Makeup today is less about following rules and more about expression, efficiency, and experimentation. With beauty creators pushing boundaries and consumers looking for minimalist kits that do more, unconventional techniques are taking over. Whether you’re in a rush, on the go, or just want to mix things up, these unconventional makeup hacks are rewriting the playbook.
Welcome to the era of multi-use makeup products that let you get creative with fewer items, less time, and way more fun.
So, Do Makeup Rules Still Matter?
Short answer: they don’t—unless you want them to. Traditionally, rules existed for safety and clarity, but modern creative makeup techniques encourage experimentation. If anything, TikTok and Instagram have empowered us to ask: “Do we really need to follow makeup rules?” The consensus? Not really—if it makes you feel like the artist of your own canvas.
Unconventional Makeup Hacks to Try
Here are some of the boldest, smartest, and most viral hacks that prove breaking makeup rules isn’t just okay—it’s beautiful.
- Blush on Eyelids for a Soft Flush
No, you don’t need 3 different palettes to get a cohesive look. Just dab your liquid or cream blush over your eyelids for an instantly fresh, monochromatic effect. The blush on eyelids trend is one of the most wearable editorial looks out there—plus, it pulls your whole face together in seconds.
PAC Tip: Our cream blushes blend seamlessly on lids. Just tap with your finger and you’re done!
- Lipstick as Eyeshadow
This is where creative makeup techniques meet clever product swaps. Lipsticks, especially matte ones, work surprisingly really well on eyelids. You can use a rich berry, burnt orange, or nude lipstick to create sultry or natural eye looks with minimal effort.
Wondering how to use lipstick on eyes safely? Stick to formulas like creamy or matte lipsticks that are without irritants, and avoid glosses that could slip into the eyes.
- Blush as Contour or Bronzer
For sun-kissed skin with a youthful flush, swap your bronzer with a deeper-toned blush. Apply it slightly under the cheekbones and across the temples for a lifted, sculpted effect.
Want to try sculpting with blush? Try dual-toned blushes to mix and match for the perfect flush + shape combo.
- Concealer as Eye Primer
Don’t have an eye primer handy? No problem. A good concealer does the trick. It neutralizes lid color and helps pigment pop, especially when you're experimenting with lipstick as eyeshadow or blush as eyeshadow.
- Highlight on Collarbone & Lids
Who says highlighter is only for your cheeks? Use it on the inner corners of your eyes or sweep it lightly along your collarbones and shoulders. It’s the easiest way to look instantly radiant.
These creative makeup techniques are fun, practical, and reflective of a new beauty ethos: play over perfection. The only rule? You define it.
