20 Makeup YouTube video ideas— each built on a video that beat its channel.
We looked at makeup videos that pulled far more views than their channel usually gets, then wrote new ideas that borrow what worked. Each idea comes with a title, a first line, and a link to the real video behind it. Swap the [placeholders] for your own numbers.
- 01Short
5 Minute Smokey Eye Routine for Busy Mornings
“Running late? Here’s how to get a smokey eye look in just 5 minutes.”
Uses the 'time frame and routine' pattern appealing to busy viewers seeking quick solutions.
- 02Short
3 Lip Combos to Instantly Brighten Your Face
“Let’s try three lip combos that make your complexion pop instantly.”
Uses the 'specific number and transformation' pattern, similar to the lip combo tutorial but with multiple options.
- 03Short
How to Get Dewy Bridal Skin with Drugstore Products
“Bridal glow doesn’t have to be expensive. Here’s a dewy look using only drugstore finds.”
Uses 'named audience and price' to attract budget-conscious brides.
- 04Short
Beginner’s Guide: Glass Skin Makeup Step by Step
“Glass skin is trending—here’s a simple tutorial for beginners.”
Uses 'step by step, beginner angle' like the bridal tutorial, but with a trendy new focus.
- 05Short
Easy SFX Scar Makeup for Last Minute Costumes
“Forgot your Halloween costume? Make this SFX scar in minutes.”
Uses 'easy + SFX + time frame' for urgency and accessibility, like the SFX Halloween success.
- 06Short
Transform Your Look: 1 Product, 3 Ways to Use Blush
“Let’s see how one blush can give you three different looks.”
Uses 'product versatility and specific number' to hook viewers looking for multi-use tips.
- 07Short
Trying Viral 90s Supermodel Makeup Trends
“Let’s recreate the iconic 90s supermodel look trending right now.”
Uses 'following a trend/era tutorial' like the popular 1951 video but with a new decade.
- 08Short
Perfect Everyday Winged Liner for Hooded Eyes
“Struggle with hooded eyes? Here’s a foolproof winged liner hack.”
Uses 'hack for a specific audience' for relatability, similar to the eyeliner hack video.
- 09Short
GRWM: First Day at a New Job Makeup Tutorial
“Here’s my go-to confidence makeup for your first day at work.”
Uses 'GRWM + big life event' like the school tutorial but for job starters.
- 10Short
3 Common Concealer Mistakes You Might Be Making
“Are these mistakes ruining your concealer? Let’s fix them together.”
Uses 'specific number + mistakes to avoid' for practical value.
- 11Short
Soft Glam Makeup for Glasses Wearers
“Wearing glasses? This soft glam look is made for you.”
Uses 'named audience' pattern for viewers seeking tailored tutorials.
- 12Short
Beginner SFX: Fake Bruises in Under 2 Minutes
“Here’s the fastest way to create realistic fake bruises for beginners.”
Uses 'easy/beginner + SFX + fast time frame' for quick impact.
- 13Short
Trying a 1960s Mod Eye Makeup Tutorial
“Let’s go back to the 60s for this bold mod eye look.”
Uses 'following a tutorial from another decade' pattern, like the 1951 video.
- 14Short
3 Drugstore Foundations That Last All Day
“I’ve tested three drugstore foundations to see which really last all day.”
Uses 'specific number + price + comparison for durability' to attract bargain hunters.
- 15Short
Simple Festival Makeup for Beginners
“Festival season’s here—let’s do an easy, beginner-friendly look.”
Uses 'named event + beginner angle' patterned after targeted tutorials like bridal and school.
- 16Short
How to Make Any Lipstick Matte in Seconds
“Here’s a quick trick to turn any lipstick matte instantly.”
Uses 'hack/transformation + speed' to engage lipstick enthusiasts.
- 17Short
Transform Your Day Makeup to Night in 3 Steps
“Heading out after work? Upgrade your makeup in just three steps.”
Uses 'named transformation + specific number of steps' for quick appeal.
- 18Short
Testing the Viral Cold Girl Makeup Look
“Is the cold girl makeup look worth the hype? Let’s try it.”
Uses 'trend testing' pattern, activating curiosity about a viral style.
- 19Short
Cabin Crew-Inspired Everyday Red Lip Routine
“Steal this classic red lip look inspired by flight attendants.”
Uses 'named audience as inspiration' for a daily wear adaptation, referencing the cabin crew tutorial.
- 20Short
Beginner’s Guide to Natural Faux Freckles
“Fake freckles are trending—here’s how beginners can nail the look.”
Uses 'beginner + trend' to attract viewers searching for easy, trendy makeup effects.
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