How to Use and Create Effects on TikTok (2026 Guide)

Introduction

TikTok effects are one of the main reasons videos go viral. From face filters and AR objects to AI effects and trending templates, creators use them to boost engagement, improve watch time, and appear on the For You Page (FYP).

In this 2026 guide, you’ll learn how to use TikTok effects, how to create your own effects, and how to optimize them for more views.

What Are TikTok Effects?

TikTok effects are visual or interactive tools that modify your video in real time or during editing. They can change appearance, add animations, apply AI transformations, or create interactive scenes.

Popular categories include:

• Beauty and face filters
• AR (Augmented Reality) effects
• Green Screen effects
• AI-generated effects
• Trending challenge effects
• Interactive gaming effects

Effects help creators increase retention and make videos more engaging, which can improve algorithm performance.

How to Use Effects on TikTok

Step 1: Open the TikTok Camera

Open TikTok and tap the “+” button to start recording a new video.

Step 2: Tap the Effects Button

On the left side of the record button, tap “Effects.” You’ll see a library with trending and saved filters.

Step 3: Choose an Effect

Browse categories or use the search bar to find specific effects. You can preview effects before recording.

Step 4: Record Your Video

Press and hold the record button while the effect is active. Some effects respond to movement, gestures, or facial expressions.

Step 5: Edit and Publish

After recording, add text, music, captions, or transitions. Then publish your video with relevant hashtags.

How to Find Trending TikTok Effects in 2026

Trending effects change quickly, but you can find them by:

• Checking the “Trending” tab in Effects
• Watching viral videos on the FYP
• Tapping effect names above popular videos
• Following creators who test new filters daily

Using trending effects early increases your chances of getting featured on the For You Page.

How to Create Your Own TikTok Effect

TikTok allows creators to build custom effects using Effect House.

Step 1: Download Effect House

Install TikTok Effect House on your computer (Windows or Mac).

Step 2: Choose a Template

Start with templates like face tracking, background replacement, or AR objects.

Step 3: Customize the Effect

You can:

• Add 3D objects
• Create animations
• Use face or body tracking
• Add interactive triggers
• Apply AI transformations

Step 4: Test the Effect

Preview your effect in real time using your camera or phone connection.

Step 5: Publish to TikTok

Submit the effect for review. After approval, other users can apply it in their videos.

How to Make Your Effect Popular

To increase visibility:

• Use clear effect names with keywords
• Add a simple demo video
• Create videos showing how the effect works
• Join trending challenges
• Encourage users to recreate your video

The more creators use your effect, the more TikTok promotes it.

Common Problems with TikTok Effects

Effects Not Loading

• Update TikTok
• Clear app cache
• Restart the app

Effect Not Available

Some effects are region-limited or removed by creators.

Low Performance with Effects

Heavy AR effects may reduce video quality on older devices. Try lighter filters.

Best Types of Effects for Growth in 2026

According to creator trends, these effects perform best:

• AI face transformations
• Before/after filters
• Interactive AR games
• Storytelling effects
• Meme-based templates

Simple effects often outperform complex ones because they are easier for others to copy.

FAQ

Can anyone create TikTok effects?

Yes. Anyone can create effects using TikTok Effect House and publish them after approval.

Do effects help videos go viral?

Effects can increase engagement and watch time, which helps videos reach more users.

Are TikTok effects free?

Most effects are free to use and available inside the app.

How long does effect approval take?

Usually from a few hours to several days depending on review volume.

Final Thoughts

TikTok effects are one of the fastest ways to improve video quality and reach new audiences in 2026. Whether you use trending filters or create your own AR experience, effects can help you stand out and increase engagement.

Experiment regularly, follow trends early, and create content that encourages viewers to try your effect themselves.