You may have come across TikToks featuring individuals sporting bold, warm blush across their faces, necks, and shoulders. Just as they went all out with their blush, they’re also applying bronzer and highlighter generously.

Although they appear as if they’ve spent hours lounging by the pool or basking in the sun, these sun-kissed looks are actually achieved solely through makeup!

@grapeintokyo

Somone actually needs some tan 🌞🏖️ #gqchina #heatstrokemakeup #heatstroke #beauty

♬ Vogue – Noizu

What began as an adventurous editorial idea, a fearless reaction to an intense heatwave, has now transformed into a viral makeup sensation sweeping across our For You pages on TikTok.

Discover all the details about this innovative trend and learn how you can recreate it yourself!

What Is the “Heatstroke Makeup” Trend?

The viral “heatstroke makeup” trend originated from a photoshoot for GQ China’s June edition.

With temperatures in Beijing hitting a blistering 37℃ during a red heat alert, the GQ creative team chose to lean into the sweltering conditions, resulting in a concept that quickly captured everyone’s attention.

Models Kim, Ye Hao, Yu Hang, and Ho Jun became living artworks, their skin embellished with carefully designed sunburn-like patterns that realistically followed the shapes of their singlets and necklaces.

The effect of having spent countless hours under the scorching sun was enhanced by a shiny, dewy finish, giving the impression that they had just emerged from a cool swim.

This daring take on the heatwave not only encapsulated the spirit of the scorching temperatures but also pushed back against traditional beauty standards and trends, showing that even the feeling of discomfort can inspire a unique and artistic style!

Here’s How People Recreated the Look

Credits: @t.rinluck789/TikTok, @homelessmakeupb//TikTok, @thudannguyen99/TikTok

Following the viral success of GQ’s photoshoot, beauty influencers have been motivated by the fresh concept and are now trying to replicate the style.

To achieve this look, the essential products include a warm blush, a natural bronzer, and a radiant highlighter.

The secret to mastering this look defies the usual belief that “less is more.” If you’re aiming for that sun-kissed, heatstroke vibe, applying more blush and bronzer across various areas of your face is definitely the way to go!

How To Make the Trend Work for the Summer

Credits: @bebbuoo/TikTok, @itseye.n/TikTok

While it might be a bit excessive to stroll around looking like you’re about to faint from the intense heat, you can work this style into your beach outings and water music festival looks!

Just as Sabrina Carpenter embraces a bold blush on her cheeks, we can fully embrace the trend of over-the-top blush for this look.

If you’re aiming to incorporate this look into your daily routine, consider exploring the emerging Igari makeup trend. This Japanese beauty technique places a strong emphasis on the cheeks, highlighting the use of blush and highlighter.

Cream blush is particularly user-friendly, especially for layering. Opting for dewy or glowy finishes can help achieve that fresh, just-worked-out appearance. The aim is to create a flushed look, which serves as a softer, wearable take on the heatstroke makeup trend!

Remember to put on a sleeveless tank top or singlet that you’re alright with getting your makeup on, as many creators use their clothes and necklaces to trace sunburn marks on their skin.

Go for a wet, slicked-back hairstyle and don’t forget to spritz on plenty of facial mist to finish off your look!

Shop Products for the Trend

NARS Bronzing Cream

NARS Bronzing Cream retails from RM236.39 on shopee.com.my.

Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Blush

Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Blush retails for RM118 on sephora.my.

FLORTTE Love Yourself Multipurpose Cream

FLORTTE Love Yourself Multipurpose Cream is going at RM35.20 on shopee.com.my.

SHEGLAM Cheeky Color Jam

SHEGLAM Cheeky Color Jam retails for RM29 on shopee.com.my.

CHANEL BAUME ESSENTIEL Multi-Use Glow Stick

CHANEL BAUME ESSENTIEL Multi-Use Glow Stick retails for RM185 on chanel.com.

Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb Universal Lip Luminizer

Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb Universal Lip Luminizer retails for RM117 on sephora.com.my.