Like many TikTok trends, the hyperpigmentation meme began with an innocent, funny moment caught on camera.
In 2019, Sonia Tiebi shared a video of a portrait her daughter had drawn — a woman with a ponytail and a noticeable dark spot on her cheek.
With a mix of humor and curiosity, Sonia asked, “Is that hyperpigmentation?” before quickly assuring her daughter that the drawing was fan-TASTIC. The video quickly went viral, and just like that, a meme was born.
Years later, the meme continues to thrive on TikTok. So, what is it about this video that has kept it going viral?
TikTok has a unique way of bringing back old trends, and this meme is no exception. While the video was already a hit in 2019, users continue to find new ways to remix it — turning the drawing into cakes, tattoos, and digital recreations. Some have even used the sound clip in funny skits.
Why is this video so popular?
Not every viral moment lasts, but this one found the perfect mix of humor, relatability, and internet culture. What made it so appealing was Sonia’s reaction to her daughter’s drawing.
Her playful question felt a bit like gentle criticism, but she quickly followed it up with praise, keeping the moment lighthearted. For many parents on TikTok, the video hit home.
It also brought back memories of the times when a child presented a drawing that didn’t quite match the idea they had in mind. The innocence of the artwork in the video felt both real and incredibly relatable.
In the end, the hyperpigmentation meme shows that once something is shared online, it’s there to stay. It also proves that a great internet joke never truly dies — it just fades in and out of the spotlight over time.
Olekanma Favour is a resourceful, self-motivated, and result-driven writer with a passion for crafting compelling narratives and insightful content. She loves tackling complex topics and weaving engaging stories.
When she’s not writing, Olekanma enjoys immersing herself in a good book, exploring new cuisines, and discovering new cultures.