TikTok continues to be the launchpad for beauty trends—some creative, some confusing, and a few that are surprisingly genius. In 2025, the app is a non-stop stream of skincare hacks, makeup tutorials, and product obsessions, all delivered in under 30 seconds. But not every trend deserves a place in your routine.
Here are 10 of the biggest beauty trends currently dominating TikTok—and a breakdown of what actually works versus what’s best left to the “For You” page.
1. Cloud Skin
Forget the high-shine, glazed-donut look. Cloud skin is all about a soft, blurred, diffused finish that gives your face a dreamy, ethereal glow without looking greasy.
Does it work? Yes—and it’s wearable. This trend involves matte primers paired with dewy highlighters in targeted areas. It’s an ideal balance for anyone who doesn’t want to look flat but isn’t into full-on glass skin.
2. Underpainting Makeup Technique
Instead of applying foundation first, users are now applying contour, blush, and highlighter underneath a sheer base. The result? A more natural-looking, lit-from-within effect.
Does it work? Absolutely. Underpainting avoids the harsh, stacked-on look of traditional contouring and creates seamless dimension. It’s especially effective for mature or textured skin.
3. Fake Eye Bags
In an unexpected twist, creators have started accentuating under-eye shadows with soft brown liners or even eyeshadow. The goal? A grunge, tired-yet-cool aesthetic.
Does it work? For editorial looks, yes. In real life? It’s polarizing. Unless you’re headed to a fashion shoot or want to look “intentionally exhausted,” this one’s a skip for daily wear.
4. Skin Cycling 2.0
An update to the original skin cycling routine (exfoliate, retinoid, recover), the 2025 version includes a fourth night: a targeted treatment like niacinamide or peptides.
Does it work? Dermatologists back it. Giving your skin rest days while rotating actives prevents irritation and enhances long-term results. It’s structured, easy to follow, and science-supported.
5. Sunscreen Contouring
This controversial trend involves applying sunscreen to specific areas—like the bridge of the nose and cheekbones—while letting other parts tan more deeply, creating a “natural contour.”
Does it work? Technically yes, but dermatologists hate it. It may temporarily add dimension, but uneven sun exposure increases your risk of skin damage and premature aging. Just use bronzer instead.
6. Cherry Cola Lips
Dark lip liner with a glossy red or berry-toned center has gone viral as the “cherry cola lip.” Inspired by 90s beauty, it flatters a wide range of skin tones and is surprisingly versatile.
Does it work? Yes, and it’s stunning. The contrast adds fullness, and the glossy finish makes lips pop. It’s a bold look, but still wearable for everyday outings with the right shades.
7. Freckle Stamps and Tattoo Pens
Natural-looking freckles are in—again. TikTokers are now using precision pens, DIY henna, or stamp tools to fake sun-kissed skin.
Does it work? For the most part, yes. When done subtly, faux freckles add youthfulness and charm. Just be careful with placement and pigment tone—if they’re too uniform or dark, they’ll look artificial.
8. LED Light Masks at Home
Once reserved for dermatology offices, LED light therapy is now a huge at-home trend. TikTok users swear by red light for anti-aging and blue light for acne.
Does it work? Yes—with consistency. It’s not instant, but research supports LED benefits when used regularly. Just make sure your device is FDA-cleared and not a random knockoff.
9. Cold Girl Makeup
This winter-themed look uses icy pinks, cool-toned blush, frosty highlighters, and a slightly flushed nose to mimic the fresh-faced, just-left-the-snow look.
Does it work? Definitely. It’s flattering on light to medium skin tones and brings youthful radiance. For deeper skin tones, swapping cool pinks with plum or berry tones makes it more wearable and inclusive.
10. Slugging… But For Eyelashes
This year’s spin on the beloved slugging trend involves coating eyelashes with castor oil or Vaseline before bed to promote growth and hydration.
Does it work? Anecdotally, yes—many users report thicker lashes after consistent use. However, it’s essential to keep products away from the eye itself and patch test first to avoid irritation.
Final Thoughts
Not every TikTok trend is practical—or safe—but many of 2025’s most viral beauty moments do have real-world potential. When approached with common sense (and maybe a little research), they can add fun, freshness, and effectiveness to your routine.
If you’re curious about a new product or technique, start small. Test it at home, modify it for your lifestyle, and skip anything that feels gimmicky or too good to be true. Beauty should be about expression and experimentation—but ideally not at the expense of your skin barrier.