Gen-Z seems to be moving away from mascaras and towards ghost lashes. Beauty trends are heavily influenced by generational differences. Recently, there has been a rise in young Gen-Z creators on TikTok sporting natural and 'clean' makeup looks without mascara.
This emerging trend resonates with minimal makeup looks that emphasize enhancing natural features and using fewer beauty products. "Ghost lashes" is a term used to describe lashes that blend with the face and naturally get highlighted because of other products, like bold lip colors.
Gen-Z is saying yes to ghost lashes
Beauty trends are constantly shifting and we are currently between heavy makeup and clean-girl aesthetic. There is a general revival of the understanding that less can be more, even when it comes to makeup.
Mascaras have been part of beauty routines for centuries. Long and accentuated lashes would often be considered an essential step. However, as the perception and ideas around beauty and makeup are evolving, using some products, including mascaras, is becoming optional. Some Gen Z users on TikTok also find their makeup cleaner without mascaras.
In an interview with InStyle magazine, makeup artist Peter Philips revealed that people are using flat brush with some eyeshadow instead of mascaras:
"It makes your lashes look full without using mascara and it's not an eyeliner—it's just something in between."
Philips added that the eyeshadow is visible when put on one eye. However, when applied on both eyes, it produces the effect of a no-makeup look. Apart from Gen-Z creators, the ghost lash trend is also making its way to the runway. For Prabal Gurung's Spring Summer 2025 collection, models opted for a light, clean makeup look that highlighted their natural features.
For those still looking to use mascara, many are opting for the brown shade. Users report that using black mascara can sometimes weigh their makeup down. However, using brown mascara feels more chic and sophisticated.
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While beauty is personal and so are the products used in the beauty routine, the movement towards clean girl makeup has been revived. Beauty trends change with time and how each generation feels. The last few years have seen a rise in the popularity of ghost lashes and brown mascara.
Black mascara or ghost lashes? Which trend are you going to opt for? Tell us in the comments below.
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