As beauty consumers become increasingly ingredient-savvy, results-driven and less swayed by fleeting viral moments, the industry is entering a more considered era. From TikTok-fuelled skincare obsessions to salon treatments inspired by Korean beauty rituals, the question remains: which beauty trends are actually set to last into 2026?
To uncover the answer, the world’s leading beauty and wellness booking platform Fresha analysed UK Google search data, reviewing average monthly search volume alongside year-on-year growth across hundreds of beauty-related keywords. The results offer a fascinating snapshot of where beauty is heading next — and Korean lash lifts are leading the charge.
Korean Lash Lifts Are the Fastest-Growing Beauty Treatment for 2026
Topping Fresha’s list of the most in-demand beauty trends for 2026 is the Korean lash lift, which has seen an extraordinary 20,082% year-on-year increase in UK searches. With almost 10,000 searches per month, interest in the treatment has surged as consumers move away from heavy extensions in favour of more natural-looking, low-maintenance enhancements.
Rooted in Korean beauty philosophy, the Korean lash lift focuses on lifting and shaping the natural lash from the root, creating a soft, eye-opening effect that lasts for weeks without damage when performed correctly.
According to Annabelle Taurua, Beauty Expert at Fresha:
“As awareness grows through social media and K-beauty influence, Korean lash lifts are well-positioned to move from a niche treatment into a mainstream salon offering.”
However, Taurua stresses the importance of professional expertise. Lash health, eye shape and previous treatments should always be considered, as overprocessing can weaken lashes if techniques aren’t properly tailored.
Skincare Gets Smarter: Azelaic Acid Continues to Rise
In second place is azelaic acid, a dermatologist-approved skincare ingredient celebrated for its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and exfoliating properties. With 60,500 average monthly UK searches and a 49% year-on-year increase, azelaic acid has become a go-to for those managing acne, rosacea and pigmentation.
Its popularity reflects a wider shift toward science-backed, multi-functional skincare — particularly ingredients that deliver results without compromising sensitive skin.
Statement Nails and Subtle Expression Go Hand in Hand
Rounding out the top three beauty trends for 2026 are cat eye nails, which have seen a 124% year-on-year increase, attracting over 27,000 searches per month. Defined by their magnetic, light-reflective finish, the trend offers a bold yet wearable alternative to classic nail looks — perfect for clients wanting statement style without excess.
Elsewhere, playful nail aesthetics such as polka dot nails and butter yellow nails are also on the rise, pointing to a renewed sense of fun and individuality within beauty.
The Top 10 Beauty Trends Set to Define 2026
According to Fresha’s data, these are the most in-demand beauty trends heading into 2026:
- Korean lash lift
- Azelaic acid
- Cat eye nails
- Collagen face masks
- Polka dot nails
- PDRN (Polydeoxyribonucleotide)
- Butter yellow nails
- Tinted SPF
- Micro bangs
- Salmon sperm skincare
From regenerative skincare ingredients like PDRN, to protective, hybrid products such as tinted SPF, it’s clear that consumers are prioritising both function and finish.
Beauty in 2026: Less About Trends, More About Personalisation
Summing up the findings, Annabelle Taurua explains:
“Beauty in 2026 will be defined by a balance of innovation, informed choices and individuality. Consumers are increasingly drawn to treatments that enhance natural features rather than masking them, which is why we’re seeing such rapid growth in subtle but high-impact services like Korean lash lifts.”
She adds that confidence-led self-expression will also play a major role -from micro bangs to experimental nail art – while skincare continues to move toward personalised routines and clinically backed ingredients.
The Takeaway
If the data is anything to go by, Korean lash lifts aren’t just a trend – they’re a sign of where beauty is heading. Thoughtful treatments, skin-first ingredients and tailored routines are shaping a more informed, intentional beauty landscape for 2026.
At Parlor Beauty, we’ll be keeping a close eye on how these trends evolve – and which ones truly earn a place in our long-term routines.
