People love pre-shower makeup because it’s playful, stress-free, and lets you try new looks without worrying about how long they’ll last. Imagine putting on a full face of makeup, snapping a quick photo, and then washing it all off in the shower. Sounds fun, right? Well, that’s exactly what this trend is about.
What Is the Pre-Shower Makeup Trend?
Pre-shower makeup is super simple. You put on makeup right before you hop in the shower. Then, you wash it all off. That’s it! Unlike regular makeup routines where you might spend hours perfecting your look for school, work, or a night out, this trend is just for fun. You don’t have to leave the house or show anyone. It’s like a little beauty playground all to yourself.
The Start of Pre-Shower Makeup on TikTok
@taontm Trust the process 🫠 #preshowermakeup
It started gaining real traction around late 2023. By December 2023, the hashtag #preshowermakeup had racked up over 3.5 million views, showing it was already catching on fast. One key video from November 24, 2023, by a user named Bailey (@bailey.dee, unfortunately, she dead due to Colon Cancer in Feb, 2025 ), really helped spark interest.
She posted a clip with the caption “Putting more makeup on right before you shower 😻🫶,” showing off a soft, glossy look. That video alone hit over 1.5 million views, and fans jumped into the comments, sharing how they’d been doing this for fun too.
Before that, people might have been playing with makeup before showers privately, but it wasn’t a “thing” yet. The trend seemed to bubble up from everyday beauty lovers rather than big influencers at first. Think of it like a secret hobby that suddenly went public.
By early 2024, it was everywhere, with videos popping up daily and the hashtag growing even more. I’d guess it started small in mid-2023, maybe with a few random posts, but it exploded into a full-blown trend by the end of that year.
How It Became Popular
So, how did pre-shower makeup go from a quiet idea to a TikTok craze? A few key things came together to make it blow up. Here’s what I’ve pieced together from what’s trending and my own thoughts on why it clicked with so many people.
Freedom to Play Without Pressure
The biggest draw was the no-stakes vibe. You put on makeup, maybe a bold red lip or glittery eyeshadow, and then wash it off. No one has to see it unless you want them to. TikTok users loved this freedom.
Comments like “so fun to play around and experiment” and “if it turns out bad, I can wash it off” started showing up everywhere. It’s like a sandbox for beauty fans. I can see why that’s appealing. Sometimes I want to try a wild look but don’t want to leave the house in it!
Creativity Took Center Stage
TikTok thrives on creative ideas, and pre-shower makeup fits perfectly. People began sharing all kinds of looks—silly ones with messy eyeliner, bold ones with bright colors, or even practice runs for tricky techniques like smoky eyes.
A user named Aimee posted a video saying, “I need to learn—when’s a better time to do it?” while testing different eye styles. That kind of energy caught on. It’s not about perfection; it’s about having fun. I think that’s what hooked me when I first saw it. Everyone looked like they were just enjoying themselves.
Community and Connection
TikTok is all about feeling connected, and this trend built a little community. When people saw others doing it, they felt less alone in their quirky habits. One comment on Bailey’s video said, “Learning other people do this just made my day.”
Another user, Mirta Miler, exclaimed, “I fully didn’t know that other people did this!” That shared excitement spread fast. It’s like finding out your weird little habit is actually cool. I’ve felt that rush before when I’ve stumbled on a trend I already loved.
Big Names and Brands Jumped In
By late 2023 and early 2024, brands and influencers started noticing. Beauty brand Ipsy posted a video on December 9, 2023, captioned “Pre shower makeup is always unhinged ✨,” showing a girl going all out with her look. That kind of boost from a known name gave it more visibility.
Influencers like Mei Pang, a beauty TikToker, also chimed in, saying it’s her “chance to play with color and not take things too seriously.” When bigger voices joined, it pushed the trend to new eyes. I’ve seen how a single brand post can make something explode—suddenly, it’s not just a niche thing anymore.
Nostalgia and Joy
A lot of TikTokers tied pre-shower makeup to childhood memories, like playing with makeup as kids. One user, @tramdoodles, wrote, “Girlhood joy is experimenting with pre-shower makeup,” comparing it to drawing with crayons. That hit a nerve.
People started calling it “therapeutic” or “nostalgic,” and that emotional hook kept them coming back. I get that—there’s something cozy about reliving those carefree days, even if it’s just for a few minutes before a shower.
Viral Moments Sealed the Deal
A few standout videos turned it into a must-try. Take @peytons_tiktok’s comedic clip from early 2024—it got over 3.7 million views with a funny take on pre-shower makeup chaos.
People laughed and related, sharing their own stories in the comments, like getting caught by family mid-experiment. Those viral hits acted like rocket fuel. I’ve noticed how one big post can tip a trend over the edge, and that’s exactly what happened here.
Why People Love Pre-Shower Makeup
So, why has this trend become such a hit? People are drawn to it for lots of reasons, and after scrolling through TikTok myself, I get the hype. It’s more than just slapping on makeup, it’s about how it makes you feel.
It’s a Fun Escape
Life can get busy. Between school, work, or just keeping up with daily stuff, there’s not always time to relax. Pre-shower makeup gives you a quick break. You grab your brushes, play some music, and let your imagination run wild.
One TikTok user said it’s her “mini therapy session.” I think that’s spot-on. When I’m stressed, messing around with colors might just lift my mood.
You Can Try Anything
Ever see a cool makeup look online but feel too shy to wear it out? This trend fixes that. Maybe you’ve wanted to rock a dramatic cat-eye or pile on sparkly highlighter. Pre-shower makeup lets you experiment without anyone judging.
A friend of mine tried neon green eyeshadow once and laughed about how wild it looked. She’d never wear it to the mall, but at home? Why not?
It Boosts Creativity
Doing makeup just for fun sparks new ideas. Some folks use this time to practice tricky skills, like blending blush or drawing perfect brows. Others go full-on silly, painting stars on their cheeks. Either way, it’s a chance to think outside the box. I’ve noticed TikTokers coming up with looks I’d never dream of—like using lip gloss as eyeshadow. It’s inspiring!
No Waste Worries (Well, Mostly)
Okay, some people wonder if it’s wasteful to use makeup just to wash it off. Fair point. But honestly, a little dab of product goes a long way for this. Plus, it’s not about wasting, it’s about enjoying. If you’re like me, you’ve got half-used makeup sitting around anyway. This trend gives those forgotten items a purpose again.
How to Do Pre-Shower Makeup
Ready to try it? You don’t need fancy skills or tons of products. Pre-shower makeup is all about keeping it easy and fun. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started, plus some tips I’ve picked up from watching way too many TikTok videos.
@mimiermakeup Pre shower makeup? #makeuptiktok #foryou
Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
First, grab whatever makeup you have. Foundation, eyeshadow, lipstick—anything works. You don’t need a full kit. I’d start with stuff you’re curious about, like that bold red lip you bought but never wore. A mirror and good lighting help too. Oh, and maybe a phone to snap a pic before it’s gone!
Step 2: Pick a Look
Next, decide what you want to try. Keep it simple if you’re new, like a bright blush or sparkly lids. Or go big with a full face of glam. I saw one girl do a rainbow eyeshadow look, and it was so cool. Think about what excites you. No rules here!
Step 3: Apply Your Makeup
Now, start putting it on. Take your time and enjoy it. Use a brush, your fingers, whatever feels right. Don’t worry about mistakes—smudged mascara? It’s fine! I’d probably start with eyeshadow because it’s fun to blend colors. Then add some lipstick or highlighter to finish it off.
Step 4: Snap a Photo (Optional)
Before you jump in the shower, take a quick picture. Lots of TikTokers do this to share their looks. It’s like a little memory of your masterpiece. I’d totally do this just to see how I did, even if I didn’t post it anywhere.
Step 5: Wash It Off
Finally, hop in the shower and let the water rinse it all away. Use a gentle cleanser if you need to, especially for heavy stuff like glitter. I’d make sure to have a makeup remover handy too, just in case. Then, enjoy that fresh, clean feeling!
Extra Tips for Fun
Want to make it even better? Play your favorite songs while you work. Or try it with a friend, turn it into a mini makeup party. One TikToker said she lights a candle to set the mood. I might steal that idea—it sounds so cozy.
The Best Products for Pre-Shower Makeup
You can use anything for this trend, but some products work extra well. Here’s a list of goodies that TikTokers love, plus my own picks based on what I’ve got at home. These make the experience pop!
Bold Eyeshadows
Bright or shimmery eyeshadows are perfect. They’re fun to play with and show up great in photos. I’ve got a little palette with pinks and purples that’d be awesome for this. Brands like ColourPop or NYX have affordable options that pack a punch.
Creamy Blushes
A creamy blush you can dab on with your fingers is super easy. It blends fast and gives a rosy glow. I’ve seen TikTokers rave about Rare Beauty’s liquid blush, which is supposed to be amazing. I might try my old stick blush instead.
Glittery Highlighters
Want to shine? A glittery highlighter is your friend. Swipe it on your cheeks or nose for some sparkle. I’ve got a cheap one from the drugstore that’d work great. TikTok loves Fenty Beauty’s highlighters for this too.
Fun Lip Colors
Lipstick or gloss in wild shades—like blue or orange—makes a statement. You can’t go wrong with a classic red either. I’d dig out my berry lip gloss that’s been hiding in my drawer. It’s bold but not scary.
Makeup Remover
Afterward, you’ll need something to clean up. A cleansing balm or micellar water works fast. I use a balm that melts everything off. TikTokers swear by it for glittery looks.
Pre-Shower Makeup Around the World
This trend isn’t just in one place, it’s global! TikTokers everywhere are joining in, and it’s cool to see how they do it differently. I’ve spotted some neat twists while scrolling late at night.
USA: Bold and Bright
In the States, people love loud colors and big looks. Think neon lips and tons of highlighter. It’s all about standing out, even if it’s just for a selfie.
Korea: Soft and Playful
K-beauty fans go for cute, glowy styles. They might use light pinks or glossy finishes. I love how fresh it looks—might borrow that idea.
South Africa: Creative Vibes
Some South African TikTokers mix in local flair, like earthy tones or tribal-inspired designs. It’s so unique and artsy. I’d never have thought of that!
