MakeUp in Paris 2026 Reveals Shifting Packaging Trends

Editor’s Note: MakeUp in Paris 2026, the show’s 16th edition, identified a strong Asian influence on the cosmetic industry. We saw everything from sensory and emotional experiences to colors, shapes, sizes—and “foodification.” Here are some of the ways global beauty suppliers and brands are appealing to consumers’ changing attitudes, wants, and purse strings. With a focus on fun and minis, many suppliers believe brands are increasingly striving to meet consumers “where they are.”

The intense heat wave had settled over Paris just days before MakeUp in Paris 2026 (MUP) opened its doors on June 17, at Carrousel de Louvre. The venue sits below the sprawling musée—and thus, stays remarkably cool (especially with air-conditioning).

My anticipation of the 16th annual two-day event grew as I walked across the ages-old, storied courtyard and entered the striking I.M.Pei-designed Louvre Pyramid. There seemed to be thousands of visitors on the line that snaked through the lobby to view the masterpieces on the Louvre’s upper levels.  

Asmaa Cherraff-Bonneville, Show Director, MakeUp in Paris, said this year’s show reflected the powerful Asian influence on beauty. She explained that Asia continues to drive innovation (from formulations to tools). Exhibitors represented countries including Italy, Poland, Korea, France, U.S., UK, Hong Kong, and Taiwan. 

In addition, said Cherraff-Bonneville, “Beauty is becoming more emotional, with emphasis both on packaging as well as the product. Beauty is now a mix of color, ingredients, primary packaging, and sustainability.” 

Soft “edges” and sensory experiences via sprays, colors, massaging, heating and cooling, were also contributors to an emotional, sensuous attraction. There was a fun, playful vibe in products offered, as well as with buyers’ seeming enthusiasm.

Award Winners at MakeUp in Paris 2026

Inside the show entrance was a setup that featured the cosmetics industry finalists who had been honored with Innovation Awards handed out at the event. Later in the day, the winners would be announced. With over 100 entries received for this record-breaking edition, the Innovation & Trends Awards highlight submissions in four categories: Formulation, Contract Manufacturing, Packaging, Accessories—and new this year, 2 special awards: Full Service and Ready to Market. (See finalists and winners at BeautyPackaging.com).

Spoiler alert for Packaging: Cool Color’s metal mascara brush won the packaging award; Arcade Beauty drew the runner-up distinction for ThermoShade, a sampling technology designed for pressed powder formulas. 

Trend-Spotting

Color is always a key asset of the show, and MakeUp in Paris 2026 was no different—except that the colors were even broadcasted through the packaging itself. Neons, pastels, multi-colors and more drew attention on the floor, from signage to showcases. 

Mono-material packaging was in large supply, in an effort to make recycling easier, especially ahead of the pending European PPWR legislation.

Mini sizes stole the show in certain areas, especially with an abundance of small and novelty-type items. Many had chains that could be attached to a phone or a handbag in an instant and held take-along cosmetic items (and charms). This was part of a trend wave that emphasizes downsized packs (for lower pricing as well as tote-ability), as well as colorful, soft-rounded shapes. There were also fun characters, such as a whole range of potato-head packs and charms on display at one booth. One supplier told me that there was a hope that collections such as these could be appealing as promotional or gift sets to non-beauty brands. They would be ideal to attract a younger audience. There was also talk of a trend toward mass over premium as brands reach out to Gen-Z’ers and Alphas.

In general, small sizes were designed to make big impressions. Consumers want the same look and feel as full-size packs for convenient, on-the-go use. This is boosting the desire for lip packaging that stands out. Applicators are in demand, especially ones designed to make an everyday routine feel like an elevated and sensory experience.

Another beauty trend that emerged at MUP is “foodification,” a naming/packaging craze that appeals to the senses. 

Up Close with Exhibitors

Following is a rundown of suppliers and packaging highlights spotted on the show floor at MakeUp in Paris 2026. Companies are arranged in alphabetical order:

Anisa International

Travel artistry and on-the-go performance were themes at Anisa International. Anisa Telwar Kaicker, Founder & CEO, explained that many of their products are geared to “prosumers” (professional beauty consumers), such as brushes with 3 different purposes and retractable brushes for easy packing.

Anisa International’s Multi-Level Retractable Brush (shown) combines 3 shapes into one retractable brush, offering multiple options. The compact format delivers premium brush performance in an easy-to-use, on-the-go solution. The brush stays protected and hygienic thanks to its enclosed design. A unique twist technology transforms the brush profile, enabling consumers to customize it to their needs.

Arcade Beauty

Arcade Beauty highlighted ThermoShade at MakeUp in Paris 2026. The sampling technology is designed for pressed powder formulas. It is available in several variations, including single blister or four blister formats.

According to Arcade, “ThermoShade delivers an experience identical to the retail product and is made from a single-material design.” The four-blister version of ThermoShade was selected as one of the three finalists for the IT Awards in the packaging category at the Makeup in Paris trade show.

Brivaplast Group

It was all about celebrating Brivaplast Group’s 60th anniversary at the show. The supplier highlighted each decade of their success at MakeUp in Paris 2026. Brivaplast’s new NINETIES collection focused on the 1990s.

Valentina Manera, Marketing Director at Brivaplast, said, “After the neon strobe of the eighties, we dive into a decade defined by raw attitude, digital dawn, and the effortless cool of the ‘off-duty’ icon.”

She explained that The Nineties Collection is a tribute to the era of the mixtape and the underground muse. Inspired by the transition from grunge rebellion to the high-gloss explosion of pop culture, this drop celebrates the art of contrast. It’s where the ‘no-effort’ aesthetic meets the shimmer of the new millennium, said Manera. “Think moody chocolate liners, frosted highlights, and a vibe that feels both nostalgic and futuristic. It is beauty unplugged, authentic, and forever iconic.”

From grunge-inspired smoky eyes to high-shine finishes, “the lineup balances rebellious attitude with sophisticated textures, offering everything from softly sculpted skin to bold, effortless looks.”

The packaging style is a journey into the 1990s aesthetic. Each component is wrapped in a glitter violet finish, capturing the sparkling grit of club culture and the shimmer of body gels. The decoration features a crisp white silk-screen print paired with hot-stamped pink accents, creating a bold, layered contrast that echoes the era’s graphic pop-art influence. Completing the look, the collection features round-shaped caps, a nod to the soft, ergonomic curves of late-90s tech and the playful geometry of the Y2K transition.

CCS Industrial

At CCS Industrial’s booth, Rebecca Wang, Marketing Specialist, showed Beauty Packaging a large variety of amusing novelty cosmetics, sponges and charms. They are ideal for quick eye and lip fixes, sunscreen, and are colorful attention getters. The lineup included an entire packaging line based on a vision of “the couch potato.”

DY Packaging

Premium multifunctional bottles were a draw at DY Packaging, which specializes in foundation bottles. Lots of small sizes are available, too. DY offers full production, injection molding, printing, assembly, and more.

Edelmann

At Edelmann, known for its striking cartons, Cédric Babron explained its new machinery. It uses digital embellishment (without tooling) to mimic hot stamping and embossing. For example, they can apply a layer of varnish “with perfect register” to create very tactile packaging. Or, a 3D effect can “which can replicate a ribbon.”

Essentia Beauty

Essentia Beauty, a private label beauty products manufacturer, offers premium formulation and turnkey solutions. They specialize in creating and producing innovative beauty products. A mascara for every type of eyelash? One of the full-service provider’s newest innovations answers the call. Arianna Fagone explained how six types of eyelash mascara formulas and brushes were created to specifically match length and thickness, from long and thick to short and sparse. 

ICONS/ICS

ICONS Beauty Group returned to MakeUp in Paris this year, showcasing what they said are their latest innovations. Elita Kung, Marketing Manager, said their newest offerings bring “trend-driven design, sensory experience, and sustainability together.” The booth showcased collections inspired by key trends, from playful jelly applicators and on-the-go tottles and travel-size packaging. Sustainable solutions were also a focus, designed to meet the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulations (PPWR).

Kung told Beauty Packaging that brands “are increasingly seeking lip packaging that stands out, especially when it comes to applicators that make everyday routines feel like an elevated and sensory experience.” One standout was its Jelly Applicator (shown). “The smooth silicone tips deliver a pillowy, gel-soft feel that turns application into a soothing, satisfying experience,” said Kung. Multiple formats are available, including sticks, wands, and pencils. These versatile applicators are ideal for blending, blurring, and beautifying lips, cheeks, and face.  

Tottles with rounded silhouettes were also popular at ICONS’ booth. Pebble-shaped tottles featured soft curves and spherical silhouettes. And as demand for travel-friendly products rises, Kung says consumers are seeking the same look and feel as full-size options. These offer convenient, on-the-go use. ICONS Beauty Group’s Airless Push Button Dropper is available in 10- and 15ml, and is an ideal option for a variety of formulations. 

Libo

Emanuele Grasso, at Libo, showed me some of their latest packaging launches aty MakeUp in Paris 2026. Libo offers makeup, skincare, personal care, and suncare packaging. Especially noteworthy was the patented Bunny Stick. It features a slanted tip with a smooth press-button design. Slim and stylish, it’s easy to carry along. An angled tip ensures easy and flawless application. Multiple uses include blush, highlighter, concealer, bronzer, suncare, and deodorant. A liquid blush in an on-the-go PET pack, includes an integrated cushion sponge applicator, with three sponge tip options.

Lumson

One of Lumson’s new collections at MakeUp in Paris 2926 was Sunday Morning. The linen is based on its 100% PP Lipstick.

This lipstick is available in both shiny and matte finishes directly from the mold. Lumson’s Silvia Losacco said the solution enhances the premium look of the packaging. It also simplies the decoration process, and reduces additional finishing steps. It also makes recycling easy, as it is a mono-material 100% PP lipstick.

Inspired by the “growing skincare gourmand trend,” the collection features six decorated versions of this mono-material solution. According to Lumson, “Each design translates the visual and sensory language of food into a tactile and aesthetic experience, transforming the simple pleasures and slow rituals of a Sunday morning into a contemporary beauty statement.”

The collection showcases various shades in different finishes, including Cherry Smoothie, Coconut Milk, Blueberry Pancakes, and Honey Butter.

Nuon Medical

Nuon Medical presented several new enhanced packages, in addition to its flagship product lines. Nuon’s solutions included a selection of new concepts for hair, face, and body care. The beauty-tech supplier said that the combination of technologies and targeted application areas is based on trend analysis and consumer expectations.

These lines were presented “as creative directions for brands, intended to initiate a dialogue and spark the development of future projects and partnerships.”

Nuon’s Nourish Scalp Roller Comb is a compact applicator that features a 5ml reservoir that dispenses the formula and distributes it across the scalp while working through the hair. Combined with red light therapy, the massage action helps stimulate microcirculation and support the absorption of active ingredients. Its compact, rounded design has been developed for a comfortable grip and ease of use.

Nuon’s new Body Application Tube was on display. It targets cell rejuvenation in sun-exposed skin, boosts firmness and promotes smoothing effects. It is a large-format tube that combines red light and vibration for smoother, firmer skin.

The curved roller follows body contours for even application on targeted areas. The formula is delivered via a screw-cap reservoir, while the roller provides a stimulating massage that activates circulation. Active ingredients are then able to penetrate the skin more deeply. The charging port is hidden for a clean and travel-friendly use.

A massage tool, the Contour Roller Applicator (left) is designed to follow the contours and curves of the face. Red light combined with vibration helps tone the skin for a smoother, revitalized appearance (as Nuon’s team members, above, demonstrate.) It also features a cooling effect from four metal beads, whose combined massage helps tone the skin and stimulate microcirculation. This accessory is activated simply upon contact with the skin and is recharged when placed on its base.

Schwan Cosmetics

At Schwan Cosmetics, the supplier showcased LIPLIFT (Skip-the-Filler Lifter Liner). The new hybrid lip liner was developed around the “growing longevity beauty movement.” The product combines long-wear color with clinically proven lip care benefits, for “a broader shift away from instant plumping solutions toward long-term lip health, treatment-led cosmetics, and skincare-makeup hybrids.”

Sacré Beurre Butter Glide Eyeshadow Stick is an eyeshadow stick that represents the growing “foodification” trend in beauty. Schwan explained that by “drawing on butter-inspired textures and sensory experiences, the concept taps into consumer demand for products that combine performance with comfort, familiarity, and tactile pleasure. Industry trend forecasts suggest food-inspired beauty and multi-sensory formats will be among the key beauty trends shaping 2026 and beyond.”