Last Updated on December 3, 2022
Winter is approaching fast, and TikTok influencers in the makeup space are flooding the app with looks to make you stand out as the weather turns cold. So say goodbye to dewy, sunkissed summer skin and say hello to the “I’m Cold” look!
How “I’m Cold” Got Started
While OG beauty magazines like Seventeen have published similar looks since the 90s, the more recent “I’m cold” trend can be traced back to its roots in none other than the Hallmark holiday films everyone loves so much. And, of course, there’s the iconic “All My Love” video where a frost-bitten J.Lo sings about how LL Cool J broke her heart on the streets of NYC.
Thezoereport.com reports the following about the modern origins of this trend:
The “I’m Cold” TikTok trend was created and coined by makeup artist Zoe Kim Kenealy, who brilliantly described the look as evoking that cozy, holiday Hallmark movie energy — if adorable nose-tip blush doesn’t scream “small town cupcake baker who falls in love with undercover royalty” then what does?
In essence, those who hop on this trend are trying to look like they stepped out of a Hallmark holiday movie. So, how do you do this yourself? The trick to achieving this look without a makeup artist’s help is using your products in a very specific order.
How to Get the Look:
- Focus on Your Complexion – You’re supposed to look like you were standing out in the cold for a while, so your skin should be pale and smooth with just a hint of color in the cheeks. To achieve the base for this look, you’ll need to use matte foundation, skin tint, or concealer to even out your skin tone. Try something close to your natural skin color and avoid using the darker shades you might use for contour.
- Choose the Right Shade of Blush – Next, add a bit of blush to your cheeks for that freshly frostbitten look. Though you might be tempted to go for a red shade, mix orange and pink-toned blushes to create the perfect shade of windburn on your skin.
- Place the Blush Strategically – One of the keys to getting the look you want for this TikTok trend is to swirl the blush on the apples of your cheeks and just under your eyes to produce the windburn look.
Getting Started
Before busting out your products, watch a few TikTok videos on how to get the look so you have a clear idea of what you’re doing before you start.
Here are a few great examples:
Once you’ve gotten some visuals in your head, raid your makeup collection for things you can use to do this yourself. The good thing about this makeup trend is you can throw it together using things you probably already own, so there’s no need to spend money on products when your budget is already stretched from holiday shopping.
Show It Off
Once the look is done, you’re ready to show it off at all your holiday parties and festive events. Have fun!