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12 Viral TikTok Products That Are Actually Worth The Hype

May 24, 2024 | Leave a Comment

TikTok has become a powerhouse for discovering new products, with many items going viral thanks to influencers and everyday users sharing their finds. While some products may not live up to the buzz, others genuinely deliver on their promises. Here are 12 viral TikTok products that are actually worth the hype.

1. Revlon One-Step Hair Dryer and Volumizer

The Revlon One-Step Hair Dryer and Volumizer has taken TikTok by storm, and for good reason. This tool combines a hair dryer and a round brush, allowing you to achieve a salon-quality blowout at home. Users rave about its ability to dry and style hair quickly, reducing frizz and adding volume. The ceramic coating helps protect hair from damage, making it a favorite for those seeking smooth, shiny locks without spending hours in front of the mirror.

2. Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution

Skincare enthusiasts on TikTok have praised the Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution for its powerful exfoliating properties. This affordable chemical peel helps improve skin texture, reduce the appearance of blemishes, and brighten the complexion. Users love its effectiveness in sloughing off dead skin cells, revealing a radiant glow. However, it’s crucial to use it cautiously and follow the instructions to avoid irritation.

3. Dash Mini Waffle Maker

The Dash Mini Waffle Maker has become a viral TikTok sensation for its cute design and versatility. This compact appliance can create perfect mini waffles in minutes, making it ideal for quick breakfasts or fun snacks. Beyond waffles, creative TikTok users have demonstrated its ability to cook everything from hash browns to pizza crusts. Its affordable price and ease of use make it a worthwhile addition to any kitchen.

4. CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser

CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser has garnered a loyal following on TikTok for its gentle yet effective formula. Dermatologists and skincare influencers alike recommend this product for its ability to cleanse without stripping the skin’s natural moisture. It contains ceramides and hyaluronic acid, which help restore the skin barrier and retain hydration. Suitable for all skin types, this cleanser is a staple in many skincare routines.

5. Sunset Projection Lamp

The Sunset Projection Lamp is a viral TikTok product that brings a warm, soothing ambiance to any room. This lamp’s beautiful sunset-like glow creates a relaxing and aesthetically pleasing atmosphere. Users love its ability to transform their space for photos, videos, or simply unwinding at the end of the day. Its popularity continues to grow as more people seek to enhance their home decor with unique lighting solutions.

6. Lululemon Align Leggings

Fitness and fashion influencers on TikTok have praised Lululemon Align Leggings for their comfort and quality. Made from buttery-soft fabric, these leggings offer a perfect blend of stretch and support, making them ideal for workouts or everyday wear. Users appreciate the high-waist design that stays in place during activities and the lightweight feel that doesn’t compromise on durability. Despite the higher price point, many believe the investment is worth it for the exceptional fit and longevity.

7. Heatless Curling Rod Headband

The Heatless Curling Rod Headband has gained popularity on TikTok for creating beautiful curls without heat damage. This innovative hair tool allows users to achieve soft, bouncy curls overnight. Simply wrap damp hair around the rod headband, sleep with it in place, and wake up to gorgeous curls. TikTok users love its simplicity and effectiveness, making it a go-to option for those looking to minimize heat styling.

8. Mighty Patch Original

The Mighty Patch Original acne patches have become a skincare staple thanks to TikTok. These hydrocolloid patches effectively absorb impurities and reduce the appearance of pimples overnight. Users appreciate their ability to speed up healing and prevent picking or scarring. The discreet, easy-to-use patches work well on all skin types, making them a favorite for tackling breakouts quickly and efficiently.

9. Olaplex No. 3 Hair Perfector

Olaplex No. 3 Hair Perfector has earned rave reviews on TikTok for its ability to repair damaged hair. This at-home treatment helps strengthen and restore hair by rebuilding broken bonds. Users report noticeable improvements in hair texture, shine, and overall health after regular use. It’s particularly beneficial for those with chemically treated or heat-damaged hair, making it a must-have for anyone looking to revitalize their locks.

10. Handheld Milk Frother

The Handheld Milk Frother is a viral TikTok product that elevates your at-home coffee experience. This affordable gadget froths milk to create café-quality lattes, cappuccinos, and macchiatos. Users love its ease of use and the rich, creamy foam it produces in seconds. Whether you’re a coffee enthusiast or just enjoy a frothy drink, this handheld frother adds a touch of luxury to your morning routine.

11. Kitchy Pizza Cutter Wheel

The Kitchy Pizza Cutter Wheel has become a TikTok favorite for its efficient design and superior cutting ability. Unlike traditional pizza cutters, this wheel features a comfortable grip and a sharp blade that glides through pizza effortlessly. Users appreciate its compact size, ease of cleaning, and ability to easily cut through thick crusts. It’s a practical kitchen tool that delivers on its promise, making pizza night even better.

12. Sol de Janeiro Brazilian Bum Bum Cream

Sol de Janeiro Brazilian Bum Bum Cream has gained a cult following on TikTok for its luxurious feel and enticing scent. This fast-absorbing body cream contains ingredients like cupuaçu butter, açaí oil, and coconut oil, which help hydrate and smooth the skin. Users rave about its ability to tighten and firm the skin, leaving it soft and glowing. The delightful fragrance and rich texture make it a pampering treat worth indulging in.

Consider Giving These 12 Viral TikTok Products a Try

These 12 viral TikTok products have captured the attention of millions for good reason. Each offers unique benefits, from enhancing beauty routines to improving everyday conveniences. By incorporating these items into your life, you can enjoy the best of what TikTok offers while making worthwhile investments in quality and functionality.

15 Things You Should Never Share About Your Children on Social Media

Catherine Reed

Catherine is a tech-savvy writer who has focused on the personal finance space for more than eight years. She has a Bachelor’s in Information Technology and enjoys showcasing how tech can simplify everyday personal finance tasks like budgeting, spending tracking, and planning for the future. Additionally, she’s explored the ins and outs of the world of side hustles and loves to share what she’s learned along the way. When she’s not working, you can find her relaxing at home in the Pacific Northwest with her two cats or enjoying a cup of coffee at her neighborhood cafe.

TikTok Ban: 8 Ways Eliminating the Platform in the US Impacts Finances

May 1, 2024 | Leave a Comment

The TikTok ban in the United States has stirred significant discussion, not only on social and political fronts but also on financial aspects. TikTok, a Chinese-owned platform with millions of users in the US, plays a significant role in various economic sectors, from advertising to content creation. Now that the ban has been signed into law, TikTok will go away in the US unless it’s sold. Here, we explore eight crucial ways that banning TikTok could impact finances in the US, shedding light on the broader consequences of such a significant move.

1. Impact on Influencer Income

One of the most immediate effects of a TikTok ban would be on the influencers who rely on the platform as their primary source of income. Many of these influencers have turned their TikTok presence into lucrative careers, partnering with brands for sponsored content, merchandise sales, and more. Without access to their established audiences on TikTok, these influencers would need to pivot to other platforms, which may not offer the same engagement or monetization potential. The shift could result in significant income losses and destabilize the influencer marketing sector.

2. Disruption in the Advertising Industry

TikTok has become a vital advertising channel for many businesses, particularly those targeting younger demographics. A ban would force companies to rethink their digital marketing strategies, potentially leading to decreased efficiency in advertising spending. The absence of TikTok from the marketing mix could increase costs for companies as they seek to gain comparable reach and engagement on alternative platforms. Moreover, smaller businesses that have found cost-effective marketing solutions through TikTok’s targeted advertising might face higher barriers to entry in other channels.

3. Effects on the Entertainment Industry

TikTok has been a significant driver in the entertainment industry, often dictating music trends and creating viral sensations that go on to achieve global fame. Removing TikTok from the US market could slow down the discovery of new artists and trends, potentially impacting music streaming services and record sales. Additionally, TikTok’s role in promoting movies, TV shows, and online streaming content would diminish, possibly resulting in lower engagement rates across these sectors.

4. Loss of Jobs and Economic Contributions

The operation of TikTok in the United States contributes directly and indirectly to employment. Directly through its US offices and staff and indirectly through ecosystems of content creators, service providers, and technology partners. A ban could lead to job losses and reduce economic activity in related sectors. This impact would be felt not just by TikTok employees but also by the myriad businesses that rely on the platform for their marketing and sales strategies.

5. Impact on Software and Technology Sales

TikTok has spurred significant growth in software and technology products, including smartphones, lighting equipment for video production, and editing software. Content creators invest in high-quality content production equipment, driving sales in these categories. A TikTok ban could dampen these sales as the demand for content creation tools diminishes without a primary video-sharing platform.

6. Decrease in Venture Capital and Investments

TikTok’s dynamic and innovative environment has led to numerous startups and business ventures. Investors are often eager to fund companies that leverage TikTok for customer acquisition and engagement. A ban could lead to a decrease in venture capital and other forms of investment in companies that are heavily reliant on the platform, stymieing innovation and entrepreneurship in related sectors.

7. Changes in Consumer Spending

TikTok influences consumer spending through trends and viral product promotions. Products that go viral on TikTok often see rapid increases in sales, a phenomenon known as the “TikTok effect.” If the ban becomes a reality, industries such as fashion, beauty, and consumer electronics might experience fluctuations in consumer spending patterns, potentially leading to decreased sales of products that would have been promoted via TikTok.

8. Global Market Implications

While the direct effects of a TikTok ban would be most pronounced domestically, there would also be global repercussions. U.S.-based companies that use TikTok for international marketing might find their strategies compromised. Furthermore, the precedent set by a US ban could encourage other countries to enact similar bans, affecting global market dynamics and international trade in the digital and creative sectors.

Preparing for the Possible TikTok Ban

The potential TikTok ban presents a complex scenario with far-reaching financial implications. The impacts are profound and multifaceted, from individual livelihoods in the influencer community to large-scale shifts in consumer spending and global market strategies. As discussions around the ban continue, stakeholders across industries are keenly watching the developments, ready to adapt to the new digital landscape that might emerge.

Do Not Believe What You See on Social Media

Catherine Reed

Do Not Believe What You See on Social Media

April 20, 2023 | Leave a Comment

When I had three young children, I was a stay-at-home mom who did freelance writing on the side for about 15 to 20 hours a week. In addition, I enjoyed reading blogs, which were popular at the time. Unconsciously, I found myself trying to emanate these women, especially another mother who also had three young children and ran a successful blog. She wrote about pushing herself hard, working long hours at night, and devoting herself to her children during the day, so I tried to do that, too. Only later did I learn an important lesson—do not believe what you see on social media.

Not Modeling a Healthy Lifestyle

I read that blogger even now, over ten years later. She had a shift in how she spends her time and admits that when she worked so hard and slept so little, she was not leading a healthy lifestyle. This blogger openly admits that her workaholic tendencies affected her family and children.

Now she has a much healthier work-life balance, but for years, she was very driven and encouraging other women to do so even though it was unhealthy for her family. Luckily, I gave up that lifestyle about a year after I tried to adopt it because living that way exhausted me.

Do Not Believe What You See on Social Media

Besides not emulating others who may live an unhealthy lifestyle, it’s also important to not believe what you see on social media.

Help Behind the Scenes

For instance, one influencer used to give the impression that she ran her business entirely by herself. I used to marvel at all she could do and wondered why I failed so miserably at trying to accomplish what she did.

Only recently has that influencer talked about her team, which consists of two full-time and four part-time employees. If you compare yourself to another and think that person gets way more done than you can, you likely don’t have the full story.

Additional Perks the Influencer Doesn’t Mention

Not only do I, unfortunately, compare myself to how productive some influencers are, but I also compare myself to their budgeting skills. For instance, I used to follow one vlogger who can feed her family of six for only $300 to $400 a month, or so she says.

True, she snags all the clearance deals when she shops. However, I’ve noticed recently, as she has become more popular, she gets more sponsored deals. As part of her sponsorship, she gets free food. For instance, she gets free boxes of Hello Fresh meals from all of her affiliate credits. In addition, she gets free boxes of gourmet food from Thrive Market. Yet, she never acknowledges these items when she shares how much she spends on groceries. Yes, she didn’t spend money on these items, but because she gets them for free, she can spend less on other groceries.

Final Thoughts

If you’re a mom following social media, learn from my mistakes. Do not believe what you see on social media—live your life doing what’s best for your family and your budget because you only see part of an influencer’s life. There may be much more happening behind the scenes that you will never know.

Read More

7 Ways to Save Money on Groceries

Budgeting for Family Expenses

How Parents Can Use Their Social Media Influence

Melissa Batai

Melissa is a writer and virtual assistant. She earned her Master’s from Southern Illinois University, and her Bachelor’s in English from the University of Michigan. When she’s not working, you can find her homeschooling her kids, reading a good book, or cooking. She resides in Arizona where she dislikes the summer heat but loves the natural beauty of the area.

7 Screen-Free Activities for Preschoolers

November 14, 2016 | Leave a Comment

The last thing you’ll ever hear me say is that I’ll never let my kids use technology. Part of their world will always be tied to it. However, I don’t want them to become overstimulated and addicted. To put up healthy boundaries, here are several screen-free activities for preschoolers – since both of my children are that age.

These activities have worked in my family. Now it’s my turn to hand them over to you.

I notice subtle changes in my children’s behavior when they’re in front of a screen for too long. After doing some research, I now understand better what those changes are.

Or more importantly, what they could become.

What does the research say?

Preschoolers don’t reflect the more serious side effects of too much technology, but the average child eight years and older is spending 8 to 11 hours per day looking at a screen, according to the NY Times. What suffers as a result?

Emotional connect. Reasoning skills. Coping mechanisms. The ability to process thoughts, anxieties, and problems.

All those developmental skills are under attack when screens dominate a child’s day, according to this report from NPR.

The earlier we create boundaries for our children’s time with technology, the better their transition into adulthood will be.

7 Screen-Free Activities for Preschoolers

Read books.

The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go. ― Dr. Seuss, I Can Read With My Eyes Shut!

Establishing a daily reading habit with your child is a great way to advance his development away from screens. To change things up, try attending a reading time at your local library or purchase some nonfiction books (i.e. a picture dictionary or a book all about what your child loves most).

We keep a basket in between the children’s car seats so they can pick out a book to read on their own while I drive.

Listen to audio books.

One my kids’ favorite activities is listening to audio books. We pull up “reading chairs” so they know it’s time to sit and listen (you could also cut out cardboard circles with their names on them or set out folded blankets).

The library offers lots of variety when it comes to audio stories for kids. Turn the pages for the children until they get the hang of it and can follow along by themselves.

This activity promotes sitting still, listening, learning by spoken word, and early reading along.

Make believe a favorite character.

During an episode of Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood, my children watched the characters try on several different costumes and parade around the play room. Once we shut the TV off, my kids instantly wanted to be like those characters, so we grabbed some play clothes and made it happen.

This activity helps kids develop their imagination, and helps them understand that not all fun happens on the other side of a screen.

Bring mess-free travel crafts.

Screen-free activities for toddlers especially come in handy in the car. Have a basket of mess-free crafts, book or toys can help them learn to occupy themselves without DVDs or iPads.

One of my go-to examples is the Melissa and Doug Paint with Water book. These last a long time, help your children learn hand-eye coordination, and never leave a mess behind.

They also make great birthday presents for other children. Find them here.

Build something.

Whether it’s a fort made from couch cushions or a castle made from LEGOs, building something is immensely beneficial to your preschooler. It’s like you can see the smoke rising from the wheels turning in their brain as they problem solve each piece of the puzzle or tower.

My favorite toy that helps my children develop these skills is the Mega Bloks Big Building Bag.
It’s an 80-piece set of easy-to-use building blocks that can be added to over time and at any age.

Getting outside.

Staying active is next to impossible while a child is hooked up to a screen. Just like you can create a reading time every day, try to take the kids outside each day. You can take them to the park, for a walk, to the zoo, the pool, on a field trip, or just out to the driveway with some sidewalk chalk.

Study the world together.

Last Christmas, my husband and I gave our children a globe. Over the last year, we’ve looked at it together and studied the numerous intricacies of our world. Yes, you can download Google Earth for free, but studying a 3D globe in a group is different. The children can feel the earth. They feel the mountain ranges, spin the planet on its axis, and wrap their arms around its round shape.

Being able to study that together creates a discussion format that wouldn’t likely happen through an app.

For more ways to keep your kids busy without putting them in front of a screen check out these articles.

8 Simple Rainy Day Activities For Kids
Three Inexpensive Spring Break Ideas
How to Save Money On Kids Toys

What screen-free activities for preschoolers does your family enjoy?

Image Credit: Frank McKenna (UnSplash)

This post may contain affiliate links.

How Parents Can Use Their Social Media Influence

August 21, 2013 | 1 Comment

Social media has permeated into every aspect of life. Every night on the news, I guarantee you that there will be some story about social media, or that uses social media (a viral video, a tweet, a story from Facebook). The bottom line is that everyone has become a reporter, and that is important for brands to take notice.

As parents, it is important to realize that we have a lot of influence when it comes to social media. Entire networks of parent blogs have emerged and they carry a lot of influence. It’s time for the internet marketing company to take note of the influence that parents have, especially on social media.

Using Social Media for Good

There are so many examples of how parents are using social media for good. For example, I have a friend on Facebook who started a viral campaign to raise money for a child with disabilities. The goal was to get him to get a special treatment that their family couldn’t afford.

Prior to social media, the only way these campaigns would have been successful is if the community got enough support that the local news station covered it. Then, if you were really lucky, the national news would have picked up the story as well.

Today, you can have stories go viral on social media and instantly reach millions of people overnight – you can even buy Instagram likes to help give your story the best chance of being seen by as many people as possible and getting the word spread around the world. In the case of the story above, the family was able to raise over $10,000 for their child to get the treatment they needed, all from anonymous donors all over the world. Talk about the power of social media.

Using Social Media for Change

Parents also have a lot of clout when it comes to dealing with brands. Parents literally have the power to change the fate of different companies – both positively and negatively.

In the past, brands would rely on advertising to get out the word on new products. Now, brands will hire an SEO company to contract with bloggers to review their new products. This is a big shift in the marketing world – instead of national advertising campaigns, advertising takes the form of recommendations from other parents that people trust. This really shows the influence of parents online.

On the flip side, if parents are dissatisfied with a brand, or how they were treated, they have an instant outlet. And the last thing that brands want is to be called out on social media by dissatisfied parents. Because, once again, a poor experience can go viral and end up on the nightly news. Entire websites, like the Consumerist, exist to showcase these stories.

How else can parents use their social media influence?

Brian

Brian is the founder of Kids Ain’t Cheap and is now sharing his journey through parenthood.

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