34 Affordable Beauty Products With Results That Are Beyond Magical

Buzz Feed

08-04-2025

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.
"This definitely gave me a boost in confidence." —A happy reviewer
1. A long-lasting Essence mascara formulated to give you bold and intense lashes even *you* will think are falsies. Salon quality at a fraction of the cost? Yes, please!
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "I am 68 years old and have been using makeup for 52 of those years. I have tried many mascaras over the years, from inexpensive to very expensive. I cannot say that I have ever been really happy with the results. I had reached the point where I thought that it does not matter the cost; they are pretty much all the same. This changed my mind. I put on two coats and it made my lashes look so thick. If I did not know better, I would think that I had on false eyelashes. I used baby shampoo, as I always do, and I always lather with the baby shampoo twice to remove the mascara, and it came off easily. I will look no more for a new mascara. I cannot imagine a mascara better than this." — Piaget
Check out BuzzFeed editor Kayla Boyd 's Essence Lash Princess mascara review.
Get it from Amazon for $4.99 (available in black and brown).
2. An oil-based Byoma toner whose hydrating and milky formula is designed with sensitive skin in mind. It contains ceramides and skin-identical lipids (lipids are naturally found in the skin and work as emollients) to help hydrate skin and repair the skin's barrier. If you've got redness and dry skin, this soothing toner should be in your skincare routine.
Amazon
Promising reviews: "This is the most incredible product with instant effect & I've literally used it DAILY since it arrived. It makes my skin rich, juicy & hydrated in a way that it's never been before - I don't know what the sorcery is but it's amazing." — Christine Q.
"I got this as a new step in my skincare routine. This milky toner is perfect for hydrating the skin while leaving it with a slight shine that makes your skin look bright and clean! It's not heavy and absorbs quickly! It smells nice, too, which is a plus because a lot of products these days stink. If you are looking for a new milky toner, this is the one to try!!" — Amanda smart
Get it from Amazon for $14.99.
3. An extreme hold tinted eyebrow gel because it'll not only help you create the perfect brow shape, but also help you keep that shape for up to 16 hours. This flake-resistant brow mascara offers a natural look you'll be glad you can get every single day.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising reviews: " If you like feathery soap brows, this product is for you! Less is more! Cute packaging and the price blows my mind. Much better than Patrick Ta compact of soap brow product and about $30 cheaper!" — Shelli ;)
"This is a great product if you want that hold! It really does keep the brows exactly as you want them. I used to use the one from Anastasia, but it's nothing special and far too expensive. This is my new go-to!" — Mel
Get it from Amazon for $9.97 (available in five shades).
4. A revitalizing hair protein treatment for conditioning and repairing dry, damaged, and over-processed hair in just 5–20 minutes. This collagen-rich formula is designed to work on all hair types. Some reviewers even swear it's just as good as K18.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review:"I've been using this product consistently for about four years. I have long, fine hair that is too wavy to be straight but not wavy enough to be curly. It tends to get very straw-like and frizzy, which is not a great combination unless you are a scarecrow. This product is the ONLY thing that has worked to make my hair soft and manageable." — Kathryn
Read our Elizavecca CER-100 Collagen Coating Hair Protein Treatment review to learn more.
Get it from Amazon for $7.60.
5. A vegan under-eye brightening concealer to help balance out bluish tones and dark circles. It's formulated with hyaluronic acid and shea butter to nourish and hydrate skin. You'll look like you've had days of sleep...even if the truth is you haven't slept in days.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
This medium-coverage concealer can be applied with your fingers or a brush.
Promising review:"I believe I was born with dark circles under my eyes, and I have spent the last 50+ years looking for something that will cover my dark circles. I've spent a lot more money on products that do a lot less. And I was very hesitant to buy something so inexpensive as I thought it would not work. I was surprised to find my circles a lot lighter, and my eyes are looking much more alert and younger. I'm very pleased with this product!" — Lafinrsm
Get it from Amazon for $6 (available in four tones).
6. A moisturizing and nonsticky Etude lip tint whose water-based formula absorbs quickly, leaving behind a perfect and long-lasting color. Pucker up!
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "I'm obsessed with the cherry color. It applies nicely, has a subtle flavor/scent, and the color is great. I don't wear makeup at work, but this adds nice color to my lips and cheeks without being too much. I love it so much I bought one for my work bag and one for home. Cheers to no longer looking like a sickly Victorian child! 10/10 must buy." — Toddler_medic
Get it from Amazon for $5.69+ (available in six shades).
7. An alcohol-free roll-on Al Rehab perfume scented with citrus, vanilla, and vetiver. If you're not ready to be swimming in compliments on how luxuriously luscious you smell, this might not be the perfume for you (but I think it is). Reviewers also noted that the scent lasts all day long!
www.amazon.com
Promising reviews:"This smells amazing. Like vanilla and lemon pound cake. Smells like spring and happiness and the color yellow." — LG
"This scent is heavenly if you like mild, sweet scents. It is very similar to Bath and Body Works' Champagne Toast body spray but with a hint of lemon or orange added. It's lasted me over four months of daily wear, and one application is still detectable after eight hours of work." — Namea
Get it from Amazon for $6.20.
8. A non-greasy Samnyte hair wax stick so you can slick back any flyaways or style your edges. And its vegan and cruelty-free formula contains castor oil, which hydrates and smooths. Plus, you won't have to worry about the mess that is gel...
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review:"This wax stick effortlessly tames even the most stubborn flyaways and unruly strands. Its unique formula provides a firm hold without the stiffness or flaking associated with traditional hairsprays. It keeps my hair looking sleek and polished all day long. The compact, easy-to-use stick design makes application a breeze. Simply swipe it over flyaways or areas that need a touch-up. The wax glides on smoothly and blends seamlessly, leaving no visible residue." — cwin
Get it from Amazon for $7.99.
9. A skin-firming neck and chest Gold Bond cream designed to help improve the texture, elasticity, and appearance of your skin. Plus, it's got hyaluronic acid to keep your skin hydrated. If you've never thought to add your neck and chest to your skincare routine, now might be the time to start.
Promising review:"I've been using this for five days, and I can't believe how much it's helped with the saggy skin under my chin. I'm 37, and I've been using various products, but nothing was making a difference, and my skin continued to get loose in that area. I came across this, looked at the reviews, and decided to try it, though I honestly wasn't sure it would work for me, considering other things I've tried that haven't helped. I can't even express how much better I feel now. I have no idea how this cream works and actually tightens up the skin, but I'm so grateful. I'm no longer self-conscious about it, and I actually like looking in the mirror now and not seeing the extra skin hanging from the bottom of my chin." — 📚#WHYCHOOSE
Get it from Amazon for $11.97.
10. A yerba mate eye gel because it'll help rejuvenate tired, puffy eyes. Formulated with hyaluronic acid and caffeine, this vegan and fragrance-free gel may help reduce swelling and the appearance of fine lines.
www.amazon.com
Good Molecules is a small business using ingredients that are not only backed by science but are also safe for you and the planet.
Promising review:"I've been using this for a couple of months now, and it works great for the dark circles under my eyes. I'm 49 with fair skin. I will definitely purchase it again. It works so well!! Having such pale skin really makes the under-eye color noticeable. This has been a game-changer for me. Helps to keep the delicate skin hydrated." — Rebecca
Get it from Amazon for $5.98.
11. Or a Beauty of Joseon eye serum that is made with ginseng, retinol, and niacinamide to help reduce the appearance of wrinkles, brighten and revitalize skin, and improve skin elasticity. Get ready for hydration that lasts and dark under-eyes that don't.
www.amazon.com
Promising review:" This stuff is magical, and the bottle size is perfect because you don't need a lot of cream under your eyes. This size will literally last months. I've only used this for three days, but I've already noticed a difference. My under eyes feel super soft and hydrated, and the best part is the cream is lightweight and rubs in nicely, so it doesn't feel like you have heavy goop under your eyes" — Phil
Get it from Amazon for $13.50.
12. A pack of teeth-whitening pens so you can get beautifully white teeth for far less money than you might've thought. This pen's soft-bristle brush is perfect for anyone with sensitive teeth. It makes application as easy as saying CHEESE!
Promising review:"OK, so I'm never buying those white strips again! These are way cheaper, they're easier to use, they're convenient to take anywhere, and I actually see results a lot faster! They will be my go-to for teeth whitening from now on!" — Stacy D.
Get it from Amazon for $18.95 (also available individually and in packs of four).
13. Some overnight hydrocolloid nose patches designed to target pimples, pores, and oil for clearer-looking skin. Plus, it'll be weirdly satisfying to peel this off and see all the gunk that was hiding in your pores.
www.amazon.com
14. A winged eyeliner stamp if you don't wanna have to trial and error your way to the perfect cat-eye. This smudge-proof and waterproof formula will keep you looking fierce all day long.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising reviews:" This is my favorite go-to eyeliner! Wings have always been part of my signature style, but over the years, I've developed tremors, and it became harder to draw them on. This was my savior! The stamps are so easy to use, and you know your wings are even without checking, which is a major confidence booster! This liner stays in place through everything, too! I'm talking water, sweat, crying, even food mishaps. I'll never use another brand again!" — Jei
Get it from Amazon for $14.98 (available in three sizes).
15. Or a waterproof Nyx liquid eyeliner with a flexible and easy-to-use precision tip for perfect wings every single time. Plus, it's cruelty-free and vegan!
Promising review:"Glides on easily and dries quickly. My favorite thing about it is that it STAYS ON all day without melting down my face like others I have purchased do. It stays better than my Estee Lauder ones! Will definitely be buying again and using regularly." — Dawn Morris
Get it from Amazon for $8.08+ (available in 10 colors).
16. An organic and antioxidant-rich cleansing balm because it can help brighten, hydrate, and even skin as it rids your face of dirt and makeup. Plus, it's only got 10 ingredients in it, so if you're one for a simple solution, this might just be made for you.
www.amazon.com
Juno & Co. is a small business whose skincare is made with minimal ingredients that offer maximal results.
Promising reviews:"Takes off all makeup, even mascara, just as well as the more expensive brand Elemis. A little goes a long way! Over time, I've noticed my skin barrier has improved, and there are not nearly as many breakouts! Love this product" — Pamela74
Get it from Amazon for $14.99.
17. A skin-repairing body oil chock-full of natural oils to help reduce the appearance of scars and stretch marks. Its skin-renewal formula should help fade acne scars, surgery scars, and so much more!
www.amazon.com
Just make sure to use sunscreen with this since it can make you a bit more sensitive to the sun.
Promising review: "Bio-Oil is the BEST skin product on the market. I use it twice a day — in the morning and before I go to bed. Small lines have disappeared. My skin is very smooth and seems to glow. A doctor recommended this to one of my friends, who told me about it. I have bought several bottles as gifts. Be patient. It will take a few months for you to see the changes. I am 71 years old. No one paid me to write this." — Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $10.26+ (available in two sizes).
18. A rainbow eyeshadow palette that will make just about any lewk possible! This highly pigmented palette contains cool and warm tones as well as mattes and glitters, so go absolutely awf.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review:"I really love this! The colors (that I've tried so far) go on wonderfully and blend easily. I had recently bought a palette by Morphe; I had never tried them before, but they looked nice. It was HORRIBLE! The colors were chalky, didn't blend, and barely showed up. This is so much better and for a third of the price!" — adorkable
Get it from Amazon for $8.99 (also available in a neutral palette).
19. A L'Oreal natural glow enhancer infused with glycerin and shea butter for an illuminating tint and a sun-kissed glow that lasts all day long. Go get your shine on!
Promising reviews:"This is a great way to add a little sun-kissed glow to your face! I wore this with a little bronzer on my cheeks, and I got so many compliments about having a glow to me. I'm a low-maintenance girly, so this is perfect for me." — Marie
"This is the product to buy instead of the more expensive brand (the well-known one with the tipsy animal name lol). The color is beautiful. It's just as good as the $$$ brand." — ANDREA BALKIEWICZ
Get it from Amazon for $13.48+ (available in five shades).
20. A set of multipurpose dermaplaning razors if you're looking to exfoliate your skin while getting rid of peach fuzz. These are also perfect for shaping your brows when you don't have the time to individually pluck each hair.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review:"I suppose it's my hearty German peasant ancestry, but I've always been a hairy girl. Plucking the more egregious of the thick black hairs is required at least a two to three times week. I'd been eying these razors for a while and finally took the plunge. I could not believe how easy and quick it was. After a couple of swipes down my cheek, I noticed that it was done. I thought it was going to take a lot more skill and time. So much easier than tweezers and depilatories!! Wow." — Tara D.
Get a pack of three from Amazon for $5.59.
21. A delightfully scented foaming mousse formulated with coconut and shea oils to hydrate hair, define curls, and combat frizz. It's also a great mousse to use atop natural protective styles like knotless braids. Some reviewers even use this on curly/wavy wigs!
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "This has been an absolute game-changer for my daughter's hair! It's lightweight, smells amazing, and works wonders for defining her curls. The mousse leaves her hair soft, bouncy, and frizz-free without any sticky or crunchy residue. She loves how it enhances her natural curl pattern while keeping everything smooth and manageable. It's perfect for wrapping styles or refreshing her curls — it truly does it all. The added coconut oil and shea butter make her hair feel nourished and hydrated, which is such a bonus!" — Kelly Shannon Newell
Get it from Amazon for $3.98.
22. An oil-absorbing face roller that uses absorbent volcanic stone to soak up any excess oil. Forget those disposable oil-blotting sheets and get instant matte skin ASAP!
Amazon, www.amazon.com
Promising review:"I have super oily skin and am always looking for something to help control it during the day. The linen squares are good, but you have to keep them around (aka keep replacing them), and they end up in the landfill. This little contraption really works, and I just rinse it at the end of the day and start over again the next. I keep one in my desk and bought a second for my purse. This is magic for my shiny skin, especially on camera in my hours of Zoom every day." — Jennifer Helseth
Get it from Amazon for $7.82.
23. An eight-second L'Oréal lamellar rinse-out treatment for shinier, healthier, and silkier hair in, well, eight seconds. No need to wait 10 long minutes to rinse your hair out. This treatment targets damaged areas to help give you smooth and shiny hair that's easier to style.
Use this two to three times per week after shampooing your hair, and remember not to use it on your scalp. This treatment is just for the length of your hair.
Promising review:"I don't usually do reviews on products, but for this one, I absolutely have to. I have 3c-type hair and struggle with a lot a breakage, unmanageability, and moisture. When my mom mentioned this product to me I didn't take her seriously because of the simple fact that we have two completely different hair textures. I never would've thought this brand would work on my hair. I have always used ethnic hair products and stayed away from brands such as this one. I have never in my 22 years felt my hair like this. I feel like I have a completely different head of hair. This product is so amazing and I will FOREVER be using this product in my hair regimen. Thank you so much!! ♥️" — Theressa Hailey
Get it from Amazon for $9.87.
24. A bottle of Fanola purple shampoo — get help brightening your hair without having to spend $$$ on a trip to the salon. It tones down pesky, brassy hues so your hair's color is more even.
www.amazon.com
Just don't use it for more than three minutes (once a week), because then your hair will turn lavender (unless you're into that, which some reviewers are!!!).
"It tones my blonde very well and IMO is a bit better than Olaplex's purple shampoo. I've tried others and always go back to this." — Katie
For more info, check out our Fanola No Yellow deep dive.
Get it from Amazon for $12.25+ (available in two sizes).
25. A lightweight E.l.f. putty primer infused with squalane to help minimize pores and moisturize your skin. This vegan formula will grip your makeup so it doesn't slip and slide all day long.
Promising review:"OK, so first, nothing will make you 'pore-less' per se, but this stuff is amazing. It will even out fine lines and help with super porous areas; my T-zone is the worst for pores, and this definitely gave me a boost in confidence. I would highly recommend it. Especially to those not too familiar with makeup, this is a game-changer. Honestly, it works better than my $30 primer from Urban Decay, and it 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.
26. And a tinted E.l.f lip balm because it's got vitamin E so your lips will feel hydrated and nourished and look oh-so kissable 💋 Plus, it's a pretty great (and cheaper) alternative to the $25 Black Honey lip balm from Clinique.
Promising reviews:"This is a perfect [alternative to] Clinique's Black Honey. The color wears well and also moisturizes at the same time. It's the perfect alternative for those who love the color but not the price of the high-end product." — TwoBearsMama
"My absolute favorite lip product of all time! It is the perfect shade and tint for me and leaves my lips feeling soft and moisturized. I've bought this four times already and will keep buying it!" — Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $6+ (available in five colors).
27. A bottle of professional-grade callus-removing gel that can remove years worth of calluses quickly and easily. Just presoak your feet, apply the gel, let it do its magic, and rinse!
Promising review:"Best foot callus remover I have ever used! I read a lot of the reviews before purchasing this product. Most callus removers I have purchased in the past were not very effective. So, I was encouraged by the reviews. I saw that a lot of reviewers mentioned being very careful not to leave it on longer than three or four minutes. My feet were the softest they had ever been. Love love love." — Cheri whisker
Get it from Amazon for $9.99 (available in three scents).
28. A lightweight liquid blush you can build for impressive coloring. Made with vitamin E and green tea, this smudge-proof blush can also nourish your skin. Oh, and you can use it on your lips, too!
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review:"I absolutely adore how this blush looks on my skin! The texture is stunning, giving my cheeks a natural, radiant glow. Plus, the doe foot applicator makes application a breeze, effortlessly blending onto my cheeks for a flawless finish. It's become a staple in my makeup routine!" — LMC
Get it from Amazon for $11.99 (available in six colors).
29. A bottle of Olay body wash formulated to offer you 24 hours of hydration so you can bid adieu to dry, cracked skin! And since it contains shea butter, collagen peptide, niacinamide, and vitamin E, it'll also smooth and brighten your skin. Your old body wash could never.
Promising reviews:"This is my new favorite body wash. I have been an Olay woman my whole adult life, and at 60, I feel it has really made a drastic difference in my aging process." — Dana 64
"I live in New England where it's known for cold, dry winters. My skin was suffering due to the dryness. I had dry bumps on my legs and thighs and the back of my arms. It felt like sandpaper! I used this product once, and let me tell you, I no longer have dry skin bumps, and I'm almost 50 years old! You will love it. And it has a nice scent as well. It's worth every penny!!" — C. Swasey
Get it from Amazon for $12.97 (available in three formulas).
30. Joesoef's pharmaceutical-grade anti-acne sulfur soap that'll help cleanse skin of dirt and oil buildup, potentially soothe psoriasis, and reduce breakouts. If you tend to have flare-ups, this soap might just be what your skincare arsenal has been missing.
www.amazon.com, Amazon
Joesoef Skin Care is a small business.
Promising review:"I recently saw a dermatologist talk about those clogged pores on and around your nose. If they are of uniform size, they aren't blackheads. She suggested using a sulfur soap to get rid of or minimize those stubborn clogged pores. This has a slight sulfur smell, it is not overwhelming, and it disappears when dried. It works! My pores are much smaller. After applying and drying, moisturize." — Sandy G
Get it from Amazon for $12.99 (also available in multipacks).
31. A tinted L'Oréal anti-redness cream you can use as a base for your makeup because nothing is worse than applying a fresh beat and seeing red skin peek through. This fast-acting moisturizer is also quite hydrating. No need to spend over twice as much on its competitor, the Dr Jart+ Cicapair Color Correcting Cream.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "I'd yet to find anything (even foundation) that could cover up my red areas: cheeks, chin, nose, and forehead. It comes out green but has a gorgeous lightweight finish of a tint that, indeed, covers my redness beautifully. There's no greasiness to it at all. It dries down to a beautiful matte finish. It's super easy to use. I use my fingers. The texture is like silk. It leaves my face baby-soft, not sticky at all. It doesn't settle into my fine lines or wrinkles, and I don't need powder to 'bake' it under my eyes. It also covers the black circles under my eyes." — Julie F.
Get it from Amazon for $9.98.
32. A shower-friendly detangling brush — its flexible bristles will gently loosen knots, potentially preventing breakage or other damage. This Wet Brush can handle all hair types and even has a hook handle so you can hang it in your shower when you're done.
www.amazon.com
Promising review:"My girls have very curly hair, and we use this brush during wash time to get the tangles out and then with a moisturizer to set the curl. Love this brush. Less pain for the tender-headed." — Andrea Ball
Get it from Amazon for $6.19.
33. An adjustable and reversible satin sleeping bonnet that'll help you protect your curls and coils while you sleep. Not only is it super luxe, but it will actually stay on throughout the night. Nothing worse than waking up and finding your bonnet has slipped away to go get itself coffee.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "Best bonnet ever! Cute, comfy, practical, and good quality. I had this very same one six years ago. When it wore down, I replaced it with the same one. My other bonnets had straps that dangled awkwardly on my forehead. This one has a seamless strap and it adjusts well. And not once has it fallen off my head in the middle of the night. Get it!" — Shalimar
Get it from Amazon for $12.99+ (available in 15 styles).
34. Differin acne treatment gel, a water-based and unscented topical retinoid designed to reach deep under your skin to help clear breakouts and prevent new ones from forming. It may also help reduce the risk of acne scarring and hyperpigmentation. Many reviewers say it improved their skin's texture and tone with consistent use.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Since retinol makes your skin more sensitive to the sun, it's important to remember to apply sunscreen during the day. It's also a good idea to use this gel at night (rather than in the morning) to potentially prevent further discomfort. Read more about adapalene, acne, and non-prescription acne treatments at Mayo Clinic.
Promising review:"I don't have too much of an issue with acne. However, I do have hormonal breakouts once a month, with a few pimples that break through every now and then. I really purchased it because it is a retinoid that you don't have to go to the doctor for, and I wanted it to help with some sun damage on my face and fine lines. I've only been using this for a month, but I can honestly say that within the first week, I could see a change in my skin. I have absolutely not had one breakout of any kind, and my skin is so smooth. I sincerely believe that the discoloration and hyperpigmentation on my skin is beginning to fade." — Catattack
Read our Differin gel review to learn more!
Get it from Amazon for $12.59+ (available in two packaging styles and in four sizes).
The reviews for this post have been edited for length and clarity.