29 Walmart Beauty Products That Have No Right To Work So Well For Such A Low Price

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15-05-2025

Maybelline Super Stay Skin Tint knocks it out of the park with an affordable formula that rivals premium beauty brands. Reviewers rave this vitamin-C-infused, non-comedogenic foundation stays put (with the brand claiming it lasts up to 24 hrs!), doesn't set into fine lines and creases, and provides feather-light coverage that still evens out complexions.
Promising reviews: "I have been cycling through foundations from both high end and drug stores for months. I wasn't happy with my Clinique Even Better Clinical anymore and after way more money than I'd like to admit spent, my search has ended with this 'skin tint' it wears medium to full coverage and has been everything I have been looking for!! Best value and quality I have found!!! Super happy with this and highly recommend to anyone!!" —Lauren"Literally the BEST Foundation in the market. I have tried endless foundations from Dior to Elf, and this is the best foundation ever! It does not settle in fine lines, it covers beautifully. It doesn't cake, or move! Has such a BEAUTIFUL finish on the skin! It last without retouching for more than 10 hrs. I'm literally in awe how good this is." —TutiPrice: $13.98+ (available in 18 shades)
Lottabody's hair mousse foams up to define curls, and fluffs up your 'do without the weight or frizz. Enriched with lightweight oils, like coconut and shea, this product wraps hair with softer-than-soft hydration and shine and leaves it smelling like a vacation. No airfare required.
PanOxyl Foaming Face Wash works as both a cleanser to fight present and future breakouts with its 10% benzoyl peroxide formula *and* as a spot treatment (ideal for sensitive skin folk). It powerfully kills off bacteria to prevent new skin bullies from appearing and deals with those that are currently on the surface by unclogging pores and helping skin shed more effectively.
Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara lifts lashes at such a gasp-worthy price, you won't believe you spent under $10 for the tube. Infused with bamboo extract and fibers, it gives lashes the type of flexible hold and volume that won't clump or flake.
Promising review: "This is my favorite drugstore mascara. It's buildable, gives a lot of length like it says, and separates lashes beautifully. I wouldn't say it's a one coat mascara if you want more dramatic lashes, and it doesn't provide a lot of volume either but two coats of this and your lashes look amazing!" —MichellePrice: $8.32+ (originally $9.98+; available in 13 shades)
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel locks in moisture for 24 hours and firms up your skin with hyaluronic acid. Its water-based gel consistency glides on seamlessly and holds up as a perfect base layer for makeup application. Reviewers swear by its effectiveness as an affordable alternative to the high-priced skincare lines. 💦
Promising review: "I've been using Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Face Moisturizer for a few weeks, and I'm really happy with the results. The gel formula is lightweight and absorbs quickly into my skin, leaving it feeling hydrated without any greasiness. It provides a smooth, dewy finish that lasts throughout the day, and I've noticed my skin looks plumper and more radiant. The addition of hyaluronic acid seems to really help lock in moisture, and I appreciate that it doesn't clog my pores. It's gentle enough for my sensitive skin, and I love that it has no strong fragrance. Overall, this is a great moisturizer for anyone looking for long-lasting hydration without the heaviness." —Walmart CustomerPrice: $19.97 To learn more, check out our full review on the best face moisturizer under $15.
Conair Volumizing Self Grip Rollers boost lackluster strands from the roots to create soft and voluminous curls. Reviewers celebrate the varying sizes and sticky velcro abilities that keep their hair in place and allow them to achieve their desired depth and body ody ody — whether it's for their bangs or crown.
Promising review: "These things are great for styling my fringe and just for adding some volume to my hair. The Velcro is strong enough to hold your hair in place but soft enough not to rip it all out when trying to remove it. I'm glad I took a chance on these because they're total life savers when my hair is flat and needs life." —AlyssaPrice: $8.74
L'Oreal Lumi Glotion enhances your facial moisturizing experience since it features not only the hydrating aspect you'd expect from a moisturizer but also a highlighting quality as well. This formula is infused with glycerin and shea butter to feed your skin, while producing a luminous layer that'll make you appear more awake (even if your caffeine hasn't kicked in yet).
Skin Gym Cryochill Face Mask depuffs and preps skin ahead of makeup application, or if you're just in need of some at-home R&R. You have the option to use either the beaded side (best worn after being in the fridge) or the velvet side (extra soothing once pulled out of the freezer) to calm tired-feeling skin.
Price: $20
E.l.f. Instant Lift Dual-Sided Brow Pencil raises the bar on creating the perfect filled-in look for less. For under $5, you can define your brows with buildable color and create a naturally fuller look — one that will last throughout the day.
Promising review: "This product goes on smoothly and wears the entire day. It blends in with my natural eyebrows and is my go to makeup. Especially for days when I wear little makeup. It gives my eyebrows fullness and a lift, which I need at almost 53 years of age. Definitely recommend and the price is an additional bonus." —CarolPrice: $3 (available in four shades)
CeraVe Skin Renewing Face Night Cream delivers a hefty amount of moisture without leaving you with a greasy film by the time your morning alarm goes off. Rising and shining with soft, supple skin every day? Don't worry, you're not dreaming.
Our Deputy Editorial Director Maitland Quitmeyer has used this and told us: "Along with everyone else who watches TikTok, I got very into CeraVe products this year — and I loved this night cream as soon as I started using it. It's plumping, softening, and hydrating — without any greasiness or overpowering fragrances. But it wasn't until I had an allergic reaction to a *different* cream that I truly understood how great this (budget-friendly!) one is — it brought my skin back to normal in just a week."Promising review: "I have very dry skin, and this lotion feels like it forms a barrier and stays moisturizing all night! It's been a game changer for my skin! It's so reasonable!" —LoriPrice: $15.68
Wet n Wild Lip Oil drenches lips in a similar look and feel to costlier alternatives like, say, the Dior Lip Oil — but all for a more attractive price. Cracked lips will now be a thing of the past, thanks to a weightless formula that's packed with moisturizing jojoba and avocado oils.
Promising review: "This is really nice. I got Cocoa Rose, which is a lovely nude that doesn't lean too warm for me. It's so pretty. It feels good on the lips, doesn't smell/taste weird, or wear off too fast. Plus, it's cheap. What more could a person ask for?" —Walmart CustomerPrice: $5.98 (available in 11 shades)
Shea Moisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil leaves hair feeling strong and luscious while controlling frizz. Perfect for naturally curly or heat-styled hair, this leave-in conditioner acts as a reparative treatment that softens and detangles.
Promising review: "I use this as a mask and a leave-in conditioner. On wash day I part my hair and apply it to my roots and scalp over my whole head. Then I apply it thickly to the rest of my hair, cover it with a shower cap then bonnett and go about my day. When i wash it out it comes out easily and leaves my hair and scalp feeling amazing. After i wash it i apply it sparingly to my mids to tips while my hair is still damp. Works to detangle and leaves my hair feeling silky and smooth and strong. Has an AMAZING scent. I love the smell of it and it stays strong even between washes." —KimberlyPrice: $8.96+ (originally $10.97+; available in two sizes)
E.l.f. Power Grip Dewy Setting Spray promises to hold your makeup all day with its lightweight mist that grips makeup and ensures it won't transfer onto your favorite white T-shirt. This provides a dewy finish over your look that reviewers note doesn't budge even in intense heat.
Promising review: "This stuff is amazing. To use, apply your makeup, shake the bottle to combine the ingredients and then mist it over your face. It's such a fine mist, it's perfect. Even in the Texas heat my makeup stays put." —LaurenPrice: $10
Facemade Triangle Velour Puffs take the cake (...get it?) when it comes to baking your makeup and limiting the amount of creasing your concealer tends to do. The convenient shape allows your powder or foundation to set into easy-to-miss corners leaving a nice, smooth finish.
You'll get a set of six and a case!Promising review: "I liked that these cosmetic puffs were both soft and strong. There were several puffs included, and I'm still on the first one. They were affordable which made this an even better value. I use the puffs to apply foundation and to apply my setting powder. I would recommend purchasing this product." —KendraPrice: $5.99 for six (originally $10.99)
Nizoral Anti Dandruff Shampoo minimizes any sign of itchy, flaky scalps by targeting the source of the issue instead of just masking it. Some admirers mention that after just two uses, their pesky dandruff has virtually vanished.
Promising review: "This thing works! I noticed almost immediate results after the first use. By day 2, my flakes were 99% gone. And I'm not sure if it's the shampoo, but since I started using it, I have noticed my hair has more volume and my curls seem bouncier. I would totally recommend this product!" —LaChina9Price: $15.88
Facemade Foundation Flat-Top Makeup Brush blends both liquid and powder makeup seamlessly for a truly flawless finish. The luxuriously soft bristles are dense but won't waste product, and the unique shape makes it easier to apply your go-to base layer.
And it comes with a case!Promising review: "Absolutely feels like silk with perfectly even blending. Need to get more of this brand of brushes." —YvettePrice: $7.99 (originally $14.99)
Native Deodorant, which provides up to 72 hours of odor protection in a talc-free formula that's available in a sugar cookie-inspired scent. Think: less-sweaty pits that'll smell like a freshly baked batch of holiday cookies. Reviewers rave about the sugar, butter, and vanilla notes that make their underarms irresistibly sniffable.
Promising review: "I have a hard time finding deodorants I like, this one checks all the boxes, doesn't leave stains on my black clothes, smells amazing, [has a] matching body wash ( I like to stick with same scent items)." —ArianaPrice: $12.50 (originally $19)
Sol de Janeiro Beija Flor Elasti-Cream replenishes dry skin with its rich and hydrating formula, which features cacay oil that's known to be a gentle alternative to retinol. Douse your skin in this pistachio- and almond-scented moisturizer that'll transport you to a luxury beach vacation sans the expense and airfare.
Promising reviews: "It's not a fake and it's so big and smells so good it's a definite buy and it surprisingly feels a lot smoother and better on the skin too!!!" —AngelPrice: $17.49+ (originally $22.03; available in two sizes)
Batiste Dry Shampoo helps freshen up grease-ridden locks instantly — and as an added bonus, it also creates volume. Pro tip: Spritz this on your roots before bed and let it work the night shift on your oily locks for a serious time-saving solution.
Promising review: "The very best smelling and effective dry shampoo. I have been using it for years, and it is the only dry shampoo that does what it needs to do. Great price, and even better product." —ChristinePrice: $8.98
E.l.f Acne Fighting Putty Primer takes care of breakouts and keeps your all-day look right where you left it. How? Acne-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid and zinc, of course. Plus, the velvety formula sweeps over pimples to smooth uneven complexions — just apply pre-foundation or concealer, let it sit for 30 seconds, and voila! Fresh-faced canvas.
Promising review: "I was surprised by how well this keeps makeup in place and prevents creasing. I've tried a few different primers and wasn't impressed until this product. I do recommend trying." —AngelaPrice: $10 (available in four putty formulas: luminous, matte, acne-fighting, and poreless)
Chi 44 Iron Guard protects hair from high temperatures and damage with its lightweight spray that's best applied before heat styling. Reviewers also note its handy size makes it perfect for travel.
Promising review: "Best heat protection for hair! Stays beautiful for days!" —BunnyPrice: $4.97
Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Concealer treats *and* defeats dark circles, puffiness, and fine lines that are taking up prime real estate around your delicate eye area. It comes with a built-in sponge applicator, so you can save on the extra tools — and you can even grab additional shades to use for contouring.
Promising review: "This covers dark circles under your eyes and any dark spots on your face and body you might want to cover up. It's my go to cover up when I need it. And you can put it in your purse and take it with you wherever you go. It's just the right size and comes in many different colors to match your complexion." —RobynPrice: $8.98 (originally $10.99; available in 24 shades)
Cetaphil Gentle Exfoliating SA Cleanser foams up from a gel-like consistency to gently exfoliate and renew rough and bumpy skin. It's fragrance-free and doesn't contain abrasive beads, so you'll be able to soothe and smooth irritation without stripping your skin.
Promising review: "Cleanses well doesn't strip my skin. Excellent for sensitive skin." —yoitseveePrice: $9.97
L'Oreal Paris Revitalift Eye Cream helps to rewind the appearance of fine lines and dark circles while giving your skin a boost of elasticity. Its formula, enriched with pro-retinol and Centella Asiatica (a soothing, hydrating ingredient from Asia), works to rejuvenate and refresh the delicate eye area.
Promising review: "I've used this stuff for years. I love it. It works and soothes your eye area, moisturizes, and reduces bags and wrinkles. I put it on first thing in the morning and in about 5–10 minutes you can actually FEEL it firming up your skin. It's a good price for a good product." —HiHoSteveOPrice: $12.42 (originally $19.82)
Bubble Skincare 3-Step Hydrating Routine cleanses, tones, and soaks dehydrated skin in a deluge of moisture — all with one budget-friendly bundle. You'll have everything your normal to dry to acne-prone skin needs to bounce back to its best self.
Promising review: "My tween is just starting to get into skin care and this was his first attempt at a full system. He absolutely loves it! He uses all three products twice a day and looks forward to these minutes of self care. He has no complaints and has not had any side effects." —BrookePrice: $24.98
Wet n Wild Photo Focus Loose Powder stacks up against pricier alternatives at weightlessly blurring fine lines, smoothing creases, and setting makeup in place.
Promising review: "This is my favorite drugstore powder. As a lady with somewhat maturing, yet oily skin, this powder presents beautifully. I have been using this for several years now. Dare I say I like this product better than Laura Mercier powder for my skin." —MaryPrice: $6.64 (available in two styles)
Aliver DIY Lash Extension Kit users say is beginner-friendly and perfect for those who'd prefer to ~stick~ to at-home glam instead of paying exorbitant salon prices. With 280 lash clusters and all the tools necessary, you can design your full-feathered lash look to be as dramatic or demure as you wish.
Promising review: "I do want to preface by saying this is my very first time ever doing lash clusters. I typically do the strips but I don't like how they look but These are a 10/10 in my book! For someone like me who knows nothing about makeup about makeup or lashes these were extremely beginner-friendly and only took me about 15 mins. The more I use them the better I will get at application I'm sure. And they last after sweating and washing my face." —JasminePrice: $12.99 (originally $18.99; available in two styles and three colors)
Neutrogena Collagen Bank Daily Face Moisturizer claims to replenish and rebuild the collagen that's naturally lost over time. With this top-rated cream, which features restorative peptides and broad spectrum SPF 30, you can defend yourself against the most well-known collagen-depleting aggressor: the sun. Plus, it smoothes and hydrates with an invisible finish.
Promising review: "Have been using this for a month now, and my skin looks and feels so good. I had some areas on my face that were starting to look like I was getting older but now after four weeks, my friends are telling me that I look younger. I use this with neutrogena blue hydroboost because I feel like I need that extra moisture." —ChrisPrice: $19.91 (originally $22.97)
Pretty Smart All-in-One Face Palette combines three makeup staples into one convenient travel-friendly set. Add a flush of color with blush, sculpt the areas you want to contour with bronzer, and seal in your concealer with photo-blur pressed powder.
Promising review: "The product is compact enough to fit into a small handbag. It's an all in one palette, Yuka app rated this as an excellent makeup (all natural/ organic ingredients). A bronzer, blush and all over mineral / dewy face powder. Doesn't settle into wrinkles. Amazing coverage, perfect amount of, affordable price for clean beauty. Great for sensitive skin, washes off easily. Magnetic closure is nicely done." —KristaPrice: $9.98 (available in two color palettes)
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Reviews have been edited for length and clairty.