Arab Makeup Is Taking Over TikTok

posted on: Jul 30, 2025

By: Fayzeh Abou Ardat / Arab America Contributing Writer

TikTok has become a worldwide beauty stage, and Arab-inspired makeup is stealing the show. Creators use hashtags like #ArabicMakeup and #KhaleejiMakeup to display traditional looks upgraded with modern tools and methods. These viral videos are more than just tutorials; they’re expressions of identity and talent, celebrating Arab beauty in all of its manifestations. Fayzeh Abou Ardat, an Arab America contributing writer, investigates how such trends are changing glam culture and elevating Arab aesthetics globally.

Arab makeup is recognized for its eye-catching visuals, including dramatic eyes, sculpted cheekbones, and a radiant complexion. These characteristics are emphasized on TikTok through eye-catching transitions and “before and after” reveal videos. The emphasis is not on subtlety, but on intensity, symmetry, and precision. The eyes are frequently the focus of attention, with artists employing techniques such as tightlining with black kohl, layering rich eyeshadows, and adding graphic liner with ultra-thin brushes. What was the result? Eye-catching designs that capture attention even on the smallest smartphone screens.

Sculpted Glam: Contour, Brows, and the “Snatch” Effect

What distinguishes Arab makeup is the mastery of facial shaping. TikTok developers showcase advanced contouring techniques that provide dimension and structure. They use dense brushes, precise contour sticks, or angled sponges to chisel cheekbones, define the jawline, and thin the nose with precision. These techniques frequently use cream products mixed perfectly with fluffy brushes or moist blenders to eliminate hard lines and maintain the overall “snatched” impression.

Eyebrows are equally significant. Rather than ultra-thin or brushed-up looks, Arab makeup favours thick, arched, and highly defined brows. TikTokers frequently begin by outlining with a pencil or pomade, then fill in the arches with hair-like strokes and concealer clean-up techniques to sharpen edges. The effect is powerful and elegant, framing the face and highlighting eye symmetry.

Setting the face is essential in Arab beauty regimes, especially considering the value of longevity and a beautiful matte finish. Beauty sponges are used to “bake” under the eyes and jawline, usually with loose powder applied liberally and then dusted off after a few minutes. This not only sets the makeup but also has a brightening and lifting effect that improves the bone structure.

Eyes that Speak: The Heart of Arab Beauty

One of the most popular parts of Arab makeup is the emphasis on the eyes, which are frequently referred to as the soul of the appearance. TikTok videos demonstrate techniques such as double-cut creases, gradient smokey eyes, and classic kajal application. Flat detail brushes are used to pack pigment, fine-tip liners to create delicate shapes, and blending brushes to diffuse shadows across the brow bone. Some even use tape or stencils to get ultra-clean edges.

Another distinguishing feature is the use of metallic and shimmering colours. Inner corner highlights and golden foils across the lid reflect light in spectacular ways, especially when illuminated by TikTok’s ring light. False lashes play an important role; artists frequently layer two pairs or stack separate clusters to achieve a dense, doll-like look. Lash application is frequently displayed in slow-motion or close-up shots that highlight precision and impact.

Creators are recreating historical regional techniques, such as heavy lower-lash liner, dazzling pastel lids, and thick mascara on both upper and lower lashes, which were hallmarks of Khaleeji makeup in the early 2000s. These classic looks are updated with contemporary tools including detailed wands, gel eyeliner, and heat-curled lashes.

TikTok as a Platform for Cultural Pride and Technique Sharing

What makes this trend appealing is its combination of beauty and cultural expression. Many Arab makers enhance their videos with traditional music, iconic Arabic sounds, or text in both Arabic and English. These aspects elevate each video to more than just a teaching; they become affirmations of cultural pride.

Even non-Arab creators are adopting these methods, frequently with praise and appreciation. Tutorials with titles like “Trying Arab Makeup Techniques” or “Inspired by Khaleeji Glam” have evolved into their own genre. These films highlight the artistry required, from product stacking to fine-detail work with eyeliner and lip definition.

TikTok Examples

To visualize these trends, here are a few TikTok videos you can embed or reference:

• Everyday Arab Glam Tutorial by Mina (@minaamouse016): Watch here
• Dramatic Eye Transformation with Arab Techniques by Aurora (@thetaleofaurora): Watch here
• Kohl-Heavy Classic Arab Look (search: #KohlEye on TikTok for recent viral clips)

Arab makeup on TikTok is more than just a passing trend; it’s a visual language. With each winged liner, sculpted cheekbone, and perfected pout, designers declare cultural heritage, share technical expertise, and transform faces with a brush stroke. The end product is a beautiful movement that combines old and new, East and West, tradition and technology.

Arab makeup tutorials provide viewers and budding artists with more than just beauty inspiration; they also teach lessons in self-expression, perfection, and pride.

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