32 Cheap Alternatives To Name-Brand Beauty Products So Good, You'll Want To Gatekeep Them
We hope you love our recommendations! Some may have been sent as samples, but all were independently selected by our editors. Just FYI, BuzzFeed and its publishing partners may collect a share of sales and/or other compensation from the links on this page.
Olaplex, Tatcha, Urban Decay — step aside; reviewers swear these cheaper options provide better results.
1. A L'Oreal Paris rinse-out lamellar water treatment if you want healthier-looking hair in eight seconds flat! Using this magic-in-a-bottle, it'll penetrate your locks to leave silky, smooth, and shiny hair with just one use! Just rinse it out after shampooing your hair, and watch as those frizzy strands get under control — all for less than Redken's lamellar treatment, despite it having the same main ingredient.
www.amazon.com
Promising reviews:"Wow! I have waist-length 3C curly color-treated hair that's usually a nightmare to deal with in the summer and this stuff is a game-changer. My hair is silky, my curls are defined, it dried in like half the usual time…seriously impressed!" — Stavana Jubinsky
"I'm a professional hairstylist and Matrix, Redken, and L'Oreal are all owned by L'Oreal, and each line has a lamellar water in it at different prices. I am here to tell you that they are all the exact same ingredients in different bottles. So buy the cheapest and save yourself some cash. Your hair will love you for it. I love this stuff." — anonymous87
Get it from Amazon for $10.97.
2. A Briotech spray incredibly similar to the famous (and more pricey) Tower 28 SOS facial spray, to reduce redness. The main ingredient, hypochlorous acid, triggers an immune response that'll signal your body to repair and heal irritated skin (yeah, just like your white blood cells).
BTW, people also love this for helping to heal piercings.
Promising reviews: "This is a [swap] for the Tower 28 spray that's 28 bucks for 4 ounces. I use this after cleansing my face before toners or serums. It's healed my acne. Also great for eczema. I have recommended this to so many people. Thanks Briotech for saving me money! Lifelong customer here." — Chey
"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 $16.49 (available in four sizes and in packs of two and four).
3. An E.l.f. Poreless Putty Primer with tea tree and vitamin E to smooth out the appearance of wrinkles, blur pores, and get that whole IRL filter look. Plus, it hydrates your skin, lasts all day, and is a lot cheaper (yet incredibly similar to) Tatcha's Silk Canvas primer! Time to make this a staple in your makeup routine.
Promising review:"Okay so first nothing will make you 'poreless' but this stuff is amazing. Will even out fine lines and help with super porous areas; my T-zone [has really visible] pores and this definitely gave me a boost in confidence. I would highly recommend. Especially to those not to familiar with makeup, this is a game changer. Honestly it works better than my $30 primer from Urban Decay and lasts all day. I am oily so I usually blot some powder on later in the day but if you have dry skin this could be the ultimate game changer!" — Olivia
Get it from Amazon for $10.
4. Peach Slices acne spot dots to clean out any pore-clogging gunk that's festering right under the surface of your skin for a great price, especially when compared to other $$$ brands like Mighty Patch. Just pop one of these over a whitehead and let it sit for a few hours to absorb all the goo stuck in your pores.
BTW, these work best on open, draining pustules (rather than blackheads or pimples that haven't come to a head yet). You can read more at Cleveland Clinic!
Check out a TikTok of the acne spot dots in action.
Promising reviews: " This brand is so affordable and works just the same as the more expensive brands. I go through them so quickly so this is a plus! I'm generally a picker at my zits, but if I can get to one of these dots in time I save my face a lot of irritation and pain." — Savannah Wilson
"So I have been usually these for about a year now. I have tried Mighty Patch and a few others, none I feel really worked or worked as well. This product is MY GO-TO and I have turned so many others to it." — Melodie G
Get a pack of 30 from Amazon for $4.88 (available in a 60 pack).
5. Or LivaClean Superstar pimple patches if you wanna suck out the acne on your face but prefer the look of a cute star sticker on your cheek rather than an obvious pimple patch. Reviewers compare this to the pricier Starface patches — and they swear up and down that these work waaay better. Plus, you're literally paying three cents per patch, a fraction of what other popular brands cost.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "I LOVE the look of pimple patches on myself (as weird as that sounds) and absolutely hate the semi-clear ones, since they just draw my eyes to something that's SUPPOSED to be invisible. So I easily fell in love with the Starface pimple patches — but the issue with those is they're SO expensive and don't work at all. THESE, however, have immediately sucked everything out of my face. I love them and literally wear them all the time. So many people have complimented me, saying, 'Oh my gosh, I love how you just wear stickers on your face; it's adorable.' These also work as [an alternative to] the TikTok Shop ones that are really popular right now and are cheaper! 10/10 from me :)" — evalyn evoke
Get a pack of 240 patches from Amazon for $7.99 (available in five designs/shapes as well as multipacks).
6. A bottle of Elizavecca Hair Treatment for anyone who wants a frizz-free, silky look without paying exorbitant salon prices. Just apply it to wet hair, leave it on for 5 minutes before washing it out, and say goodbye to the damaged look your hair has been sporting after years of abuse at the hands of bleach and flat irons. Reviewers basically swear by this treatment, which many say is even better than Olaplex, for a much lower price!
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
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.
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 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
Get it from Amazon for $7.58.
7. Cosrx Snail Mucin 96% Power Repairing Essence to help hydrate, rejuvenate, and repair your skin. It doesn't matter what kind of skin you have — dry, oily, or, if you're like me, a lil' bit of both depending on the weather — this potion-in-a-bottle is designed to work for everyone as it helps soothe damaged skin. It works even better than many other name-brand moisturizers; it's gentle, it's effective, and it can make your skin look and feel absolutely radiant.
Promising review: "My skin dries out severely during the winter all the time, and I have to constantly use Vaseline to keep it moisturized (normal cream doesn't work on me). Imagine my surprise when my SO tried to put snail goo on me, eww!! I resisted for weeks refusing to use this product as she constantly vouched for its abilities. After a month I finally gave in, and boy it is amazing! My hands feel more moisturized than ever for longer and it doesn't leave a disgusting greasy feel as Vaseline. Take it from a once non-believer, you have to try this. Even if it doesn't work for you, you paid a fraction of what you would've paid for any other name-brand moisturizers." — Kyoko Ozaki
Get it from Amazon for $19.98.
8. Maybelline's Cheek Heat gel-cream blush that's about one-third the price of Glossier's Cloud Paint and gives a nice touch of color to your cheeks with only a dot or two. It's super pigmented, buildable, and ridiculously easy to use. Seriously, no one will even be able to tell the difference between this and the more expensive option.
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!"
Get it from Amazon for $5.98+ (available in six shades).
9. A pack of bamboo oil-blotting sheets to blot out the extra oil pooling on your face and ruining your well-crafted makeup look. You can keep these on hand throughout your day without fearing you'll go through them too quickly — after all, a 100-pack costs less than $10, a fraction of what pricer brands like Tatcha charge.
www.amazon.com
Promising reviews:"These are great for oily skin. I normally can get through half the day before my face looks like a grease pit and that's after applying anti-shine under makeup. These wipes are a miracle. They absorb quickly and I love having them in my purse. I normally use two a day — much better than Tatcha." — Leslie M.I Photographer
"These have been a game changer for swamp hag summer. I use these during the day to keep my skin clean and reduce breakouts from sweating out the souls of my enemies." — Kim Possible
Get a 100-pack from Amazon for $6.95 (available in three styles and a bundle with a pocket mirror).
10. Skin1004's Zombie Pack that only takes 15 minutes to work! These masks are made from albumin, an egg white extract that can help keep your face looking hydrated, bright, and lifted! Reviewers even compare it to Hanacure, but like, wayyyyyyy cheaper.
You get eight packs and a brush with the set!
Promising review:"As good as Hanacure, much better price! The Zombie pack face mask is the best! It works just as well as other tightening masks but it's a fraction of the cost. I use these once a week and am extremely satisfied. My skin feels so good after, and my wrinkles are getting less noticeable." — meredith shaputis
Get a box of eight masks from Amazon for $18.82.
11. A trio of hydrating lip sleeping masks to give you soft and supple lips for less than half the price of the popular Laneige lip mask. These masks use ingredients like berry extract and vitamin C to target dry and cracked lips while you sleep. There are three different scents, so you can share them with friends — or hoard them all for yourself.
www.amazon.com, 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: "[Alternative] for the Laneige lip mask. This is the most moisturizing lip treatment in the market. When my lips started getting dry due to the cold season I was thinking of buying the Laneige lip mask, but it's soooo expensive. This is a fraction of the cost and feels just the same. Very good product." — Riya
Get it from Amazon for $9.90 (available in six combos).
12. L'Oreal's illuminating Lumi Glotion for those of you who want that perfect "no-makeup" look. You can use this in place of foundation or simply add it to your existing makeup look for a bit of a glow. Plus, it's under $15, so it's the perfect substitute to the $$$ options like Glossier Futuredew and Drunk Elephant's D-Bronzi Drops.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising reviews:"Similar to the Drunk Elephant bronzing drops but half the cost!!! Definitely has more shimmer/glow to it." — Taylor Luckhardt
"This is EXACTLY what I was looking for. I apply after moisturizer and makeup, highlighting under my eyes and brow bones. Not too sparkly, just makes me look like I've had enough coffee. Seems to last through hot and sweaty Florida days, so that's a plus. I've tried other luminizers, and for me they are usually too sparkly or weirdly colored. I tried an $$ Glossier one that remained strangely sticky the whole time it was on my skin." — DLW
Get it from Amazon for $13.98 (available in five shades).
13. A highly pigmented eyeshadow palette that'll make you feel like a professional painter because it comes with 40 matte, shimmer, and metallic shades — literally every color you could possibly need. You won't even be able to tell the difference between this one and the palette by James Charles! Everyone from makeup newbies to professionals rave about this work-of-art palette!
Promising reviews: "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
"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 $7.39+ (available in two color combinations).
14. And a tube of Elizabeth Mott Thank Me Later eye primer to ensure your color stays intact even as you sweat buckets while trekking up that never-ending hike your buddy talked you into joining. Just apply it to your eyelid prior to dabbing on your eye look of the day, and voila! Eyeshadow that won't budge, no matter how much sweat pools across your brow. Mac's Paint Pot has got nothing on this.
Promising review:"This eye primer is amazing!!! I have super oily eyelids and was getting to the point that I would rarely bother with eyeshadow because even with expensive primers it would be smudged and creased within an hour. So glad I don't need to shell out for Urban Decay or Mac Paint Pot anymore; they don't hold a candle to this and it's so much cheaper." — Chloe
Get it from Amazon for $13.99.
15. Nyx Fat Oil Lip Drip because why spend $40+ on that one Dior lip oil, when you can have basically the same thing for $9?! It's hydrating (thank you, vegan squalane), has beautiful sheer colors, and, despite the gloss, is surprisingly not sticky! Literally gorgeous.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "I have Fenty Cherry Treat, a lip oil from Dior, and several other brands that were $20 or more…and the Nyx Fat Oil is better! Same consistency as the others, but a little more color, which is a good thing. About as long lasting as any other thick lipgloss. It's always awesome to find a less expensive [option] for the high-end products I like." — Jennifer
Get it from Amazon for $8.97 (available in 14 shades).
16. LilyAna Naturals eye cream so you can trick everyone around you into thinking you got the full recommended nine hours of sleep...when you were actually too busy marathoning the latest season of Love Island. This magical cream brightens and lifts your under-eye area — all for a fraction of the price of other brand-name eye creams. Victory!!
www.amazon.com, 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 $14.99+ (available in three sizes and a two-pack).
17. A painless, mint-flavored teeth-whitening pen to brighten each and every tooth so that your smile is as ✨shiny✨ as can be. This pen brings instant results without the need to deal with the expensive, traditional strips that may leave your teeth feeling sensitive and your wallet feeling sad (Crest Whitestrips, I'm looking at you). Chip Skylark himself will burst into song at the sight of your smile. 🎶My shiny teeth and me!🎶
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
The before/after image above shows results after just one use (the pics were taken 30 minutes apart)!
Promising review:"Saw this on BuzzFeed — they were right! It's easy to use and actually works. I was so surprised at how well this pen bleached out some coffee stains on my teeth after just one application. I've tried Crest Whitestrips and this is better because you can get in between the teeth." — C. S.
Get a pack of two pens from Amazon for $9.95.
18. A Revlon one-step hair dryer and volumizer that can dry, style, straighten, and add some volume without having to play with about 50 other tools or products. Just step out of the shower, turn this magic wand on, and voila! The perfect look! Spending $500+ on a Dyson Airwrap is not necessary.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
It has two heat and speed settings and a cool option, and it's designed to work on all hair textures — reviewers with 2b–4c hair mentioned it working for them.
Promising reviews:"I've had my eye on a Dyson Airwrap, but given the cost, I figured I'd try this while I save up. This thing is fantastic. I have waist length hair that's naturally straight, but gets frizzy when damp. I've had salon blowouts that have left my hair looking great, but I simply can't manage a round brush without it getting tangled in my hair. This device has been a game changer. It works best if you air dry for a while before you use it, then use it to finish your style. My hair miraculously doesn't get snarled in it, and it leaves my hair looking like I've had it professionally styled. I love it, and I'm no longer interested in blowing $500 on a Dyson. Highly recommend!" — Ilsa
Get it from Amazon for $36.99+ (available in two models and nine colors).
19. CeraVe's Retinol Serum to prevent irritation, flakiness, and redness — all while helping reduce the appearance of acne scars and pores. Now you can finally add a retinoid to your routine without having to pay $92 for Murad's retinol serum (big yikes).
And remember, like with any retinol, don't start off applying this every day. Start slow and work yourself up if needed, paying attention to your skin. You'll also definitely want to use a sunscreen (with at least SPF 30) while using this product.
Promising reviews: "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." — Successful Solo
"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.
20. A set of makeup sponges perfect for blending in your foundation, BB cream, powder, and even concealer at a fraction of the cost of all other well-known brands. Reviewers even swear these sponges hold up and work just as well (or even better) than the Beauty Blender and Real Technique ones. I just added these to my cart.
Promising review: "Don't hesitate, just buy these. I was using the Real Technique sponges for years, and I 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 are much better than the RT. I'm very happy with my purchase and the price. I will definitely continue to buy." — chris
Get a set of five from Amazon for $5.99+ (available in four color combinations).
21. And a bottle of makeup brush-cleaning shampoo for those long-neglected brushes that were once white instead of bronzer-colored-brown. This shampoo will wash away all the shadow and blush from your tools, so you don't have to buy a whole new pack every six months or so. Plus, it's basically just like Beautyblender's $15 liquid cleanser, but half the price.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
See what BuzzFeed writer Jenae Sitzes has to say about this: I've used Ecotools brush cleaning shampoo for years, and it makes cleaning my brushes so much easier. I just add a bit of the shampoo to my brush and gently rub it against a silicone mat under running water, and it makes quick work of removing all the makeup that's built up on my brush for, frankly, way too long. You'll see the water start running brown immediately, which is always super gross but also really satisfying, and once you see your brush return to its original color, you know you're done. And the bristles are always left as soft as before too!
Promising review:"The best, most affordable brush and sponge shampoo on the market! No joke, I have tried everything; even homemade hacks like dish detergent mixed with olive oil. Nothing works like this brush shampoo. Don't waste your money on the Beauty Blender soap and other big-name brands." — Lily
Get it from Amazon for $6.96.
22. A 12-pack of soft microfiber makeup removing towels so you can gently remove your makeup without relying on the increasingly expensive liquid removers. These towels can be used again and again, are perfect for travel, and literally cost just over $1 per cloth. Move over Makeup Eraser; these are both easier to use AND are about 20 times cheaper.
www.amazon.com
HuffPost Shopping writer Haley Zovickian swears by these: "I only use these now to remove my makeup, including heavy mascara, and they are great for my sensitive skin. I do follow up with a gentle cleanser to cleanse my skin once all my makeup is off. They're big and dry quickly so you can use the same towel several times before having to wash it or switch to another one."
Promising review: "These things are so soft! Great for taking off makeup. I was using the Makeup Eraser before, but these are 100 times better. You just wet them, wipe off your makeup, rinse, and hang out. I guess you could use a new one each day, but they are very big, so you can get a few days out of one. Great value for the money!" — Shopforbargains
Get a pack of 12 from Amazon for $13.95+ (available in 13 color combos and in packs of 30).
23. An Eva Naturals' vitamin C serum capable of helping transform your skin by boosting collagen and reducing the appearance of dark spots, fine lines, acne, and clogged pores. This serum contains retinol, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and salicylic acid — all powerful ingredients made to brighten your skin. Say buh-bye to the expensive SkinCeuticals serum!
Reviewers say it's *especially* effective for sensitive, acne-prone skin and oily/combination skin types (though reviewers with dry skin report great results too). And many people compare it to SkinCeuticals' vitamin C serum — which, if you're unaware, retails for a whopping $182.
Promising reviews:"I absolutely LOVE this serum. I was spending an absurd amount of money on SkinCeuticals products. This serum is way better. My skin is clearer and more bright. The only negative about this serum is the smell. It's awful! I will tolerate it and continue to use it because of its effectiveness and price!" — Tish
"I am a licensed esthetician who deals with hormonal cystic acne that leaves scarring on my sensitive skin. My skin has improved so much since I started using this product!!! For the first couple of weeks, my skin purged out any underlying blemishes but afterward was clearer + smoother than I've seen it in YEARS! I LOVE THIS PRODUCT!! I love that it not only targets my acne scarring with the vitamin C but also soothes the redness with the niacinamide, has retinol, AND helps minimize my blackheads and pore size with the salicylic acid. 😭 It is the perfect product for my sensitive oily acne prone skin!" — Jackie
Get it from Amazon for $9.99.
24. Physicians Formula Diamond Dust translucent powder to add a bit of shimmer to your cheeks, eyes, and lips — so you can look as expensive as you feel. It might be less pigmented than the famous Fenty Beauty Diamond Bomb highlighter (which costs over $40, btw), but a bunch of reviewers actually prefer this one!
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+ (available in two shades).
25. A bottle of Nyx matte setting spray that will protect your flawless makeup look with a matte finish — all without having to fork over the $$$ that Urban Decay's setting sprays cost. This bad boy is not only travel-sized for your convenience but can keep your makeup in place for over 16 hours!
Promising review:"Expensive isn't always better. I tried this spray before spending the day outdoors in 90-degree heat at Disneyland, and the only place my makeup moved was on the tip of my nose because I have allergies and use a lot of Kleenex. But otherwise it looked as fresh as it did when I put it on. I've used Mac and Urban Decay setting spray and they never worked as well as this stuff. I am completely amazed. Definitely give it a try." — Stephanie
Get it from Amazon for $9.97 (also available in dewy, plump, and radiant finishes, and a jumbo size).
26. A pack of BestLand's high-performance matte lipsticks to bring some color to your lips without the fear of it smearing after every single dab of a napkin. Each lipstick costs less than $2 each, an absolute steallll when compared to the $25+ for other famous name brands 👀.
Promising reviews: "What can I say, I saw a TikTok about this lipstick and for $10 had to try it! The reviews are right, for some reason this lipstick is better than even $20 name-brand ones bought from Ulta. Not only does it smell great, but dries in under a minute and survived eating a cupcake, a Starbucks drink, and an entire evening out, no smudging and had to be removed with a makeup wipe. Fantastic product!!" — Claire
"Beautiful and soooo worth the money! Usually I always purchase either Stila Cosmetics or Kylie Jenner but both of those are very pricey and expensive, so I looked up matte lip glosses on Amazon and saw this and thought I would give it a try. I absolutely love it. Very easy to put on does not smudge, beautiful colors, very very happy about the size of it! I went and purchased set B now because I love this product!" — Vickyy
Get a six-piece set from Amazon for $8.99 (available in four different sets).
27. Long-lasting Peripera Ink Velvet Lip Tint that will give your pout a smooth, ultra-pigmented stain with a silky finish without having to worry about constantly reapplying. Reviewers even swearrrr it's just as good as products like the Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution and YSL Velvet Cream.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising reviews:"This is velvet, full coverage without feeling like glue on your lips. It does transfer. The color is very pigmented so what you see is what you get. Honestly one of the best lip color products I've ever used, I put this above Charlotte Tilbury." — Lexi Lee
Get it from Amazon for $9.90 (available in 29 shades).
28. An eyebrow soap kit to sculpt your brows into mini-masterpieces that will stay in place for hours. With just a few swipes of a brush, you can boast perfectly fluffed brows. Reviewers even claim that it's better than any name-brand alternatives!! (Anastasia Beverly Hills, I'm looking at you.)
www.amazon.com
Promising reviews:"I have the kind of eyebrows that look very full with brushing, but can quickly look like one has 'collapsed' once my hair or something else touches it. I've used nearly every product from Anastasia Beverly Hills, but never had luck keeping my brows in place. Well, let me tell you, this stuff is no joke. I had to scrub my eyebrows clean tonight to get them to move. If you need some help holding your fluff, this will be your new favorite product. Also, I was able to ditch the eyebrow pencil since this this stuff holds every hair in the place you brush it." — Bailey M, Deacon
"This is so, so much better than the clear mascara that I was using. Ditto for the expensive eyebrow gel that I used before that. This stuff is: not crunchy, not crusty, and doesn't wear off, all day long. What it IS is nothing short of amazing: a little brow pencil and some of the eyebrow soap, and you have perfect brows all day, with no worries." — H. K. Rodman
Get it from Amazon for $4.99+ (available in a one- or two-piece set, and with a brow gel).
29. A cruelty-free brightening facial scrub that surpasses more expensive brands like Clinique, The Body Shop, and Rodan + Fields. This scrub contains ingredients like Madonna lily, lemon peel, French green clay, and sea kelp — all of which will leave your skin glowing and hydrated all day long.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising reviews:"You need this face scrub. Got rid of my obvious blackheads after two to three uses. Just make sure you tone or moisturize after each use. This is much, much better than the $60 scrub I purchased last year at an expensive chain makeup store. Do it!" — WhatTheFrenchRoast
"I have no clue how this stuff works as amazing as it does, but it's AWESOME! After getting this and using for over a week I officially switched from the Rodan + Fields reversal line to the Acure brightening scrub. It work evens better than products that were costing almost 15x the amount. I've even gotten two of my friends to order it and they love it as well. You can't go wrong." — Michelle A Malaska
Get it from Amazon for $9.59.
30. Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Concealer to mask those dark circles without feeling like you're wearing something heavy across your skin. It color-corrects and conceals, so you can pretend as though you haven't been pulling all-nighters all week. This magic wand has a built-in sponge for application and will give you all-day coverage (all for cheaper than those 💸💸💸 name-brand options).
Kayla Suazo / BuzzFeed, www.amazon.com
Promising reviews:"I have extremely dark under-eye circles. Honestly that is the only reason I wear makeup, is 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. Or it looks too heavy and thick by the time i set with a damp makeup sponge and powder (accentuating my under-eye fine lines). 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, not drying and not too liquidy. I'm so happy I gave this a try, will definitely be keeping this baby in my everyday makeup bag." — Brittney
"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 $8.79 (available in 23 shades).
And check out our Maybelline's Instant Age Rewind Concealer review for more deets.
31. Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water that will gently cleanse your skin and lift away even waterproof makeup along with dirt and excess oil. Reviewers even prefer this to Bioderma, which is more than double the price.
www.amazon.com
Promising reviews:"I was skeptical about this product at first but I am so glad I decided to buy it. It really removes my makeup, even waterproof mascara with ease. It has no smell and doesn't leave my face oily. It reminds me of my Bioderma that I got in the UK. And for this price, amazing!" — Kat
"I've been using makeup wipes my whole life because I didn't even know this existed. I saw it in stores but nobody ever told me what this was. This is literally amazing, buy reusable pads and this and you're set for life. I'm really upset nobody ever told me what this stuff was. I don't understand why makeup wipes even exist...this cleanses your face, takes off your makeup. Nobody should not know what this stuff is." — Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $3.99+ (available in two sizes and in packs).
BTW, this is our budget pick for the best makeup remover!
32. Eve Hansen Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum to make you feel like you just got a facial, when really all you did was apply a few drop of this lil' magic potion. It'll hydrate your skin, reduce under-eye puffiness and dark circles, smooth fine lines, boost overall hydration, and create a radiant glow✨! Plus, reviewers even compare it to TNS Recovery Complex serum, which is literally over $200 for a 1-ounce bottle (YIKES).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review:"So far I have used about four bottles of this product. I use it like a serum and put a few drops on my face and décolleté before I apply moisturizer in the morning or night cream. I see the same outstanding results I did see with the TNS Serum — just for a fraction of the price!!!" — nana bendick
Get it from Amazon for $17.98.
Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.
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Vogue
3 days ago
- Vogue
11 Best Facial Scrubs for a Smoother, Brighter Complexion
Facial scrubs have had their fair share of ups and downs in the skin-care spotlight. Once beloved during the St. Ives apricot scrub era, they later fell from grace for causing microtears in the skin and disrupting the barrier. Today, the best facial scrubs have evolved with gentler, more refined formulas that physically exfoliate without doing harm. Instead of harsh grit, they delicately remove dead skin cells, leaving a smoother, brighter complexion. Vogue's Favorite Facial Scrubs Which is why we asked the experts whether or not they recommend facial scrubs for exfoliating skin (spoiler: they do), how often to use them, what to look for in a formula, and the ones they trust most. Below, a look at their recommendations for the best facial scrubs for a smoother, more even, and brighter complexion. In This Story: Best Overall: Tatcha The Rice Polish Tatcha The Rice Polish $68 TATCHA Why We Love It : According to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Corey L. Hartman, Tatcha's The Rice Polish uses finely milled Japanese rice bran as its physical exfoliant. Because the particles are small and uniform, it's well-tolerated by most skin types, including sensitive skin. 'This is a good option for anyone looking to minimize the appearance of pores,' says Dr. Hartman. 'The papaya enzymes offer gentle chemical exfoliation, while silk extracts help condition and soothe the skin.' The fine exfoliant also helps clear out debris, leaving pores looking smoother and less noticeable. : According to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Corey L. Hartman, Tatcha's The Rice Polish uses finely milled Japanese rice bran as its physical exfoliant. Because the particles are small and uniform, it's well-tolerated by most skin types, including sensitive skin. 'This is a good option for anyone looking to minimize the appearance of pores,' says Dr. Hartman. 'The papaya enzymes offer gentle chemical exfoliation, while silk extracts help condition and soothe the skin.' The fine exfoliant also helps clear out debris, leaving pores looking smoother and less noticeable. Key Ingredients: Japanese rice bran, papaya enzymes, licorice root Japanese rice bran, papaya enzymes, licorice root Best For : All skin types, smoothing : All skin types, smoothing Size: 2.1 oz, 0.5 oz Best Dual Exfoliator: Lancer The Method: Polish Exfoliator Lancer The Method: Polish Exfoliator $80 NORDSTROM Why We Love It : The first skincare product I ever splurged on, Lancer The Method Polish, still holds a soft spot in my heart. But beyond nostalgia, it truly delivers results. It's a dual exfoliator, using both chemical and physical exfoliants to resurface the skin. Dr. Hartman explains that the formula combines uniform magnesium crystals with pumpkin and pomegranate enzymes to loosen the bonds holding dead skin cells in place, then physically sweep them away for a smoother, softer texture. 'The formula helps improve the skin's overall appearance with antioxidant-rich winged kelp, which hydrates and leaves the skin feeling refreshed,' he adds. : The first skincare product I ever splurged on, Lancer The Method Polish, still holds a soft spot in my heart. But beyond nostalgia, it truly delivers results. It's a dual exfoliator, using both chemical and physical exfoliants to resurface the skin. Dr. Hartman explains that the formula combines uniform magnesium crystals with pumpkin and pomegranate enzymes to loosen the bonds holding dead skin cells in place, then physically sweep them away for a smoother, softer texture. 'The formula helps improve the skin's overall appearance with antioxidant-rich winged kelp, which hydrates and leaves the skin feeling refreshed,' he adds. Key Ingredients: Pumpkin enzymes, pomegranate enzymes, winged kelp, magnesium crystals Pumpkin enzymes, pomegranate enzymes, winged kelp, magnesium crystals Best For : Normal to combination skin : Normal to combination skin Size: 4.2 oz Best for Brightening: YSE Your Favorite Ex Exfoliating Gel YSE Beauty Enzymatic and Physical Exfoliating Gel $58 YSE BEAUTY Why We Love It : A double whammy, the YSE Gentle Enzymatic and Physical Exfoliating Gel uses both physical and chemical exfoliants to sweep away dead skin cells from the surface. Dr. Hartman explains that the physical exfoliant in the formula is cellulose acetate, a synthetic polymer derived from plant-based cellulose fibers. And if you're worried about dryness, he reassures that the formula also includes squalane to boost hydration, along with hibiscus and passion fruit extracts to help brighten and even out the skin's tone. : A double whammy, the YSE Gentle Enzymatic and Physical Exfoliating Gel uses both physical and chemical exfoliants to sweep away dead skin cells from the surface. Dr. Hartman explains that the physical exfoliant in the formula is cellulose acetate, a synthetic polymer derived from plant-based cellulose fibers. And if you're worried about dryness, he reassures that the formula also includes squalane to boost hydration, along with hibiscus and passion fruit extracts to help brighten and even out the skin's tone. Key Ingredients: Papaya enzymes, cellulose acetate, passion fruit and hibiscus extract, squalane Papaya enzymes, cellulose acetate, passion fruit and hibiscus extract, squalane Best For : Uneven texture, mature skin : Uneven texture, mature skin Size: 75 mL Best for Hyperpigmentation: Natura Bissé C+C Vitamin Scrub Why We Love It : If you ever studied abroad in Bar-thay-lona, you might recognize Natura Bissé as one of the city's premier skincare brands. This particular scrub is a standout for anyone dealing with hyperpigmentation, combining the brightening power of vitamin C with rosehip seeds, a natural physical exfoliant. 'Vitamin C has been shown to reduce hyperpigmentation and dark spots on the skin for a more even-toned complexion,' says Dr. Hartman, referring to the formula's potent antioxidant blend. : If you ever studied abroad in Bar-thay-lona, you might recognize Natura Bissé as one of the city's premier skincare brands. This particular scrub is a standout for anyone dealing with hyperpigmentation, combining the brightening power of vitamin C with rosehip seeds, a natural physical exfoliant. 'Vitamin C has been shown to reduce hyperpigmentation and dark spots on the skin for a more even-toned complexion,' says Dr. Hartman, referring to the formula's potent antioxidant blend. Key Ingredients: Vitamin C, rosehip seeds, bitter orange extract Vitamin C, rosehip seeds, bitter orange extract Best For : Dark spots : Dark spots Size: 100 mL Best Splurge: La Prairie Cellular Mineral Face Exfoliator La Prairie Cellular Mineral Face Exfoliator $170 NORDSTROM Why We Love It : 'This exfoliator is as luxurious as skincare gets,' says board-certified dermatologist Dr. Ali Shahbaz of La Prairie's mineral face exfoliator, which rings in at $170 and is infused with rich minerals and fine crystals to deeply polish the skin. 'I recommend this for those with dry or mature skin who want a weekly reset,' he adds. Just be cautious if your skin is sensitive—its intensity means a little goes a long way. : 'This exfoliator is as luxurious as skincare gets,' says board-certified dermatologist Dr. Ali Shahbaz of La Prairie's mineral face exfoliator, which rings in at $170 and is infused with rich minerals and fine crystals to deeply polish the skin. 'I recommend this for those with dry or mature skin who want a weekly reset,' he adds. Just be cautious if your skin is sensitive—its intensity means a little goes a long way. Key Ingredients: Gem powders, rosa centifolia Gem powders, rosa centifolia Best For : Dry skin, oily skin : Dry skin, oily skin Size: 100 mL Best for Sensitive Skin: The Outset Exfoliating Revitalizing & Energizing Caffeine Micro Polish Why We Love It : Like all of The Outset's products, this scrub is formulated to be gentle and non-irritating. It's also vegan, hypoallergenic, cruelty-free, and made without parabens, silicones, or gluten. The mineral-based formula is designed to revive dull, tired skin using a combination of physical exfoliation and caffeine. Dr. Hartman explains, 'Fine perlite helps exfoliate the skin, while caffeine helps boost blood flow to the surface, resulting in a brighter complexion.' : Like all of The Outset's products, this scrub is formulated to be gentle and non-irritating. It's also vegan, hypoallergenic, cruelty-free, and made without parabens, silicones, or gluten. The mineral-based formula is designed to revive dull, tired skin using a combination of physical exfoliation and caffeine. Dr. Hartman explains, 'Fine perlite helps exfoliate the skin, while caffeine helps boost blood flow to the surface, resulting in a brighter complexion.' Key Ingredients: Fine perlite, caffeine Fine perlite, caffeine Best For : Sensitive skin : Sensitive skin Size: 100 mL Best for Smoothing: Kiehl's Epidermal Re-Texturizing Micro-Dermabrasion Face Exfoliator Why We Love It : With micro-particles designed to mimic in-office microdermabrasion, Dr. Shahbaz says this scrub can significantly smooth skin and reduce uneven tone. 'It's best suited for those with normal to oily skin, and definitely not something to use daily. Once a week is plenty,' he notes. What's great is that it isn't limited to just your face—you can also use it to target discoloration on your hands and décolletage. Just make sure your skin is damp, and apply it using upward and outward circular motions. : With micro-particles designed to mimic in-office microdermabrasion, Dr. Shahbaz says this scrub can significantly smooth skin and reduce uneven tone. 'It's best suited for those with normal to oily skin, and definitely not something to use daily. Once a week is plenty,' he notes. What's great is that it isn't limited to just your face—you can also use it to target discoloration on your hands and décolletage. Just make sure your skin is damp, and apply it using upward and outward circular motions. Key Ingredients: Micronized shells, willow herb Micronized shells, willow herb Best For : Dry skin : Dry skin Size: 2.5 oz Best for Skin Barrier Support: Avène Gentle Exfoliating Gel Avène Gentle Exfoliating Gel $26 DERMSTORE Why We Love It : If you've avoided exfoliation out of fear your skin can't handle it, Dr. Shahbaz offers some reassurance. 'This is a great option for sensitive skin,' he says of this gentle formula, which is lightweight, non-irritating, and enriched with Avène's signature thermal spring water. 'The biodegradable beads offer mild exfoliation, making it perfect for regular use one to two times a week.' Not sure what to follow with? He recommends Avène Cicalfate+, a post-biotic-rich cream that calms inflammation and helps reinforce the skin barrier after exfoliation. : If you've avoided exfoliation out of fear your skin can't handle it, Dr. Shahbaz offers some reassurance. 'This is a great option for sensitive skin,' he says of this gentle formula, which is lightweight, non-irritating, and enriched with Avène's signature thermal spring water. 'The biodegradable beads offer mild exfoliation, making it perfect for regular use one to two times a week.' Not sure what to follow with? He recommends Avène Cicalfate+, a post-biotic-rich cream that calms inflammation and helps reinforce the skin barrier after exfoliation. Key Ingredients: Thermal spring water, biodegradable beads Thermal spring water, biodegradable beads Best For : Sensitive skin : Sensitive skin Size: 75 mL Best for Softening: Oak Essentials Renew Face Polish Oak Essentials Renew Face Polish $58 NORDSTROM Why We Love It : Ideal for those with dry or combination skin, this face polish from Jenni Kayne's Oak Essentials smooths without stripping. It blends mineral-rich powders with nourishing oils for a creamy, gentle exfoliation—nothing like the harsh, sandpaper-like scrubs of the past. 'I'd recommend it as a weekly indulgence, especially if your skin needs a glow-up without the grit,' says Dr. Shahbaz. : Ideal for those with dry or combination skin, this face polish from Jenni Kayne's Oak Essentials smooths without stripping. It blends mineral-rich powders with nourishing oils for a creamy, gentle exfoliation—nothing like the harsh, sandpaper-like scrubs of the past. 'I'd recommend it as a weekly indulgence, especially if your skin needs a glow-up without the grit,' says Dr. Shahbaz. Key Ingredients: Pineapple extract, red seaweed algae extract, potato extract Pineapple extract, red seaweed algae extract, potato extract Best For : Dry skin, combination skin : Dry skin, combination skin Size: 100 mL Best for Oily Skin: Clinique Exfoliating Face Scrub Clinique Exfoliating Face Scrub $30 SEPHORA Why We Love It : You might have grown up with this BHA exfoliator, and it's still standing the test of time. Safe for most skin types, the formula is free of fragrance, oil, mineral oil, alcohol, talc, silicone, and gluten. It also gets a dermatologist stamp of approval. New York City-based board-certified dermatologist Dr. Toral Vaidya explains, 'Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid that penetrates deep into the pores to dissolve excess oils, while silica beads provide gentle physical exfoliation by helping to remove dead skin cells from the surface.' : You might have grown up with this BHA exfoliator, and it's still standing the test of time. Safe for most skin types, the formula is free of fragrance, oil, mineral oil, alcohol, talc, silicone, and gluten. It also gets a dermatologist stamp of approval. New York City-based board-certified dermatologist Dr. Toral Vaidya explains, 'Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid that penetrates deep into the pores to dissolve excess oils, while silica beads provide gentle physical exfoliation by helping to remove dead skin cells from the surface.' Key Ingredients: Salycilic acid, silica beads Salycilic acid, silica beads Best For : Oily skin, uneven texture : Oily skin, uneven texture Size: 100 mL Best for Dry Skin: Dermalogica Daily Milkfoliant Dermalogica Daily Milkfoliant, Face Exfoliator $68 AMAZON Why We Love It : A staple in my household growing up, this oat-based powder exfoliant gently improves skin smoothness and radiance while supporting the skin barrier. Designed for daily use, Dr. Hartman says people with normal, oily, or combination skin may benefit from using it every day to help exfoliate and brighten. For dry or sensitive skin, one to two times per week may be enough. 'The formula's main ingredient, rice powder, activates when mixed with water to deliver AHAs that help brighten the skin,' he explains. And since it's a powder, you can control the texture—just be sure to use water sparingly so it doesn't get too runny. : A staple in my household growing up, this oat-based powder exfoliant gently improves skin smoothness and radiance while supporting the skin barrier. Designed for daily use, Dr. Hartman says people with normal, oily, or combination skin may benefit from using it every day to help exfoliate and brighten. For dry or sensitive skin, one to two times per week may be enough. 'The formula's main ingredient, rice powder, activates when mixed with water to deliver AHAs that help brighten the skin,' he explains. And since it's a powder, you can control the texture—just be sure to use water sparingly so it doesn't get too runny. Key Ingredients: Papaya enzymes, coconut milk, salicylic acid, phytic acid, colloidal oatmeal Papaya enzymes, coconut milk, salicylic acid, phytic acid, colloidal oatmeal Best For : All skin types : All skin types Size: 2.6 oz, 0.45 oz Best for Acne-Prone Skin: Ranavat Smoothing Facial Polish Ranavat Smoothing Facial Polish $45 RANAVAT Why We Love It : Inspired by Ayurvedic rituals, this botanical-rich polish feels like a spa treatment at home, especially if you slow down and take the time to breathe it all in. Dr. Shahbaz says it's gentle enough for most skin types, with ingredients like rice powder and nourishing oils that help brighten and soften without irritation. 'A lovely choice one to two times a week for those who favor clean, plant-based beauty,' he adds. : Inspired by Ayurvedic rituals, this botanical-rich polish feels like a spa treatment at home, especially if you slow down and take the time to breathe it all in. Dr. Shahbaz says it's gentle enough for most skin types, with ingredients like rice powder and nourishing oils that help brighten and soften without irritation. 'A lovely choice one to two times a week for those who favor clean, plant-based beauty,' he adds. Key Ingredients: Rice powder, ashwagandha, lotus seed Rice powder, ashwagandha, lotus seed Best For : All skin types : All skin types Size: 100 mL Best for Clarifying: Furtuna Skin Triple Active Exfoliator Why We Love It : While this exfoliator errs on the pricier side, Dr. Vaidya explains that it's formulated with both PHAs and AHAs to gently accelerate cell turnover, resulting in a more even, refined texture. The payoff? When you look in the mirror, you'll notice brighter, smoother skin and a radiant glow, without the irritation or sensitivity often associated with harsher exfoliants. : While this exfoliator errs on the pricier side, Dr. Vaidya explains that it's formulated with both PHAs and AHAs to gently accelerate cell turnover, resulting in a more even, refined texture. The payoff? When you look in the mirror, you'll notice brighter, smoother skin and a radiant glow, without the irritation or sensitivity often associated with harsher exfoliants. Key Ingredients: Olive pit powder, fruit enzymes, volcanic perlite Olive pit powder, fruit enzymes, volcanic perlite Best For : All skin types, dullness : All skin types, dullness Size: 80 mL Best for Radiance: Typology P71 Radiance Face Scrub with Rosehip Oil Typology Radiance Face Scrub $39 TYPOLOGY Why We Love It : Interestingly enough, this scrub offers a unique three-phase texture. It starts as a gel, transforms into an exfoliating oil as you massage it in, and finishes as a milk when rinsed with water. Made in France, Dr. Vaidya says that it's nourishing and safe for most skin types, though it does contain essential oils, so those with sensitivities may want to proceed with caution. Despite its gel base, the texture isn't sticky or tacky. Instead, it feels luxurious on the skin and leaves dull complexions noticeably more radiant after rinsing. : Interestingly enough, this scrub offers a unique three-phase texture. It starts as a gel, transforms into an exfoliating oil as you massage it in, and finishes as a milk when rinsed with water. Made in France, Dr. Vaidya says that it's nourishing and safe for most skin types, though it does contain essential oils, so those with sensitivities may want to proceed with caution. Despite its gel base, the texture isn't sticky or tacky. Instead, it feels luxurious on the skin and leaves dull complexions noticeably more radiant after rinsing. Key Ingredients: Organic rosehip oil, organic macerated carrot oil, apricot kernel powder Organic rosehip oil, organic macerated carrot oil, apricot kernel powder Best For : Textured skin : Textured skin Size: 1.7 oz
Condé Nast Traveler
3 days ago
- Condé Nast Traveler
The Best Makeup for Hot and Humid Weather, According to a Professional Makeup Artist
Summer vacations are for exploring tropical destinations, lounging on sun-soaked beaches, and indulging in freshly caught seafood. Hot and humid locations, though, usually cause you to immediately sweat off any makeup you've put on. I want to look my best when I'm traveling, but all it takes is five minutes in the island sun to have my mascara running down my face. To help create a summer makeup routine that can withstand high temperatures all day—and night—long, I turned to Sephora's beauty director and professional makeup artist David Razzano for his best tips for heatproof vacation makeup. The best makeup for hot, humid weather is long-lasting and practically weightless, allowing you to look and feel your best without needing to wear a ton of heavy products or worrying about it sliding right off. Razzano recently did my makeup using his tried-and-true warm-weather products and walked me through his best tricks for applying makeup that actually lasts. Below, a guide to lightweight, working-for-you makeup that will hold up in any hot and humid destination, whether you're island hopping around Greece, checking into a Caribbean resort, or just riding the New York City subway. Before actually applying any makeup, prep your face with the right skincare that will help your products last longer. Step one: 'Get yourself a great hydrating spray,' says Razzano. 'Dont slug and slather because it's just going to feel really heavy.' A lightweight spray, like Summer Friday's Jet Lag hydration mist, added a nice base layer of moisture to my face while also cooling it down. 'Humidity is a great instance for a primer,' he says. Razzano added the One Size Secure the Sweat waterproof mattifying primer with his fingers to help the rest of my makeup lay nicely and stay put. After some quick skin prep, it's time for the makeup. 'Use your concealer first because you don't want to put your liquids [makeup] on top of your powder—that's the rule of thumb,' says Razzano. Tower 28's Swipe All-Over hydrating serum concealer helps hide blemishes and brighten up my tired under eyes. Just when I thought Razzano was going to pull out a tinted moisturizer or a lightweight foundation, he surprised me. 'When you're in a hot and humid environment, nothing tops powder foundation—even if you have dry skin,' he says. A powder foundation? I thought this would feel heavy and look cake-y on my skin—but it was quite the opposite. I couldn't believe how weightless it felt on the skin, all while evening out my skin tone and blurring imperfections. 'A big, loose brush is going to give you a sheer coverage, while a smaller, compact brush will give a heavier coverage,' he says. After applying the powder foundation, Razzano recommends locking it in with another spritz of Summer Friday's hydrating mist—a.k.a. my newest summer essential. Razzano is applying Milk Makeup's Waterproof Rise Lifting and Lengthening mascara on commerce editor Meaghan Kenny 'A bronzer is a great way to slowly add color back to the face,' says Razzano. He applied LYS Beauty's No Limits matte bronzer to the high points of my face that naturally get kissed by the sun—the top of my forehead, cheeks, and nose. This gave me a bronzy glow that's perfect for vacation. After adding a lightweight, clear brow gel, Razzano moved onto the eyes. He curled my lashes and applied a waterproof mascara. 'Your lashes are much more likely to fall and go straight when the air itself is heavier,' he says. Milk Makeup's Waterproof Rise Lifting and Lengthening mascara proved to be the star of the show. This was the product I nearly grabbed out of his hand to see what it was—my lashes have never looked that long or that full. And when I'm sweating in the heat or taking a dip in the hotel pool, I won't have to worry about this mascara running or flaking. Kenny is wearing Cay Skin's lip balm with SPF 'The final step in the complexion that I would say is really important is a good setting spray,' says Razzano. He chose One Size's aptly named On' Til Dawn mattifying waterproof setting spray to lock in the makeup. And finally, a little pop of color: 'If you want something really easy, think of a tinted lip balm,' he says. Cay Skin's lip balm added a nice rosy pink tint to my lips and provides SPF 30 protection. Face sunscreen is a part of my daily skincare routine, but I never think to add SPF protection to my lips. It's safe to say this lip balm is now a must-have in my beach bag for on-the-go touch-ups. And voila! It was the perfect amount of makeup—it left me feeling confident and put together, while still being quick and looking effortless. And to my surprise, hours later, my makeup was still going strong—no creasing, melting, or caking in sight. I've already adopted Razzano's heatproof makeup routine and will be wearing it constantly this summer, including on a trip to Scottsdale this July and long days spent down the Jersey Shore. You'll find these water-, sweat-, and heat-proof essentials in my makeup bag all summer long.
Buzz Feed
3 days ago
- Buzz Feed
If Pricey Beauty Products Are Putting A Dent In Your Budget, Try These 33 Affordable Alternatives
A Briotech spray for soothing rashes, sunburns, rosacea, eczema, and other skin irritations, *extremely* similar to the beloved (but pricey) Tower 28 SOS Daily Rescue Spray. Its secret is hypochlorous acid, an ingredient found naturally in our white blood cells that helps soothe inflammation and strengthen the skin barrier. This stuff = magic in a bottle. Cosrx Snail Mucin 96% Power Repairing Essence, a holy grail serum for many people with dry, sensitive skin and a gentler, cheaper alternative to many name-brand products. It's effective on all skin types, and reviewers report seeing improvement after just a few uses! Acne scars, dark spots, and fine lines are about to meet their match. And SeoulCeuticals Snail Repair Cream for applying after any serums — this non-comedogenic moisturizer contains 97.5% snail mucin filtrate as well as vitamin E, organic aloe, and shea butter. Softer, smoother, brighter skin is in your you didn't even have to splurge on Sunday Riley or Drunk Elephant. A bottle of Elizavecca Hair Treatment formulated to deeply repair and hydrate your hair thanks to restorative ingredients like collagen and ceramide 3. You just apply it after shampooing, wait as little as five minutes, then rinse it out for hair that looks *and* feels silky soft. Some reviewers say it's even BETTER than Olaplex, which is over three times the price! Long-lasting Peripera Ink Velvet Lip Tint, worth the try if you like a little color on your lips but can't be bothered with lipsticks that constantly need touch-ups. This'll give your pout a smooth, ultra-pigmented stain with a silky finish, *and* it also has a lightweight feel that's not sticky or clumpy! E.l.f. Poreless Putty Primer, which blurs your pores and creates a smooth, velvety texture for makeup to glide over and also grip onto. Infused with squalane for hydration, Poreless Putty Primer has a mattifying effect that doesn't look dry — plus, it's small enough to take on the go in case you need touch-ups. Blink, and you might mistake it for Tatcha's Silk Canvas primer and other pricier options. A pack of two Venus Visage teeth whitening pens, minty fresh without the weird aftertaste and completely painless — no discomfort for sensitive teeth and gums! But most importantly, it leaves your teeth noticeably whiter, and at a fraction of the cost of the dentist (and Crest Whitestrips). A bottle of Fanola "No Yellow" purple shampoo to help your blonde or gray hair continue looking its best in between salon appointments, since this'll neutralize yellow, brassy tones that start to peek through over time. Reviewers say they see a big difference in their hair after each use! Peach Slices acne spot dots for a *super* budget-friendly hydrocolloid acne patch option compared to other brands like Mighty Patch. Keep them around if you're prone to sudden breakouts, and they'll come in clutch: Just apply one to a zit, and it'll literally suck out all that nasty gunk, leaving the area noticeably flatter with less redness overnight. Or LivaClean Superstar pimple patches if you love the look of those cute but pricey Starface patches — reviewers swear up and down that these work waaay better, *and* you're literally paying 3 cents per patch. A L'Oreal Paris rinse-out lamellar water treatment that'll transform your hair in just eight seconds (!) to leave your hair shiny, silky, and ultra-hydrated, no matter your hair type! Psst — they might reach for Redken at your local salon, but this has the same ingredients as that brand's lamellar treatment for way less. LilyAna Naturals eye cream to brighten and firm undereye skin to reduce puffiness, fine lines, and bags, but it doesn't stop there — this potent cream also nourishes the delicate area with restorative ingredients like rosehip seed oil, organic hibiscus flower extracts, and vitamin E. And unlike some eye creams, it also won't break the bank — a win-win. Essence's Lash Princess mascara beloved for its ability to give you bold, dramatic lashes while also separating them to prevent clumping — and for its $5 price tag. People *rave* about this bestselling tube as a swap for more expensive mascaras like Too Faced Better Than Sex, L'Oreal Telescopic Lift, and many, many more. A Revlon one-step hair dryer and volumizer so you can give yourself a gorgeous blowout without visiting the salon — it knocks out drying *and* styling your hair in one step to save time in the mornings too! Dropping $500+ on a Dyson Airwrap suddenly less appealing. An internet-beloved set of makeup sponges — reviewers sing their praises as a budget-friendly swap for Beauty Blender and Real Techniques, since you get five of these for less than $10! Plus, when it comes to blending foundation, concealer, powder, and BB creams, there's no better tool for a ~flawless~ finish. And a bottle of makeup brush-cleaning shampoo because chances are, your sponges and brushes are overdue for a good cleaning. Made with gentle, plant-based ingredients, this cleanser will remove all the built-up makeup, oil, and impurities from your tools — and watching all the gunk be washed down the sink is *so* satisfying. Nyx Fat Oil Lip Drip in case that $40 Dior lip oil has been in your cart forever, but you just can't bring yourself to pull the trigger. At $9, this version's a much lighter hit to your wallet, with the same burst of hydration (made with vegan squalane!) sheer color, and non-sticky finish reviewers can't get enough of. A pack of bamboo oil-blotting sheets to keep yourself from looking greasy by 10 a.m. — you can keep these in your bag for quick touch-ups throughout the day as needed! (Don't worry, your makeup will remain unscathed.) This 100-count pack will cost you less than 10 bucks, a fraction of what premium brands like Tatcha charge. A trio of hydrating lip sleeping masks if you've been hesitant to pull the trigger on that $24 Laneige lip mask that's *everywhere* these days — getting three flavors for under $10 feels like a great alternative if you ask me. Just smear some on your dry, cracked lips before bed and dream of the smooth, soft lips you'll have come morning. A rainbow-inspired eyeshadow palette with 40 matte, shimmer, and metallic shades so you can play with pretty much any color to paint the ~canvas~ that is your lovely face. Loved by amateurs and professional makeup artists alike, this is a great all-in-one palette for anyone who's not afraid to dabble with bright colors. And a tube of Elizabeth Mott Thank Me Later Eyeshadow Base because if you're applying eyeshadow without primer, you're not getting its full effect. Not only will it make your eyeshadow look bolder and extra pigmented, but it'll also combat oil and creasing so your smoky eye looks flawless all night long. Mac Paint Pot, it was nice knowin' ya. Physicians Formula Diamond Dust translucent powder for brushing some shimmer onto your cheeks, eyes, lips, and elsewhere for a glassy skin effect. Reviewers compare this to Fenty Beauty's Diamond Bomb highlighter (which retails for over $40), though this is *slightly* less pigmented, which some said they actually prefer. Maybelline's Cheek Heat gel-cream blush because, don't get me wrong, we love Glossier Cloud Paint around stocking up on your favorite shades is admittedly painful at $20 per tube. This water-based formula will give you that gorgeous natural flush, applied easily using just your fingers, for a fraction of the cost. An eyebrow soap kit reviewers love as an alternative to name brands to help you sculpt your brows so they have the exact shape, volume, and texture you're going for — and keep them looking defined and fluffy throughout the day. When it comes to precision and hold, this stuff is *chef's kiss*. CeraVe's Retinol Serum in case you've been wanting to add a retinoid to your routine but have been scared off by potential flaking and redness — or the price tag of other brands, like Murad's $92 retinol serum. This uses encapsulated retinol designed to help prevent irritation while still resurfacing the skin to help reduce the appearance of acne scars, pores, and more. A bottle of Nyx matte setting spray so your carefully crafted makeup look can survive up to 16 hours of wear, through humidity, sweat, rain, and snow, without any smudging or melting. Reviewers have put it to the test and say it's a cheaper swap for Mac and Urban Decay's setting sprays. A 12-pack of soft microfiber makeup removing towels, a true hack for budget-savvy makeup wearers, since they can gently remove makeup using only water and be reused over and over! Perfect for travel and everyday use, they'll cost you just over $1 per cloth, which amounts to nearly 20 times cheaper than the infamous Makeup Eraser. Or Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water in case it's time for you to replace your beloved bottle of Bioderma. This has the same gentle but powerful makeup-removing abilities, lifting away even waterproof makeup along with dirt and excess oil (without totally stripping your skin of moisture). BestLand's high-performance matte lipsticks, which might be cheap (less than $2 each!) but bear results that feel ~expensive~ — especially since so many reviewers swear they're even *better* than those pricey name brand liquid lipsticks! This set is honestly a must-have if you love red and pink lip shades, since it contains six long-lasting staples that'll have you look fierce all day long. Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Concealer, a cult-favorite you can wield as part of your multistep daily routine *or* for quick touch-ups (without cakiness!) on days when you're not feeling a full face of makeup. Dark, puffy under-eye circles and redness are no match for it — and neither are the name-brand concealers, at this price. L'Oreal's illuminating Lumi Glotion if you're going for a dewy, no-makeup makeup look — this works beautifully as a lightweight foundation alternative or for adding a little glow on top of your makeup! And at under $15, it's a reviewer-fave swap for pricier options like Glossier Futuredew and Drunk Elephant's D-Bronzi Drops. Eve Hansen Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum reviewers compare to the coveted TNS Recovery Complex serum that's — prepare yourself — over $200 for a 1-ounce bottle. This budget-friendly alternative offers similar benefits: It deeply hydrates, reduces under-eye puffiness and dark circles, smooths fine lines, boosts overall hydration, and creates a radiant glow that's giving, "I just got a facial." Eva Naturals' vitamin C serum, which deserves a spot in your bag because it's basically a skincare superhero with powerful ingredients like retinol, hyaluronic acid, niacinimide, and salicylic acid all rolled into one. This stuff might just spell the end for any acne, rough skin, fine lines, clogged pores, and dark spots you have.
