Indulging in beauty trends is a guilty pleasure we can’t resist here at FQ. In the dynamic realm of beauty, there’s one platform that has become a sensational catalyst for trendsetting and sharing: TikTok.
Thinking back, I have fallen victim to the influence of TikTok beauty on more than one occasion. Having watched the entire first season of Euphoria in a couple of days during the first Covid lockdown, it took only a couple of bedazzled TikTok influencer tutorials for me to begin ordering crystal rhinestones to glue to my face.
Since that time, I’ve witnessed many beauty trends come and go on the platform. What seems to set TikTok’s beauty scene apart is its inherent sense of attainability, even for those of us who may not possess the same level of expertise as the platform’s renowned influencers. Unlike the immaculate work of professional make-up artists showcased on Instagram, TikTok beauty carries accessible allure that fuels our own creative aspirations (or delusions, in my case). From Coquette beauty to ‘Notox’, this year’s trends have already garnered upwards of one billion views per trend. If, like me, you’re always on the lookout for a way to elevate your existing beauty and skincare rituals, then read on as I delve into reviewing the top nine TikTok beauty trends for 2023 so far.
1. Coquette beauty
By definition, a coquette embodies the essence of a “flirtatious woman”, but what exactly does coquette beauty entail? Centred around the idea of hyper-femininity, this trend embraces rosy pink blush, glossy lips, doe eyes, and eyeliner reminiscent of Lana Del Rey’s signature style, creating an aesthetic of innocent flirtation.
Amberley’s take:
While there are elements of this make-up style that interest me (who doesn’t love a good dose of blush?) I’m not convinced that all of these elements together make for a particularly wearable everyday look.
2. Dopamine glam
While stripped-back ‘clean girl’ beauty dominated TikTok in 2022, we’re seeing a reversal this year with the rise of dopamine glam. Much like the serotonin boost you get from wearing your favourite clothing or getting a new haircut, dopamine glam is all about using colour to evoke a sense of joy though your aesthetic. Whether it’s a bright winged eyeliner, or a bold two-toned eyeshadow look, it’s certainly a fun option for livening up your everyday make-up.
Amberley’s take:
Given the right outfit and setting, I could definitely see myself popping a colourful hue on my lids for an evening out.
3. Grunge beauty
We all know that ’90s style has been having a major resurgence over the last year or so, and ’90s make-up is no exception. Characterised by smokey eyeshadow, dishevelled hair, and nude lips, this trend encapsulates the untamed spirit of grunge, allowing you to effortlessly channel your inner Winona Ryder.
Amberley’s take:
For an evening out, this is absolutely a look I would emulate, especially when paired with a LBD and a knee-high boot.
4. Budget beauty
While it’s not exactly an ‘aesthetic’, the cost of living crisis around the globe has led to a boom in views on ‘budget’ beauty. From drugstore beauty dupes of our favourite high-end make-up products, many influencers across TikTok have been posting videos on their budget beauty suggestions to reduce your spend.
Amberley’s take:
This one particularly resonated with me; while I believe you should invest more in certain make-up products (like a good quality setting powder), there are some that you simply don’t need to be spending more than $100 on.
5. Skin cycling
For those into skincare, Skin cycling has been the latest trend to cause a stir amongst skincare and beauty lovers alike, amassing over 300 million views on TikTok. Coined by New York-based dermatologist Whitney Bowe, Skin cycling revolves around the idea of using active skincare ingredients such as retinol or salicylic acid intermittently with the intention of giving your skin a chance to rest.
Amberley’s take:
As someone with frustratingly-sensitive skin at the best of times, I definitely endorse this method. Since I began dabbling in the world of chemical exfoliants sometime last year, I found that my skin would freak out if I used them more than a couple of times per week. Unless you want to go around with irritated, peeling skin for a few days, then take heed.
6. Notox
You’ve heard of botox, but have you heard of ‘Notox’? Touted as an alternative to botox, notox is all about getting botox results sans injections. If investing in the famous Dr. Dennis LED mask or one of NuFACE’s facial toning devices (both sold at Mecca) is your buzz, then this’ll be right up your alley.
Amberley’s take:
I personally feel as though spending $770 on an LED mask in the hopes of getting botox-worthy results might be a bit fruitless, considering that the average cost of getting forehead botox is around $150 a session. But each to their own!
7. Skin streaming
In similar fashion to the concept of budget beauty, skin streaming is centred on the idea of streamlining one’s skincare routine to just the essentials. With the rising cost of living, forking out on exorbitantly priced skin care is just not an option for many people, leading some influencers to promote a reduced regimen of: cleanser, moisturiser, hyaluronic acid and an SPF.
Amberley’s take:
I’m a bit on the fence about this one. While a lot of the time less is more with skin care (fashion, too) there are definitely people who benefit from a more extensive skincare regimen. I’m personally a fan of keeping things less complicated, so if you can, get streamlining.
8. Ugly beauty
Defined by an unconventional, boundary-breaking approach to make-up, ‘ugly’ beauty was popularised by influencers on TikTok emulating looks such as Doja Cat’s iconic Schiaparelli bedazzled red make-up. Focused on the idea of appealing to the female gaze rather than the male gaze, this trend leans into the fun and kooky side of beauty.
Amberley’s take:
While I will by no means be going home and painting my entire face and body gold (à la Doja) I can appreciate the dedication to an elaborate look. Maybe something to try for Halloween?
9. Skin flooding
If you’re prone to dry skin, then you likely already use products like Hyaluronic acid. In yet another skin care related trend on TikTok, there’s apparently a new way of boosting moisture intake when you apply such products. Referred to as skin flooding, the idea is to layer all your hydrating serums and creams onto damp skin to ‘flood’ the skin and prevent it from evaporating.
Amberley’s take:
This is one I’ve actually already tried with my personal stash of hyaluronic acid. And while I’m not 100% certain that I felt more hydrated than applying the product onto dry skin, I do feel like it worked pretty well.
Images and data were supplied by Beauty Daily by Clarins.
