These 8 drugstore shampoos we tested are sneaky good and budget-friendly
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In the heyday of the beauty aisle, brands like Pantene and Herbal Essences reigned supreme. They still do, in many ways, as drugstore shampoos are making a comeback.
After using my sudsy shampoo until the very last drop in middle school, I'd head over to my local beauty supply store with my mom and gaze over the assembly line of pump-dispensing bottles for my next hair wash day. I'd always opt for one that smacked on 'moisturizing' or 'frizz' on the label, testing and trying new formulations to see if they worked for my hair type.
Fast forward years later, and I do this for a living — and this guide is all about the best drugstore shampoos I've tested.
Listen, I love a luxury bottle of Kérastase, Oribe or Redken just as much as the next person, but these high-end brands aren't for everyone, especially if you want to keep you wallet in check. Drugstore shampoos kind of lost their glossy appeal with the movement of clean beauty that's been taking consumers' shopping habits by storm. Though that's not to say that all drugstore shampoos won't offer up a good hair day.
In recent years, sulfate-free shampoos have been all the rage for cleansing your scalp and locks for ditching silicones in their ingredient lists. While this class of shampoos offers a gentle cleanse, the resurrection of drugstore shampoos is much ado social media influencers sharing their allegiance to drugstore labels over professional brands for their hair looking photo-ready.
It's important to know that drugstore shampoos continue to evolve and are more focused than ever on ingredients. Many formulations are, in fact, sulfate-free to serve those who prefer a gentle cleanse. Others contain skin-nourishing ingredients that help with moisture, like hyaluronic acid. Some even include biotin for hair growth. Essentially, the world is your oyster when it comes to picking out a new shampoo, and this guide focuses on the very best options I put to the test.
Ahead, the following shampoo reviews prove that drugstore shampoos are continuing to have a moment. In fact, it never should have escaped us.
Amazon
Pros: Left my hair feeling the most natural, soft and virtually frizz-free
Offers a gentle cleanse
Unbelievably silky feel Cons: It may irritate extremely sensitive scalps as it's not fragrance-free
In my foray back to drugstore shampoos, this was one of the first formulations I added to my shower routine. The L'Oreal Paris EverPure Sulfate-Free Moisture Shampoo is truly a gem, offering my hair a gentle cleanse, ample moisture without weighing down my hair and a fullness like no other.
Victoria Giardina
Even when rinsing out my hair in the shower, the softness factor is something I notice almost instantly. The happy medium of this shampoo, balancing my hair's moisture and allowing it to feel soft and silky, is unmatched. Its scent is akin to luxury salon brands, but you're receiving both the shampoo and conditioner for less than $15. I won't get over that, truly.
Formulated without sulfates, parabens, added phthalates and dyes, it's a science-backed formulation that makes my hair looking well-styled but not too structured. It creates the perfect base for curling my hair after if I wish, but I find myself skipping my hair straightener since the shampoo leaves my naturally frizzy and somewhat dry hair tame and looking great.
Amazon includes both the shampoo and conditioner as a set.
Size: 8.5 fluid ounces | Key ingredients: Glycerin, Rosemary Botanicals | Scent: Bergamot, Cedarwood, Musk
Best Clarifying: Odele Clarifying Shampoo
Ulta Beauty
Pros: Excellent value, given price and bottle size
Gently cleanses the scalp
Feels luxurious and great for dry hair Cons: Not designed to be used as regularly as more traditional (not clarifying) shampoos, though not a dealbreaker
Odele Clarifying Shampoo holds a gentle yet effective formulation that never strips my hair or makes it 'too detoxed' and squeaky clean. Unlike many clarifying shampoos that can strip hair of essential moisture and natural oils, Odele's shampoo uses natural ingredients like rice protein to ensure that your scalp and hair remain nourished even after deep cleansing.
This balanced approach helps remove buildup from all of the styling products I use (a huge checkmark in this shampoo's favor, let me tell you), without compromising the health of my hair. The end result is always refreshingly healthy, but not brittle.
'A clarifying shampoo is a cleansing detoxifier to remove oil, dirt and product buildup,' Amy Abramite, hairstylist, salon educator and creative director at Maxine Ltd. in Chicago, told Post Wanted. 'The suds should lather well and contain a natural ingredient like apple cider vinegar to deep clean the scalp and hair.'
Its commitment to clean, cruelty-free beauty at an affordable price point makes it a standout shampoo that I keep coming back to. Free from harsh sulfates, parabens and phthalates, the shampoo caters to individuals seeking a non-toxic hair care routine.
Additionally, its pleasing scent and luxurious lather aren't characteristics to skip over. I find my hair feeling well-cleansed, fresh and invigorated. If I were blindfolded and had no idea what shampoo I was using, I'd think this would be a $50 bottle. Using its formula creates a spa-like experience, making it a pleasure to use, all while reaping the benefits of its primary function: to clarify the scalp.
Size: 13 fluid ounces | Key ingredients: Rice Protein, Citric Acid | Scent: Ylang Ylang, Oakmoss, Cucumber
Best for Fine Hair: Raw Sugar The Grow Pro Vegan Biotin Shampoo
Raw Sugar
Pros: Best value
Smells amazing
Helps nourish the hair Cons: Not the best for frizz, but not a dealbreaker
I've been a huge fan of Raw Sugar from the jump. The entire suite of products, from its Vinegar Hair Rinse ($12) to its Simply Straight Straightening Serum ($12) is absolutely phenomenal and worth every penny. I call it 'the amika of drugstore': it's effective and smells unbelievably salon-esque.
Raw Sugar's The Grow Pro Vegan Biotin Shampoo is an exceptional choice for those with fine hair, as it's specifically formulated to nourish and strengthen delicate strands. One of the key ingredients, biotin, is well-known for its ability to promote hair growth and improve the thickness of fine hair, though, candidly, more testing on the ingredient has to be conducted. Whenever I use this shampoo, I notice how t works to strengthen each strand from root to tip, helping to reduce breakage and give my hair a fuller, healthier appearance.
Victoria Giardina
Additionally, its blend of nourishing ingredients like zinc and botanicals ensures that the finer parts of my hair receive the hydration it needs without feeling weighed down or greasy, which is approved by Abramite.
'A good shampoo for fine hair should gently cleanse and not weigh hair down,' Abramite explained. 'Aloe vera will balance cleansing by adding enough hydration for lightweight manageability.'
What makes The Grow Pro Vegan Biotin Shampoo particularly beneficial for fine hair is its lightweight formula. Many shampoos designed for thickening or volumizing that I've used were often too heavy, which tends to make fine hair limp or flat. Raw Sugar's shampoo, however, cleanses and fortifies hair without causing any heaviness. Topped off with its clean and vegan ingredient list and less-than-15 price tag for the shampoo, it's destined for your online shopping cart.
If purchased through Amazon, the shampoo and conditioner come as a set.
Size: 18 fluid ounces | Key ingredients: Biotin, Zinc, Botanicals | Scent: Passion Fruit
Best for Wavy Hair: CeraVe Gentle Hydrating Shampoo
Amazon
Pros: Contains hyaluronic acid and niacinamide to hydrate and rebalance hair
Sulfate-free, so offers a gentle cleanse
Fragrance-free, so great for sensitive scalps Cons: Doesn't have that 'salon feel' compared to other drugstore shampoos tested, though not a dealbreaker
Yes, CeraVe offers more than its top-rated skincare. As its bottle alludes to, the Gentle Hydrating Shampoo is exceptionally gentle and hydrating, while also cleansing exceptionally well. Bonus points for being a brand I trust and consistently use, be it for eye creams or night creams.
Victoria Giardina
Two chief ingredients I love using are hyaluronic acid and niacinamide, and this less-than-$15 shampoo contains them both. The former, great for moisture, pairs well with the latter, which is great for rebalancing the skin and making it bouncier. It also contains ceramides, so it cleanses without disrupting the scalp's moisture barrier and makes hair more manageable, while leaving your post-styled hair as shiny as can be.
My sensitive skin (that includes my scalp) loves how this shampoo is unscented. Sure, I love a salon scent, but this one is right to the point and still the shampoo I turn to for my wavy hair. It defines my wavy texture without the excess frizz and is hydrating without weighing down my hair. I wish I had tried this shampoo sooner, but now that it's in my shower, it's never leaving.
Size: 12 fluid ounces | Key ingredients: Hyaluronic Acid, Niacinamide | Scent: Unscented
Best Volumizing: Kristin Ess The One Signature Shampoo
Amazon
Pros: Smells amazing
Lathers well and cleanses gently
Helps extend the longevity of your blowout Cons: A bit more expensive than other drugstore shampoos, but worth it
Behold: one of the drugstore shampoo's finest formulations that'll lift your roots and enhance your hair's body. The Kristin Ess The One Signature Shampoo is a bottle I used years ago and have unintentionally slept on in recent years.
The brand smells like a dream (my fiancé told me 'your hair smells really good' when I entered the room after my shower instantly) and it lathers gently, thanks to its sulfate-free formulation. I'd recommend it for any hair type. It even helps extend my blowout as my hair tends to remain oil-free for longer.
It thoroughly cleanses my hair and scalp without stripping its natural oils. Enriched with avocado oil and castor oil, it replenishes moisture and enhances shine, and always leaves my hair feeling moisturized and looking glossy. With that in mind, achieving volume is effortless.
Uniquely, the shampoo features Zip-Up Technology, a proprietary strengthening complex that targets split ends, addresses weak areas, smooths damaged cuticles and helps protect against environmental stressors and color fading. It makes my hair feel clean and is literally clean: it's free from sulfates, parabens and phthalates.
Amazon includes both the shampoo and conditioner as a set.
Size: 10 fluid ounces | Key ingredients: Avocado Oil | Scent: Pear, Sandalwood, Magnolia
Amazon
Pros: Gentle on all scalps
Contains coconut water and aloe vera, making this shampoo excellent for hydration and soothing properties
Thoughtfully made Cons: Not the best for intense volume, though not a dealbreaker
California Naturals is a new-ish brand that I've tried, and I'm glad I found it on Amazon. Its top ingredient is coconut water which is simply nurturing to any scalp. When aloe vera is added to the mix, I knew I was going to score a cocktail of soothing, gentle ingredients.
And, I was right. The brand's Classic Shampoo stands out as a premium sulfate-free shampoo for $10 as it offers a divine blend of natural ingredients and effective cleansing properties. Aside from coconut water and aloe vera, it also brings sugar cane, vitamin B5 and sunflower extract to its ingredient mix, all working together to gently remove impurities without stripping my hair's natural moisture. It doesn't leave my hair limp, either.
This thoughtful combination of hair-good ingredients ensures that my locks remain clean, soft and healthy-looking after each wash. It doesn't feel abrasive, overly sudsy or ineffective, either.
While sulfates aren't on Post Wanted's do-not-buy list, Abramite is a cheerleader for sulfate-free shampoos as a prime recommendation. 'Avoid sulfates that harshly cleanse hair,' she instructed. 'Sulfates can be overly drying to the scalp and hair, leaving it frizzy and stripped of natural oils, creating an imbalance. Look for natural moisturizing ingredients such as coconut or argan oil for nourishment, protection, smoothness and shine.'
The shampoo's commitment to purity is evident in its avoidance of harsh chemicals such as parabens, sulfates, phthalates and silicones. Instead, it utilizes a Coconut Cleansing Complex that effectively cleanses while maintaining the hair's natural oils, resulting in a gentle yet thorough wash. This approach is particularly beneficial for individuals with sensitive scalps or those seeking eco-friendly hair care options.
For $10, run to this product. It's a nod to summer, especially.
Amazon also includes both the shampoo and conditioner as a set.
Size: 16.5 fluid ounces | Key ingredients: Avocado Oil | Scent: Coconut, Dreamwood, Sandalwood
Best for Damaged Hair: OGX Thick & Full Biotin & Collagen Shampoo
Amazon
Pros: Contains biotin and collagen to help improve hair health
Great for frizz
Wonderful for damaged hair that's in need of a revival Cons: Doesn't make my hair as full compared to other shampoos tested, though is phenomenal for volume and texture
If your hair is in serious need of some TLC, the OGX Thick & Full Biotin & Collagen Shampoo is what I'd recommend. Since middle school, I've been grabbing the brand's pretty, curvy bottles for moisture and frizz reduction, and there's none better than its biotin-collagen infusion.
Its nutrient-infused formula combines vitamin B7 biotin and collagen to enhance hair strength and thickness. Biotin, though loosely studied, has been shown to support hair growth and overall health, while collagen, a natural protein, contributes to increased hair strength and fullness. This powerful combination works together to plump up strands, leaving hair looking and feeling healthier.
In addition to its enriching ingredients, this shampoo features OGX's LipiPro Shield Technology, which offers twice the protection against protein and lipid loss compared to non-conditioning shampoos. This technology safeguards hair from excessive loss of essential lipids and proteins, which can lead to frizz and breakage, ensuring that hair remains resilient and less prone to damage.
The formula is also free from sulfated surfactants, parabens, phthalates, microplastics and dyes (a five-time score), making it a gentle yet effective choice for those seeking to repair and strengthen their hair.
Each time I use this less-than-$15 shampoo, I feel like my hair strands are resurrecting from the dead. With fresh scents of bergamot, jasmine and vanilla, I feel a difference in both the volume and texture of my hair. I don't use this every time I shower, but it's perfect for an every-other-wash cadence when you really want to nurture your hair. It doesn't weigh down my hair, either.
Amazon includes both the shampoo and conditioner as a set.
Size: 13 fluid ounces | Key ingredients: Biotin, Collagen | Scent: Citrus, Florals, Woody
Best for Color-Treated Hair: Pantene Pro-V Radiant Color Shine Shampoo
Amazon
Pros: Smells beautiful
Makes hair noticeably shinier and softer
Doesn't strip color like most affordable shampoos
Easy to find and super budget-friendly Cons: Might be too lightweight for super dry or damaged hair
I don't have color-treated hair, but commerce writer/editor Kendall Cornish does — and was thrilled to test out Pantene's Pro-V Radiant Color Shine Shampoo. Yes, Pantene is having a comeback. In fact, the brand shouldn't have left the conversation.
Kendall Cornish
It stands out as an exceptional drugstore option for color-treated hair largely in part for its advanced formula designed to protect and enhance color vibrancy. It's infused with a potent blend of Pro-V nutrients and antioxidants to gently cleanse without stripping essential moisture. The end result? A good cleanse, a good price and shiny hydration.
'It's one of those rare drugstore staples that punches above its weight class,' Cornish noted. 'It actually does what it says: leaves your hair soft, shiny and smelling like you just left a salon. It lathers like a dream, which I missed more than I realized, and rinses clean without that squeaky, stripped feeling.'
When used in conjunction with the Radiant Color Shine Conditioner, it provides up to 72 hours of hydration and shine, making it ideal for those who are constantly on the go. The absence of parabens, dyes, mineral oil and drying alcohols ensures that the formula is gentle on the scalp and hair. With that said, you'll reduce the risk of irritation and damage.
'The scent is warm and clean with just a hint of fancy-lady floral, like you washed your hair in the powder room of a Hamptons estate,' Cornish added. 'Lastly, and most importantly, it brings out the richness in my colored hair, which feels like a small miracle at this price point. For everyday shine and prolonged color maintenance, it's a yes from me.'
Amazon includes both the shampoo and conditioner as a set.
Size: 12.6 fluid ounces | Key ingredients: Glycerin, Citric Acid | Scent: Subtle Citrus
How we tested
Some of the shampoos tested, from California Naturals to Kristin Ess.
Victoria Giardina
We've been testing drugstore shampoos for years, but have been professionally scrutinizing each one and reviewing them for at least three months. Here's the criteria we kept in mind:
Viscosity : Before I scare you off with a highly scientific term, this point simply refers to how thick or lightweight the formulation felt in my hands (and then, my hair) once emitted from the tube. Any formulations that were incredibly thick or, on the flipside, far too runny, didn't make the cut.
: Before I scare you off with a highly scientific term, this point simply refers to how thick or lightweight the formulation felt in my hands (and then, my hair) once emitted from the tube. Any formulations that were incredibly thick or, on the flipside, far too runny, didn't make the cut. Scent : Whether a shampoo costs $1 or $100, if it doesn't smell good, it's not worth it, IMHO. I made sure to point out which scents instantly transported me to a salon, among all the shampoos that made the cut.
: Whether a shampoo costs $1 or $100, if it doesn't smell good, it's not worth it, IMHO. I made sure to point out which scents instantly transported me to a salon, among all the shampoos that made the cut. Longevity: Of course, how often you wash your hair is dependent on your hair type and thickness. However, I had a confident understanding of which ones seemed to make my hair flat after using a blow-dryer brush to style and which ones held the blowout for at least two days.
An FAQ on Drugstore Shampoos
Ahead, I interviewed an expert hairstylist on what to know about drugstore shampoos: the 411 before you shop.
Does it really matter what brand of shampoo you use?
Like any product, which one you use can make a difference. Abramite thinks so, too.
'Targeting the usage of shampoo to address specific hair and scalp needs will ultimately grant better styling results and healthier hair overall,' she told The Post.
How often should you wash your hair?
Everyone's shampoo timeline is unique to their hair texture, scalp type and lifestyle.
'Dry hair and scalp will require less shampooing to maintain a moisture balance and oily will need more washing,' Abramite explained. 'I recommend washing hair when it feels dirty and becomes unmanageable.'
Daily shampooing is probably too much unless a vigorous workout lifestyle is involved, too. 'Once a week is probably pushing the limits on maxing out a style and cleanliness,' she said. 'On average, most people shampoo three times a week for best results.'
This article was written by Victoria Giardina, New York Post Commerce Journalist & Content Strategist, who has spent countless hours researching, testing hundreds of products and comparing the latest makeup, skincare, hair and beauty items and trends to determine what's truly worth your hard-earned cash. She evaluates formulas, textures, ingredients and more, in addition to consulting medical and industry experts. Some of Victoria's latest conquests include testing the best vitamin C serums on the market, and a rinse-and-repeat review of the best shampoos of 2025. Victoria, who received a beauty industry essentials certification from the Fashion Institute of Technology, has been creating shopping guides for the New York Post since 2021 and previously held positions at Insider Reviews and CNN Underscored.
Looking for a headline-worthy haul? Keep shopping Post Wanted.
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Size: Twin to California King | Depth: 16 inches | Color options: 18 | Certifications: OEKO-TEX certified for chemical safety Amazon Pros: Made from OEKO-TEX-certified 100% organic cotton Priced under $40 with frequent discounts Best on Amazon Cons: Limited thread count (200-range) If you're looking for high-quality, affordable bedding that doesn't compromise on comfort or sustainability, the LANE LINEN 100% Organic Cotton Full Sheet Set is a standout choice. Made from OEKO-TEX certified organic cotton with a crisp percale weave, these sheets offer a breathable, hotel-quality feel that's soft, durable, and ideal for hot sleepers. With eco-conscious packaging, reinforced seams, and deep pockets for a secure fit, this 4-piece set delivers both everyday luxury and peace of mind — all at a price that's hard to beat. Size: Twin to California King | Depth: 15 inches | Color options: 30 | Certifications: OEKO-TEX certified OneBed Pros: OEKO-TEX certified 100-night sleep trial Extremely soft Cons: Prone to wrinkling For a crisp and soft set of bed sheets, we recommend the OneBed Cool & Lazy Sheet Set. It's percale weave makes them feel similar to hotel sheets, and they come in lots of different color options. While they're prone to wrinkling, we do like the 360-degree elastic that stops edges from slipping off while you snooze. Best of all, they're OEKO-TEX certified, so if you're concerned about chemicals, rest easy. Materials: 100% organic cotton | Depth:15 inches | Colors: 11 options | Size: Twin to California King | Certifications: OEKO-TEX certified free of harmful chemicals How we tested To find the best percale sheets, we evaluated dozens of popular brands and models across several key categories: breathability, softness, wear and tear, and overall sleep experience. Although we have a small amount of percale sheets we've tested, we've gone through many, many cotton sets to understand how the material breathes. We paid special attention to how the fabric felt on the skin, how well it regulated body temperature, and how it held up after repeated laundering. We also considered consumer reviews and expert recommendations, including insights from trusted sources such as The New York Post's bedding guides, to make sure our selections aligned with what real users value most. What is the best thread count for percale sheets? When it comes to thread count, more isn't always better, especially with percale. The best thread count for percale sheets typically ranges from 200 to 300. This range offers the perfect balance of softness, breathability, and how it wears over time. Unlike sateen sheets, which benefit from higher thread counts for a silkier feel, percale's lightweight weave thrives in a lower range to preserve its crisp, cool texture. Raising the thread count above 400 can sometimes result in denser, heavier sheets that reduce airflow, counteracting one of the primary benefits of percale. When shopping for cotton percale sheets, look for a thread count in the 200 to 300 range for the most comfortable sleep experience. What is the difference between 100% cotton and 100% cotton percale? When comparing percale vs. cotton sheets, the differences are minimal because, most of the time, both are made from cotton. The label 100% cotton simply refers to the material itself, but it doesn't tell you anything about how the fabric is woven. 100% cotton percale, on the other hand, means the sheets are made entirely of cotton and use the percale weave. This distinction matters because the weave dramatically affects the feel, breathability, and performance of your bedding, allowing more air to circulate between the sheets. Regular 100% cotton sheets might use a sateen, twill, or jersey knit, all of which have different textures and thermal qualities. Percale sheets made from 100% cotton are matte, crisp, and cool to the touch, making them ideal for hot sleepers or those who prefer the just-washed feel. When comparing your options, understanding the difference between simple cotton and 100% cotton percale can help you make a more informed choice for better sleep. And if you're comparing percale vs. sateen sheets, it really comes down to personal preference. Percale sheets are matte, crisp, and tend to get softer with each wash, while sateen sheets are smoother and silkier with a subtle sheen. Bottom line? It's all a matter of personal preference. For over 200 years, the New York Post has been America's go-to source for bold news, engaging stories, in-depth reporting, and now, insightful shopping guidance. We're not just thorough reporters – we sift through mountains of information, test and compare products, and consult experts on any topics we aren't already schooled specialists in to deliver useful, realistic product recommendations based on our extensive and hands-on analysis. Here at The Post, we're known for being brutally honest – we clearly label partnership content, and whether we receive anything from affiliate links, so you always know where we stand. We routinely update content to reflect current research and expert advice, provide context (and wit) and ensure our links work. Please note that deals can expire, and all prices are subject to change. Looking for a headline-worthy haul? Keep shopping Post Wanted.
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a day ago
- New York Post
The medicube Age-R Ultra Tune 40.68 is the Beyoncé of beauty tools
New York Post may be compensated and/or receive an affiliate commission if you click or buy through our links. Featured pricing is subject to change. Let's talk skincare gadgets. Because let's face it: we've all been seduced by that sleek ad, the influencer with glass skin or the promise that this one little device will reverse the effects of binge-watching Netflix under fluorescent lights while eating cheese puffs. Enter the medicube Age-R Ultra Tune 40.68 — a name that sounds like a spaceship but is specially designed to make your face look like it drinks collagen for breakfast. As someone who reports on and reviews the best beauty brands for a living, I'm here to tell you that medicube is certainly worth it. Now, its device is beating the same buzzy drum. Amazon This snazzy Korean-made device is marketed as a '2-in-1 high-frequency + microcurrent' tool. Translation: it uses tiny zaps and heat to wake up your collagen, tighten any sagging skin and lift those brows like a pop diva hitting a high note. According to medicube, it's the closest you can get to a med spa treatment without leaving your house (and, that's always a plus). If you're in the mood for a skincare investment, this device feels like unwrapping tech from the future. It's white, sleek and vaguely resembles something that might take your temperature — or steal your Wi-Fi. As far as aesthetics go, it checks every box. Just don't expect it to fit neatly in your carry-on unless you travel with a dedicated 'skincare gadgets only' suitcase (no judgment if you do). How it works No goopy gel? Count me in. The medicube Age-R Ultra Tune 40.68 glides over your skin, gently warming as it goes, thanks to its 40.68 MHz frequency — which, according to science (and medicube's marketing team), is the sweet spot for stimulating collagen. There's also a microcurrent setting that tightens like your face just did Pilates. The experience is warm, slightly tingly and weirdly satisfying. Most reviewers say it's like a cozy face sauna. The Ultra Tune comes with six interchangeable heads, each designed to contour around your face like a skincare GPS. There's one for cheeks, one for your jawline and one for around your eyes. It's basically the Swiss Army knife of facial tools. Bonus: It makes you feel like a highly-trained beauty assassin on a mission to slay wrinkles. It's easy to use, and you don't need a special gel. Simply use the Ultra Tune after your skincare products have fully absorbed. It will help boost your skin's radiance and elasticity when used consistently, which is the best part. People are seeing real results, too. Reviewers have posted everything from 'my cheeks look lifted' to 'I finally have cheekbones and didn't have to contour.' And yes, we're talking after just a few uses. But others say it's more of a 'slow and steady wins the race' situation. TL;DR: this isn't a Disney princess transformation; consistency is key. You can also maximize your results with the AGE-R App that features custom guide videos, a tracking calendar, visual progress tracking and personalized settings for your best experience. It's like a one-on-one consultation with your facialist. Let's not tiptoe around it — this baby is $299. That's not exactly pocket change. But, compared to repeated spa visits, it's a steal. The real question is: will you actually use it three times a week, or will it become the world's fanciest dust collector? That's up to you to decide. The bottom line If you're skincare-obsessed, love a tech-forward approach, or just want to pretend you're giving yourself a facial while watching 'Bridgerton,' this device is for you. If your ideal skincare routine is 'splash water and hope for the best,' maybe skip it. Honestly? The medicube Age-R Ultra Tune 40.68 brings the science and the sizzle. It's not perfect, it's not cheap but it works if you commit to using it consistently. It's only worth it if you consider this device like a skincare marriage of sorts, not a fling. If you're tired of overpriced creams that promise the world and deliver very little, this device is a solid investment. It's bougie. It's bold. It's your new skincare BFF with benefits. Just remember: good skin takes time, tech and maybe a little caffeine. This article was written by Victoria Giardina, New York Post Commerce Journalist & Content Strategist, who has spent countless hours researching, testing hundreds of products and comparing the latest makeup, skincare, hair and beauty items and trends to determine what's truly worth your hard-earned cash. She evaluates formulas, textures, ingredients and more, in addition to consulting medical and industry experts. Some of Victoria's latest conquests include testing the best vitamin C serums on the market, and a rinse-and-repeat review of the best shampoos of 2025. Victoria, who received a beauty industry essentials certification from the Fashion Institute of Technology, has been creating shopping guides for the New York Post since 2021 and previously held positions at Insider Reviews and CNN Underscored. Looking for a headline-worthy haul? Keep shopping Post Wanted.
