Cool for the Summer: Frosty Lips Get a Modern Revival

Pearlescent lipsticks from the ’90s and 2000s are making their way back to the center of beauty culture.

By Anya Oxyn March 27, 2026

Recommended Video

Tap to Unmute

Unmute

0:00 / 0:00

The world keeps returning to Pamela Anderson, Tyra Banks, and Kate Moss for beauty inspiration. This time around, the internet is after their lipsticks—specifically the pearlescent shades they often wore in the ’90s and early 2000s. Social media has unanimously declared that frosty lips are back, whether in icy pinks or warm golds.

The resurgence didn’t happen overnight, though. It cascaded shortly after the viral return of L’Oréal’s Ballerina Shoes lipstick, a pale, shimmering pink that served as a cultural touchstone for an entire generation. Since then, beauty enthusiasts have been encouraging makeup brands to bring back their frost lines. What was once dismissed as a relic of a bygone era is now being recognized for what it always was: unapologetic shine and confidence.

@lorealparisusa
Love Ballerina Shoes, the frosty lipstick gone viral, but can’t find her near you? L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche offers sister shades for this beloved frosty pink to get the frosted lip look you’re daydreaming no matter how viral. 💋🧊 Find a frosted lipstick for any look including: 620 Mica, 799 Caramel Latte, 165 Tickled Pink, 444 Tropical Coral #frostedlips #ballerinashoes #frostylips #frostedlipstick #colourriche
♬ original sound – loréal paris usa

Part of the appeal is the pure, playful fun of it, too. The frost lip doesn’t take itself too seriously; it’s the lipstick equivalent of turning up the car stereo on a summer evening. Whether worn alone or paired with a dark lip liner, it’s ready to make a statement.