The sunburn blush trend is heating up #BeautyTok—here's how to get the look

Unlike beauty hacks that came before it, the sunburn blush trend on TikTok is a safe way to get that summer glow

woman in a black bikini applying sunscreen on her face at the beach, meant to symbolize the sunburn blush trend via tiktok
(Image credit: Mykola Sosiukin/Getty Images)

BeautyTok has found its new cosmetics crush: the sunburn blush trend. 

Ironically, remedies for sunburns began trending on the platform in early June. Now, however, beauty enthusiasts are on the hunt for that summer glow, but they are not willing to sacrifice their skin health. Rather than forgo the SPF, creatives are faking the look with their makeup. 

Find your go-to color, grab a brush and get to work!

The sunburn blush trend on TikTok

So, what exactly does this trick entail? Essentially, what you need to do is apply blush on your cheeks (the obvious) but extend the stroke over the bridge of your nose and towards your ears. Think back to previous sunburns: where did the rays get you?

For a quick how-to, check out a few of the viral tutorials circulating FYPs. You'll notice some users prefer to use powder blush, whereas others opt for liquid blush. It's all up to you and your preferences.

@sarahssuperspa (opens in new tab)

♬ original sound - Sarah’s Super Spa 💅🏼🧖🏼‍♀️ (opens in new tab)
@kendall.toole (opens in new tab)

♬ I Don't Want to Be - Gavin DeGraw (opens in new tab)

You'll even notice that some of TikToks highest earners are getting in on the beauty hack. Addison Rae is adamant about the faux sunburn look, but perhaps a little too enthusiastic, given her results. 

@addisonre (opens in new tab)

♬ original sound - lachy (opens in new tab)

Blushes to use for the TikTok beauty hack

Image (opens in new tab)

Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Blush in "Love"
RRP:
$20

A weightless, long-lasting liquid blush that is available in both matte and dewy finishes.


Image (opens in new tab)

Fenty Beauty Cheeks Out Freestyle Cream Blush in "Summertime Wine"
RRP:
$22, £‌21

A light, sheer, non-greasy powder blush to give your cheeks a natural pop of color.


Image (opens in new tab)

Charlotte Tilbury Cheek to Chic Blush in "Ecstasy"
RRP:
$40, £32

This two-tone peach pink powder blush is perfect for that sun-kissed look.


Image (opens in new tab)

Anglicolor 3PC Liquid Cream Blusher Blush Stick
RRP:
$10.79, $9.99

Cruelty-free, waterproof liquid blush with a cream finish in three shades. 


If you look back in time on your FYP, you might realize that the origin of this trend is courtesy of none other than Hailey Bieber. The Hailey Bieber blush look, a result of the handiwork from celeb makeup artist, Mary Phillips (opens in new tab), is part "I spent the afternoon at the beach" part after-sex glow

We must say, the model and skincare line founder has really nailed the summer aesthetic. Between the blush trend and the viral Hailey Bieber Coachella braids—cute lil' baby braids—she has officially put us in a sunshine state of mind indefinitely. Get that OOO response ready!

SPF tips from a dermatologist

Since you are creating the sunburned look with makeup, that means you'll want to ensure that your skin is burn-free. Fortunately, there are tips for staying safe while out in the sun.

"The best way to prevent sunburns is to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or above at least 15 minutes before you go out into the sun," dermatologist Dr. Michele Green (opens in new tab) previously told My Imperfect. "It should be reapplied every two hours or even more frequently if you are swimming or doing heavy exercise."

Who's ready for that beach day now?

Danielle Valente

Danielle is a writer for woman&home and My Imperfect Life, covering all-things news, lifestyle and entertainment. 


The heart of her time at Future has been devoted to My Imperfect Life, where she's been attuned to the cosmos, new TV shows and relationship trends.  


Before her time at Future, Danielle was the editor of Time Out New York Kids and a news editor at Elite Daily. Her work has also appeared in Domino, Chowhound, amNewYork and Newsday, among other outlets. 


When Danielle is not working, you can usually find her reading a book, coffee at hand, or attempting a new recipe. (Recommendations always welcome!)