These 36 Inexpensive Alternatives To Popular Beauty Products Are So Good, You Will Never Buy The Pricier Version Again

Buzz Feed

07-02-2025

1. CeraVe's Retinol Serum, which lives up to the CeraVe name and uses *encapsulated* retinol to reduce the appearance of scars and pores without flaking or redness. If you haven't gotten into retinoids yet or are worried about irritating your skin, this gentle but effective serum is a great option — and reviewers say they like it better than other more expensive options (like Murad's Retinol Serum, which retails for $92).
And remember, like with any retinol (that actually works) *just do not use it every day.* Start slow and work yourself up if needed, paying attention to your skin.
Promising review: "I absolutely love this stuff! I saw a dermatologist on TikTok who raved about this product and tried it out, and it's been the most amazing stuff! It's helped my face to clear up very quickly removing all of the blemish spots and dark spots around my face. It's been one of the best products I've added to my face routine. This would be great for all ages/stages and for any weather types. It doesn't moisturize much, but that's not it's intention, and there is no scent, so I'd imagine it's great for all skin types and hypoallergenic." — Successful Solo
Promising review:"I bought this for my teenager to use for his acne scars, but he ended up not using it. I ran out of my Murad retinol serum, so I gave this a try. I actually like it better than the Murad! It absorbs quickly, with zero smell or irritation. As with any retinol product, be sure to wear sunscreen when you're going to be outside." — C. Munsterman
Get it from Amazon for $18.68.
2. E.l.f. Halo Glow Liquid Filter that reviewers say is comparable to (or even better than) Charlotte Tilbury's famous Flawless Filter. Apply this as a luminous, blurring base, mix it with your moisturizer or foundation, or dot it over makeup as a natural-looking highlight. It's formulated with hyaluronic acid and squalene for a boost of hydration too!
Promising review: "This stuff is so legit I've gone through three bottles. Adds the perfect glow to your skin! Sometimes I use it under foundation, and sometimes, I use it solo with a bit of concealer. I will never not repurchase it for the price and how beautifully it sits on the skin. This stuff is viral for a reason!!" — mapagill
Promising review: "If you like Charlotte Tilbury Flawless Filter, this is leaps and bounds better! Just buy it. The coverage is better and makes my skin have the most amazing natural glow! The colors run with a more warm/yellow undertone, which worked great for me! Spend a fraction of the price and just get it; you will be happy you did!" — Amazonreview
Get it from Amazon for $14 (available in 12 shades).
3. And their Halo Glow Beauty Wand, a buildable liquid highlighter formula that delivers a majorly radiant, lit-from-within finish to your skin without lots of glitter (like Charlotte Tilbury's highlighter blush wands). The cushion-tip applicator is super easy to apply, too!
Amazon
One reviewer says it's an alternative to the Charlotte Tilbury highlighters!
Promising review: "We saw this highlighter in a makeup tutorial video online and thought we would try it. It was an easy decision to purchase it because the price was relatively low compared to other highlighters. I t is worth every penny and more! I've seen this shade applied on different skin tones and it looks beautiful on everyone! Just the right shimmer, not glitter. It's gorgeous!" — Joyinmyheart
Get it from Amazon for $9 (available in three shades). E.l.f. also has reviewer-loved glowy blush and contour shades in the same wand design!
4. A Shea Moisture manuka honey mask packed with powerful ingredients like mafura oil, shea butter, baobab oil, African rock fig, and honey (duh!) to lock in moisture and definition. Reviewers note they prefer it to K18 and Olaplex, and one cosmetologist reviewer says it's comparable to salon deep conditioners!
Promising review:" Better than the expensive K18 and Olaplex. I recently spent $70 on a hair mask because my hair has been in need of some love. I won't name it because I don't think I can, but I thought, 'It's 70 bucks, so it must be good.' It was NOT. I didn't hate it, but it didn't do much for me. So I thought, 'Screw it, let me try something more natural and drugstore.' I saw the good reviews on this, so I thought, 'Why not?' And now I have my new favorite hair mask. So moisturizing. Makes my hair so soft. It's VERY thick. But that's what I wanted. If you're looking for deep Hydration, look no further." — Kirstin
Promising review: " I don't usually leave reviews, but I had to because I love this conditioner so much. I have EXTREMELY dry 4c hair. It's very picky with products. After getting to know my hair, I noticed that my hair only likes products that get absorbed into the hair right away. If it leaves a coating over it, then my hair is not going to like it. It might even feel super soft for a day, but then it gets extremely dry after. Even though this product is super thick (so thick that the cream stays in the jar when you flip it upside down), my hair absorbs everything, and it stays super moisturized for 2–3 days afterward. I used this on my hair about two days ago. Today, I touched my hair expecting it to feel dry like always, but it felt like I just moisturized it. MIND BLOWN. It also smells AMAZING. It smells more like a fruity, sweet, and creamy perfume fragrance rather than a hair conditioner. It almost reminds me of Mon Guerlain. Literally the nicest-smelling hair product I've ever used. 10/10" — Khady Ndiaye
5. Catrice "Instant Awake" Under Eye Brightener, which is renowned for being very similar to the Becca Under-Eye Corrector ($33), for *less than 1/5 of the price!* The peachy-orange tones of both color-correcting shades cancel out dark circles instantly, whether you pair it with a concealer or wear it on its own.
I have deep under-eye circles due to my allergies, and I use this under-eye brightener under my concealer every day I wear makeup! It immediately cancels out those dark purple tones and sits beautifully under my concealer (I use the Kosas one!) without creasing. And it means I can use less concealer, so my tube lasts longer! And this little pot lasts aaaaages, because a little goes a long way!
Promising review: "I like this better than the Becca version. This is easier to put on and more moisturizing. The Becca one always feels tacky to me, and this is nice and smooth. It just guides on. The Becca one might provide a little more coverage but you can build [this one[ on. TikTok recommended and approved by me." — Becky duPuis Bartek
Get it from Amazon for $6 (available in four shades).
6. E.l.f. "Squeeze Me" lip balm declared by reviewers to be a more affordable (it's under $5!) alternative to the Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm. It's formulated with shea butter and hyaluronic acid to pack a moisturizing punch, is easier to squeeze on and apply compared to other jarred lip balms, and provides a sheer flush of color you'll love.
Check it out on TikTok!
You can count BuzzFeed writer Emma Lord among this balm's many fans:
"I love love love this lip balm. I compare it to the $24 version from Summer Fridays, which I've been splurging on — I love that brand because it lasts so long and is so high quality, but this $4 E.l.f. version feels comparable and, more excitingly, comes in smaller versions so I can stock my totes and bathroom with them whether I'm at home or on the go. It's hydrating, lightweight, doesn't get sticky, and adds a perfect ~subtle~ gloss whether I'm using it alone or on top of a lip color. I love the vanilla flavor so much, it's got a similar vibe to the birthday cake flavor that Glossier sometimes carries."
Promising review:"I use this lip balm every day and absolutely love it. It leaves my lips super soft. I love it so much, I bought every flavor." — Tracy Pinter
Get it from Amazon for $4 (available in five flavors).
7. TruSkin vitamin C serum is formulated with hyaluronic acid (to provide a boost of hydration), soothing aloe vera, and vitamin E (in addition to the namesake vitamin C) — a combo designed to brighten and smooth your skin for your glowiest glow yet. And money-saving alert: reviewers say it's comparable to the SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic serum (which costs $182 for the full-size btw!).
When it comes to vitamin C, this formulation is on the stronger side, so you should do a patch test before using! And make sure you use SPF after (tbh as you should every morning)! Though the bottle looks small, reviewers say it'll last you several months with daily use.
Promising review: " I love this product so much. In only five days, my skin is smoother, clearer, and tighter. On the second day, my skin was a bit warm and red, so I skipped a day and have been using it every day without any more irritation. I find this just as effective and WAY less stinky than Skin Ceuticals. I highly recommend giving it a try." — Alex
Promising review: "I should have started using this years ago! I'm in my mid-30s, and I've tried everything, including much more expensive brands, Korean skincare, Japanese skincare, etc., but I've always had breakouts and problems with texture. This is by far the best vitamin C product I've tried. I've tried multiple vitamin C serums in the past, but they always broke me out or had a slimy or gritty texture. This serum has a smooth texture, soaks in quickly, does not pill with other products, and has noticeably cleared up my skin." — Amazon Customer
Get from Amazon for $21.97 (for 30ml; also available in a larger size).
8. The TikTok-beloved Eos' Shea Butter Vanilla Cashmere body lotion, because people love it for providing *serious* (and quick-absorbing!) hydration without feeling heavy or greasy aaaaand for the ahh-mazing smell that's drawing comparisons to pricey brands (hello Philosophy "Warm Cashmere" and Bath & Body Works "Vanilla Noel).
Promising review: "Heaven sent for your skin; heavenly scent to enjoy. This feels absolutely amazing going on. Gets absorbed quickly, for a lotion rich with oil. Doesn't leave a greasy feeling, as long as you give it a minute or two to fully absorb. The scent is, for me anyway, like aromatherapy. It smells like an iced sugar cookie, and is a great base layer for fragrance. Very relaxing." — Dragonheart Jo
Get it from Amazon for $10.99.
9. NYX Fat Oil Lip Drip, a lip gloss that also has the hydration of a lip oil, thanks to vegan squalane, as well as raspberry and cloudberry oils. It's fairly new but already seriously beloved by reviewers who appreciate the sheer wash of color, high-impact shine, and non-sticky finish. And if you love Dior's Lip Oil (same), some reviewers say this is better!
Amazon
I have two shades and have already ordered a third!
Promising review: "The lip oil trend has fully saturated my TikTok feed. So I was anxious to test and compare. I also own the Dior Lip Oil and tbh NYX is giving them a run for their money. This lip oil does its job for a fraction of the price. The formula isn't as thick as the Dior product but, the color options and leak proof packing make up for it. I'd definitely recommend picking this up to try!" — Courtney Calestiini
Get it from Amazon for $8.97 (available in 13 shades, plus clear).
10. Or if you're looking for something more pigmented, NYX's Fat Oil Slick Click, which has similar click-to-dispense packaging and buildable color payoff & shine as the viral Tarte Maracuja Juicy Lips. And they're formulated with avocado, raspberry, and cloudberry oils for hydration!
Amazon
Promising review: "This is an [alternative] for Tarte Maracuja lip gloss. My lips always feel a little dry. I rarely use lipstick, but favor a lip crayon with a layer of lip gloss on top. This product is amazing. My lips feel hydrated and comfortable, the color payoff is better than expected, and it's fun to use (click, click!). The color does transfer a little bit (hello, lip marks on my coffee cup!), so I need to reapply frequently, but that doesn't bother me. I bought it in four colors and am so happy with it." — Lisa Mancuso
Get it from Amazon for $10.97 (available in 12 shades).
11.
Elizabeth Mott's cult favorite Thank Me Later eyeshadow primer to keep your favorite eye makeup look on lock all day AND all night — *no* creasing, *no* budging. That's right, you will NOT have to reapply before your evening plans. Reviewers note it's an affordable alternative to Urban Decay's Primer Potion — the slightly larger size Elizabeth Mott tube is less than half the price of Urban Decay's!
Promising review: "For a long time my go-to primer was the All-Nighter by Urban Decay but in recent times I could no longer afford it. I struggled to find [something] comparable from the drugstore, none of them were at the level I wanted or was used to. Until I found this one! I tried this one, and it's so excellent. It truly is a [alternative] for Urban Decay. It's a mousse texture but dries down quickly, so easy to spread and it lasts SUCH a long time. I have oily lids, so this is truly a lifesaver. And the tube has so much product! A little goes a long way a pea size is perfect to cover the entire lid area. Truly love this product I don't think I'll ever switch. 10/10." — Marissa Olmedo
Get it from Amazon for $13.99.
12. Maybelline's Cheek Heat gel-cream blush, a user-friendly and super buildable formula you can just tap-tap-tap into your skin for a gorgeous flush of color, whether you're going for a natural look or an on-trend bright blush look. Reviewers say if you're a fan of Glossier Cloud Paint, you'll be a fan of this, too. (And you'll save money while you're at it!)
Emma Lord / BuzzFeed
BuzzFeed Shopping writer Emma Lord says, "I'm a Glossier Cloud Paint stan, so I'll continue to buy it, but I love this affordable alternative, too! It spreads on super easily and can either go on sheer or build for a bolder effect. I got the Rose Flush shade and enjoy it for ~everyday wear~ since it's so easy to squirt a bit on my fingers, swirl it into my cheeks, and be on my merry way. It lasts all day and looks super natural to boot!"
Promising review:" Throw all your other blushes away. This one is creamy, not greasy, takes just a dab, and lasts all day. What more could you want? The only thing that would make it better is if it were free or they sold in like beer in the six-pack. Knowing makeup companies like I do, I will order several more because they will soon discontinue the BEST blush ever made, regardless of how well it sells. Am I not right? Clinique had an excellent crème blush similar to this one for YEARS, and then one day....POOF!! GONE!!! So try it and then buy some extras 'cause you know tomorrow it'll be gone." — Velma Martin
Get it from Amazon for $5.98+ (available in six shades).
13. Or E.l.f. Camo liquid blush if you're a fan of Saie's Dew blushes or Rare Beauty's liquid blushes — this has a similar doe-foot applicator. E.l.f.'s liquid blush is newer but already beloved by reviewers for its bendability and level of pigment!
Amazon
Promising review: "Pretty colors, pigmented, easy to use, and the perfect [alternative] if you're looking for a cost-efficient Rare Beauty [swap]." — Meg Adams
Promising review: " For the price?? Best blush I've tried, lasts all day and has such a pretty color; a little bit goes a veryyyy long way. you really only need a dot for a natural look" — Leah
Get it from Amazon for $7 (available in nine shades).
14. A Sol de Janeiro fragrance mist in scent Cheirosa '68, which reviewers say has a similar smell to the very luxurious and oh-so-popular Baccarat Rouge 540 — but in a lighter body spray version with notes of jasmine, hibiscus, and sun musk.
Amazon
Promising review: "I finally received my new body spray yesterday and was in complete shock at the resemblance to Baccarat Rouge 540. This body spray is so delicious. It is definitely a Baccarat Rouge 540 [alternative]. There were so many reviews that said how much this body spray resembled the very pricey perfume, and they were all correct. I absolutely love Baccarat Rouge 540, but it is so expensive compared to other perfumes like Chanel, so I opt not to purchase it regularly. This body spray is a wonderful substitute for overpriced perfume. Today will be my first day wearing the spray, so hopefully, it will have great longevity throughout the day as well. 🤞🏼 Regardless, I would still purchase it again moving forward." — Tina
Promising review: "I opened up my package as soon as I got it, sprayed it, and could not believe how IDENTICAL it smells to the baccarat rouge. It's literally the exact same. It's a very warm-smelling undertone of vanilla with the top scents of Brazilian jasmine and 'sun musk,' just like the description on the bottle. I would definitely recommend this as an [alternative] for the Baccarat Rouge 540 if anyone were looking for one" — Rachel Jackel
Get it from Amazon for $38.
15. Or a bottle of Fine'ry Jungle Santal perfume with notes of papyrus wood, oolong tea, and cardamom and housed in a bottle you'll totally want to put on display — who would guess it's from TARGET?! (I love you, Target.) And reviewers say the scent lasts beautifully and even smells like similar high-end Santal perfumes.
Promising review: "This fragrance is fantastic!! It changes and develops richer woodsy scents on me. Very similar to La Labo Santal 33 but much less expensive... lasts all day too!!" — Eufy cordless vac
Get it from Target for $29.99 (and shop all of the Fine'ry scents here).
16. Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Concealer, a cult-fave reviewers have used for *years* for a reason — it brightens your under eyes without creasing while treating them with goji berry and haloxyl — plus, it'll last even LONGER than Tarte's Shape Tape and other expensive brands.
Promising review:"I have extremely dark under-eye circles. Honestly, that is the only reason I wear makeup, to cover them. I've used numerous kinds of concealers. Tarte Shape Tape, Mary Kay, Estée Lauder (assorted kinds), IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Undereye, Clinique, Laura Mercier, Mac, and Bobby Brown. I usually spend anywhere from $25–$30 on one tube of concealer and still feel unsatisfied with the coverage. This little gem is great. I use this concealer every day instead of all my high-end brand concealers. It's full coverage, buildable, lasts all day, is not drying, and is not too liquidy. I'm so happy I gave this a try, will definitely be keeping this baby in my everyday makeup bag." — Brittney
Promising review: " Oh my gosh. I have spent so much money on expensive concealers, and this is my all-time favorite. I'm 61 and starting to get crepey skin under my eyes. Other concealers make it worse, but I also have dark circles, so I feel like I need something. And this is it! Moisturizing, silky, and covers the circles. I love it!" — Lynnette Smith
Get it from Amazon for $8.80 (available in 24 shades).
And check out our Maybelline Instant Age Rewind concealer review for more deets!
17. A bottle of Elizavecca Hair Treatment for an intense at-home mask that'll help your strands look and feel less damaged in just five minutes. It's basically a time machine for your hair, is what I'm saying. Some reviewers say it's even BETTER than Olaplex, which is over three times the price!
Reviewers with everything from thin, fine hair to 4c curls have reported positive results from this moisturizing formula, which is particularly recommended for folks whose hair is damaged from using hot tools, bleach, and the like. And btw, This is the same brand that makes the Milky Piggy Carbonated Bubble Clay Mask so many people swear by (and it looks damn cool).
Promising review:"Like many others, I tried this as a replacement for Olaplex. Honestly, Olaplex never had a great effect on my hair and certainly wasn't worth the price. This did an unreal job on my hair!! I was skeptical (tried a little bit at first because I was petrified it would burn off my hair and I would end up bald!), but lo and behold, it was magic! My hair is so strong, silky, and healthy looking after just one use. Plus, you can't beat the price! Have already ordered another box. I should also add I have curly/wavy hair that's been colored to a light brown. Buy it!!" — BB
Promising review: "I have 4c hair and was looking for a protein treatment for my thin and fragile. I had recently used a product in my hair that had so much alcohol in it that wreaked havoc on my hair, leaving it pretty damaged. I was very skeptical about this product because I had never seen anyone with my hair type use it. Boy, was I wrong to doubt this product; it left my hair looking and feeling beautiful. I highly recommend it to anyone natural or with curly hair." — Therese-Claire
Get it from Amazon for $7.89.
18. The Revlon One-Step Hot Air Brush (now with an upgraded motor) with a unique oval-shaped barrel so you can get super close to your scalp for smooth hair and majorly boosted volume at the roots without having to juggle a brush and blow-dryer. One reviewer says it takes less time to dry than their Dry Bar Brush!
Btw while some reviewers with curl types 4a–c like the oval brush, if you're looking for something to blow out tighter curls or coils, try the Revlon One-Step *paddle* brush, which is designed with curlier hair in mind! You can get it from Amazon for $39.99.
Promising review:"I thought my Chi hairdryer was good, but this takes it to a new level. My hair is very wavy, but I was able to straighten it very easily with this dryer. It took much less time, too than the Chi or DryBar dryer." — Kristy C
Promising review: "Where have you been all my life? Omg, this dryer was AMAZING!!!!! I don't understand why I didn't know about it sooner!!!! My hair is thick and curly and hard to control. Usually, I need to air dry for at least an hour; then it takes 45 min to blow it out. Usually resulting in my arms being exhausted and my hair burned. BEST DRYER EVER! And I have spent $$ on a dry bar dryer. Never again. I need to buy a backup just in case. LOVE" — Brian Halpin
Get it from Amazon for $38.99+ at Amazon (available in two colors). There's now also a version with a removable head that's great for travel!
19. Skin-lifting, pore-tightening Skin1004 face masks with results that reviewers swear by — not to mention the fact that using them is weirdly fun? The mask tightens as it dries on your face, giving you the titular "zombie" effect (just like...or better than...the more expensive Hanacure).
Just wait 15 minutes and rinse to reveal your glowiest glow yet, thanks to the albumin (aka egg white) and aloe formula.
Promising review:"I was gifted the Hanacure masks and loved them, but they're just way too pricey. I heard SO many wonderful things about the Skin 1004 zombie mask, and at about $2.50 a pop, why not?! Let me tell you, this mask is just straight-up magic. I didn't notice any changes to my skin immediately, but a few hours later, when I looked in the mirror, I was shocked at how wonderful my skin looked. I've never noticed a difference like this. Hanacure who?!?? don't get me wrong, the Hanacure mask is amazing and magical too, but it's expensive and impossible to maintain the twice-weekly mask schedule recommended. T his Zombie mask is every bit as magical with better results, in my opinion. And it's super funny. A lot of the reviews mention a bad smell, which I was worried about, but I didn't notice a smell, and I'm so sensitive to smell I can't use scented lotions, lip balms, etc. Bottom line, this is better than Hanacure both price and results wise." — Dana Dane
Get them from Amazon for $18.85.
20. E.l.f. Poreless Putty primer, which is infused with squalene to hydrate, smooth over skin for a seamless finish, and hold onto makeup for all-day staying power. You mayyyy have seen this all over TikTok, and the reviews back up the hype! And if you love or have been eyeing the Tatcha Silk Canvas primer (for $54!), reviewers say this is very comparable!
Promising review:" So close to Tatcha, it's scary. I bought this and the Tatcha to compare. The smell from the Tatcha is nicer as is the packaging but otherwise, this is about the same texture, consistency, and performance. For the price, it is well worth it!" — Amber Girl
Promising review:"Normally my makeup goes on great, but then once it dries it's super crusty and shows my pores, but this made everything so smooth and my skin has never looked so healthy. Even after I took my makeup off my skin felt moisturized which is a hard thing to do with my dry skin. I saw the hype all over social media about this primer and I never believed it, but finally decided to take the plunge and test it out and now I'll never go with out it." — Taylor Kessinger
Get it from Amazon for $8.99.
21. Or if you prefer gripping-style primers like Milk Hydro Grip (which reviewers say this is similar to!), E.l.f.'s Power Grip, which is formulated with hyaluronic acid to plump the appearance of skin and designed to *hug* to your makeup for all-day wear. And it's fragrance-free!
Promising reviews: "I got a little sample of the Milk Hydro Grip primer, but when I went to buy it...$36 for a relatively small bottle! I wanted to find a good alternative, so I bought this. It is PERFECT! Nearly identical formula. I have sensitive skin and this did not break me out. It really does help keep makeup on all day and makes your skin look smooth. I highly recommend this." — Allison
Get it from Amazon for $10 (available in two styles).
22. L'Oreal True Match Lumi Glotion, a fan-favorite, glycerin-infused illuminator you can mix in with moisturizer or foundation, wear as a base under makeup, *or* apply as a highlight or bronzer for a natural-looking (and not glittery) glow — especially if you're not looking to drop a fortune on Drunk Elephant Bronzi Drops.
Promising review: "I used this with my Olay Regenerist Cream (it helps with my wrinkles). I mixed it, and it does a great deal of shine! You should buy it if you're looking for a Drunk Elephant Bronzi Drops substitute! Way better than Drunk Elephant." — raegan kuball
Promising review: "I actually like this glowy lotion better than the drunk Elephant one, and I have both. This goes on smoothly and is not greasy. It leaves you very glowy with a beautiful tan and works well with makeup on top if you so wish. Lasting power, too. Recommend." — ggvega
Get it from Amazon for $13.98+ (available in five shades).
23. My all-time desert island holy grail, CeraVe's Skin Renewing night cream, which delivers on hydration and softness and protects your skin's natural barrier — I won't use an expensive night cream again (and reviewers compare it to La Mer, Drunk Elephant, Charlotte Tilbury, and SkinCeuticals creams!). There's a reason people can't stop talking about CeraVe on TikTok!
It has new packaging just FYI if it looks different when you order it — I just make sure my order is sold by + shipped by Amazon! This is my all time fave, never-be-without night cream, and I always make sure to keep at least one extra jar on hand, because it's sometimes sold out!
Promising review:"I've been using the same cream for over seven years. Every other cream would break me out, not moisturize my skin enough, or just make me too oily. I got this because I've been breaking out and I've been trying to find something to calm my skin down. The first night I used this, my skin improved!! Redness/bumps reduced, my skin was soft. I have very sensitive, oily, acne-prone skin and this did not irritate my face at all. I wake up, and my skin is soooo soft. My skin texture has drastically changed in just a week. My makeup applies so smooth, and my pores even look better. My new go-to!" — Melody
Promising review: "I used to work in cosmetics. Two big name brands. The CeraVe line is an excellent product. No perfumes. Simple and effective ingredients. My dermatologist recommended this line to me recently. I'm thrilled with it. It's a perfect night cream. Spending a lot of money on the high-priced lines is 100% unnecessary. They do not work any better. You are just getting duped by deceitful marketing ploys." — ClaudyLA
Get it from Amazon for $16.47.
24. Maybelline Tattoo Studio Pencils because if you're looking for a go-to eyeliner to stock up in neutrals and brights, these glide on with no tugging, with a creamy formula that rivals Urban Decay's eye pencils.
Amazon
Promising review: "L ove this eyeliner, and I think it's way better than the Urban Decay one I was using." — itsmedb
Promising review:"You don't need a high-end eyeliner from Urban Decay or Bobbi Brown. I have oily lids, and this is smudge-proof, and lasts all day. I use it to tight-line my eyes, and it glides on like silk. This will be my go-to eyeliner from now on :) Thanks, Maybelline for saving me money!" — Jenny
Get them from Amazon for $8.98 each (available in 26 colors).
25.
NYX Brow Glue, an extreme hold eyebrow gel (up to 16 hours!) to keep your brow hairs in place alllll day long, especially if you like that "laminated" look. Reviewers agree the hold is great, the formula doesn't flake off, and that it also washes off easily — and is a great alternative to ABH Brow Freeze, too!
Promising review: "I would use hair spray to hold my eyebrows, and throughout the day I would sweat through it, and it wouldn't last. I tried this because the price was great and I'm glad I did. This product is awesome. I've had it on my brows for a nine-hour shift, and they are still in place! It doesn't dry and get flakey, nor does it feel uncomfortable on the skin. Lastly, I use brow powder, and this does NOT affect the look of the powder nor does it smudge it. I will FOREVER buy this product." — Shelby
Promising review: "OK, I was skeptical as I love my ABH Brow Freeze. But a friend did my makeup and used it, and I was really impressed. So, I got some and played with it on my own. It is so much smoother to glide through my brows. I work it through back and front, then again with a clean spoolie. I LOVE the results. It also washes out really well (even if I don't use a makeup wipe)." — Miss Jordan
Get it from Amazon for $9.97 (available in clear, plus four tinted shades).
26. And NYX's Micro Brow pencil with a spoolie on one side and a super narrow pencil tip one one perfect for drawing on realistic, hairlike strokes in just seconds on the other. Plus reviewers compare it favorably with ABH Brow Wiz!
My ABH brow pencil just ran out, and instead of replenishing it, I bought this instead! The shade I wear (taupe) is pretty much identical, and I'm loving it so far! BuzzFeed Shopping contributor Jordan Grigsby (pictured on the right above!) loves it too!
Promising review: "Like many other people, I used the Anastasia Brow Wiz for a long time. I really liked it but $25+ for an eyebrow pencil is absolutely ridiculous so I started looking for an alternative and found this. I usually get the Brow Wiz in the shade Soft Brown, and I bought this pencil in the Taupe shade, and I love it. I did a quick swatch, and I see absolutely zero difference. The design is also the exact same, and the Nyx one lasts much longer throughout the day. So glad I found this product!" — Dianna B
Get it from Amazon for $8.99+ (available in 12 shades).
28. LilyAna Naturals Eye Cream designed to deflate your under eye bags (some say better than Shiseido's Benefiance Wrinkle Cream), hydrate your delicate skin, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and brighten your under eyes, thanks to a blend of aloe, rosehip seed oil, and vitamins C & E.
www.amazon.com
Promising review:"Best eye cream I have ever used!!! Better than Benefiance by Shiseido and Clinique or Lancôme, for less than a third of the price with the amount you get. It is rich enough to do the job but not greasy. It doesn't interfere with concealer, yet softens lines. Love it so much!!!!" — Lory Lacy
Get it from Amazon for $24.99.
29. A set of internet-famous makeup sponges to blend your makeup to perfection — for a fraction of the price of Beauty Blender and Real Techniques sponges. Plus you get a pack of five, so you can go a little longer between cleaning them, which in my book is a huge plus.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "Don't hesitate, just buy these. I was using the Real Technique sponges for years and bought these on a whim after seeing several TikToks praising these. I love these sponges and the price. I apply liquid foundation with a damp sponge and these work better than Real Techniques. They are dense but soft and 'bouncy.' I wash mine between each use and these hold up very well and much better than the RT. Very happy with my purchase and the price. Will definitely continue to buy." — chris
Get a set of five from Amazon for $6.99+ (available in 11 sets).
30. Bedsure's satin pillowcase to help maintain hair and skin health even as you sleep, reducing pesky frizz and breakage when compared with regular cotton or other fiber pillowcases — that means longer-lasting blowouts and less damage in the long run. Why spend the money on pricey brands like Slip and Blissy?
Amazon
This is my go-to satin pillowcase. I have two Slip pillowcases, and several of these, and actually, the Bedsure ones wash up much nicer and retain an incredibly silky smooth feel after dozens of trips through the laundry. They're the only ones I'll buy going forward.
Promising review: "I ordered these pillowcases just to see if they could compete with Blissy. Well, they can. I have washed them three times, and they came out great. They seem to protect your hair and skin. So, I'm very happy with them." — EMc
Promising review: "This pillowcase has been an absolute game-changer! It feels incredibly luxurious, and the impact on my hair and skin has been remarkable. Since I've started using these satin pillowcases, I've noticed significantly less hair breakage and fewer tangles. My hair feels smoother and healthier than ever before. But the real magic happens with my skin. When I wake up, my face has no more sleep lines or creases. It's like I've discovered the fountain of youth! I can't believe the positive difference these pillowcases have made in my daily beauty routine. They're a small investment that yields big results. If you want to wake up feeling and looking refreshed, do yourself a favor and grab these satin pillowcases. you won't regret it!" — Ventus
Get a set of two from Amazon for $9.99 (available in standard, queen, kind, and body pillow sizes and 37 colors).
31. Juno & Co.'s Clean 10 cleansing balm, a non-irritating makeup remover formulated with Japanese pearl barley to help brighten skin as it cleanses. Just scoop out a pea-sized amount (it comes with a lil' spatula!) and massage into your skin — it'll become a luxurious oil and gently dissolve allllll the makeup, SPF, dirt, oil, and more, leaving no residue behind *and* not overly stripping skin of moisture. Many reviewers find it comparable or better than the ($68!) Elemis Cleansing Balm.
www.amazon.com, Amazon
Use it on its own or pair it with Juno & Co's reusable makeup remover pad ($8.99)!
Promising review: " BEST PURCHASE I'VE MADE THIS YEAR! I was just going to take my mascara off with it, and I ended up rubbing it all over my face, lol! It's like all the Tiktok reviews etc, say…perfect makeup remover. Buy this now, and you will throw away what you've been using. My face feels so clean." — Michele
Promising review:"I had fallen in love with the Elemis Cleansing Balm but couldn't justify the cost. I tried this, and love it!! It melts my makeup off and also has a wonderful citrusy scent, just like the Elemis balm. I'm now buying my second one and will keep buying it!" — Stephanie D Peters
Get it from Amazon for $14.99.
32. Physicians Formula Diamond Dust for a gorgeous shimmer onto your eyelids, cheeks, or anywhere else for a truly ~glowing~ finish — and reviewers say if you're looking for a bit less pigmented version of Fenty Beauty Diamond Bomb (which is $42), this is perfect!
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Get a side-by-side look at this next to the Fenty Diamond Bomb highlighter on TikTok — the creator applies one to each cheek for comparison!
Promising review: "I love love love my Physicians Formula Diamond Dust mineral powder! I wish I'd known about this before I spent $42 on a Fenty compact that does MORE than I want with the sparkle; this product gives just the right amount of coverage without having it end up all over my face and on my clothes as well. It's also pretty if you want to bring attention to your collarbones or shoulders. A perfect amount of shimmer with little effort! Try it!! You can thank me later!!" — camielle parent
Get it from Amazon for $11.46.
33. Carenel Lip Sleeping Masks, which come in a set of three minis (for under $10!) so if you've been looking at the Laneige ones to keep your lips hydrated and supple overnight, you might want to try these. Plus they're sized perfectly for travel.
www.amazon.com
For reference, the Laneige lip mask contains 20 grams of product, while each of these measures 5 grams, or 15 grams for the entire set. So even with product sizes taken into account, these are a much better deal!
Promising review:"Love this! In my opinion, better than Laniege at a fraction of the price. A bit thicker, which I like. Even though it's a sleeping mask, I use it throughout the day to keeps my lips moist and soft. Will keep ordering again and again." — Michaela
Get a set of three from Amazon for $9.90 (available in four scent sets).
34. A Briotech spray with the same magical ingredient as the very beloved Tower 28 SOS Daily Rescue Spray: hypochlorous acid. Just spritz it on whenever your skin needs a little de-stressing, and it'll help soothe inflammation, tone down redness, and strengthen your skin's barrier.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
BTW, people also love this for helping heal piercings.
Promising review: " It works just like my Tower 28 spray. Smells the same and feels the same. It's more product and saves you money. It also comes with two lids which is perfect for traveling!" — Andrea Benton
Promising review:"Just an FYI, this product has the exact same ingredients as the Tower 28 spray! It's been absolutely amazing at reducing acne and texture! It's also so refreshing and gives a lil glow. So in love!" — BK
Get an 8-ounce bottle from Amazon for $15.49 (available in four sizes and in packs of two and four).
35. A bottle of professional-grade callus-removing gel that can dissolve that pesky, hard dead skin in just a few minutes — for real, don't leave it on for more than that. Then just rinse, sand with a pumice stone or rasp, and enjoy those silky-smooth feet! If you love Baby Foot but hate waiting (or spending $25 bucks a pop), this is a great option.
www.amazon.com
Promising review:"As many folks have said, have all the things you need (gloves, phone, showerhead, etc.) at hand when you apply this freaking miracle. I have heels like a busted can of biscuits, and I don't have much faith in any product. Any trip to the salon is basically worthless for my calluses. So I soaked my feet and dried them. Applied the gel and waited. Rinsed and started using my rasp. I have NEVER seen so much skin come off. And it just kept coming. I rinsed and put lotion on, then slept in thick socks. My feet are so soft! Game changer." — VR
Get it from Amazon for $14.99 (also available in a two-pack).
36. A rainbow-inspired eyeshadow palette with a whopping 40 matte, shimmer, and metallic shades (cough like the James Charles x Morphe palette cough) to get you inspired to try out stunning eye makeup looks ranging from sultry neutral to bright and fun. And reviewers say it's great for beginners and makeup artists alike.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "Clearly time I got a new eyeshadow palette. Sargent Freddie Mercury (my not-even 4-pound bunny) made it his mission to destroy my James Charles overpriced palette. This palette is the same quality, maybe even nicer. This eyeshadow was put on at around 3 p.m. and it's almost 1 a.m., the 'highlight' stayed on my nose even with my mask on through a whole day of work. That blew my mind." — Daniel T Adams
Promising review: "Best palette I've owned and you can't beat this price! The colors are beautiful and vibrant. They are also extremely pigmented, especially the shimmery colors, and they all seem to blend well. I'm happy to have every color I could ever want in an eyeshadow in the palm of my hands and I've been experimenting with colors I've never worn before!!" — Mary Diamond
Get it from Amazon for $8.99.
Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.