Are YouTube makeup challenges still a thing in 2025? Absolutely. Before TikTok and Reels, YT was the real OG of beauty trends, and today it remains one of the go-to places for viral media. Part of the reason they’re still around is the detail you get from longer videos compared to quick clips on other platforms. In 2025, classic trends are making a comeback while modern spins keep things exciting. From blindfolded experiments to alphabet-inspired artistry, these viral makeup ideas are easy to recreate with friends or on your own.
5 YouTube Makeup Challenges Anyone Can Do at Home
Before we dive in, let’s get things straight: these YouTube makeup challenges aren’t the usual perfect eyeliner or flawless blending tutorials. Plenty will make you laugh out loud but a few might even surprise you with looks you’d never plan on purpose. The best part is they’re all simple enough to try at home whenever you’re in the mood for a little beauty chaos. Here are the top five makeup dares to explore this year:
1. Speed Makeup Challenge
Screenshot from em ma on YouTube.
Time’s ticking! Try this Speed Makeup Challenge ASAP. Set a timer for 3, 5, or 10 minutes and try to complete a full glam look. Some versions add twists such as using only drugstore products or achieving a specific makeup style within a limited time.
Why Try It
It adds excitement to your routine. The time crunch makes you focus and the outcome often surprises you in the best way possible.
2. Boyfriend (or Non-Makeup Friend) Does My Makeup Challenge
Screenshot from vexssa on YouTube
What happens when you hand over the beauty brushes to your clueless lover? For the Boyfriend Does My Makeup Challenge, a BF/GF, sibling, or friend who usually never does makeup gets to glam you up. Allow them to pick products, blend, and experiment with colors. The result is often surprising and the experience can feel like it could make or break the relationship (just kidding!).
Why Try It
The BDMM challenge is a nice way to bond with your significant other. You get to create core memories that you and your SO can laugh about in the future.
3. Alphabet (A-Z) Order Makeup Challenge
Screenshot from NikkieTutorials on YouTube.
Ready to mix ABCs with beauty? With the A-Z Makeup Challenge, you apply products in alphabetical order. For example, if “A” is for Aqua Eyeshadow, use that cosmetic then move on to “B” and continue until you reach the last letter that matches a product you own. It shakes up your usual routine and makes you brainstorm on the spot, which often leads to unusual yet surprisingly fabulous beauty combos.
Why Try It
Alphabetical Challenge keeps you on your toes as each step feels thrilling and the final look is never predictable.
4. Project Pan / Product Use-Up Challenge
Screenshot from The After Work Channel on YouTube.
Think you can stick with your stash until the very end? Show off your commitment game with the Project Pan Challenge. Instead of chasing glam tutorials, this dare is all about using up your products to the very last drop. So grab your makeup bag, choose the items you want to finish, and aim to squeeze out every bit.
Why Try It
It helps you reduce clutter and make the most of your beauty products. And who knows, maybe you’ll find forgotten favorites at the bottom of the drawer.
5. Blindfolded Makeup Challenge
Screenshot from RKEMPIREE X2 on YouTube
Hand over the brushes! In this Blindfolded Makeup challenge, someone who usually doesn’t do cosmetics, like a boyfriend, sibling, or friend, takes control. They get to pick the beauty products and apply them to your face. The look usually ends up with uneven lines, smudges, and wild color choices which makes this activity pure comedy.
Why Try It
The blindfolded makeup challenge requires no special setup. You can do it alone or with friends, and the messy reveal always brings laughter to everyone.
YouTube Makeup Challenges 2025: The Beauty Breakdown
YouTube offers a platform for slower and more detailed tutorials, which means you can actually follow and learn the steps at your own pace. The key is to know your vibe. If you want laughs with friends, Blindfolded or Speed are perfect and if you want to declutter, Project Pan is the way to go. Most importantly, enjoy the process and take these dares as a reminder that makeup isn’t always ritz and glam. You can make it a playful experience too!
Which YouTube makeup challenge will you try first?
FAQs
Q: Do I need a big budget for these YouTube makeup challenges?
A: No. Most use products you already have. The fun comes from how you use them, not how expensive they are.
Q: How long should I spend on each challenge?
A: It depends on the challenge. Speed Makeup takes 5 to 10 minutes. Project Pan is more long-term while the others are as quick as you make them.
Q: Can I mix challenges at home?
A: Yes. For example, try Alphabet Order with Speed and finish an alphabet-ordered routine in 5 minutes. Mixing them keeps things playful and unpredictable.