The 2025 hair and makeup guide you didn’t know you needed
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’ll admit, the whole motto: ‘new year, new me’ feels just about as innovative as daily reruns of The Big Bang Theory—familiar but overplayed. Yet, there’s no denying the power of a good refresh. Sometimes, a bold hair change or a subtle makeup tweak can be just the confidence booster needed to face the chaotic ride of life.
My recent journey into the realm of makeup trends—assisted heavily by my elder sister, who might as well moonlight as a beauty guru—sparked this deep dive into what’s sizzling for 2025. Buckle up; it’s going to be a stylish ride.
Hair trends to embrace (or at least consider) for 2025
South Asian hair textures are as diverse as a Kendrick Lamar album— you think you know what to expect, but you really don’t. The same is true for South Asian hair textures.
From sleek strands to luscious curls and pixie cuts, there’s no-one-size-fits-all solution. Luckily, the latest haircuts celebrate individuality while embracing versatility.
Modern bob variations
Italian bob: Imagine a shoulder-grazing masterpiece that combines blunt ends with soft bends, creating an effortlessly voluminous frame for round and oval faces. It’s equal parts chic and manageable, making it perfect for naturally thick, wavy South Asian hair that tends to rebel against the straightener. Pair it with a center part for balance, and watch your reflection thank you.
Cheekbone bob: Want to channel your inner femme fatale? This sharp-edged, micro-length bob practically announces to the world, “I’m here to be fabulous—deal with it.” Ideal for thin faces, it flatters cheekbones while holding its own against Karachi’s unpredictable humidity when paired with lightweight styling serums.
For those who prefer a little texture and movement (or as my mom says, the unkempt “just woke up from bed” hair look)
Long, lived-in layers: A hero for thick or wavy hair types, these low-maintenance layers offer natural movement without constant trims, letting you breeze through the day while still looking polished.
Bixie-wolf cut: This blend of a pixie, bob, and wolf cut is daring yet practical, featuring textured, choppy layers that grow out gracefully—perfect for stud-ents juggling schedules or professionals who refuse to let work kill their vibe.
‘90s bang are back with a bang
Curtain bangs: Soft, face-framing beauties that look effortlessly cool, even during their forgiving grow-out phase. They flatter wavy and straight textures alike, making them a versatile choice for strong jawlines and rounder faces.
See-through bangs: These delicate fringes lend a lighter touch compared to traditional blunt cuts, framing the face without overwhelming natural volume—a win for South Asian hair prone to dramatic flair.
Styling products for every hair challenge
Hair gloss treatments are also trending, offering sleek shine enhancements that elevate dark hair tones.
Lightweight volumizers: Living in a humid climate? Lightweight volumizers will be your best friend for thinner hair types, while conditioning creams help tame frizz.
Scalp health
Scalp health is getting overdue attention too. With stress-related hair loss on the rise, peptide-infused scalp treatments are becoming essentials, promoting healthier follicles and reducing thinning. Meanwhile, eco-conscious beauty lovers can rejoice—non-aerosol dry shampoos are stepping up, refreshing hair without weighing it down or clashing with darker tones.
Makeup trends: the glowup we all deserve
This year, makeup trends strike a perfect balance between bold and natural, ensuring your beauty routine is as versatile as your mood. South Asian skin tones, with their golden, caramel, and deeper hues, take center stage in this trend landscape.
Skin-focused minimalism
Blurring complexion products: Products that blur imperfections without masking your natural glow are reigning supreme. Think soft-focus primers that provide a matte yet radiant glow, paired with foundations that enhance rather than hide.
Neutral monochromatic looks: Sculpted yet understated shades just a smidge darker than your skin tone offer polished elegance without the drama of a full glam routine.
For eyes that demand attention
Metallic accents: Copper and gold liners add a captivating shimmer to brown eyes, elevating any formal look. Smoky shades of bronze and navy blue add drama without overwhelming.
Cerulean and berry hues: These vibrant shades are making waves, offering striking contrasts against warm skin tones. A swipe of cool blue shadow or a deep berry lip creates a bold statement that feels refreshingly modern.
Blush techniques get a stylish update too
Berry-toned blush: Shades like plum, raspberry, and wine are making their mark, creating a natural, sunkissed effect perfect for medium to deep skin tones. Pro tip? Apply blush across the bridge of your nose for a playful, youthful glow.
Multifunctional products: Cream-based sticks that double as blush and lip color are trending for good reason—they offer seamless blending and practicality for quick touch-ups.
Eyelash, brow, and lip goals for 2025
Big, fluttery lashes: Think length and volume without clumping. Brown mas-caras soften the look for daytime wear, while tubing mascaras hold strong against Karachi’s humidity.
Well-defined brows: On the brow front, well-defined but natural shapes are key, with lightweight gels that hold without stiffness for a polished but approachable look.
Lip shades and textures that pop
Blurring lip colors: Matte formulas softened with fingertip blending create a chic “bitten” effect that’s trending globally. Brick reds and warm coppers? Perfect for our skin tones.
Berry and burgundy hues: These luscious hues radiate sophistication, while staying on-trend for 2025.
Climate conscious beauty innovations
New-age primers: Makeup that survives tropical climates without feeling like a face mask? Yes, please. These primers hydrate while com-batting sweat and humidity, gripping makeup for long wear without compromising skin health.
Shield products: Innovative ‘shield products’ are gaining trac-tion, providing protection against pollution and extreme heat—because your skin deserves a defense line too. (Their availability, however, still needs to be confirmed in Pakistan.)
Personal favorite: Estee Lauder Advanced Night Repair Serum has become my favorite skincare product. After a month of nightly use, my dry skin has visibly transformed. While I love pairing it with a night cream for extra hydration, even on my laziest days, the serum alone works wonder.
From metallic eyes and cheekbone bobs to berry blushes and climate-proof makeup, the beauty trends of 2025 offer endless oppor-tunities for self-expression. So go ahead, mix a little boldness with subtle charm—because this year is all about celebrating your most vibrant self.