If you thought TikTok was just for dancing videos and trendy teens, you’re sorely mistaken. The video-sharing app has become a major force within the beauty industry, causing positively reviewed products to go viral and even sell out retailers’ stock completely.
From makeup tips to skincare hacks to trendy hairstyles, there have been so many beauty products to hit the algorithm and cause a frenzy both on the app and IRL. But which popular products are actually worth your money? Below, discover the viral TikTok beauty products that are worth checking out.
The Viral TikTok Beauty Products to Buy
KVD Beauty Good Apple Skin-Perfecting Foundation Balm ($40, Ulta)
If you have any doubts about the impact TikTok has on the beauty industry, check out the near-empty KVD shelves at almost any cosmetics store. The apple extract-infused foundation balm went viral on TikTok after users were shocked by its ability to cover any and all discoloration while never looking (or feeling) cakey. Plus, it’s available in 40 shades, so there’s something for every skin tone.
Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara ($10, Target)
Since its launch in November 2020, Sky High Mascara has sold out at Ulta numerous times — sales that can pretty much be linked directly to the video-sharing app. As the name suggests, TikTokers are loving this mascara for its dramatic, sky-high lash effect. Not only does it thicken and lengthen lashes, but the tapered, bendy brush allows you to coat every single lash from root to tip (even those baby hairs in the corners).
Tree Hut Coconut Lime Shea Sugar Scrub ($6, Target)
Shower and bath routines have become increasingly popular on TikTok, and the vast majority of them include some kind of deliciously scented body scrub. The Shea Sugar Scrubs from the brand Tree Hut are particularly prominent, probably because the shea butter and natural oils leave the skin super soft while the sugar particles exfoliate. And at only $6, it’s not surprising that many TikTokers have stacks of them in their showers.
e.l.f. Cosmetics Flawless Brightening Concealer ($5, Ulta)
If you have dark circles, you likely know the struggle of trying to brighten your under eyes — without excessive creasing or caking. It’s a feat that seemed near impossible until the discovery of e.l.f.’s Brightening Concealer pen — which, by the way, is only $5. The concealer recently went viral on TikTok when users touted its lightweight texture and impressive brightening effect, as well as the applicator pen that makes applying it quick and easy. It’s also boosted with skin-loving ingredients like hyaluronic acid and vitamin C, which help to hydrate and brighten over time.
Longer, healthier hair is only a scalp massage away according to a viral TikTok trend. Silicone scalp massagers, many of which can be found on Amazon for under $10, have surged in popularity and are said to not only help lather in shampoo for a cleaner scalp but stimulate hair growth. The relaxing massage is just an added bonus!
L’Oréal Paris Makeup Infallible 24HR Fresh Wear Foundation in a Powder ($10-12, Amazon)
You might think that powder foundation is a thing of the past, but this L’Oreal powder gained quick popularity on TikTok. In application videos, you can see how smoothly and flawlessly the foundation glides onto skin, providing a silky finish. It’s also waterproof, sweatproof, and works to control shine without completely stripping your complexion of its glow — basically, a miracle product for those with oily skin.
Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant ($30, Sephora)
The efficacy of skincare products obviously varies from person to person (and involves many different factors), but rarely do we see something as widely raved-about as this Paula’s Choice liquid exfoliator. TikTok creators have said that the salicylic acid treatment has not just helped to clear up breakouts and blackheads, but improved the overall texture of their skin. The brand claims you’ll see a noticeable difference even after one use, and according to TikTok, it seems like that just might be true.
Tower28 ShineOn Jelly Lip Gloss ($14, Sephora)
The perfect lip gloss is hard to find, which is why when Haley Pham posted her rave review of Tower28’s gloss on TikTok, it immediately went viral. In the video, she noted that the gloss not only gave a gorgeous shine and hint of color but made her lips look juicy and plump. Even better? Plant-based ingredients like apricot oil and raspberry seed oil help to soften and nourish the lips without leaving a sticky feel.
Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Dew Drops ($34, Sephora)
Glowing skin has become the ultimate skin trend, making customers eager for products that boost dewiness. Enter: Watermelon Glow. The viral serum exploded on TikTok after creator Mikayla Nogueira shared a video recreating @Glamzilla’s skincare routine. The Dew Drops (which are boosted with niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and watermelon) added a gorgeous sheen to her skin, and when she appeared at end of the video with a full face of makeup, she noted that it was the smoothest foundation application she’d ever experienced.
The Ordinary’s AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution ($7, Ulta)
This chemical exfoliant treatment went crazy viral on TikTok after users said it helped immensely in clearing their acne. The AHA and BHA acids in the formula work together to polish the top layer of your skin as well as clear your pores in the deeper layer, making it extremely effective — and it’s only $7. However, those with sensitive skin might want to avoid this potent formula, or at the very least, patch test before use.
First Aid Beauty KP Bump Eraser Body Scrub Exfoliant ($28, Sephora)
Pesky skin texture and bumps don’t stand a chance against this viral exfoliator. TikTok creators have touted the benefits of First Aid Beauty’s Bump Eraser, particularly in regards to post-shave irritation (aka “strawberry legs”). The formula contains both physical exfoliants (pumice buffing beads) and chemical exfoliants (glycolic and lactic acid) to remove dead skin and decongest pores and hair follicles all at once.
Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Blush ($20, Sephora)
Celebrity beauty brands might elicit an eye roll, but Selena Gomez has people talking for all the right reasons. Her liquid blush became hugely popular after TikTok reviews raved about its extreme pigmentation and blendable texture. Offered in both matte and dewy finishes and a range of colors, there are options for every preference — but seriously, you really only need one tiny dot!
