A comeback story, two Olympic medals and a Rare Beauty lippie, Alysa Liu got it all.
U.S. figure skater Alysa Liu just won her second Olympic gold medal at the Milano-Cortina Winter Olympics. The 20-year-old made history with a breathtaking performance, becoming the first USA Team member to win a medal in women’s figure skating since 2002.
Liu has received widespread attention online for her moving comeback story, positive outward attitude and unique personal style. Her latest style moment for the books? In true Generation Z fashion, Liu took a moment of consideration to snatch her lipstick out of her bag before stepping on the podium.
Alysa Liu has a Gen Z-Approved Lippie
Following a well-executed program and tense anticipatory period as the last contestants performed, Liu received first place in the women’s free skating event with 226.79 points.
On her way to receiving her latest gold hardware, the athlete made another contribution to her portfolio of iconic moments. “My lipstick!” she exclaimed, running to her bag before being whisked off for the ceremony. Eager cameras and supportive team members crowded around Liu, ushering her to the medal reception.
Her gold medal-worthy, camera-ready lip product of choice? The Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Tinted Lip Oil, seemingly in shade Delight or Happy—coincidentally, either name would be a fitting descriptor for the momentous occasion—although many eagle-eyed viewers are also suggesting the Muted berry shade.
Soft Pinch Tinted Lip Oil
RARE BEAUTY
When Sports Meet Style
The 2024 Summer Olympic Games were proof that Olympic athletes are a force to be reckoned with outside the realm of sports. Gymnasts Suni Lee and Simone Biles went viral for their beauty routines, while rugby player Ilona Maher gained popularity for her stance on body positivity. From the competition preparation to day-of hair, makeup and costuming, even the smallest aesthetic elements are taken into consideration by the general public.
This season’s Olympic Games are no different. Liu made a strong impression with her return to the Olympic stage thanks, in part, to her personal style on and off the ice rink. Immediately noticeable is Liu’s unique Angel Halo hair, perfected by Kelsey from salon 13th And Washington in St. Louis. The bleached rings are a tradition Liu started years ago, with each ring representing another year passed.
Her alt-grunge-infused wardrobe and piercings, which include a frenulum piercing that could easily pass as teeth gems, have made headlines and sparked plenty of style convos. Plus, the young Olympian has built a signature makeup look, defined by bold eyeliner, pigmented blush and, of course, glossy lips.
The Season’s Comeback Story
Liu’s participation in the Winter Olympics has been about much more than isolated performances.
After competing in the 2022 Winter Olympics, Liu announced her retirement from figure skating. In 2024, Liu returned to the sport. Since then, her comeback has been a story of perseverance and momentum. Liu collected a number of first-place titles at various competitions ahead of the Olympics, including first place at the 2024-2025 World Championships and the 2025-2026 Grand Prix Final.
Now, Liu is the first Team USA woman figure skater to win gold since 2002. This is her second Olympic medal overall, both of which she received at this year’s event.
Liu has reportedly approached this skating season with a fresh, fortified mindset. Unwilling to sacrifice her identity or internal motivation for success in the sport, she is skating on her own terms—and finding success in the meantime.
Her enjoyment of the sport is a tangible and infectious part of her charm, which has won over supporters from around the world. As the Milano-Cortina Olympic Games approach a close, Liu has taken her career into her own hands, becoming a style icon and motivational figure in the process.
