How To Tell a Millennial From Gen Z by Their Make Up

A TikTok video has sparked viral conversation about makeup trends across the generations, prompting experts to weigh in.

When Jennifer Latch's daughter said that eyeshadow is a "Gen Z and millennial thing," Latch, who lives in California, turned to the internet for answers.

"It was a funny moment between my daughter and I where she said eyeshadow was for Gen X and millennials—like for old ladies," Latch told Newsweek, who wrote in the caption of her video: "Ok my Gen Z, is eyeshadow out?"

"I am passionate about discussing all things aging," she explained. "I actually believe aging is cool and love getting older with all the wisdom and experience that comes with it."

Gaining more than 990,000 views, the video caught the attention of Erica Taylor, a seasoned makeup artist from New York with over 26 years industry experience.

In a stitched video, she shared a comparison of classic smokey-eyed shadow styles and a more modern addition—complete with a tutorial.

"When I saw the original video I wanted to start the conversation about the differences of generations; Gen Z vs Gen X," Taylor told Newsweek. "I have found women stop wearing makeup because they feel it no longer looks good on them. I wanted to teach them that with time our faces and techniques evolve and it's not as daunting with a few tips and tricks. The makeup itself doesn't date us, but the techniques do."

She shared how people can embrace shifting trends in makeup application, from the heavy smokey eyes popularized by millennials to the more natural, skincare-focused approach embraced by Gen Z.

The conversation didn't stop there, though. TikTok users flooded the comments of both videos with their thoughts and experiences, from nostalgic reflections of past fashion to weighing in on the battle between the generations.

"I have yet to look at someone and think their eyeshadow is outdated," wrote Alex. While Alcav said: "Just wear what makes you feel good and what feels comfortable to you. It's okay to look and act your age."

While plenty of older viewers slammed the idea that they needed to change their makeup to stay on trend, others embraced the idea. Beebs said: "So many women in the comments angrily defending the dated eye look is fascinating. I'm 52 and love evolving my style and makeup."

But even Gen Z couldn't agree exactly on whether eyeshadow was out or not.

"I'm a older gen Z and this is true! Most girls only wear it for special occasions now," laylasmit856 said.

But Lyssa commented: "I'm gen Z. It's not a old lady thing it's just not currently on trend."

Taylor reflected on why this change may have happened, and explained: "Culturally eyeshadow is definitely very significant in the millennial era when we saw the birth of the Kardashian makeup style. Now, the current look of Gen Z is a reaction to the millennial heavy eye with the soft, ethereal eye."

Whatever the truth, Latch said she won't let it stop her from wearing the looks she likes.

"I think eyeshadow is here to stay always and forever," she said. "For me the goal is not to look 'younger'# or 'on trend' but to be the best version of myself in a way that brings self confidence and joy."