylights that invite starry nights, and mirrors strategically positioned to multiply the goodness.”

“We’re seeing a lot of clients request extra long sinks these days—anywhere from four to six feet long,” shares Wegman. “With that, we’re able to fit two main faucets, filtered water dispensers, disposal switches, and soap pumps (one for hand soap, one for dish) with plenty of room to spare.”

Curved Love

Designers agree: curves are here to stay. “Whether they are on a furniture silhouette or in the actual architecture, they are back in a big way and softening our living experiences,” Ramsey says.

Less Open Kitchens

“Open kitchens are on their way out as people crave segmented spaces after the adjustment to work from home,” shares Maestri. “In terms of what’s in for kitchens, clients are opting for built-ins to look like furniture instead of traditional cabinetry, and there’s a pull toward retro details such as the use of tiles on countertops and tables.”

Several designers are predicting more powder-coated pipes and less expected metals, like pewter, rose gold, and polished copper. It all essentially confirms one of Pinterest’s 2024 Home Decor Trend Forecast predictions—”Hot Metals: Melty metallics will make their way into the mainstream in 2024 as people trade in their trusty neutrals for something a bit more hardcore.”

Warm Layers

“This year, the color palette is all about warm neutrals, and we are even seeing a resurgence of pastels—a dash of pastel pink for a sweet touch, moody blue for a mysterious allure, light blue like a clear sky, and soft yellow or bold ochre to add a sunny pop,” Katie Lucas and Heather Browning of Lucas Browning Designs. “Together, these shades create a room that’s not just stylish but also oozing with comfort and charm.”

Interior designer Brad Ramsey calls it “tailored eclectic.” “That term usually elicits images of cluttered rooms with no true design direction,” he notes. “But no more, it’s time to layer it up the right way.”

Organic Shapes, Textures, and Colors

“I think designers and consumers will draw inspiration from nature and incorporate more organic shapes, textures, and colors using materials like raffia, bone, and papier-mâché,” says Jamie Young, founder of Jamie Young Co. “I’m expecting to see a shift in decor trends, emphasizing individual expression with handmade, artisanal décor opposed to the reserved and minimalist style choices that have been prevalent in the past few years.”