TikTok's algorithm is a complex beast, but one of its most powerful signals is hashtag usage. Choosing the right ones can be the difference between a video that languishes with 200 views and one that reaches millions. While generic advice tells you to just 'use trending tags,' a truly effective strategy involves understanding why certain hashtags go viral and how to pair them with the right content.
This guide dives deep into the most viral hashtags on TikTok, moving beyond the obvious to give you the context, strategy, and actionable prompts needed to create content that captivates the For You Page. We'll explore the mechanics behind each tag, from broad-reach titans like #FYP to niche-specific powerhouses like #TikTokMadeMeBuyIt.
You will learn not just what to post, but how to implement these tags for maximum impact. We will break down the ideal content formats, sound pairings, and even provide specific prompts to get you started immediately. Consider this your blueprint for creators, brands, and marketers aiming for explosive growth and genuine connection on the platform. Let's get into the list.
1. #FYP (For You Page)
The hashtag #FYP is the undisputed titan of TikTok, acting as a direct signal to the platform's powerful recommendation engine. Short for "For You Page," this tag explicitly tells the algorithm that a creator wants their content pushed to the main discovery feed where videos go viral. Its ubiquity makes it an essential, non-negotiable component for anyone seeking broad visibility, making it one of the most viral hashtags on TikTok by sheer volume and impact.
How to Use #FYP Effectively
While simply adding #FYP is a start, strategic implementation is key. Its primary function is to broaden your video's initial audience pool, giving it a better chance to find its target viewers. Think of it as opening the floodgates for potential discovery.
Placement is Crucial: Always position
#FYPor its close variant#ForYouPagewithin your first three hashtags. This ensures the algorithm immediately recognizes your intent for widespread distribution.Combine with Niche Tags: Never use
#FYPalone. Pair it with 2-3 specific hashtags relevant to your content (e.g.,#BookTok,#DIYProjects) to help the algorithm categorize your video accurately after the initial push.Consistency Matters: Repeatedly using
#FYPon high-quality, engaging content trains the algorithm to associate your account with discoverable videos, potentially improving your overall reach over time.
Pro Tip: Combine
#FYPwith a trending sound or filter. This creates a powerful duo, signaling to the algorithm that your content is both timely and intended for a wide audience, maximizing its viral potential.
2. #TikTokMadeMeBuyIt
The hashtag #TikTokMadeMeBuyIt has transformed the platform into a powerful e-commerce engine, driving massive sales for products that capture the community's attention. This tag is the digital equivalent of word-of-mouth marketing on a global scale, tapping into authentic user-generated reviews and demonstrations that influence purchasing decisions. Its explosive growth highlights how TikTok has become a marketing goldmine, making it one of the most viral hashtags on TikTok for brands and consumers alike.
How to Use #TikTokMadeMeBuyIt Effectively
Using this hashtag successfully hinges on authenticity and showcasing a product's genuine value. It is less about a hard sell and more about sharing an exciting discovery, whether you're a consumer reviewer or a brand demonstrating a product's unique features.
Focus on the Experience: Create authentic unboxing, first impression, or "problem-solution" style videos. Show the product in action and highlight the specific reasons it was a worthy purchase.
Pair with Product & Brand Tags: Always combine
#TikTokMadeMeBuyItwith specific product hashtags (e.g.,#StanleyCup,#AmazonFinds) and tag the brand's official account to maximize visibility and brand association.Engage with Questions: Viewers will ask about price, availability, and features. Actively responding to comments builds trust and provides social proof, encouraging others to make the purchase.
Pro Tip: Create a sense of urgency and exclusivity by linking to "Amazon storefront finds" or highlighting a limited-time deal. This not only adds value for the viewer but also drives immediate traffic and conversions.
3. #Trend or #Challenge
Challenge-based hashtags are the engine of participation-based virality on TikTok, turning passive viewers into active creators. Hashtags like #Trend or a specific #ChallengeName invite users to create their own versions of a specific format, sound, or dance. This user-generated content model creates an exponential growth loop, as each new video promotes the trend to another audience, solidifying its place among the most viral hashtags on TikTok.
How to Use #Trend or #Challenge Effectively
The goal is to join an existing trend or create a new one that is easy to replicate. Virality here depends on lowering the barrier to entry so millions can participate, as seen with hits like the #BussItChallenge or the #DontRushChallenge.
Act Quickly: The lifespan of a trend is short. To capitalize on its momentum, you must create and post your version within 48 hours of it gaining traction.
Combine with Audio: These hashtags are almost always tied to a specific trending sound. Using the correct audio is non-negotiable, as it’s the primary way users discover different versions of the challenge.
Add Your Unique Spin: While you must follow the core format of the challenge, add a personal or brand-specific twist. This makes your content stand out within the sea of similar videos, increasing shareability.
Pro Tip: If launching your own challenge, create a simple tutorial video as your first post. A clear, easy-to-follow guide removes friction and encourages others to attempt your trend, significantly boosting its chances of going viral.
4. #DanceChallenge
The #DanceChallenge hashtag is a cultural cornerstone of TikTok, representing the platform's deep roots in music-driven, movement-based content. It serves as a hub for choreographed routines set to trending songs, often launched by artists or popularized by creators like Charli D'Amelio. This tag's immense power comes from its high engagement potential; dance videos are visually captivating, easy to replicate, and benefit from the algorithm's preference for content that utilizes trending audio, making it one of the most viral hashtags on TikTok for creators of all sizes.
How to Use #DanceChallenge Effectively
Success with #DanceChallenge isn't just about nailing the moves; it’s about timing, execution, and engagement. The goal is to participate in a larger cultural moment while adding a personal touch that makes your version stand out.
Master the Basics, Add Your Flair: Learn the core choreography of a popular trend, like the #BlindingLights or #WAPChallenge, then add a unique twist, a funny background, or a costume to make your video memorable.
Credit the Creator: Always tag the original choreographer (@mention) in your caption. This is a crucial piece of TikTok etiquette that builds community and can even earn you a share from the original creator.
Optimize Your Setup: Film in a well-lit space with a clean background so viewers can clearly see your movements. Poor lighting or a cluttered environment can make your video easy to scroll past.
Pro Tip: Use the "Duet" or "Stitch" feature to perform a dance alongside the original creator's video. This directly connects your content to the trend's source and encourages immediate comparison and engagement.
5. #BeautyTok or #MakeupTransformation
The #BeautyTok hashtag is a powerhouse community for all things beauty, from intricate makeup tutorials to detailed skincare routines and dramatic transformations. This content category consistently drives massive engagement, making it a cornerstone for creators and brands in the cosmetics and wellness industries. Its visual nature and potential for stunning before-and-after reveals make it one of the most viral hashtags on TikTok for generating high-impact, shareable content.
How to Use #BeautyTok Effectively
Success within #BeautyTok hinges on visual clarity, creator authenticity, and delivering tangible value, whether it's a new hack or a product review. The goal is to create content that is both aspirational and achievable for viewers.
Focus on Transformation: Use trending transition effects to create compelling before-and-after reveals. The contrast is highly engaging and often results in high share rates.
Show, Don't Just Tell: Clearly show each product used and demonstrate the application technique slowly and precisely. Using on-screen text to label products is a best practice.
Pair with Specific Tags: Combine
#BeautyTokwith more focused tags like#MakeupHacks,#SkincareRoutine, or#EyelinerTutorialto attract a more targeted audience searching for specific tips.
Pro Tip: Use high-quality lighting, such as a ring light, to ensure your makeup and skin are shown clearly and accurately. Poor lighting can hide details and diminish the impact of your transformation.
6. #FitnessMotivation or #Workout
The #FitnessMotivation and #Workout hashtags tap into a massive and highly engaged community dedicated to health, exercise, and personal transformation. These tags are central to the #GymTok subculture, serving as a hub for everything from workout tutorials to inspirational progress videos. Their consistent popularity makes them a powerful tool for creators in the wellness space, placing them firmly among the most viral hashtags on TikTok for their ability to foster community and drive engagement.
How to Use #FitnessMotivation Effectively
Success with these hashtags hinges on providing value, motivation, and authenticity. Viewers are looking for actionable advice and relatable journeys, not just polished workout clips. Think of your content as a resource that inspires viewers to start or continue their own fitness path.
Showcase Proper Form: Prioritize safety and education by clearly demonstrating the correct technique for each exercise. This builds trust and positions you as a credible source.
Combine with Niche Tags: Pair broad tags like
#Workoutwith more specific ones such as#HomeWorkout,#TransformationTuesday, or#LegDayto attract a more targeted and interested audience.Share Your Journey: Personal transformation stories are incredibly powerful. Documenting your progress, including struggles and successes, creates a compelling narrative that resonates deeply with viewers.
Pro Tip: Use upbeat, high-energy trending audio to complement your workout videos. Add on-screen text to highlight key information like rep counts, set numbers, or calorie estimates to provide immediate value and make your content more shareable.
7. #FunnyVideos or #Comedy
The hashtags #FunnyVideos and #Comedy are evergreen powerhouses, tapping directly into the entertainment-first core of TikTok. Humor is a universal language that drives immense engagement, shares, and watch time, making these tags a reliable engine for virality. Their broad appeal ensures that comedy-focused content can reach a massive, diverse audience, securing their spot among the most viral hashtags on TikTok.
How to Use #FunnyVideos Effectively
Using these hashtags is about more than just being funny; it's about packaging your humor for the platform. The goal is to create content that is instantly relatable, shareable, and optimized for quick consumption, leveraging the algorithm's preference for high-engagement videos.
Pair with Niche Humor: Combine a broad tag like
#FunnyVideoswith a more specific one to find your audience. For example, use#Relatablefor everyday scenarios or#Cringefor intentionally awkward humor.Leverage Trending Audio: Comedic timing is everything. Use trending sounds or audio clips as the backbone of your joke, skit, or punchline to capitalize on existing momentum and user familiarity.
Optimize for Short Form: Keep comedy videos, especially those using these general tags, under 15 seconds. This maximizes completion rates and encourages viewers to re-watch, signaling strong engagement to the algorithm.
Pro Tip: Use text overlays as a setup or punchline. This allows viewers to understand the joke even with the sound off and makes the content more accessible, significantly boosting its shareability and viral potential.
8. #EdutokOrEducation
The hashtag #Edutok signifies TikTok's powerful transformation into a micro-learning platform. This tag aggregates content where creators teach skills, explain complex concepts, and share fascinating facts, proving that viral content can be both entertaining and educational. Its immense popularity, often seen as #EdutokOrEducation, has created a space for teachers, experts, and enthusiasts to reach a massive audience, solidifying its status as one of the most viral hashtags on TikTok for knowledge-based content.
How to Use #Edutok Effectively
Success with #Edutok hinges on making learning digestible and engaging for a fast-scrolling audience. It’s about simplifying complexity without sacrificing accuracy, turning your expertise into captivating short-form video.
Focus on Clarity: Break down one specific concept per video. Use clear text overlays, simple graphics, and a concise script to explain the topic in under 60 seconds.
Pair with Niche Tags: Combine
#Edutokwith more specific tags like#HistoryTok,#LanguageLearning, or#ScienceFactsto attract viewers interested in your particular subject.Create a Series: For multi-part topics, use TikTok's series or playlist feature. Announce the series in your video and caption (e.g., "Part 1: The French Revolution") to encourage viewers to follow for more.
Pro Tip: Use a trending sound quietly in the background of your explanation. This helps your educational video get picked up by the algorithm for its trendiness while your voiceover delivers the valuable information, blending discovery with learning.
9. #RelationshipGoals or #FYP Couple
The hashtags #RelationshipGoals and #FYPcouple tap into one of TikTok’s most evergreen content categories: relationships. This tag is a powerhouse for couple-centric content, from humorous skits about domestic life to aspirational date ideas and heartfelt moments. Its viral potential stems from high audience relatability and engagement, as viewers love to see authentic, funny, or romantic dynamics, solidifying its spot among the most viral hashtags on TikTok for lifestyle creators.
How to Use #RelationshipGoals Effectively
Success with this hashtag hinges on balancing authenticity with aspirational appeal. It's about showcasing genuine connection in a way that viewers can either relate to or admire, making them feel invested in your story.
Show, Don't Just Tell: Instead of just saying you have a great relationship, show it through actions. This could be a "get ready with us for a date night" video, a prank, or a challenge you complete together.
Combine with Specific Sub-niches: Pair
#RelationshipGoalswith more targeted tags like#DateIdeas,#LongDistanceLove, or#CouplesChallenge. This helps the algorithm find the most interested audience for your specific type of couple content.Create a Series: Develop a recurring series, such as "Things My Partner Does That Just Make Sense" or a weekly date night review. This encourages viewers to follow for more, building a loyal community around your content.
Pro Tip: Use trending sounds that involve two people or feature dialogue. This provides a simple, low-effort framework for creating a relatable or funny video that feels native to the platform and boosts discoverability.
10. #GRWM (Get Ready With Me)
The hashtag #GRWM is a lifestyle content powerhouse, offering a personal glimpse into a creator's preparation routine. Short for "Get Ready With Me," these videos chronicle everything from makeup application and outfit selection to morning rituals. This format fosters a unique parasocial connection, making viewers feel like they are part of a friend's daily life, which is why it remains one of the most viral hashtags on TikTok for building a loyal community.
How to Use #GRWM Effectively
A successful #GRWM video is more than just a time-lapse; it's a storytelling opportunity that blends personality with practical tips. The goal is to create a visually engaging and relatable narrative that holds viewer attention from start to finish.
Vary Your Shots: Film from multiple angles to keep the video dynamic. Use close-ups for detail work like makeup and wider shots for outfit reveals. Speed up mundane parts and use normal speed for key highlights.
Narrate Your Process: Use a voiceover or talk directly to the camera to share your thoughts, explain product choices, or tell a story. This personal touch is what transforms a simple routine into compelling content.
Add Informational Overlays: Use text overlays to identify products, share tips, or ask questions to encourage engagement in the comments section.
Pro Tip: Align your chosen audio with the video's mood. A calm, lo-fi track works well for a relaxed morning routine, while an upbeat, trending song is perfect for a high-energy "Get Ready For a Night Out" video.
11. #Storytime
The #Storytime hashtag is a cornerstone of TikTok's long-form narrative content, captivating audiences with personal anecdotes, dramatic retellings, and engaging life experiences. Its power lies in human connection; these videos build suspense and emotional investment, encouraging viewers to watch until the very end. The high watch time and engagement associated with this format signal value to the algorithm, making #Storytime one of the most viral hashtags on TikTok for creators who excel at weaving a compelling tale.
How to Use #Storytime Effectively
Success with #Storytime depends entirely on your ability to hold a viewer's attention from the first second to the last. This requires more than just a good story; it requires strategic delivery and a clear narrative arc to maximize engagement and shareability.
Hook Immediately: Start with the most dramatic or intriguing part of your story (e.g., "The time I accidentally crashed a celebrity's party..."). You have less than three seconds to convince someone to stay.
Combine with Visuals: Don't rely solely on talking. Use on-screen text for emphasis, relevant B-roll clips, or even simple animations to keep the visual experience dynamic and the story easy to follow.
Pacing and Payoff: Build tension throughout your narrative. Use strategic pauses and varying vocal tones to create suspense, and always deliver a satisfying conclusion, a surprising twist, or a relatable moral at the end.
Pro Tip: Use the "Part 1" and "Part 2" format strategically. If a story is genuinely long, splitting it can build anticipation and drive viewers to your profile, but ensure the first part has a strong cliffhanger.
12. #Aesthetic
The hashtag #Aesthetic represents a massive and visually-driven category on TikTok, focusing on content that adheres to a specific artistic theme, color palette, or mood. It thrives on creating a cohesive and pleasing visual experience, from fashion and interior design to serene nature clips. Its immense popularity, with over 200 billion views, makes it one of the most viral hashtags on TikTok for creators who can master a specific visual style and appeal to audiences seeking inspiration.
How to Use #Aesthetic Effectively
Success with #Aesthetic relies on consistency and a strong visual identity. This hashtag isn't just a tag; it's a commitment to a particular style that helps the algorithm find users who appreciate curated, high-quality visuals.
Define Your Vibe: Before filming, decide on your specific aesthetic. Is it minimalist, dark academia, cottagecore, or something else? Your content should clearly communicate this theme.
Pair with Niche Descriptors: Combine
#Aestheticwith more specific tags to attract a targeted audience. Use combinations like#FashionAesthetic,#NatureAesthetic, or#DesignInspoto categorize your content precisely.Focus on Visual Quality: High-resolution video, good lighting (especially natural light), and intentional color grading are non-negotiable. This hashtag’s audience has a high standard for visual appeal.
Pro Tip: Create a cohesive feed over time. Using a consistent color palette and style across multiple videos will encourage profile visits and follows, as your entire page becomes an aesthetic experience, not just a single video.
Top 12 Viral TikTok Hashtags Comparison
| Hashtag | Implementation 🔄 (Complexity) | Resources ⚡ (Requirements) | Expected Outcomes 📊⭐ | Ideal Use Cases 💡 | Key Advantages ⭐ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #FYP (For You Page) | Low 🔄 — add to captions; minimal setup | Low ⚡ — no extra gear or inventory | Very high reach potential 📊 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ — discovery-focused | All creators seeking broad visibility | Broad visibility; essential for algorithm optimization |
| #TikTokMademeBuyIt | Medium 🔄 — product-focused narrative + trust building | High ⚡ — product quality, inventory, good creatives | High conversion potential 📊 ⭐⭐⭐⭐ — views → sales possible | E‑commerce brands, small businesses, resellers | Direct sales correlation; authentic testimonials drive purchases |
| #Trend or #Challenge | Medium‑High 🔄 — design repeatable format & prompts | Medium ⚡ — concept, trending audio, community seeding | Very high engagement & spread 📊 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ — viral loops | Rapid growth campaigns, community building | Exponential participation; strong organic amplification |
| #DanceChallenge | Medium 🔄 — choreography + timing precision | Low‑Medium ⚡ — practice space, good audio, camera | Very high views & shares 📊 ⭐⭐⭐⭐ — strong algorithmic lift | Dancers, music promotion, performers | High shareability; cross‑platform viral potential |
| #BeautyTok / #MakeupTransformation | Medium 🔄 — stepwise demos & transitions | Medium‑High ⚡ — products, lighting, editing tools | High niche engagement & partnerships 📊 ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Makeup artists, beauty brands, affiliate creators | Strong brand/affiliate opportunities; loyal audience |
| #FitnessMotivation / #Workout | Medium 🔄 — demonstrate exercises safely | Low‑Medium ⚡ — space, basic equipment, editing | Growing engagement & sponsorships 📊 ⭐⭐⭐ | Trainers, wellness influencers, gyms | Authentic community support; sponsorship potential |
| #FunnyVideos / #Comedy | Low 🔄 — idea and timing driven | Low ⚡ — minimal equipment, quick edits | High virality potential 📊 ⭐⭐⭐⭐ — rapid reach gains | Comedians, entertainers, broad audiences | Low barrier to entry; wide demographic appeal |
| #Edutok / #Education | Medium 🔄 — condense topics clearly | Low‑Medium ⚡ — research, visuals, citations | Steady growth; authority building 📊 ⭐⭐⭐ | Teachers, experts, knowledge creators | Credibility building; positive brand alignment |
| #RelationshipGoals / #FYP Couple | Low‑Medium 🔄 — ongoing authentic storytelling | Low ⚡ — partners’ time, simple production | High engagement & emotional connection 📊 ⭐⭐⭐ | Couples, lifestyle creators, relationship coaches | Strong emotional resonance; sponsor fit for lifestyle brands |
| #GRWM (Get Ready With Me) | Medium 🔄 — multi-step filming & pacing | Medium ⚡ — lighting, editing, product placement | High watch‑through & affiliate potential 📊 ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Beauty/fashion creators, influencers | Natural product placement; high retention rates |
| #Storytime | Medium 🔄 — strong hook and pacing required | Low ⚡ — minimal props, editing for emphasis | High retention & shareability 📊 ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Storytellers, personalities, comedy creators | Strong audience connection; memorable narratives |
| #Aesthetic / #ViralTrend | Medium‑High 🔄 — maintain visual cohesion | Medium‑High ⚡ — camera, lighting, editing skill | Moderate steady growth; saves & shares 📊 ⭐⭐⭐ | Designers, photographers, creative brands | Timeless visual appeal; cross‑platform repurposing |
From Hashtags to High Performance: Your Next Steps
You've just navigated a comprehensive map of the most viral hashtags on TikTok, from the universal reach of #FYP to the niche-specific communities of #BeautyTok and #Edutok. The core lesson is clear: these trending tags are far more than simple labels. They represent entire ecosystems of content, complete with their own audience expectations, creative formats, and cultural nuances.
Mastering this landscape requires a strategic shift in thinking. Instead of just adding a popular tag to a finished video, you should use the hashtag as a starting point for creation. Think of #GRWM not just as a tag, but as a content blueprint for authentic, behind-the-scenes connection. View #TikTokMadeMeBuyIt as a framework for demonstrating genuine product value that resonates with savvy consumers. This intentional approach is what separates fleeting visibility from sustained growth.
Key Takeaways for Your Content Strategy
To translate this knowledge into action, focus on these critical principles:
Context Over Clicks: Don't just chase a trending hashtag. Understand the why behind its popularity. Is it a dance, a challenge, a storytelling format? Creating content that authentically fits the trend's context will always outperform a video that feels forced.
The Power of Blending: The most effective hashtag strategies combine broad, high-volume tags (like
#ViralTrend) with specific, community-focused ones (like#MakeupTransformation). This allows you to signal your content's relevance to both the algorithm and your target audience simultaneously.Hashtags Inform Format: Let the tag guide your creative decisions. A
#Storytimetag demands a narrative arc, while a#Workoutvideo needs to deliver clear, motivational value. Aligning your video's structure with the hashtag's promise builds trust with viewers and encourages engagement.
Ultimately, the goal is to move from being a passive participant in trends to an active, strategic creator. By understanding the language of TikTok's most viral hashtags, you equip yourself with the tools to build a durable presence, connect with a dedicated community, and achieve your specific content goals. The hashtags are your guideposts; your unique creative voice is what will make the journey a success. Remember that consistency, informed by a deep understanding of what works, is the true engine of high performance on the platform.
Tired of endlessly scrolling to find the next big trend? Let Viral.new do the heavy lifting. Our AI-powered platform analyzes real-time data to deliver ready-to-shoot video ideas tailored to your niche, so you can focus on creating instead of chasing. Visit Viral.new to turn trend-spotting into your strategic advantage.
