For a while, rich matte lipsticks [2] were the standard. Then lip glosses [3] moved in, evoking feelings of nostalgia [4] with their mirror-like, high-shine finishes. We've resurrected a handful of other '90s and Y2K beauty trends [5] over the last few years — french manicures [6], graphic eyeliner, and claw clips [7] — but there's one beauty trend that's stayed comfortably in the past until now: frosted lipsticks.
"Frosted lipstick was the hottest trend among Hollywood's It girls," New York City-based makeup artist Ehlie Luna [8] tells POPSUGAR. "From pop stars to supermodels to socialites, it was the look."
Keep reading to learn more about the resurgence of the frosted-lipstick trend, and shop our favourite options on the market.
The Return of Frosted Lipsticks
Though frosted lipsticks haven't made their way back into the mainstream just yet, the metallic, pearl finish has started to influence other areas of many beauty routines, like the "angel eyes" makeup trend [9]. Many makeup artists have argued it was only a matter of time before frosted-lip formulas became the preference once more.
"Y2K fashion is having a moment, so I think it has a lot of people feeling nostalgic about the glam, too," Luna says.
Don't let the pearlescent finish scare you away from trying the trend out in your everyday-makeup look. "As long as there's a lip liner involved, I think anything goes," Luna says. However, if you're afraid of looking like you're trapped in a 2000s music video, she has a tip: "I do love layering a gloss on top to modernise it a bit."
Keep reading to shop for the best frosted lipsticks on the market.
Best Frosted Lipstick: Danessa Myricks Beauty Colorfix Eye, Cheek & Lip Cream Pigment
If you want to get in on the frosted-makeup trend without buying a slew of new lipsticks, try the Danessa Myricks Beauty Colorfix Eye, Cheek & Lip Cream Pigment [10] (£20). You can use it all over your face, and it comes in 16 metallic shades.
"Being multiuse pigments, they'll survive beyond the trend and look amazing as inner-corner highlights and on the lids," Luna says.
Best Frosted Lipstick: Nars Lipstick in Sexual Healing
If you want a frosted lipstick that's on the subtler side, try the Nars Lipstick in Sexual Healing [11] (£24), a shimmery pink blossom hue. It's sheer, making perfect for anyone looking to dip a toe into the trend without changing their whole look.
Best Frosted Lipstick: Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick
Looking to try the trend on a budget? Look no further than the Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick [12] (£7). We especially love the shade 535 Rum Raisin, which is a deep mauve with a pearlescent shine. The formula, infused with vitamin E and avocado oil, will keep your lips hydrated and smooth, ensuring that nothing distracts from the frosted finish.
Best Frosted Lipstick: Sephora Collection #Lipstories Lipstick
You'll be gilded in gold wearing the Sephora Collection #Lipstories Lipstick [13] (£10) in the shade Take A Spin, a metallic nude with champagne sparkle. The shade is a statement maker and will have all eyes on you.
Best Frosted Lipstick: MAC Cosmetics Frost Lipstick
The MAC Cosmetics Frost Lipstick [14] (£20) comes in nine super-wearable options, but the shade O has to be our favourite. It's a purplish red with a golden pearl. Instead of leaning metallic, the finish looks bronzed and feels luxe.