Japan's Viral '3D Teardrop' Make-Up Trend Using Hot Melt Glue Sparks Controversy
Many have questioned the trend's appropriateness.
By Sukhbir Cheema — 25 Nov 2024, 04:36 PM
A quirky new beauty trend among Japanese teenage schoolgirls is going viral, but not without sparking debate
Dubbed "3D teardrop make-up", the trend involves creating realistic teardrop shapes using hot melt glue and attaching them to the face to simulate a dramatic, cry-like effect.
While it has gained popularity on social media, the trend has drawn sharp criticism for its resemblance to bodily fluids, such as snot and sperm, South China Morning Post reports.
The process involves extruding hot glue onto a non-stick surface like plastic, allowing it to cool into tear-shaped droplets. These are then affixed to the skin with eyelash glue.
The result? A carefully curated illusion of delicate, rolling tears meant to evoke sympathy and enhance photos.
This DIY beauty statement has become a hit with Japan's secondary schoolgirls
These girls constantly experiment with affordable materials to craft unique, shareable styles for platforms like Instagram and X (Twitter).
However, not everyone is a fan.
Critics in Japan and China have labelled the trend as "ridiculous" and "bizarre".
Many have questioned the trend's appropriateness, given its unintended resemblance to snot and sperm
Beyond aesthetics, there are safety concerns.
Manufacturers of hot melt glue have cautioned that the product is designed for crafts, not cosmetics. Skin irritation, allergic reactions, and burns are real risks, prompting warnings against its use in this way.
Yet, the fleeting nature of such trends — often lasting only a few weeks — suggests that "3D teardrop make-up" may soon fade, making room for the next viral style.
