This heavy foundation challenge is dividing the internet

The challenge has racked up 105 million views and counting on TikTok—but are you a fan?

Image depicts heavy foundation layers
(Image credit: Getty Images / Anna Efetova)

A heavy foundation challenge is the latest beauty trend to go viral on TikTok, and it's safe to say it's getting mixed opinions from social media users. 

Whether you use the best non-comedogenic foundations or the best foundation for acne-prone skin, we've always erred on the side of caution when it comes to laying it on thick and fast. However, TikTok is of course the place where anything goes when it comes to beauty. The app has brought us everything from space girl make-up and DIY dark circles, to rice water for hair and this life-changing liquid eyeliner hack

Started by TikTok user Meredith Duxbury, the video that kicked off the challenge has more than 5 million likes on the app, while the hashtag #thefoundationchallenge has more than 105 million views. That's no small feat. 

Here's how to do the heavy foundation challenge

STEP ONE
Simply put, the challenge involves applying primer, a thick (THICK) layer of foundation layered on with the end of a make-up brush and rubbed in with both hands.

STEP TWO
Then, another layer of foundation is applied using a dropper before blending in with a make-up sponge before applying the rest of your make-up.

It's called a heavy foundation challenge for a reason, OK? Watch Meredith's original video for yourself below.

@meredithduxbury

Let’s officially begin the Meredith Duxbury Foundation Challenge! Use #thefoundationchallange and tag me! I’ll be picking my fav, goodluck! ❤️💋

♬ I'm Legit - Nicki Minaj

Here's what people think of the heavy foundation challenge

Opinion on the Meredith Duxbury foundation challenge is well and truly divided. Some TikTok users are low-key obsessed with the challenge and its flawless results. "The real queen of foundation respect," wrote one, while another added, "@tiktok make her verified already".

However, others added, "Bruh that is way too much foundation," and "NO NO NO THAT'S TOO MUCH MAKEUP."

One thing that is worth noting is that your make-up bill would go up considerably if you wore this look on the regular. That's a lotta, lotta foundation right there. 

Whatever your opinion of the foundation challenge, you can't deny that these videos are pretty mesmerizing. Although I will say that the thought of my hands covered in that much foundation does make me a little nervous...

Lucy Abbersteen

Lucy is a beauty journalist who has written for titles including Marie Claire, Cosmopolitan, OK!, woman&home and Women's Health, as well as regularly contributing to My Imperfect Life. Her work covers everything from skin and haircare tips to trying and testing the latest beauty launches, and interviewing celebrities and experts. A certified dog person, her other interests include mental wellbeing, books, piña coladas and not getting caught in the rain.