34 Affordable Beauty Swaps For More Expensive Products That Are So High Quality You'll Buy Them Once And Stick With Them Forever
A tinted lip balm that's eerily close to the same magic as "Black Honey," TikTok's beloved $25 ~universal shade~ from Clinique, that it will genuinely startle you — especially when you see the price. This is a perfect, non-sticky "go-to" lippie that's just a step above the "no makeup makeup" look, giving the perfect subtly polished effect.
Lottabody's Coconut Oil Foaming Curl Mousse designed for all hair types to give you satisfyingly hydrated, volumized, frizz-free curls at a FRACTION of the price of its competitors.
Hawaiian Tropic's SPF 30 Mineral Powder Sunscreen Brush, aka your scalp's BFF — reviewers don't just swear by this for face coverage and a protective setting powder, but for protecting their hairline without their hair getting goopy from sunscreen scalp sprays or regular sunscreen lotion. Bonus — this is a heck of a lot cheaper than its competitors, like the $35 Supergoop and $36 Brush On Block!
A delightfully affordable instant foot peeling spray for anyone ready to go full YEEHAW!! on a pedicure, without the big salon price tag. This not only helps gently remove dead skin, but moisturizes dry and cracked heels, so you'll really get some refreshing bang for your buck.
Sally Hansen's iconic Insta-Dri nail polish perfect for anyone who wants quick touch-ups on their fingers and toes but has ZERO time to spare. If you're looking for a reliable, long-lasting, fast-drying polish to save not just time, but big bucks at the salon, I cannot recommend these enough!
Monday Haircare Dry Shampoo with all the oil-absorbing, refreshing power of its competitors, *plus* added keratin for protection against frizz and breakage. The subtle gardenia scent is just extra extra credit after all that.
E.l.f. Glow Reviver Melting Lip Balm for all the ultra fans of Summer Fridays, Rhode, and Laneige whose bank accounts are begging them to put a stop to the lippie madness. These new deliciously tinted, moisturizing, buildable glosses are just as buttery and decadent as the balms that inspired them, for a fraction of the price. (Brb, drowning myself in the "Strawberry Shortcake" and "Vanilla Toffee" flavors.)
Catrice "Instant Awake" Under Eye Brightener, which will be your holy grail for concealing and brightening dark circles under your eyes when your schedule is throwing you for a loop. This lightweight, color-adapting formula is designed for truly ~invisible~ coverage that makes a drastic difference — one that a lot of reviewers compare to the $33 Becca version.
Good Molecules Yerba Mate Wake Up Eye Gel, a cult-fave product for your beauty arsenal that will quickly help minimize eye puffiness and swelling thanks to its winning combo of caffeine and hyaluronic acid. It's basically an alarm clock for your eyeballs, because boy howdy are they awake now!!
Olay's Firming Body Lotion full of collagen peptides and a Vitamin B3 complex for *ultra* hydration designed to visibly plump, firm, and moisturize your skin — all at a fraction of the price of other firming lotions, like the internet's beloved $48 Elasti-Cream.
Mise En Scene Perfect Serum, a beloved K-beauty staple reviewers compare to the $46 Gisou version for MEGA hair hydration and heat protection up to 450 degrees, so you can style your hair without sacrificing on ✨shine✨. This unique blend of seven-oil blend Moroccan argan, olive, coconut, apricot, Marula, jojoba, and camellia oil not only protects hair, but helps correct damage from dryness, *and* reduces drying time.
E.l.f.'s Holy Hydration! Thirst Burst Drops, another home run from the brand's moisturizing "Holy Hydration" line that reviewers are comparing to the $35 Watermelon Dew Drops from Glow Recipe. This lightweight formula is designed to brighten and plump skin for a dewy effect, whether you're wearing it alone, applying it under your makeup, or mixing it with your foundation.
E.l.f's Lash XTNDR Tubing Mascara, a GODSEND for anyone with thin or fragile lashes. This uses lightweight ~tubing~ technology to wrap around lashes and give them a natural-looking, smudge-proof extension so good it almost looks fake. The real boon, though, is how easily the "tubes" slide off in clean, easy swipes at the end of the day when you're washing your face — absolutely no smudging, over-scrubbing, or special eye makeup removal products required.
Wild Iris Musk Body Wash, the sister of the TikTok-famous "old money" Baccarat Rouge 540-inspired body wash. I am a massive fan of both — the moisturizing clean is so fresh, and the scents are so DELIGHTFULLY luscious without overpowering. It's floral, soft, playful, and grounded all at once. (And yes, just like the original version, it smells ... expensive 👀.)
Maybelline Superfluff Volumizing Brow Mousse so your brows can get all the ~~vavoom~~ they deserve. This easy-to-use, buildable brow applicator lightly fluffs and tames brows to give them a fuller, softer appearance, giving them that laminated look without the expensive treatment.
A reviewer-beloved (and makeup artist–beloved!) beauty sponge blender that rolled up and ate up all the expensive name-brand versions for breakfast. This is firm and smooth when you use it dry for powder applications, and soft and flexible when you wet it for creams and liquids, making it the ultimate versatile sponge in your beauty trove ... for a mere $4 (!!) compared to the $20 BeautyBlender version.
Laneige's Neo Blurring Powder to absorb oil and blur pores so effectively that you'll be like, "Oh ... witchcraft??" Might be the only explanation for how this can matte-ify your complexion while still keeping it radiant and glowy ✨. Psst — one reviewer compares this to the coveted $59 Givenchy version before they changed the formula!
A cult-fave ginormous set of seamless hair ties that will be your new holy grail — they're designed to stay the heck put without damaging, pulling, or bending your hair, with a hold so strong that a lot of reviewers love the *pop* of volume that comes with them. Also, these are so ridiculously affordable that you will NEVER run out of hair ties again!!
Jergens Natural Glow Firming Self Tanner Body Lotion to give you a gradual-building, vacation-worthy ~sunkissed glow~ over the course of just a few days. Not only is this easy peasy to apply compared to other finickier, streaking lotions, but it's formulated with collagen and elastin to help your skin appear firmer *and* glowier, and a HECK of a lot cheaper than its competitors.
A shockingly affordable "Glow Up!" Vitamin C Face Serum that packs a punch as powerful as the $30+ versions — reviewers swear by this for reducing dark spots, brightening skin, restoring tone, and giving skin a more radiant, firm look. This particular serum's secret is the 3-O Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, which helps boost ~radiance~, in addition to the hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, and vitamin E to help with hydration.
Eos' Shea Butter Vanilla Cashmere body lotion, which TikTok has spent years going *feral* over both because of the lightweight, long-lasting moisture, and the soothing, delicious smell that reviewers compare to more expensive brands like Philosophy and Bath & Body Works. It's so beloved that Eos recently released a matching Vanilla Cashmere Shave Oil!
MagicMinerals AirBrush Foundation, which lives up to its name and THEN some — one quick spray of the foundation on the included brush, and it glides so smoothly and subtly over your skin texture that you'll feel like a makeup artist did it for you. Reviewers in their thirties, forties, and up especially swear by this lightweight but effective formula, and love that it's ridiculously easy to use.
The Face Shop's Rice Water Bright Foaming Facial Cleanser, a gentle, cult-fave Korean beauty product reviewers swear by as an alternative to the pricey Tatcha Rice Wash. This hydrating cleanser removes waterproof makeup and sunscreen with ease, has an ohhhh-so-satisfying lather, and leaves skin moisturized after use.
A set of super affordable hydrocolloid nose pore patches (compare to the $16 Mighty Patch equivalent) that will make you go "boy HOWDY" when you see how much gunk collects on them overnight. Reviewers swear by these for gently lifting out sebum from pores and pimples and minimizing their appearance!
Differin Acne Treatment Gel for prescription-strength acne care *without* the hassle of paying to see a dermatologist. This not only helps clear breakouts by helping with skin cell turnover to clear out pores and calm inflammation, but also helps prevent them over time. The key to this is patience, patience, patience — a lot of reviewers mention seeing excellent results after the first month of use!
Catrice's Magic Shaper Face Cream Palette as an $8 alternative to the $88 (!!) Makeup Forever Palette. This includes a range of highly-pigmented, super blendable shades to help you contour, highlight, and bronze on days when your Gcal just say "GO GO GO" all the way down. (Psst — this is the same brand behind the TikTok-famous $6 Under Eye Brightener, so you know they mean business!)
A painless, mint-flavored teeth-whitening pen reviewers swear by as an alternative to pricey professional treatments and strips. This gets results from the very first use, lightening up years' worth of stains from coffee, tea, wine, or just, you know, existing as a human with teeth.
Physicians Formula Butter Glow & Go Stick with similar energy as the $46 Charlotte Tilbury Beach Stick for a smooth, rich, and ridiculously easy-to-apply contour to give your skin that ~sunkissed~ glow with as little effort as possible. This dual-ended stick is the definition of no muss, no fuss, and so versatile that when you're not using them on the go, you'll love experimenting with all the different ways you can make a subtle colorful *pop*.
A hydrating, plumping lip glow oil reviewers compare to the cult-fave Dior Lip Oil ... that is, if it were a FRACTION of the price 👀.
A bottle of Nyx matte setting spray for anyone who wants the all-day protection of MAC and Urban Decay's setting sprays without the price tag — this matte finish will lock your look in place in just a few seconds.
A deliciously soothing, super gentle Briotech spray reviewers compare to the pricier Tower 28 SOS Spray. It's similarly designed with hypochlorous acid, which targets bacteria that causes acne, skin irritation, and blemishes *without* drying your skin. Reviewers swear by this handy little spray for helping not just with acne, but rosacea, eczema, dryness, dermatitis (scalp included!), and even toenail fungus.
Essence's Drop of Sunshine Bronzing Drops, aka the more affordable version of the beloved $39 Drunk Elephant version. This buildable, hydrating formula is an easy way to add a ~sunkissed touch~ to your beauty routine without breaking the bank (or compromising your skin!).
L'Oréal Paris BB Cream, a FAST-acting, anti-redness moisturizer with results that feel like legitimate magic — especially considering its competitor, the Dr Jart+ Cicapair Color Correcting Cream, is over twice as expensive. Reviewers especially love this as a base for their makeup, because it leaves skin super soft and primed.
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Buzz Feed
2 hours ago
- Buzz Feed
29 Cool TikTok Products That Deserve Your Attention
Wonderskin's transfer-proof lip stain I'm sure you've seen an influencer or two pop on their lips in the beginning of a "get ready with me" that initially left you thinking, "What on earth?!" Sure, it looks a little wacky for a minute, but when you wipe it off, it leaves a gorgeous stain that'll last for up to 10 hours of yapping, snacking, and puckering. A fan-fave Biodance hydrating overnight mask because everyone's skin needs a little TLC, and there's nothing quite like waking up feeling hydrated and refreshed. It's packed with special forms of hyaluronic acid and collagen that penetrate more deeply to maximize product absorption, and you can even *see* it get to work as the sheet becomes transparent. Not only will you look glowy and moisturized, but this mask can help refine enlarged pores, enhance skin elasticity, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. A six-pack of soda can lids with straws because everything just tastes better through a straw, *and* these are reusable, so no need to feel sorry for the turtles. And BTW, I'm not sure if you've ever thought about it, but do you really know where that can's lid has been before you put your lips on it? That *icky* thought kinda ruins the most satisfying and crispy "ahhh" after the first sip. A hands-free neck fan to answer your sweaty prayers during those hotter months when your office's AC keeps breaking down. And since this is blade-free, you can finally wear your hair down at the amusement park and not risk it getting caught in the fan. It offers 360-degree airflow to keep your entire neck and face cool — and did I mention it can run up to 16 hours?? A flower vase puzzle for any jigsaw masters who never shy away from a challenge. And the *ultimate* reward for finishing this 160-piece puzzle: Now you'll have the coolest conversation starter (and best bragging opportunity) just sitting in your living room. A bag of Drizzilicious mini rice cakes for anyone who might have a bit of an *insatiable* sweet tooth and loves to try a hot new goodie. These mini rice cakes allow you to relish some of the ultimate sweet treat flavors — like birthday cake and French toast — without leaving the comfort of your home. Bonus points: These yummy bites are made with quinoa, chia seeds, and flax seeds! Or a bag of Swedish candy mix because people on TikTok cannot get enough of the uniquely soft "Bubs" and mouthwatering sour skulls. I can't tell you how many times I've drooled over these delicious-looking bites through my phone! Reviewers say these have a fluffier texture and more natural flavor than American candy. A shower lamp allowing you to have a main character moment in your shower under ~moody~ lighting while you process something deep. It's water resistant and rechargeable, so you can finally have the most elite shower setup without worrying about causing a spark show. A Stanley cup snack tray that'll pair perfectly with your emotional support water bottle that you can't bear to leave the house without. Now there's no need to *ever* leave, because you can spend every night cuddled up with your Stanley and some good 'ol refreshments while catching up on your favorite show. And with four separate compartments, you can keep your sweet and salty snacks from ~mingling~, because there's no talking during this screening. A sheep toilet paper roll holder because everyone's gotta have an extra roll or two of TP so you don't get into any sticky situations. I'll spare you from any baaaaa-d I guess not. Laneige's Neo blurring powder, which has been popping up on everyone's feeds for a good reason — this powder can smooth the appearance of your skin, blur pores, AND absorb oil! The compact design makes it so easy to pop in your bag and bring with you for any on-the-go touch-ups, taking away the day's grease but never your ✨ glow.✨ An adorable ballet slipper makeup pouch to keep all of your random free-floating lippies in your purse accessible — and so you don't throw *another* gloss in your bag because you can't remember if you left one in there. If you have a ballerina in your life, this would be a cute (and definitely not ~pointe~less) gift to keep them organized! A "flossing" toothbrush in case you can't remember to floss as frequently as you tell your dentist you do at your cleanings — this toothbrush has ultra-thin "floss" bristles that can get out all those bits of broccoli to help cover for your more forgetful nights. Your shiny, clean teeth will approve of the message "Work smarter, not harder." A self-heating ice cream scoop, because it's a universal experience: You set the ice cream out to thaw about 10 minutes before you want to actually have somehow, it's still frozen solid, and you're getting tempted to just microwave it. This scoop heats up when you press the button to make ice cream scooping as easy as pie — ooooh, that would be good with this vanilla bean! A "Gracula" garlic crusher for anyone with a sophisticated palate who has never even considered mumbling the phrase, "That's too much garlic." Now your fingers won't smell like your fave aromatic for days after chopping because this crusher will do all your mincing quickly! And in case you're always caught daydreaming about the Salvatore brothers while meal prepping, well, at least you can now blame it on your vampire garlic chopper. A tea bag that steeps a sipping broth for when you're nursing a cold (or a hangover) and the only thing you can stomach is some broth, but you definitely don't have enough energy to cook anything. Just pop this bag into a mug, add some hot water, and let it steep like you would your morning cuppa — but just remember this flavor is savory beef and not English breakfast. A bottle of classic whip sunscreen infamous on TikTok for leaving viewers confused over why someone would rub whipped cream all over their face and body. It may *look* like the topping of a strawberry shortcake, but it actually has SPF 30 and is water resistant for 30 minutes! This sunscreen will leave you feeling moisturized (but not oily) *and* smelling like coconut and banana while you lay out. A Beachwaver rotating curling iron for anyone who's struggled for years to nail that perfect loose curl and has seen little to no success (plus a few neck burns). Just clamp a section of hair into the Beachwaver, press the button to rotate, and release the wave! It's so much easier than a traditional curler, since this gadget will perfectly wrap up your locks so you don't have to bend your elbow and crane your neck. A Bounce Curl hair brush with a grooved design that helps separate and smooth curls so you have one less step in your hair routine — just twist the brush's grooves into your wet curls to create well-defined clumps without any frizz. Reviewers say they were *shocked* by how it glided through their hair like butter and left their curls looking so pretty. Now every day can be a good hair day! A copy of Burn After Writing that'll have you tapping into your secret pyromaniac side. This journal is designed for you to let it all out, then burn all evidence after the like you're gonna plead the fifth. Many reviewers say this provoked some very thoughtful reflections, so it's a great addition if you're seeking self-growth and contemplation in whatever era of life you're in. A cozy and calming coloring book in case you're in need of a fun new outlet to help relax and destress from your long day, because nap time and coloring shouldn't just be activities for children. Whip out this book anytime you want to "ignore reality," like when it's time to start applying for jobs or that flight anxiety is really getting to ya. A set of darling hair-tie bracelets because we all know the pain of wanting to put your hair up but you don't have an elastic on you. These'll just look like a cute bracelet matching your 'fit instead of an ugly black band that clashes; plus, reviewers say the hold is strong (without being damaging) and great for both thin *and* thick hair! Oxo's rapid coffee brewer for anyone who craves an ice-cold java in the morning, at lunchtime, and maybe even can't afford to keep buying them out. This machine can make delicious, strong cold brew in just FIVE minutes so you can enjoy within the comfort of your home. And psst — some reviewers say they like it even more than their trusty AeroPress, so savings galore! A Yonanas fruit soft-serve maker that'll turn any frozen fruit of your choice into a silky smooth sorbet-like treat to satisfy every sweet tooth around. And since you can control all the ingredients that go in, it's perfect for anyone with dietary restrictions or picky eaters. OK chef! An adorable hanging crochet plant in case your car is in need of a touch of personality before you officially name it — just know if it's a white Volkswagen Beetle with the number 53 on the side, its name is already Herbie and you've got a new Lindsay Lohan movie to watch. A pack of flat claw clips in case you're sick of not being able to sit in any chair with a headrest comfortably while wearing a regular claw clip. This slides horizontally into your hair and is rounded to cradle the back of your head, so feel free to thank me for the rec after your next comfy recline. A leakproof and insulated golf tumbler to keep track of your golf score by twisting tallies for total score, strokes per hole, greens in regulation, and fairways hit. Whether you came to get some chipping practice in on your day off or you're just there to drive the cart and drink transfusions, now you can easily keep track of your game. A clever electric lighter with a long, bendy neck so you don't burn yourself while attempting to light those 100 birthday candles for grandma you thought were a good idea. This lighter can be used up to 600 times on a single charge — that's a lot of candles. And finally, a cat-shaped heating pad just purrrrrfect for the days your back is aching, or you woke up with the best monthly surprise and need a little muscle relaxation. The soft, plush kitty is filled with flaxseed and lavender to help calm and comfort you as you stream your comfort show... 🎶 "So no one told you life was gonna be this way." 🎶
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Brandi Glanville suffers facial burns after Nair experiment goes awry
An experiment intended to rid 'The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills' alum Brandi Glanville of a facial parasite left the former reality TV star with chemical burns. In a short video posted to TikTok on Sunday, Glanville, 52, said that she decided to use Nair to try to eradicate the parasite. However, the popular hair removal product aggravated her skin, leaving her with apparent chemical burns. 'I know I look attractive,' she joked. 'Good news, you don't have to spend a lot of money on peels and lasers anymore.' During the clip, she referred to the parasite as 'Caroline,' a possible reference to her 'Real Housewives' rival Caroline Manzo. In January 2023, Manzo accused Glanville of sexual assault during filming. This led to both of them departing the Morocco set of 'The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip.' That was also where Glanville previously said she might have contracted the parasite. Glanville has denied all claims Manzo has made against her, calling them absurd, Page Six reports. In her TikTok video, Glanville claims the Nair successfully moved the parasite ('Caroline') to a different part of her face upon application. 'Nair is the fountain of youth, I figured it out,' she said. 'But I overdid it … seven minutes, don't do it.' The first time Glanville shared information regarding the parasite, she claimed that she had consulted 'every doctor under the sun' but to no avail. The mysterious condition was said to have left her with frequent facial swelling and missing teeth. She told ET in December 2024 that she'd suspected a parasite had made its way into her system after the filming in Morocco. 'We had food sitting out for hours on end, and some of it was meat,' she said, adding that medical complications began six months later. Glanville claimed that she had since spent more than $70,000 on noninvasive procedures to pinpoint exactly what was going on. Notably, she was on IV antibiotics that alleviated swelling but proved to be too expensive. 'I've been on meds this whole year. I don't socialize. I don't go out,' she said at the time.
Yahoo
3 hours ago
- Yahoo
Beloved '90s Country Icon Just Tried TikTok Trend and You've Got to See the Hilarious Results
Beloved '90s Country Icon Just Tried TikTok Trend and You've Got to See the Hilarious Results originally appeared on Parade. Jo Dee Messina just proved that country legends can absolutely master the art of wholesome viral content. The 54-year-old Grammy-nominated artist recently attempted TikTok's popular "Bugatti" trend aboard her tour bus, creating a moment so hilariously endearing that fans are calling it the best thing on the internet. The challenge, inspired by Ace Hood's 2013 hit featuring Future and Rick Ross, typically involves one person pretending to drive while their partner yanks them out of frame to the lyrics "I woke up in a new Bugatti." What makes these videos entertaining is the dramatic contrast when roles reverse—usually resulting in comically mismatched physical strength dynamics. Messina's attempt delivered exactly the kind of authentic entertainment her fans adore. Captioning her video "Tour bus shenanigans," the country icon went flying out of frame with impressive speed when her crew member pulled her. However, when their positions switched, her attempt to move him resulted in the most adorable slow-motion crawl imaginable, creating the perfect visual comedy. Fan reactions have been overwhelmingly delighted, with commenters noting the irony that someone who could genuinely afford a Bugatti was participating in the trend. Others praised seeing Messina "having fun" and appreciated her willingness to embrace contemporary social media culture while maintaining her authentic timing couldn't be more perfect for showcasing Messina's playful side. Currently touring and connecting with fans at venues like Madison County Fair, she continues demonstrating the genuine warmth that made her a beloved figure throughout her chart-topping career. Her six number-one Billboard country singles and CMA honors established her musical credentials, but moments like these reveal the personality that keeps fans devoted decades later. This TikTok adventure perfectly captures Messina's approach to her career renaissance—embracing new platforms while staying true to her down-to-earth nature. Her willingness to participate in viral trends, especially ones involving physical comedy with her crew, demonstrates the camaraderie and humor that make touring life sustainable. 🎬 SIGN UP for Parade's Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox 🎬 The "tour bus shenanigans" represent more than just social media content—they're authentic glimpses into the joy and friendship that fuel successful touring artists. Messina's ability to laugh at herself while creating entertaining content proves why she remains such a treasured figure in country music. Beloved '90s Country Icon Just Tried TikTok Trend and You've Got to See the Hilarious Results first appeared on Parade on Jul 12, 2025 This story was originally reported by Parade on Jul 12, 2025, where it first appeared. Solve the daily Crossword
