In just a few years, Dododots transformed from a small skincare startup into a multi-million-dollar brand, all thanks to the explosive power of TikTok marketing. By leveraging authenticity, viral trends, and Gen Z-friendly strategies, Dododots didn’t just go viral—it built a sustainable business that continues to thrive.
Here’s how they did it—and what your brand can learn from their success.
1. The Viral Spark: How TikTok Made Dododots a Household Name
Dododots’ rise began with a single viral TikTok video that showcased their colorful, themed pimple patches in a way that felt fresh and fun. Unlike traditional acne solutions, Dododots leaned into playful designs (like "Your Ex" cockroach patches and gem-studded butterflies), making them instantly shareable.
Key TikTok Moments That Catapulted Dododots:
Behind-the-Scenes Restocking Video – A clip of founders refilling a mall vending machine gained 4.5M views, humanizing the brand and sparking curiosity.
@dododots One of those longer days as a small business owner 💪🏻 Come restock Dododots pimple patches with us 🫶#smallbusiness #storytime #bts #dododotspimplepatches #dododotsvendingmachine #dododots ♬ original sound - Dododots Pimple Patches
Trend Riding – Dododots tapped into #SkinTok and #BeautyTok trends, with users sticking patches on their faces as decorative stickers (even during Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour!).
@dododots Yall we’re shooketh, we went from no friendship bracelets to having 100 to trade 😭 Shannon was too kind!! Living our best swiftie dreams 🫶 #erastour #erastoursingapore #taylorswift #singapore #storytime ♬ original sound - Dododots Pimple Patches
User-Generated Content (UGC) Explosion – Customers posted unboxings, routines, and memes, turning the patches into a social media status symbol.
@baldgirl23 these are my@Dododots Pimple Patches ♬ Pretty Little Baby - Connie Francis
Result: The brand sold over 1 million packs globally, with TikTok driving 80% of initial sales.
2. The TikTok Marketing Playbook: How Dododots Built a Sustainable Business
Going viral is one thing—but staying profitable is another. Dododots mastered TikTok’s algorithm by combining organic virality with smart e-commerce strategies.
A. Authentic Storytelling (The Founder’s Journey)
Dododots’ founder, Esther Erin, openly shared her struggles with acne, making the brand feel relatable and mission-driven. TikTok users connected with her DIY approach to skincare, turning her into a trusted voice in the beauty community.
Lesson: People don’t buy products—they buy stories.
B. Leveraging TikTok Shop & Live Sales
Once TikTok Shop launched, Dododots optimized for in-app purchases, using:
- Live unboxings (showing patches in real time).
- Limited-edition drops (creating urgency).
- Affiliate partnerships (micro-influencers earned commissions).
Stats: Brands using TikTok Shop see 37% higher purchase intent.
C. Micro-Influencer & UGC Strategy
Instead of big celebrity endorsements, Dododots focused on micro-influencers (5K-100K followers) who:
- Posted honest reviews (no filters, real skin).
- Created trend-driven content (e.g., "Get Ready With Me" routines).
- Ran giveaways (encouraging followers to tag friends).
Result: UGC accounted for 60% of their content, reducing ad spend while boosting credibility.
3. From Viral Hit to Stable Business: The Long-Term Strategy
Many TikTok trends fade—but Dododots stayed relevant by:
A. Expanding Product Lines
- Launched seasonal collections (Halloween, Valentine’s Day).
- Introduced collabs with indie artists (limited-edition designs).
B. Diversifying Beyond TikTok
- Instagram Reels & YouTube Shorts (repurposing top-performing TikToks).
- Wholesale partnerships (Ulta, Urban Outfitters).
C. Community Building
- Engaged in comments (responding to fans personally).
- Created a branded hashtag (#DododotsGlow) for challenges.
4. Key Takeaways for Brands
Dododots proved that TikTok isn’t just for virality—it’s a full-fledged sales engine. Here’s how to replicate their success:
- Make Your Product "TikTok-Friendly" – Unique, visual, and shareable.
- Ride Trends, But Stay Authentic – Don’t force trends; adapt them to your brand.
- Prioritize UGC & Micro-Influencers – Real people > polished ads.
- Use TikTok Shop & Live Selling – Turn viewers into buyers instantly.
- Scale Beyond Viral Moments – Build a brand, not just a trend.
Final Thought: TikTok is the New Storefront
Dododots didn’t just go viral—they built a business. By mastering TikTok’s ecosystem, they turned 15-second videos into long-term success.