Instagram Reels Algorithm Tips for Makeup Tutorials Creators | ViralNow
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Strategy4 min readFeb 3, 2026

Instagram Reels Algorithm Tips for Makeup Tutorials Creators

Work with the Instagram Reels algorithm to boost your Makeup Tutorials content.

Want to grow your Makeup Tutorials content on Instagram Reels? Instagram Reels uses a two-phase system: first showing to your followers, then expanding to non-followers on the Reels tab and Explore if engagement is strong. For Makeup Tutorials creators specifically, this means understanding what Makeup enthusiasts want and how Instagram Reels's system rewards content that delivers. This guide covers exactly how to make Instagram Reels's algorithm work for your Makeup Tutorials content.

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How Instagram Reels's Algorithm Works for Makeup Tutorials Creators

Understanding Instagram Reels's system helps you work with it, not against it:

  • Instagram Reels uses a two-phase system: first showing to your followers, then expanding to non-followers on the Reels tab and Explore if engagement is strong
  • For Makeup Tutorials content, engagement from your existing followers first, then shares to Stories and DMs (Instagram's social DNA)
  • Instagram Reels's cross-pollination with your Instagram feed, Stories, and DMs—building relationships that compound over time means Makeup Tutorials creators can reach Makeup enthusiasts without existing followers
  • The algorithm categorizes your content—use Makeup Tutorials signals (hashtags, topics) to reach the right audience

Pro Tip: ViralNow predicts how your Makeup Tutorials content will perform before you post.

What Actually Drives Makeup Tutorials Growth on Instagram Reels

Forget "algorithm hacks." These fundamentals work for Makeup Tutorials creators:

  • Visual hooks matter more here—first frame should be striking. Trending audio gives significant boost—this is critical for Makeup Tutorials content targeting Makeup enthusiasts
  • Deliver value throughout—Makeup Tutorials viewers stay when every second matters
  • Instagram rewards visual polish more than TikTok. Aesthetic matters. Remove TikTok watermarks or get deprioritized
  • Post when Makeup enthusiasts are active (check your Instagram Reels analytics)
  • Reply to comments—Instagram Reels sees conversation as quality signal

Growth Myths Makeup Tutorials Creators Should Ignore

Don't waste time on these for Instagram Reels:

  • Exact posting times matter less than content quality for Makeup Tutorials
  • Use 5-10 targeted hashtags. Hashtags are more searchable here than TikTok—people actually follow hashtags on Instagram
  • Buying followers destroys your reach—Instagram Reels knows and penalizes
  • There's no magic posting frequency—consistency beats volume for Makeup Tutorials
  • Cross-posting without optimization hurts—adapt Makeup Tutorials content to Instagram Reels's style

Instagram Reels vs Other Platforms for Makeup Tutorials

Instagram Reels has specific strengths for Makeup Tutorials creators:

  • Instagram Reels is brand deals and lifestyle integration—Instagram's audience has more purchasing power and brands pay premium rates
  • Instagram's audience is slightly older (18-44) and values aesthetics and lifestyle content
  • cross-pollination with your Instagram feed, Stories, and DMs—building relationships that compound over time works well for Makeup Tutorials discovery
  • Growth is slower but more stable than TikTok—followers are more loyal and engaged long-term
  • Consider Instagram Reels as your primary or secondary platform based on where Makeup enthusiasts spend time

Frequently Asked Questions

How does Instagram Reels's algorithm work for Makeup Tutorials content?

Instagram Reels uses a two-phase system: first showing to your followers, then expanding to non-followers on the Reels tab and Explore if engagement is strong. For Makeup Tutorials content specifically, engagement from your existing followers first, then shares to Stories and DMs (Instagram's social DNA). The algorithm categorizes your content based on signals—using #makeup and #makeuptutorial helps Instagram Reels show your Makeup Tutorials videos to Makeup enthusiasts.

Why isn't my Makeup Tutorials content going viral on Instagram Reels?

On Instagram Reels, engagement from your existing followers first, then shares to Stories and DMs (Instagram's social DNA). For Makeup Tutorials specifically: Is your hook grabbing Makeup enthusiasts in the first second? Visual hooks matter more here—first frame should be striking. Trending audio gives significant boost Check if you're using Makeup Tutorials-relevant hashtags—generic tags put you against everyone. Instagram rewards visual polish more than TikTok. Aesthetic matters. Remove TikTok watermarks or get deprioritized

How long does it take to grow a Makeup Tutorials account on Instagram Reels?

Growth is slower but more stable than TikTok—followers are more loyal and engaged long-term For Makeup Tutorials with very-high competition, expect similar patterns. Focus on each video being better than the last. In Makeup Tutorials, your unique angle matters more than posting frequency—Makeup enthusiasts follow creators who offer something different.

What makes Instagram Reels different from other platforms for Makeup Tutorials creators?

Instagram Reels is brand deals and lifestyle integration—Instagram's audience has more purchasing power and brands pay premium rates. Instagram's audience is slightly older (18-44) and values aesthetics and lifestyle content For Makeup Tutorials creators, this means Makeup Tutorials content should be adapted to fit Instagram Reels's style. Instagram rewards visual polish more than TikTok. Aesthetic matters. Remove TikTok watermarks or get deprioritized Your Makeup enthusiasts on Instagram Reels may behave differently than on other platforms.

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