TikTok Beauty Trend: Understanding “Underpainting”

One thing in abundance on TikTok is beauty and makeup hacks. Old-school hacks share the same space with new favorites. Did you know that claw clips are back in style and there’s a specific way to twist your hair so the clip looks stylish from any angle? Skin cycling is a newer trick where you apply skin products on different nights to get the most out of your skincare. Now, underpainting is stepping into the spotlight.

What Is Underpainting?

Although it is not a new technique and has been used by many makeup artists, it is now making the rounds on TikTok. So what is it exactly? Underpainting is applying – or painting – contour and highlighting products under your foundation. This means you apply your concealer and blush before you dab on your foundation for a more natural look.

In a world where natural makeup application hasn’t been much in style, this is a refreshing trend. Not only does underpainting look more natural it also creates a blended flawless look. The goal is to look like you aren’t wearing any makeup at all, which harkens back to the days of Bobbi Brown beauty tutorials.

Achieving This Look

Accomplishing underpainting is actually quite simple. One of the main keys to achieving this look is to start with clean, healthy skin and primer. You need to prep your skin to achieve an effortlessly flawless look.

The goal of prepping the skin is to more effectively even out any redness or dark circles and cover any blemishes. If you’re prone to redness, tame it using a green-toned primer. For dark circles and blemishes, use a damp sponge or brush to selectively apply concealer.

Next up is adding dimension to your features. Apply blush to your cheeks. Apply bronzer to your temples, nose, chin and cheeks – anywhere the sun naturally hits your face. You can use your fingertip to blend or a brush.

Choosing the Right Makeup Products

The key to underpainting is to choose a sheer enough foundation that lets your well-applied products show through. If you choose a too-heavy foundation, all your work will be covered. Use a sponge to blend all your makeup, but dab it. If you sweep on the foundation, you’ll smear the first layer and underpainting will not be achieved.

Choosing the right products along with applying them correctly is the key to this technique. You’ll want to use high-quality liquids or creams that are easy to blend. Look for products that can be layered. If you need light coverage, a little will do. But if you need full coverage, you can apply several layers to achieve that result.

Stick or liquid blushes and cream bronzers are great choices for the first layer. Lightweight foundations that go on sheer are the perfect finishing touch. Foundation drops would be ideal for this look. Try underpainting and let us know in the comments what you thought.

Step-By-Step Instructions

  • Start by prepping your skin for flawless application. Use your favorite face cleanser to start with a clean palette.
  • Prime your face. If you suffer from redness, use a green-pigmented primer to even out your skin tone.
  • Choose a tone-appropriate concealer and apply it over any blemishes, dark circles or uneven spots.
  • Apply bronzer to your nose, chin, cheeks and temples.
  • If you’d like to highlight your cheeks, the tip of your nose or the area above your lips, now is the time to do so.
  • Grab a sheer foundation and dab it over your face for a flawless finish.
 
Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser

 
Smashbox Photo Finish Correct Anti-Redness Primer

 
e.l.f. Hydrating Camo Concealer

 
Milk Lip + Cheek Cream Blush Stick

 
Clinique Sun-Kissed Face Gelee Complexion Multitasker Bronzer

 
L’Oreal Paris True Match Lumi Glotion Natural Glow Enhancer

 
Estée Lauder Double Wear Sheer Long-Wear Foundation SPF 19


Recommended Products

L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensives 1.5% Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serum

La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Serum

CeraVe Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Night Pressed Serum

First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream

Aveeno Calm + Restore Redness Relief Cream

Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream

e.l.f. Holy Hydration! Face Cream Fragrance-Free

Check out the TopCashback offers available for these products. Shop as you normally would online and get paid by TopCashback. It’s free and easy to create an account. Plus, it’s a great way to get paid for your beauty obsession!

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