22 viral short videos made by skincare brands
Short videos can help your skincare brand grow fast. These clips show what works—real transformations, simple routines, and honest results.
Want to try it for your brand? Let's do it.
Napolify's Resources
- More than 500 viral content pieces analyzed
- Case Studies of viral accounts (Tiktok, Instagram and Facebook)
- Free Marketing Tools & Calculators
- Latest Tiktok Trends
More blog posts
- Viral marketing trends for skincare brands
- Viral social media strategies for skincare brands
- Viral marketing strategies for skincare brands
From Fan to Face of the Brand, 8.1M+ views
This TikTok video from Glow Recipe shows a creator telling her journey from being a fan to becoming the face of their brand using the "how it started vs how it's going" format.
The hook works because it creates a curiosity gap right away. When you see "how it started," your brain wants to know what happened next. The creator shows herself using Glow Recipe products in her bedroom and car, looking genuine and excited about the products. She mentions specific items like the Watermelon Glow Toner and talks about how long she's been using them.
The "vs how it's going" part is where the magic happens. We see her at a professional photo shoot, getting her hair and makeup done, looking like she made it. This hits the aspiration trigger hard because many people dream of getting noticed by brands they love.
What makes this different from other brand partnership videos is how real the "started" part feels. It doesn't look like she was planning to work with them from day one. The algorithm probably pushed this because people watched it all the way through to see her transformation, and they shared it because success stories feel good to spread.
@glowrecipe we’ve come so far together @Katie Fang 😭💖 #glowrecipe #katiefang #newskincare #trendingskincare #watermelontoner ♬ original sound - Glow Recipe
The Coconut Splash Ad, 5.3M+ views
This TikTok from TULA skincare starts with someone chopping a coconut with a cleaver, then cuts to a woman getting splashed with water while she talks about their moisturizer.
The reason this works is the pattern interrupt. Your brain expects a street food video when you see the coconut chopping, but then it switches to something completely different. This creates confusion that makes you keep watching to figure out what's happening.
The connection between "drenched" (from the coconut water and the splash) and "moisture" from the skincare product is clever enough to work. The woman's reaction to getting splashed feels real, which helps the ad not feel too staged.
The sounds are important too - the chopping, the splash, everything is crisp and attention-grabbing. People probably shared this because the opening seconds are so unexpected, and the wet look from the splash adds visual interest that holds attention longer than a regular product demo.
@tula Ask us how many times we've watched this clip 🤣 Ready to DRENCH your skin? *Bucket of water not required* Our 24-7 Intense Day & Night Cream is our ultra-rich cream, formulated with hyaluronic acid, squalane, and peptides for next-level hydration. #tulaskincare #moisturizer ♬ original sound - TULA skincare
The "One Word" Testimonial Blitz, 3.8M+ views
This Instagram Reel from Paula's Choice shows different people answering "What's ONE word to describe 2% BHA?" with responses like "magic," "effective," and "amazing."
The format hooks you immediately because it promises a quick, satisfying answer. Multiple people saying positive things builds social proof fast - it's harder to doubt when several different faces are saying the same thing.
The pacing keeps you watching because new people and new words show up every few seconds. When someone says "Everything it says on the bottle it actually does, which is rare for skincare," it taps into common skepticism about beauty products and positions this one as different.
It's one of the classic viral formats we have noticed. People would comment their own "one word" because the video directly asks for it, and the enthusiasm from the speakers makes the product seem worth trying and sharing with friends who need skincare help.
The "Mama Said No" Micro-Dramas, 3M+ views
This Instagram Reel from LANEIGE shows different Laneige products abandoned on wrong shelves in stores, with a child's voice saying "Somebody's mama said no."
This works because almost everyone has either been the disappointed kid or the parent saying no. The child's sad voice makes the whole thing funny without being mean-spirited. Once you understand what's happening, you start looking for the out-of-place Laneige product in each shot, which keeps you engaged.
What's smart is that LANEIGE made this themselves. Instead of seeing abandoned products as negative, they turned it into content that shows they understand their customers and their kids' desires. This self-awareness makes people appreciate the brand more.
The repetition of finding the misplaced product creates a mini-game that boosts watch time. People probably shared this because it's relatable and clever, and the brand's sense of humor about the situation makes them seem more human and likeable.
Fizzing Away Blackheads, 2M+ views
This TikTok from Dermalogica UK shows someone using a fizzing mask for blackheads, focusing on the sounds and sensations of the product working.
The hook is immediate relatability - "do you have stubborn blackheads?" gets attention from anyone with that problem. But what makes this special is the focus on the fizzing sound. Most skincare videos show before and after, but this one lets you hear the product working.
The "LISTEN" prompt with volume up emoji actively engages viewers in a way most beauty content doesn't. The fizzing creates an ASMR-like experience that's novel for skincare demos. The creator's genuine enthusiasm while wearing the mask builds trust.
This pattern keeps popping up in our breakdowns of viral content. The sensory element makes it more memorable than typical product reviews, and people probably shared it with friends who complain about blackheads or enjoy satisfying sounds.
@dermalogicauk If you have stubborn blackheads, you NEED to try this 🤯 DEBUNKING SKIN TRENDS SERIES EP 2: BLACKHEADS #blackheads #blackheadtreatment #howtoclearblackheads #skincare #skincareroutine #dermalogica ♬ Bombastic Side Eye Criminal Offensive Side Eye - CasaDi
The Curious Case of the Cloud Foam, 1.7M+ views
This TikTok from Evereden shows kids' body wash that sprays out in long foam strings instead of regular foam, with ASMR sounds highlighted.
The main hook is novelty - body wash doesn't usually come out in strings like this. The foam looks more like silly string or whipped cream, which is unexpected and visually interesting. The ASMR label sets expectations for specific sounds that many people seek out.
The sounds are crisp and satisfying - bottle shaking, spray hissing, foam hitting tiles, squishing between hands. When the person rubs the different colored foams together, it creates a visual and auditory payoff that feels good to watch.
The product targets kids but appeals to adults who enjoy cute, playful things. The pastel colors and the way the foam behaves taps into that satisfying, oddly mesmerizing content that people replay. The uniqueness of the delivery method makes it shareable because it's something most people haven't seen before.
@everedenbrand Evereden proving kids products can be clean AND fun since 2017 😎🫧🧼 #cleankidsproducts #cleanskincare #kidsbathproduct #foamingbodyscrub #viraltiktokshopproducts #tiktokshopfinds #momtok #cleankidsproducts #viralproducts #skincarerecommendations #skincarerecommendations #tiktokviralproducts ♬ original sound - Evereden
The "Last Drop" Moisturizer Hack, 1.3M+ views
This Instagram Reel from Dot & Key shows how to get more product out of a "empty" tube by cutting it open and using the cap as a plunger.
This works because it solves a universal frustration - knowing there's more product inside but not being able to reach it. The hack feels clever and money-saving, which appeals to anyone who hates waste or wants to stretch their skincare budget.
The visual satisfaction of seeing all that extra cream get pushed out is rewarding. The demonstration is clear and easy to follow, making it feel actionable. Using Dot & Key products for both the tube and the collection jar is smart cross-promotion.
For us, it looks very familiar, because it's a proven format we've documented many times. People probably saved this for future reference and shared it with friends who use similar products, because it provides genuine value beyond just showing a product.
The Allure of the Glaze, 1.1M+ views
This Instagram Reel from LANEIGE shows behind-the-scenes footage of creating a commercial shot where thick peach glaze gets poured over a lip serum tube.
People love behind-the-scenes content because it satisfies curiosity about how polished ads get made. The slow pour of glossy glaze is visually satisfying in an oddly mesmerizing way. The setup looks professional but accessible, making viewers feel like they're getting an exclusive peek.
The "peach glaze" looks and sounds edible, which cross-triggers food satisfaction with beauty product desire. The progression from mixing the glaze to the final perfect shot tells a mini-story with a satisfying conclusion.
The focus on one specific mesmerizing moment - the glaze pour - rather than a general overview keeps attention locked. People probably watched it multiple times just for that satisfying pour sequence, and the food-like appeal made it shareable with comments about wanting donuts or being hungry after watching.
The Pimple Popping Aftercare Guide, 1.1M+ views
This TikTok from Skincare.com shows the proper steps to take after popping a pimple, presented as advice from a dermatologist.
This addresses something almost everyone has done but feels guilty about. Instead of scolding people for popping pimples, it provides helpful next steps, which feels supportive rather than judgmental. The "according to a dermatologist" adds credibility.
The step-by-step format with clear visuals makes it easy to follow and remember. Each step is brief and demonstrated, which works well for short attention spans. The practical advice offers immediate value that people can use.
It's a recurring element we've seen in multiple viral case studies. This probably got saved frequently because it's useful information people want to reference later, and the non-judgmental approach makes it easy to share with friends who might need the advice.
@skincare.com Name a more iconic duo than @dermablendpro and @vichylaboratoires. Makeup.com Social Media Editor @katlynevap can't. ✨ #byloreal #beautytok #acneprone ♬ original sound - skincare.com - Skincare.com
The Eco-Conscious Loophole, 1M+ views
This TikTok from apo.ge.life shows the creator addressing criticism about using plastic gloves despite running a plastic-free skincare brand, then revealing her solution for recycling them.
Starting with a critical comment creates immediate tension and curiosity about how she'll respond. The dramatic visual of dumping a huge pile of saved gloves makes the scale of the problem tangible and somewhat shocking.
The Terracycle solution provides a satisfying resolution that most people probably didn't know existed. Connecting customer support directly to her ability to afford the recycling box makes viewers feel like part of the solution, which creates emotional investment.
The transparency about the contradiction and the proactive approach builds trust. Rather than being defensive, she turned potential criticism into content that shows her values and problem-solving approach, making the brand seem more authentic and thoughtful.
@apo.ge.life Reply to @sophita.life Just another small step towards reducing waste #plasticfree #plasticpollution #sustainability #ecofriendly #naturalskincare #consciousconsumer #skincare ♬ Imma Be X Heads Will Roll Remix - H&RRY
Paper Doll Glam, 0.5M+ views
This Instagram Reel from Benefit Cosmetics shows someone applying makeup to a paper cutout face, with amplified ASMR sounds throughout.
The ASMR component is the strongest draw - every sound from tapping fingers to brush swishes is crisp and satisfying. The transformation from blank paper to fully made-up face provides completion satisfaction that keeps people watching through to the end.
The novelty of doing makeup on paper rather than skin makes it stand out from typical beauty tutorials. The methodical application creates a rhythmic, almost hypnotic viewing experience enhanced by the sounds.
The final reveal with the paper doll "wearing" winter accessories completes the transformation story. People probably found the concept creative enough to share, and the ASMR qualities made it relaxing to rewatch for the sounds alone.
The Unexpected Moisturizer Reveal, 9M+ views
This TikTok from Glow Recipe starts like a normal product reveal but plays chaotic audio about "Among Us potion from the dark web" while the creator shows her moisturizer with a straight face.
The pattern interrupt is extreme - you expect calm skincare content but get absurd, loud audio instead. The creator's deadpan expression while this chaos plays makes it funnier because she's clearly in on the joke but not reacting to it.
The humor comes from the complete mismatch between the mundane action and the outrageous audio. It subverts the typical earnest skincare reveal format with internet-native humor that feels random but intentional.
This works because it's instantly surprising and doesn't require deep understanding to be funny. The sheer randomness makes people want to share it or comment on the absurdity, and the unexpected twist probably made people replay it to fully process what they heard.
@glowrecipe it's truly something 😌 #glowrecipe #skincaretiktok #winterskincare #skinflooding ♬ The among us potion - idk_lol1237404
The Rainbow Reveal, 3.3M+ views
This TikTok from Glow Recipe shows a standard pink toner bottle, then reveals a special rainbow edition while empowering audio plays.
The reveal structure creates anticipation - first the regular bottle, then the box, then the surprise rainbow version. The timing syncs perfectly with the audio's progression from "never be basic" to "shine bright, let them burn."
The rainbow bottle embodies the audio's message about not being basic and shining bright. The special edition aspect adds exclusivity and collectibility appeal, especially for people who like colorful or Pride-themed items.
The empowering message makes it highly shareable as motivation or encouragement. The visual contrast between basic and rainbow versions drives home the "don't be basic" theme, making the rainbow bottle feel like a statement piece rather than just a product variant.
@glowrecipe note to self 📝 #glowrecipe #pride2023 #watermelontoner ♬ original sound - anastasia
The Banana Sunscreen Experiment, 2.4M+ views
This Instagram Reel from Deyga shows a DIY test comparing how different sunscreens protect banana slices from browning over 8 hours.
The curiosity hook works immediately - most people don't know bananas can test sunscreen. The visual proof is undeniable when you see the difference in browning between protected and unprotected sections after 8 hours.
The experiment feels scientific and educational, even though it's simple. The clear before, during, and after progression keeps people watching to see the results. The side-by-side comparison at the end provides definitive visual evidence.
The novelty of the test method makes it shareable because it's something most people haven't seen. The practical implication - that sunscreens really do vary in effectiveness - gives it utility beyond just being interesting to watch.
The Comfort Loop, 2.4M+ views
This TikTok from TULA shows a calming scene with candles and flowers while gentle text offers emotional support for making it through January.
The timing makes it highly relevant - January is universally recognized as a tough month, so acknowledging that milestone feels personal and understanding. The message hits emotional validation needs with "you are enough" and promises of better days ahead.
The visual aesthetic with the luxury candle and soft lighting creates a soothing, aspirational mood that matches the supportive message. The gentle piano music enhances the calming effect, making it pleasant to watch repeatedly.
The loop structure means it plays multiple times before people scroll past, reinforcing the positive message. The specific acknowledgment of surviving January's challenges rather than generic affirmations makes it feel more thoughtful and shareable as encouragement for friends.
@tula Your Monday reminder 💙 #tulaskincare #healingtiktok #selfcare #affirmations #selflove #wellness #mentalhealthmatters ♬ Lo-fi hip hop - NAO-K
Kiehl's Icy Pop-Up Deconstructed, 1.3M+ views
This Instagram Reel from Kiehl's shows their storefront encased in ice that dramatically shatters, revealing a locker room-themed pop-up experience inside.
The ice-covered building creates immediate "what's happening here?" curiosity. The explosive shattering provides a strong pattern interrupt that grabs attention and prevents scrolling. The high production value makes it feel like a mini movie trailer.
The transition to the stylized locker room with shower demonstrations and product avalanche maintains visual interest through spectacle. The "torture test" showers communicate benefits quickly and memorably compared to text explanations.
The "NOW OPEN" call-to-action with location details created real FOMO for New Yorkers who could actually visit. This combination of digital spectacle and physical experience drove both online engagement and offline foot traffic, amplifying the campaign's reach.
The Allure of the Mini Donut Glaze, 1.3M+ views
This Instagram Reel from LANEIGE shows cute mini tote keychains and lip serums with donut-shaped caps as giveaway prizes.
The giveaway structure demanding multiple engagement actions (follow, like, share, save, tag friends, engage with past posts) creates powerful algorithmic signals. The tagging requirement spreads reach exponentially as each tag brings new potential participants.
The prizes themselves are uniquely desirable - not just the product but exclusive accessories that aren't available for purchase. The mini tote and special caps feel collectible and Instagram-worthy, appealing to people who like cute, limited items.
The "Galentine's" theme provides timely relevance and encourages tagging close friends. The requirement to engage with past posts is clever because it boosts the overall account engagement, signaling to algorithms that the brand consistently creates valuable content.
The Allure of the Squishy Donut, 1.2M+ views
This Instagram Reel from LANEIGE focuses entirely on someone pressing the soft, donut-shaped applicator of their lip serum repeatedly.
The novelty of the donut-shaped applicator immediately grabs attention because it's not typical for cosmetic products. The demonstrated squishiness taps into satisfying, ASMR-like content that people find oddly mesmerizing.
The close-up shot eliminates distractions and focuses entirely on the tactile satisfaction. Even though viewers can't feel it themselves, watching the soft material compress and reform triggers pleasant sensory associations.
The simplicity works in its favor - it's not trying to sell multiple benefits or tell a complex story. It isolates one intriguing feature and presents it in a way that makes people want to experience it themselves, driving comments about needing to feel the product.
The Skincare Serenade, 1.2M+ views
This TikTok from TULA shows someone handwriting a "love letter about skincare" that turns into a poem with the advice "Always wear SPF with your Vitamin C."
The "love letter" concept applied to skincare advice creates an unexpected and charming frame. The handwritten reveal builds suspense as each word appears, using the "Roses are red" format that everyone recognizes and expects to resolve.
The stop-motion handwriting has a tactile, personal quality that feels more intimate than typed text. The aesthetic with clean paper and soft lighting matches the gentle, caring tone of the message.
The advice itself is genuinely useful and widely recommended by dermatologists, so it provides real value. The creative presentation transforms mundane skincare tips into something memorable and shareable, making people more likely to remember and follow the advice.
@tula Your skin is your forever #valentine 💌 #tulaskincare #vitaminc #spf #valentinesday #skincaretips ♬ Pieces (Solo Piano Version) - Danilo Stankovic
The Appetizing Moisturizer, 1.1M+ views
This Instagram Reel from Dot & Key shows their moisturizer being manufactured, starting with a user comment about wanting to eat the product, set to trending audio.
Starting with authentic user-generated content makes it feel less like an ad and more like responding to genuine curiosity. The behind-the-scenes manufacturing footage satisfies the "how it's made" appeal that many people find fascinating.
The trending audio ("Oh my god, what is that?" and "Put it in the cart") perfectly matches the viewer journey from curiosity to desire. The bright yellow color and creamy texture do look appealingly edible, as the original comment suggested.
The fast-paced editing and satisfying factory visuals of consistent filling create an oddly mesmerizing effect. The progression from raw production to finished product with a glowing user creates a complete desire-building story in seconds.
Cleanser Choices, 1.1M+ views
This TikTok from Skincare.com shows texture shots of different cleansers while explaining which skin types they work best for.
The direct question "Are you using the right cleanser for your skin type?" immediately hooks anyone uncertain about their routine. The segmented advice by skin concern (oily, dry, combination) makes it easy to find personally relevant information.
The texture shots of each cleanser being dispensed provide satisfying visuals that communicate product qualities better than just showing bottles. Seeing the gel versus cream consistency helps people understand which might work for their preferences.
The practical advice using accessible brands makes it actionable rather than aspirational. People probably saved this for reference when shopping and shared it with friends asking for cleanser recommendations, because it solves a common decision-making challenge.
@skincare.com Between @garnierusa, @CeraVe and @kiehls, which cleanser are you choosing? 🤔 #byloreal #selfcaretips #skincaretips🤗 ♬ original sound - Skincare.com
A Viral Lip Serum Launch, 1M+ views
This Instagram Reel from LANEIGE introduces four new lip serum shades with donut-shaped applicators, set to catchy "bing bap boom" music.
The donut applicator novelty immediately differentiates this from other lip products and creates visual intrigue. The satisfying rhythm of the "bing bap boom" audio creates an earworm effect that makes the video memorable and encourages rewatching.
The systematic presentation of each shade with clean swatches provides clear product information while maintaining visual appeal. The donut theme carried through the applicator design, product names, and shade concepts creates cohesive branding.
The music's rhythm perfectly paces the visual transitions, creating an almost hypnotic viewing experience. The "glaze" and "frosting" names evoke pleasant food associations, making the products seem indulgent and desirable rather than just functional.
Napolify's Resources
- More than 500 viral content pieces analyzed
- Case Studies of viral accounts (Tiktok, Instagram and Facebook)
- Free Marketing Tools & Calculators
- Latest Tiktok Trends
More blog posts
- Viral marketing trends for skincare brands
- Viral social media strategies for skincare brands
- Viral marketing strategies for skincare brands