With summer around the corner, many people are ready to embrace all of the activities that come with the season — like BBQs, beach trips, and tanning — but if you know anything about the sun and its powerful UV rays, you know that partaking in the latter pastime is bad for your skin [1] and should be avoided. This is likely the motivation behind the fake tan lines trend going around on TikTok right now.

If you're practicing proper sun protection by staying in the shade and reapplying sun tan lotion [2], you likely won't get tan lines from the sun. Still, some people do like the look of them, hence its recent surge in popularity. Tan lines can feel a bit nostalgic. They're often synonymous with a good time spent by the pool or picnicking with friends — so some people are opting to re-create them with makeup. All you need is some bronzer and blush to fake the look of faux bikini straps on your chest.

Considering the long-standing obsession with self tanner and getting a sun-kissed glow [3], the concept really shouldn't be that surprising. It's not that different from fake freckles — another popular makeup trend from summers gone by. That said, some people don't understand the appeal, citing that they try everything in their power to prevent tan lines, even while tanning. Each to their own.

@erinduganjurchak [4]

I see u @coelhoaoquadrado !!!! #faketan [5]

♬ Cupid – Twin Ver. (FIFTY FIFTY) – Sped Up Version - sped up 8282 [6]

If you're into the tan line look, there are a handful of videos on the app to help you recreate it at home, but one tutorial posted [7] by beauty creator Erin Dugan Jurchak [8] breaks it down into easy-to-follow steps.

Simply use some tape to mark off where you want your "swimsuit" straps to be, then grab your favourite powdered bronzer and blush. Mixing the two products, she used a brush to dab the pigment over the straps, then peeled off the tape and blended in any harsh lines with her fingers. You can use options like the Benefit Cosmetics Hoola Matte Powder Bronzer [9] (£27) or the Physicians Formula Butter Bronzer Murumuru Butter Bronzer [10] (£14) and the Tarte Amazonian Clay 12-Hour Blush [11] (£35).