TikTok is the ultimate beauty playground where new makeup hacks go viral overnight. But while some trends are pure entertainment, others actually deliver results. We tested the most buzzed-about TikTok makeup hacks and rounded up the top 5 that are worth adding to your routine.
If you’re ready to upgrade your glam game with less effort and more impact, keep reading!
1. Underpainting: Contour Before Foundation
The Hack:
Instead of layering contour on top of foundation, apply your bronzer, blush, and highlight under a light layer of foundation.
Why It Works:
Underpainting creates a more natural, lit-from-within effect, perfect for those who want a sculpted look without the heavy makeup feel.
How To:
- Start with a light contour and blush directly on bare skin.
- Blend everything well.
- Apply a skin tint or sheer foundation on top using a damp sponge.
Bonus: This technique is celebrity MUA-approved and ideal for no-makeup makeup lovers.
2. Dot Contouring: Blending Made Easy
The Hack:
Rather than swiping on product, apply small dots of contour, blush, and concealer in key areas before blending all at once.
Why It Works:
It reduces product overload and helps everything melt seamlessly into the skin, especially great for cream products.
How To:
- Dot contour under cheekbones, jawline, and forehead.
- Add blush to cheeks and concealer to under eyes.
- Blend all together with a brush or sponge for a flawless finish.
Tip: Use less product than you think. This method emphasizes precision + control.
3. Lip Liner As Lipstick Base
The Hack:
Fill in your entire lips with lip liner before applying gloss or balm.
Why It Works:
It extends wear time, enhances color payoff, and gives a more sculpted lip, without overlining too harshly.
How To:
- Choose a liner close to your natural lip shade (or desired tone).
- Outline and fill in completely.
- Top with gloss or balm for a juicy, long-lasting finish.
Bonus: It’s transfer-resistant and mask-friendly!
4. Reverse Mascara Technique: Bottom-to-Top for Maximum Lift
The Hack:
Start by coating the top side of your upper lashes, then go underneath as usual.
Why It Works:
Coating both sides gives lashes a fuller, lifted appearance without the need for falsies.
How To:
- Look down and gently brush mascara on the top side of your upper lashes.
- Then apply from underneath, wiggling at the base for volume.
- Curl after mascara for even more lift (optional).
Perfect for: Straight or fine lashes that need extra definition.
5. Setting Spray Sandwich: The Viral Lock-In Method
The Hack:
Use setting spray before and after foundation to lock in makeup for all-day wear.
Why It Works:
It creates a “grip” layer before foundation, and seals it all in after, like a makeup sandwich.
How To:
- Spray a light mist of setting spray onto clean, moisturized skin.
- Apply foundation and finish your makeup as usual.
- Set again with a final mist to lock everything in.
Great for: Oily skin, humid climates, or long-wear events.
Final Thoughts
TikTok has become the modern makeup masterclass, and these hacks prove that simple tweaks can seriously elevate your look. Whether you're in a rush or just want to try something new, these trends are worth the hype.
Ready to go viral with your glam?
Try one (or all!) of these TikTok-approved hacks and tag us in your results. Your next holy grail trick might just be a scroll away.
