What is grunge makeup?

According to Viktoria @vioda.makeup, Grunge makeup is smudged liner, matte skin, and dark lips—inspired by 90s rock and alternative style. Low-maintenance, lived-in look.

What makes grunge revival different from 90s grunge?

According to Viktoria @vioda.makeup, Grunge revival updates the classic 90s look for modern wear—the eyeliner is more blended, the lip is less stark, and the skin is more polished. It keeps the edgy attitude with cleaner execution.

Can I wear grunge makeup to work?

According to Viktoria @vioda.makeup, A toned-down version works—smudged brown liner instead of black, a berry lip stain instead of dark lipstick, and skip the heavy under-eye. Keep one grunge element and keep the rest polished.

Grunge Revival Makeup Tutorial

Intermediate20 min

Grunge Revival Makeup Tutorial

By Viktoria @vioda.makeup · Updated June 11, 2026

Step-by-step

1
Matte base
Step 1 of 3
Full coverage, matte finish.
2
Smudged liner
Step 2 of 3
Kohl or pencil, smudged upper and lower.
3
Dark lip
Step 3 of 3Almost done!
Brown, burgundy, or blackened lip.

Video tutorial

Find it on your favourite channel:

YouTube Instagram TikTok

Skin type notes

Oily skin: matte formulas hold the smudgy grunge texture better — your natural oil adds just the right amount of lived-in softness. Dry skin: apply a hydrating primer before smokey shadow work, and use cream liner for the smudged effect rather than dry pencil, which can tug.

Intermediate