TikTok Beauty Hacks That Actually Work (And Ones to Avoid!)
With millions of beauty creators sharing their routines, experiments, and transformations, TikTok has become a global stage for skincare and makeup innovation—and chaos. But which viral beauty hacks actually deliver, and which ones should you avoid at all costs?
We scoured TikTok, consulted experts, and tested the top trends to bring you the ultimate list of beauty hacks that are worth the hype—and the ones that could do more harm than good.
✅ TikTok Beauty Hacks That Actually Work
1. Ice Rolling for Puffiness
Why It Works:
Ice rollers or cold spoons can reduce facial puffiness and tighten skin temporarily. This hack improves circulation and gives a fresh glow.
TikTok Tip: Store a jade roller in the freezer and roll it over your face every morning to depuff and boost blood flow.
2. Lipstick as Blush
Why It Works:
Creamy lipsticks blend beautifully on cheeks and create a dewy, monochromatic look.
Pro Tip: Stick to cream or satin formulas. Matte lipsticks can be too drying on the skin.
3. Face Taping Before Makeup
Why It Works (When Done Correctly):
This technique helps pull the skin taut temporarily for a lifted look in videos or photos. Makeup goes on smoother over the taped surface.
Caution: This is great for photoshoots—not long-term lifting.
4. Soap Brows
Why It Works:
Using a glycerin-based soap to set brows gives them a laminated, feathery look without expensive salon appointments.
Best Practice: Use a clean spoolie and a clear, unscented soap.
5. Slugging (with Petrolatum)
Why It Works:
Sealing in your nighttime skincare with a layer of petroleum jelly helps lock in moisture and repair the skin barrier.
Note: Works best for dry skin types. Acne-prone users should spot-test first.
6. White Eyeliner to Brighten Eyes
Why It Works:
Lining the waterline with a nude or white pencil makes your eyes look bigger and more awake.
Pro Tip: Use a soft, waterproof pencil to avoid irritation.
7. Hair Heatless Curling With a Robe Tie
Why It Works:
Twisting damp hair around a robe belt and leaving it overnight results in gorgeous curls without heat damage.
TikTok Win: Great for anyone trying to restore damaged hair while still styling it.
❌ TikTok Beauty Hacks to Avoid (and Why)
1. DIY Sunscreen
Why It’s Harmful:
Homemade sunscreens often lack proper UVA/UVB protection and are not tested for efficacy.
Verdict: Never make your own sunscreen. Stick to dermatologist-tested SPF 30 or higher.
2. Using Glue as Pore Strips
Why It’s Harmful:
Applying school glue to remove blackheads can damage your skin barrier and cause irritation.
Verdict: Opt for gentle exfoliation and clay masks instead.
3. DIY Face Masks with Lemon Juice
Why It’s Harmful:
Lemon juice has a very low pH and can cause burns, hyperpigmentation, and long-term damage, especially in sunlight.
Verdict: Use vitamin C serums formulated for skin instead.
4. Contour with SPF or Sunscreen “Tanning”
Why It’s Harmful:
Some creators apply sunscreen only to certain parts of their face to “naturally contour” via tanning. This causes uneven sun exposure and skin damage.
Verdict: Dangerous and increases risk of premature aging and skin cancer.
5. DIY Toothpaste Spot Treatments
Why It’s Harmful:
Toothpaste contains ingredients like baking soda and hydrogen peroxide that are too harsh for skin.
Verdict: Use proper acne spot treatments with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide instead.
6. Face Shaving with Random Razors
Why It’s Harmful:
Using unclean or improper tools for dermaplaning can lead to nicks, infections, or ingrown hairs.
Verdict: Only use dermaplaning razors designed for facial skin—and never dry shave.
⚖️ Final Verdict: Approach With Curiosity and Caution
TikTok has undeniably reshaped the beauty world. While many of these viral tricks are creative, effective, and budget-friendly, others are risky and not backed by science. The key? Do your research, test cautiously, and always listen to your skin.
Whether you’re new to the platform or a seasoned scroller, remember: trending doesn’t always mean safe. The best beauty hack? A routine that works for you.
