Makeup trends are no longer just about global beauty standards, they are about celebrating diversity and embracing what makes your skin tone unique. And when it comes to Indian skin, some viral makeup looks don’t just work, they look better than they do on anyone else. Thanks to our naturally warm undertones, rich melanin, and gorgeous spectrum ranging from golden beige to deep espresso, Indian skin makes certain makeup trends pop in ways that turn heads.

So if you’ve been scrolling through Instagram and TikTok wondering which looks you should actually try, this guide is for you. Let’s break down the 5 viral makeup trends for Indian skin tones, with tips, product suggestions, and pro tricks to make them work for you.

1. Glazed Donut Skin – But With Desi Glow

The “glazed donut skin” trend popularized by Hailey Bieber went viral for its dewy, high-shine finish. But here’s the twist, on Indian skin, this look transforms into something even better: a golden-hour radiance.

Instead of looking oily (a common concern for Indian girls), the combination of warm undertones and reflective highlights makes this trend a total win. The key is balance, hydrated skin, a luminous base, and strategically placed highlighter.

How to nail it for Indian skin:

• Start with a hydrating primer or serum (think niacinamide or hyaluronic acid).
• Use a dewy foundation or mix foundation with liquid highlighter for glow.
• Place highlighter on high points of the face: cheekbones, brow bones, and the bridge of your nose.
• Opt for gold or champagne-toned illuminators instead of icy silvers.

Pro Tip: Avoid going overboard, Indian skin naturally reflects light beautifully, so subtle layering works best.

Want to master on No Makeup look for Indian skin? Check out our full guide

2. Bold Berry & Wine Lips – Statement Makers

Move over nude lips deep berry, burgundy, and wine lips are making a comeback, and guess what? They look phenomenal on Indian skin tones.

Global influencers often struggle to pull this off without looking washed out, but our undertones bring warmth and richness to these shades. A swipe of plum lipstick instantly elevates even the simplest outfit, whether you’re heading for a festive party or just want to look chic on a date night.

Best shades for Indian skin:

• Deep plum, berry wine, oxblood, and maroon reds.
• Satin or matte finishes for a modern, long-lasting effect.

Pro Tip: Keep the rest of the face subtle, soft blush and light eyeshadow (so your lips remain the focus).

3. Smokey Kajal Eyes – The Timeless Viral Trend

While the West is just catching up with “grunge glam” and smoked-out liner. kajal eye makeup for Indian girls have been rocking smokey kajal eyes for decades. From Bollywood divas like Kareena Kapoor to Gen Z icons like Alia Bhatt, this look never fails.

On Indian skin, a smudged kohl look not only defines the eyes but also enhances the natural depth and intensity of our gaze. No other skin tone carries the smokey kajal look with the same effortless drama.

How to get the perfect smokey kajal look:

1. Apply a creamy black kohl pencil on your waterline.
2. Smudge it slightly with a brush or finger for that lived-in effect.
3. Add brown or bronze eyeshadow on the lid to soften the harshness.
4. Finish with mascara for bold, fluttery lashes.

Pro Tip: For a modern twist, try colored kajal emerald green, cobalt blue, or even burgundy. These shades pop beautifully against brown eyes and dusky skin.

4. Blush Draping – The Viral Hack That Flatters Indian Tones

TikTok and Instagram have brought back “blush draping” where blush is applied not just on the apples of the cheeks but swept across temples and cheekbones like contour. On Indian skin, coral, peach, and brick tones make this trend irresistible.

Instead of looking too pink or clownish (a risk on fairer tones), blush draping on wheatish and dusky skin creates a sun-kissed, sculpted effect.

How to blush-drape on Indian skin:

• Choose warm-toned blush shades (terracotta, peach, or coral).
• Apply in a ‘C’ shape from cheekbones to temples.
• Blend seamlessly for a natural, sculpted effect.

Pro Tip: Cream blushes look more skin-like and are perfect for humid Indian weather.

Also Read: 7 Skincare Beauty Trends You Can’t Miss

5. Golden Highlighter & Metallic Magic

While icy and pearl-toned highlighters trend globally, golden and bronze highlighters are where Indian skin shines literally. Thanks to warm undertones, metallic makeup doesn’t look over-the-top on us, it looks regal.

How to glow like a goddess:

• Opt for golden, bronze, or copper-toned highlighters.
• Use metallic eyeshadows like gold, rose gold, or bronze for festive glam.
• Pair metallic lids with neutral lips for balance.

Pro Tip: For weddings and parties, layer a powder highlighter over liquid highlighter for a lit-from-within glow that lasts all night.

Final Thoughts

The beauty industry often sets trends without considering how they look on different skin tones. But here’s the truth, Indian skin doesn’t just follow trends, it redefines them. From glazed donut skin to smokey kajal eyes, these viral looks find their best version on us.

So the next time you’re experimenting with makeup, don’t hold back, your skin tone is already your best accessory.

Ready to elevate your beauty game? Explore more makeup guides, product lists, and trend breakdowns on Shopisthan and find looks that truly celebrate you.

Do you think we missed out anything? Let us know in the comment section below.