Makeup is like magic; It is powerful, transformative and even inspiring. And with color-changing products, people who grew up cursing mood rings can get their own adult version of something that changes before their eyes. There's nothing more fun than seeing what shade you get, which is why color-changing makeup has taken TikTok by storm. Come on, what could be more fun than shooting something that looks a little different than what you're wearing?
Color changing products interact with the pH level of the product and the pH level of the skin. This is why swelling and shine may appear in the container or clear when first applied, but turn pink or red when applied to the face.
But not all color changing products are created equal.
There are claims that color changing foundations on the market are the same as other shade changing products, and many brands promise to match your skin tone perfectly. But Tik Tok users like @missdarcei are quick to point out that these "one color fits all" promises don't hold true when worn by people with darker skin tones. @Missdarcei tried a few color changing foundations but it made her skin look white. Because of this, you'll only find blush, lipstick, and a few eyeshadows that change color depending on the light you're in.
Here are the best color changing products available right now that we think TikTok totally lives up to the hype.
Hard Candy Selfie Cheek Shades
Walmart
TikTok user @sarah_wolak shows off how this blush works in real life, and her TikTok community loves it so much they've asked to use it for lip color too — and it's good for both. She calls it the perfect "subtle yet sweet" color. These blushes are made with jojoba oil and vitamin E, so they create the "glass skin" effect that is popular among beauticians these days.
Maracuja Juicy Lip & Cheek Shift
Cake
Tarte Maracuja Juicy Lip & Cheek Shift Tint offers six different shades that change color according to the desired effect. These pipes look like they came out of the 90s, thanks to the famous brand. Since each shade is infused with hyaluronic acid, passion fruit oil and grape seed oil, just a few swipes of this product on the cheeks will give you an anti-aging effect. Tik Tok user @chelseaolivia136 said, "Yellow [tin] wins," saying it's neutral's "ultimate pink moment."
Youthforia BYO BLUSH blush oil
Netherlands
Youthforia Color Changing Redness Oil is actually a little different from the others on the market because it comes in a green bottle; When applied, it turns the perfect shade of pink to match your skin tone. TikTok user @lexusmperezz, who has 35,000 followers, shows how this fairer medium skin tone looks. "I didn't expect everything to go well," they wrote.
Blush Dior Backstage Rose Glow
Sephora
This blush uses Dior Color Enhancement technology to create a custom pink based on your skin's moisture level. Plus, once it's on, it stays in place all day. Tik Tok user @liv.tino says, "It was a little scary at first, but this eclipse is amazing."
Chromashift Inferno Eye Shadow Color
Nikkia Joy Cosmetics
Not all color changing cosmetic products need to respond to pH levels. Some may look different depending on the light you are in. If you're an eyeshadow lover and want to amp up your signature look, get the loose eyeshadow palettes from Nike Joy Cosmetics. Unlike gels or oils, these light colored eye shadows can be applied as desired. TikTok user @courtneyleighhol best describes this collection as "smart".
Essence Glimmer Glow Lipstick.
Netherlands
If you are a glitter lover, you need Essence Glimmer Glow lipstick. It promises to create a perfect shade of pink and also gives you thanks to the glitter built into the formula. One enthusiastic TTalk user @dorie.mua commented: “After a while I saw my lips turn pink. As always, this Essence product is vegan, free of parabens, preservatives and gluten. Oh, and it's only $4.
L'Oreal Paris Magic Skin Beauty BB Cream
Amazonia
This tinted moisturizer is designed to set color before applying foundation. Whether you're dealing with eczema, rosacea or just everyday redness, this moisturizer turns green and blends into your skin to create the perfect primer effect that sits beneath your natural foundation shade. "Nice Grinch so far," said TikTok user @christxiee before seeing it blend in with her skin tone. "It literally changes color," she said.
A glass vase made of glass
Explained
RHONY alum and new makeup guru Bethenny Frankel calls the blush a "holy product," adding, "My life changed the moment I saw it." Her application guide went viral and the blush sold out instantly. It's back in stock and you can get it for $26. The secret ingredient in the Espresso Oh formula is caffeine, so it provides an extra boost of moisture wherever you apply it, making every area of your face more active.
