10 Ways to Do Emo Makeup and Hair

Emo makeup and hair may seem like a throwback beauty trend, but emo style just so happens to be one of the most-searched trends of 2019. Yes, that’s right—it appears as though those edgy, grunge looks most of us sported at some point during our years of teenage angst are making a comeback. And while you may be doing things slightly differently than you did in the late 2000s, it’s safe to say this trend will bring back all the nostalgia. Ready to embrace it? Read on for 10 ways to do emo hair and makeup for your very own modern emo beauty look.

5 WAYS TO DO EMO MAKEUP

When you think of emo makeup, we’re sure a few signature techniques and looks come to mind. The good news is, not much has changed. The better news is, your makeup skills are likely much better than they were years ago. Here are five emo makeup ideas to incorporate into your next routine.

EMO MAKEUP IDEA #1: SMOKY EYE SHADOW

When it comes to emo makeup, eye makeup tends to be the star of the show. This is in large part thanks to the smoky eye shadow that’s frequently associated with emo style. And good news, getting the look isn’t difficult, especially with the help of an eyeshadow palette.

Step #1: Prime your eyes. The first step of any eye makeup look? Eye primer. Smooth some onto your lids to prep for the rest of your makeup.

Step #2: Color your lids. A dark, smoky palette, like the L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Pocket Palette Eye Shadow in Silver Couture, will be your partner in crime for this look. Apply either medium gray shade to your lids, making sure to pack on the color for an intense, edgy appearance.

Step #3: Highlight. Pop the light silver shade onto your inner corners to highlight.

Step #4: Contour. Contour your eyes and define your crease in the process by adding the darkest, charcoal shade to your crease, then blend the color out with a fluffy eye shadow brush.

EMO MAKEUP IDEA #2: MATTE FOUNDATION

Set aside the radiant, glowing skin look. When it comes to emo makeup, a matte complexion is where it’s at. Use a makeup blender to buff the L’Oréal Paris Infallible Pro-Matte Foundation onto your skin.

EMO MAKEUP IDEA #3: PALE LIPS

Like we said, the emo look tends to leave the focus on the eyes. Pale, barely-there lips are the best way to not detract from your eye makeup. Swipe on an ultra-nude matte hue, like the L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Ultra Matte Highly Pigmented Nude Lipstick in Utmost Taupe.

EMO MAKEUP IDEA #4: OR DARK LIPS

While pale lips are a great way to balance out smoky, standout eyes, as an alternative, you can sport a dark lip color. If black lipstick is too intimidating for you, swipe on a dark brown shade like the L’Oréal Paris Rouge Signature Lightweight Matte Colored Ink, High Pigment in I Dare.

EMO MAKEUP IDEA #5: SMUDGED EYELINER

Smudged, black eyeliner? Oh yes! You can’t have an emo makeup look without lining your lower lash line with black liner. Need help with your technique? Here’s How to Wear Smudged Black Eyeliner.

5 WAYS TO DO EMO HAIR

Next up: Let’s talk hair! Here are five emo hair ideas to give a try.

EMO HAIR IDEA #1: CHOPPY LAYERS

Bring on the layers! Super choppy, piece-y layers are a must for emo hair. And luckily, layered haircuts just so happen to be one of the hottest trends at the moment. One take we’re loving as a modern twist on emo hair? Shaggy haircuts! Here are 8 of the Best Shaggy Hairstyles for Every Face Shape.

EMO HAIR IDEA #2: SIDE-SWEPT BANGS

Another must? A deep side part paired with some side-swept bangs. Whether long or short, you can’t have an emo hairstyle without them! Not to mention, they’re a great way to define your facial features.

EMO HAIR IDEA #3: STRAIGHT HAIR

Whip out your flat iron—curled hair is going to be put on the back burner if you’re embracing an emo style. First, spritz your hair with a heat protectant, like the L’Oréal Paris Advanced Hairstyle SLEEK IT Iron Straight Heatspray. Then use your straightener to give yourself pin-straight locks.

EMO HAIR IDEA #4: OR CRIMPED HAIR

Straight hair not your thing? There’s one throwback trend that’s making a comeback of its own, and it’s perfect for your emo hairstyle. We’re talking about crimped hair! Read all about it in our article, Crimped Hair Is Back! Here's How to Do It Right.

EMO HAIR IDEA #5: COLORFUL STRANDS

Need an excused to give colorful hair a try? Look no further than emo hair. Temporarily add a few colorful strands throughout your mane—red is particularly fitting for rocking an emo look—with the help of the L’Oréal Paris Colorista Hair Makeup Temporary 1-Day Hair Color Spray or L’Oréal Paris Colorista Hair Makeup Temporary 1-Day Hair Color, both of which wash out in just one shampoo.

Speaking of hair colors, here are 15 Edgy Hair Colors You Need to Try.