17-04-2025
43 Budget-Friendly Products So Good, You'll Probably Forget About The More Expensive Versions
1. A stylish pair of machine-washable pointed-toe flats, which probably look eerily familiar because they're just as cute as the ones from Rothy's and Vivaia — but these will be much kinder to your wallet. The breathable material helps prevent sweating and the stretchy knit upper keeps you comfy all day long! You'll never run out of 'fits to pair these with.
Promising reviews: "I have several pairs of Rothy's in a very similar style to these, and they are actually just as comfortable right out of the box as Rothy's…maybe more so. I also purchased in black. LOVE THEM!!" — Amazon Customer
"I couldn't be happier with these flats! As a result of them dropping in price, I purchased four pairs in varying colors to wear with jeans and sweaters. Not only do they look cute, but they are also decently padded and comfortable. I have been buying Vivaia flats for over $100 and these look just as good and are more comfortable to wear." — PSK
Get it from Amazon for $32.99 (available in women's sizes 6–10 and 14 colors and patterns).
2. E.l.f. Suntouchable Invisible Sunscreen because when did sunscreen become one of the most expensive items in your skincare routine? Enter this affordable find, which offers SPF 45 *and* goes on smooth and clear without any white cast. It works well as a blurring primer to create the perf setup before applying makeup too! TLDR; it's the more affordable version of Supergoop.
My colleague Jenae Sitzes uses it: "The packaging similarities are impossible to ignore, but that's not where the comparisons between this E.l.f. sunscreen and Supergoop's cult-fave product end. I've tried both, and I honestly prefer this E.l.f. version. Supergoop's had a slight graininess to it that I didn't love, while this E.l.f. sunscreen is exactly what I'd hoped Supergoop's would feel like: totally smooth and velvety. Like Supergoop's, it goes on totally clear and doesn't feel like you're wearing a mask; it sinks in immediately. And of course, a major selling point: A 1.7-ounce bottle of E.l.f. Suntouchable will cost you $14, while Supergoop's Unseen Sunscreen in the same size will put you back $38. "
Now, it's worth noting that Supergoop's Unseen Sunscreen has SPF 50, while E.l.f.'s product offers SPF 35. Both of these meet the American Academy of Dermatology's recommendation of using a sunscreen with SPF 30 or more, which blocks 97% of the sun's UVB rays. Anything over SPF 30 offers only slightly more protection (and nothing can block 100% of the sun's rays), yet the higher number, the more brands tend to charge. So do with that info what you will! This isn't the only SPF I use, but I love having it in my arsenal, especially when I do want to layer makeup on top!
Promising review: "This sunscreen is a gem. I was not expecting to love it as much as I do. I absolutely love E.l.f. products, but I rarely try their skincare. Something told me to try this. When I put it on, it gave a smooth silicone finish and feel. I was faithful to Supergoop but didn't want to spend as much as the product is listed for. I will continue to use this sunscreen; it has been one of the best I've ever tried. I've been into skincare since I was 15; I am 37, and for me to say that this product is a gold mine is rare." — Angelina S.
Get it from Amazon for $13.99 (available in two sizes).
3. Buttery soft high-waisted leggings if you've had your eye on the Lululemon Align version but can't bear to shell out an entire Benjamin for one piece of activewear. These are made of a heavenly soft material *and* they're squat-proof. They're called ~Dreamlux~ leggings for a reason, people.
Promising reviews: "I can't say enough great things about these leggings! They don't roll down, and they feel amazing on. I have all kinds of brands Lululemon, Vuori, Athleta, etc. and these are my favorites and the ones I feel the best and most confident in!! And you can't beat the price — it's a win-win. I will be back to purchase even more colors!" — Lauren
"The stitching and logo placement is similar to Lulu; however, these feel more compressive and thicker than Aligns, which I prefer. Lulu stretches over time and for a fraction of the price, this entire line feels way better." — Fiona
Get them from Amazon for $29 (available in women's sizes XXS–XXL, two inseams, and 22 colors).
4. A trio of hydrating lip sleeping masks that'll have you questioning why on earth you ever spent $24 on a single Laneige jar when you get THREE of 'em for a fraction of the price? They're infused withberry extract and vitamin C to help heal dry, cracked skin. You'll sleep soundly knowing your lips are hydrated and your wallet is full.
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: "It's been four months since ordering this and it's now part of my nightly routine. I can't go to bed before putting this on. I highly recommend this! And it's worth it to get the three-pack. The flavors are not overly sweet and I think my favorite is the berry. I like it more than the Laneige night lip mask. For me, Laneige absorbs pretty quickly and in the morning I feel like my lips are dry again. With these, my still lips feel moisturized in the morning. It has a thicker consistency. I used to get dry/peeling lips pretty often as I'm outdoors/in the ocean a lot. However, since incorporating this in my routine, I haven't had peeling lips in a long time. Loooove these!" — Angela
Get it from Amazon for $9.90 (available in six sets).
5. Rael Beauty's Miracle Patch — you get 96 in a pack, which is about a third of what you get when you splurge on Mighty Patches. These K-beauty hydrocolloid patches have super thin edges so they're nearly invisible. Wear 'em when you're out and about and no one will have any idea you're healing a zit while running errands.
Promising review:"I RARELY write product reviews, and if I do it's because something is either so terrible or so incredible that I can't keep it to myself, and these are the latter!! For some reason, I have a hard time getting pimple patches to really stick to my face, and I have very dry skin. I'm also not willing to regularly spend $15 on nine patches — so when I saw these 96, I repeat, 96 patches for this price along with a good star rating, I just had to try them. And let me tell you, THEY ARE AMAZING!!
"I can put them on and then do all my skincare over top, including wetting my face for snail mucin, and they do not budge. They don't come off on my pillow or slide around, and I think they minimize and reduce redness WAY better than Cosrx, Mighty Patch, or Peach Slices. They pull out everything and don't leave you with a little whitehead to deal with in the AM. If you're not sure, just trust me babe, I'm sure for you!" — Sydney
Get a 96-count pack from Amazon for $16.99.
6. A Skims-esque sweetheart neckline bodysuit, which will seem too good to be true because it's super stylish and won't bleed you dry financially. It'll go wonderfully with skirts, shorts, and jeans that require a seamless tucked look. The ultra-smooth ~~smoke cloud~~ fabric is also double-layered for extra support.
Promising review: "This bodysuit is amazing! The material is not sheer. The thong portion is surprisingly comfortable, which is a big plus. I'm pretty sure I need it in every color now! The price is reasonable, and the fabric is warm and comfortable. Highly recommend!" — Emily Kahle
Get it from Amazon for $14.99+ (available in women's sizes XS–3X and 10 colors).
7. And this scoop neck top so you can enjoy that deliciously smooth fabric similar to the one in the cult-fave Skims top *with* the same fitted look to boot. The best part? This one is significantly cheaper and comes in a variety of colors.
Promising review: "At first, I was a little skeptical — I have been wanting to find a Skims-like material shirt for a while but didn't want to pay the price of one lol, and this shirt feels amazing. I will be getting one in every color now." — Julianne
Get it from Amazon for $9.99+ (available in women's sizes XXS–3XL and 34 colors).
8. A TikTok-beloved "Soft" perfume rollerball for a sweet, warm scent that rolls on easily and isn't too overpowering. There's a reason reviewers can't stop raving about the captivating scent, with some comparing it to lemon pound cake. YUM! It's basically the affordable version of Pink Sugar, which goes for $65.
Promising review: "Like so many, I found this scent on TikTok. I was a bit skeptical at first but finally got around to trying it. First off, this scent smells amazing! Almost every time I've worn it, I receive compliments. It has a sweet smell, almost like warm cake or sugar cookies with a hint of lemon. With such an affordable price, I would definitely recommend this to anyone curious about trying it." — Chrissy
Get it from Amazon for $5.39 (available in two sizes).
9. A MUA–approved black makeup sponge that does its job so well, you may forget about the Beauty Blender and Real Techniques versions, which aren't exactly cheap. If you want a flawless finish when blending concealer, foundation, BB cream, and even powders, this makeup sponge has you ~covered~ alright. It's also easier to see your product on the black surface of the sponge *and* it won't leave ugly stains behind.
Aesthetica Cosmetics is a small biz based in Miami that makes vegan, cruelty-free makeup products and tools.
Promising review: "I was super skeptical because I love the OG beauty sponge. I had tried other alternatives before and hated them. *This* one has that same soft, squishy texture as the OG. When you wet it, it expands and stays soft and bouncy like the OG. I'll say that one difference I note that this one is sliiiightly softer when wet, but that does not bother me. I wash mine after each use and do find I need to squeeze it/wring it out a bit more. Really glad I tried this because at this price, it's easy to justify buying more frequently and not risk germs/bacteria." — PC
Get a pack of five from Amazon for $7.95.
10. And a bottle of makeup brush-cleaning shampoo because you need to wash away the impurities residing in your brush bristles immediately!!! This stuff is formulated with gentle, plant-based ingredients and will give you the same results as the Beautyblender soap — but for half the price.
A ton of people compare it to Beauty Blender's own $15 liquid cleanser (over double the price of this).
BuzzFeed Shopping editor Jenae Sitzes says: "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 Beautyblender soap and other big-name brands." — Lily
Get it from Amazon for $6+ (available in two sizes).
11. A gorgeous laptop tote bag with high-end vibes you'll probably want to carry everywhere, even when you don't need your computer. It can fit laptops up to 15.6 inches and other essentials, like your phone, makeup bag, iPad, and more! You'll also breathe a sigh of relief knowing you didn't splurge over $100 on the pricey Béis Work Tote.
Promising reviews: "It's much more spacious than it looks. It's very sleek and stylish. I use it as my work bag and find that it looks professional and has enough space for all of my stuff. I carry a laptop, pencil case, two books, makeup bag, water bottle, wallet, lotion, phone and laptop charger, and other small miscellaneous objects. Still plenty of space. And when you carry it, it doesn't feel bulky or cumbersome." — Su
" Purchased for my daughter, who is an attorney. She said she really likes it and has gotten many compliments on it from her peers." — J Cliett
Get it from Amazon for $28.79+ (available in 10 styles).
12. Catrice "Instant Awake" Under Eye Brightener to help liven up your tired eyes with a lightweight formula that delivers superb coverage in just a few swipes. This tinted concealer contains hyaluronic acid and shea butter that may also help reduce dark circles over time. Bonus: It's just like the $33 Becca version but for MUCH less!
The color-adaptive formula is designed so one of two shades will work on any skin tone.
Promising review: "Took years off my eyes! This product is so reasonably priced. I came across a TikTok promoting this and decided to take a chance since the price was super reasonable. My eyes looked brighter in a good way, and the concealer worked so well that I felt I looked younger. I got compliments from friends asking what I did differently with my makeup. I recommend it." — Placeholder
Get it from Amazon for $6 (available in four shades).
13. A Revlon one-step hair dryer and volumizer if you'd love to style and dry your hair at the same time but not go broke on the expensive hair tools. Mission accomplished! You'll speed up your routine while giving your hair an unbelievable amount of shine and volume. Dyson Airwrap who?
Unlike other hair dryers, this one can be held closer to the roots and scalp for a higher volume and lift and helps you curl hair at the end while it dries. It comes with three heat settings and is designed to work on all hair textures — reviewers with 2a – 4c hair mentioned it working for them, and especially noted that it helps cut down on drying time!
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 the 2.0 model from Amazon for $34.99 (available in eight styles, including an older model).
Many reviewers with curl types 4a-c prefer the oval brush, but if you're looking to blow out tighter curls or coils, try the Revlon One-Step paddle brush instead. This model is made for users with curlier hair. You can get it for $27.85. Reviewers of this brush also say it's the best thing they've bought for their hair!
14. A set of aesthetic wrist and ankle weights, which will make the spendy Bala Bangles seem like a distant memory. These work the same — they easily attach with Velcro straps and have a waterproof design so bring on the sweat! Plus, the skin-friendly silicone material won't cause irritation while you work out.
The weights are covered with a sweatproof, skin-friendly silicone layer that's comfortable, and the adjustable elastic band helps you get the right fit. You can even remove weights as well if needed!
Promising review: "I love these! So great for yoga or mat Pilates. I like that they are 2 pounds each, which is the perfect weight, and you can even take off weight as well. I use them every week for my workouts. Very durable band as well!" — Robyn
Get a pair from Amazon for $21.68+ (available in two sizes and 14 colors).
15. CeraVe Retinol Serum that'll help refine your skin's texture and tone over time. This lightweight serum uses encapsulated retinol to gently reduce the appearance of pores and acne-related marks. If you've been too scared to try retinoids until now, this is a great place to start. Reviewers say it's better than the pricey options out there, like the $92 Murad Retinol Serum!
And remember, like with any retinol (that actually works) *just do not use it every day.* Start slow and work yourself up if needed, paying attention to your skin.
Promising reviews: "This product is magic in a bottle!!! I have been struggling to find a good skincare routine that will remove my acne scars and remove dark spots on my face. I will forever buy this product! I've only been using this for two weeks and noticed a huge difference right away! I am so excited to clean my face in the morning and night now! I also bought the Cerave hydrating cleanser, moisturizer, and eye cream and they have been amazing as well! CeraVe is the best! Don't think twice about this product just buy it!!!" — mallory brook bravo
"I've been using this for a month or two! I definitely notice smoother skin and less breakouts. Wish I'd tried this sooner. Currently only using 2–3 times/week!" — Rachy
Get it from Amazon for $18.68.
16. An eyebrow soap kit so you can style your brows however you please. It'll make your brows look thicker using your existing hairs. Reviewers say it works just like the pricey name-brand versions and will help you get the precise texture, shape, and volume you want for your brows!
Promising review:"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 stuff holds every hair in the place you brush it." — Bailey M, Deacon
Get it from Amazon for $4.99+ (also available as a two-piece set).
17. Some soft microfiber makeup removing towels reminiscent of the popular Makeup Eraser you're about to completely forget about. Hello, you literally get 12 of 'em! Add a bit of water and they'll wipe away the day's makeup with ease. These are *the* definition of legit, so don't sleep on 'em.
HuffPost Shopping writer Haley Zovickian owns and loves 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 a number of 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 12-pack from Amazon for $9.99+ (available in 13 color combos and in packs of 30).
18. And!!! Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water when you're ready to get un -ready but don't want to irritate your face with endless scrubbing and wiping. This gentle formula contains rose water and glycerin to remove makeup, cleanse, *and* hydrate your skin. Just think of it as the more sensible version of Bioderma!
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, which 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 it 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 cleanses your face and takes off your makeup. Nobody should not know what this stuff is." — Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for 3.99+ (available in four sizes and as a four-pack).
BTW, this is our budget pick for the best makeup remover!
19. Some cleaning tablets that work just like the popular Bottle Bright tablets but for way less $$$ (15 cents per tablet, to be exact). When it's time for a major refresh, simply drop a tablet in a glass of warm water, then add your mouthguard, retainer, or Invisalign to help demolish odor-causing bacteria, discoloration, and plaque! Bonus: You can even use 'em, to clean grimy water bottles and coffee tumblers.
Some reviewers use these for cleaning vases too! Note: One of our editors has used similar tablets for cleaning coffee mug stains before and says they work best when you use them with boiling water.
Promising reviews: "These tablets work great. I usually use them for aligners daily and even to clean metal water bottles! They're effective, and I'd repurchase." — Ange P.
"I was very pleasantly surprised at how well these work! This stuff brightens [my retainer/night guard] in one use and I feel like they are clean. You can also use it for other things like your sports shaker bottles too." — Amaris Mathews
Get a pack of 120 from Amazon for $18.81 (also available in packs of 60 or 240).
20. E.l.f.'s Holy Hydration! Thirst Burst Drops, which uses hyaluronic acid to give your parched skin a giant gulp of moisture. Reviewers swear it's an affordable alternative to the $35 Watermelon Dew Drops from Glow Recipe (they cost 3x as much, just sayin'.) This stuff will help hydrate, plump, and brighten your skin with each use. Wear it solo, apply it before makeup, OR add a few drops to your foundation.
Amazon
Promising review: "Love these drops. So effective, a little goes a long way. Great for a boost of hydration, especially in the colder and/or drier months. Great as a primer before makeup to smooth the skin. Such a value for a product that packs a punch. My skin hasn't looked better!" — Ken
Get it from Amazon for $11.97.
21. LilyAna Naturals eye cream so you can brighten your under-eye area and reduce dark circles with nourishing ingredients, like provitamin A, vitamins C and E, and rosehip seed oil. We all know about the name-brand versions that can set you back a few bands, but you're too smart for that.
LilyAna Naturals is a family-owned small business using natural ingredients to craft high-quality skincare products.
Promising review:"I've been using this for a couple of months now and I really like it! Previously I've used Clinique or works just as well or better. I wish I had found this sooner as it is a lot less expensive than other alternatives. I've seen other reviewers say they keep it in the fridge and while I don't find that necessary I may have to try because it sounds very refreshing!" — Cat SV
Get it from Amazon for $14.99+ (available in three sizes and in packs of two).
22. A Renpho percussion massager that'll make it seem like the $300 TheraGun never existed. This one is just as good for relieving sore muscles and it comes with five massage heads to help target different muscle groups. There are also five speeds to choose from to really personalize your massage experience!
Promising reviews:"Helps with pain relief and massage in pressure spots I wasn't able to get before. I had access to use a TheraGun before and haven't noticed any difference between items, and it's at a much lower price point. Whatever extra TheraGun features there might be, I haven't needed and the heads are interchangeable between TheraGun and this. Very happy with my purchase." — tauntaun
"I used a TheraGun for about a month and although it was great, this unit is better suited for my needs. I found the TheraGun to be too powerful on the lowest setting and bulky to handle. Some people prefer a lower setting than the 'professional' brand offers. This unit is also easier to handle when massaging my partner than the TheraGun. This gun goes from a comfortable low setting to very powerful on the highest setting. Much better fit for me and my partner, plus it's got a solid battery life." — Pierremoe
Get it from Amazon for $69.99+ (available in seven colors/styles).
23. A soothing Briotech spray to help calm angry, irritated skin with the same holy-grail ingredient used in Tower 28 SOS Daily Rescue Spray: hypochlorous acid. Give yourself a spritz to help treat inflammation, reduce redness, *and* strengthen the skin barrier.
BTW, people also love this for helping heal piercings.
Promising reviews: " It works just like my Tower 28 spray. Smells the same and feels the same. It's more product and saves you money. It also comes with two lids which is perfect for traveling!" — Andrea Benton
"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 $13.99+ (available in five sizes and in multipacks).
24. A bottle of Elizavecca hair treatment with collagen ingredients and protein extracts when your goal is to restore over-processed hair. Dull, dry strands are about to go POOF — and you won't even have to spend quadruple the cost on Olaplex.
Simply apply it on wet hair after a shampoo, wait five minutes, and rinse it out. It's designed to work on all hair types, with reviewers with 2b to 4c curls mentioning it worked for them!
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 $7.60.
25. A pair of lightweight legging-style joggers reviewers say are just as good as Lululemon's Align joggers. Whether you're rotting on the couch or hitting the gym, you'll be comfy as heck in these thanks to the elastic waistband and four-way stretch material!
Promising review: "I wear athletic attire for work 90% of the time. I am also particular about how joggers look. These rival my Under Armour or Lulus. I get a ton of compliments on them and couldn't be happier with the price and quality. These are also great for when I'm feeling a little bloated." — Mike Hooke
Get it from Amazon for $23.99+ (available in women's sizes XS–3XL and 23 colors).
26. A lash-extending E.l.f. Cosmetics tubing mascara because your lashes deserve the best and you don't wanna waste your time with dry, clumpy (expensive) formulas that leave you full of regret. This one is perfect for thin, delicate lashes. The lightweight tubing technology wraps around your eyelashes for a smudge-proof lift that looks natural. Plus, it's super easy to take off at the end of the day without tons of harsh scrubbing.
Check out a TikTok of the E.l.f. mascara in action.
BuzzFeed Shopping writer Emma Lord swears by this: "I am not a new human to the tubing mascara game, and in fact readily spent $26 on the famous OG blend from Blinc every time it needed replacing. I didn't even love it for the length half as much as the fact that tubing mascara like this genuinely never smudges, but can I just say — regardless of price, the E.l.f. tubing mascara formula blows all the others I've tried out of the water. It gives me way more length and volume than other brands, slides on so much more easily, stays put ALL day, and never, ever smudges. My favorite part, though, is how gently and easily it comes off with soap and water. In the past, other mascara removals have felt rough on my lashes, but this comes off so fast that I'm like ??? was I even wearing mascara a minute ago?? Anyway, I hesitate even writing this review because I want to gatekeep the hell out of this before it sells out, but the world needed to know. I'm a big fan of the brown shade (which is what I'm wearing above!) but it also comes in black and soft black."
Get it from Amazon for $7 (available in three shades).
27. OR! Essence's Lash Princess Mascara adored by literally thousands of reviewers because it actually delivers length and volume to your sad lashes without any messy clumping. Once it graces your lashes, you'll wonder how you ever considered overspending on the Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara.
Like many of us on the BuzzFeed Shopping team, my colleague Mal Mower is a huge fan of this mascara: "It was one of my first BuzzFeed Shopping list impulse purchases! I was sold by all the wild customer images (it feels like this stuff makes lashes illegally long!) and positive reviews. I was *so* excited to get my hands on their brown version! I have naturally light lashes and red hair, so black lashes look really unnatural on me. I've loved using the brown and having a color that better complements my skin/hair. You can see my before and after photos above. This stuff is magic."
Promising reviews: " The best I've tried so far and I used Dior, Tarte, Two Faced, you name it. I always have a problem with brand-new mascara because they have too much product on the brush, especially first few uses, and my lashes stick together. I didn't have this problem with this one. I could layer it without any product starting to fall off or my lashes sticking together. And I love that they don't test on animals." — Detti
Get it from Amazon for $4.99 (available in black or brown and in packs of three).
28. A set of internet-famous Mellanni sheets that'll make it hard for you to get out of bed in the best way. It'll also be hard to believe they don't cost hundreds of dollars, which is what you would spend on Cozy Earth or Egyptian cotton sheets These are made with wonderfully soft moisture-wicking microfiber fabric that actually lasts.
Promising reviews: "My favorite sheets have to be Cozy Earth. But they are way too pricey for a guest bed. These sheets are just as good without the huge price tag. Side by side comparison to these versus expensive brands like Cozy Earth or Peacock Alley — these sheets are thinner and deeper, which actually fit better on our deep mattress with a 3-inch topper. These sheets are just as cool feeling as the higher-end ones when you get in bed. They wash well. They hardly wrinkle. And even after months of use, they are still in great shape. They haven't started to peel yet or fray. No loose threads or tears. Great sheets!" — Susan
" We have Egyptian cotton sheets that were expensive and I promise we have changed them back out for the comfort of these sheets. The cotton sheets were cold and these were just right. The other thing is my husband has thin skin that any nick he will bleed. Well he has bled on these white sheets and when we washed them (in cold water as instructed) the blood always comes out and never stains. I can't say enough great things about them except to say all three of my adult kids are receiving a set as part of their Christmas!" — Sheree Chrestman
Get a set of queen sheets from Amazon for $34.97 (available in sizes twin–California king, plus sheet sets with deep pockets for taller mattresses and 45 colors and patterns).
29. And these silky satin pillowcases so your bedroom will look and feel more luxurious for a fraction of the price of high-end brands like Blissy. These have a cooling effect that's sooo soft on the skin. It also creates less friction for your hair.
Amazon
BuzzFeed Shopping editor Maitland Quitmeyer says: "This is my go-to satin pillowcase. I have two Slip pillowcases, and several of these, and actually the Bedsure ones wash up much nicer and retain an incredibly silky smooth feel after dozens of trips through the laundry. They're the only ones I'll buy going forward, and I recommended them to my mom and now she's in love with them too!"
Promising review:"My hair has never been better! I got this because of TikTok and it has done wonders for my hair. My hair isn't frizzy or dull looking when I get up in the morning." — Aaron Key
Get a set of two from Amazon for $9.99+ (available in five sizes, 39 colors, and in packs of four or individually).
30. NYX setting spray to complete your fierce makeup look with a much-needed BANG! A spritz or two of this stuff will help lock in your product with a matte finish so it lasts for hours without constant reapplying *and* without splurging on Urban Decay's version.
Promising review:"I had seen this on TikTok and thought it was a waste of money, until I tried it, and it works. It locks in your makeup. You just have to make sure your makeup is perfect and then spray your face." — Mary
Get it from Amazon for $9.97+ (available in four styles, in jumbo sizes, and in packs of two).
31. A cult-fave luxury-scented candle — it'll upgrade your space with an upscale feel at a reasonable price. The divine scent features a blend of jasmine, oud, and sandalwood that'll carry you away to a paradise where everything is this amazing *and* affordable.
Lulu Candles is a US-based small business that specializes in scented candles and perfumes.
Promising review: "I enjoy having a scented candle burning in my house. But I don't like heavy, floral scents, so finding the perfect scent is difficult. This scent is perfect. It doesn't slap you in the face, it doesn't cling to your clothes and hair hours after leaving the house. This candle is warm, inviting, and elegant." — Micknan
Get it from Amazon for $16.95+ (available in six sizes, in gift box options, in packs of two, and in a variety of scents).
32. A reviewer-beloved TruSkin vitamin C serum with vitamins C, E, and hyaluronic acid so you can hydrate and brighten your skin with *one* product It can also help smooth and fade blemishes and dark spots like an absolute charm! Reviewers say it works like the all-too-expensive SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic serum.
It's great for many skin types, including sensitive, oily, dry, and combination!
It's recommended that you do a patch test 24–48 hours before applying this all over your face, as it's a strong, concentrated formula. After that, apply three to five drops once daily and follow with a moisturizer (ideally one with SPF if you apply in the morning!). Though the bottle looks small, reviewers say it'll last you several months with daily use.
Promising reviews: "Best $20 ever spent!!! The results are unbelievable. I was a bit skeptical because all the reviews were from Caucasian women, and I was slightly worried that my skin would not respond as well, but I was quite mistaken. With or without makeup, my skin is bright and smooth, and my spots are disappearing. One other result I am sure a number of people have not noticed is that your palms get softer too; I guess the residue on the palms makes it soft and supple." — Mayowa O.
Get it from Amazon for $21.97+ (available in two sizes).
33. A pack of duster sponges if filthy baseboards are the bane of your existence and it's time for a better solution. Simply dampen the sponge and swipe it across dirty surfaces. When you're finished, just rinse it clean and go about your day completely oblivious to the Scrub Daddy's existence.
My colleague Maitland Quitmeyer can vouch for these: " I bought a pack of these recently, and so far love dusting with them! All the dust sticks right on, so you don't end up breathing in all the dust you just tried removing. It's great for baseboards, too!"
Promising review: "I rarely review products, but this little sponge literally changed my life! It picks up EVERYthing in one swipe! Hard water marks on your bathroom mirror, no problem! Hair clippings on your sink and counter, one swipe and they are gone! Dusty blinds? Swoosh, swoosh, swipe! And ala-presto ka-bam, like magic, they are perfect and dust-free! I just need one of these for my floors! I love, love, love how the sponge picks up everything, and with a little running water, all the dust, hair, muck, and guck just rinsed away! This will not disappoint! Thank you!" — DayDreamer
Get a four-pack from Amazon for $9.99+ (available in six color combos and in packs of two or eight).
34. Nyx Fat Oil Lip Drip because even though it may not seem possible, you can indeed upgrade your pout game without hurting your wallet! It uses vegan squalane and raspberry and cloudberry oils to hydrate your lips. You won't even remember Dior's $40 famous lip oil after this.
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).
35. An Ugg-inspired suede mule slipper that'll have you doing a double-take when you see the price because they're wayyy more affordable than the name-brand version without compromising on the cozy factor. These have a memory foam insole that molds to your feet for maximum comfort. They even come in half sizes, folks!!
Promising review: "Great slipper. Easily compares to my Uggs for so much less. Run long and narrow. I can comfortably wear them with socks or without." — Laurie
Get them from Amazon for $28.99+ (available in women's sizes 6–11, including wide sizes, and in six colors).
36. BestLand's high-performance matte lipsticks with literally every color you need for feeling *and* looking absolutely fabulous. It goes on smooth and stays put all day long. Some reviewers even prefer it over more expensive brands that do the same thing, like Tarte, Stila, and Kylie — just to name a few!
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 10 sets).
37. An adjustable mini belted pack — yes, there is such a thing as a fashionable fanny pack that doesn't break the bank. If you've been longing for the Lululemon one, this is a much cheaper (and dare I say, cuter) alternative.
BuzzFeeder Elizabeth Lilly also owns this — she packed it as her only bag for a trip to busy trip to Iceland, and not only did it hold a ton and keep her hands free, it easily fit around her waist over her outerwear.
Promising review: "TikTok told me this compared to Lululemon, and it's true, it is. Love this little bag! And the price — you can't beat it." — Jolie
Get it from Amazon for $12.98 (available in 43 colors).
38. An elegant pearl choker if your fashion game could use an upgrade that only looks expensive. This necklace will have Vivienne Westwood clutching her pearls because it's basically identical to the expensive version with a budget-friendly price tag.
Promising review: "Run Forrest run!! Don't walk!! This is a perfect Vivienne Westwood [alternative]. I bought this when I didn't have enough money for the real one but unless if you do a microscopic closeup of the two, this necklace is the literal perfect [copy] of the original. It feels pretty weighty and doesn't tarnish easily. The size is also perfect and the color matches the real one better than the other ones in the market. The packaging was also super cute and protective." — Ziaaaa
Get a two-pack (gold and silver) from Amazon for $13.99 (also available in two other styles).
39. A magical eye primer when you want your eye makeup to remain intact ALL day without any smudging or creasing. It'll seem too good to be true but believe the hype — reviewers swear this stuff works just as well as (if not better) the more expensive Urban Decay and Too Faced versions.
Elizabeth Mott is a Korean American woman-owned biz!
Promising review:"I am very happy with this purchase! The primer lasted on my client for 14 hours, including 10 hours of on-camera work and running around doing interviews. Pleased as punch! This is what I needed to hear! Finding a good shadow primer is like the holy grail in the life of a makeup artist. I have used many products and wasted a lot of money and I believe I found a winner with Elizabeth Mott's product! I am thankful and impressed!" — Miss Lilly
Get it from Amazon for $13.60.
40. A set of chic cylindrical wineglasses so you can feel like absolute royalty without overspending. These are just as glamorous as the Crate & Barrel version but each sip won't be a reminder of how much money you wasted.
Joy Jolt is a small business that specializes in modern and pop culture-themed drinkware and kitchen accessories.
Promising review:"Crate & Barrel look for less. These look and feel very high end — almost like a thin crystal." — Lauren
Get a set of two from Amazon for $16.45 (available in three styles).
41. E.l.f. Poreless Putty Primer, which helps blur your pores to give you a buttery-smooth, matte complexion that's ~primed~ and ready to receive any makeup you may apply next. It contains collagen, squalene, and hyaluronic acid so you know it's the good stuff — in fact, it's eerily similar to Tatcha's Silk Canvas primer and other expensive options.
BuzzFeeder Jenae Sitzes had this to say: "This stuff is gold. I'm relatively new to the Poreless Putty Primer fandom but now that I'm here, I'm not leaving anytime soon. This makes SUCH a difference in how my foundation goes on, and it makes it look as close to poreless as I think is humanly possible — and maintains the smooth look for many hours! Just be sure to let it sit for a little bit before applying your foundation."
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 too 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.
42. Pure Instinct Roll-On, a "pheromone-infused" scent that went viral on TikTok and rightfully so. It's cheaper than the Basic Instinct option, so you're already ahead of the game. It's made to blend with your skin's PH to create a unique scent that'll make you smell utterly irresistible.
The "Original" formula has top notes of Australian mango and mandarin, heart notes of honey and cinnamon, and the base note is a well-rounded white musk.
Pure Instinct is a small business established in 1985 that specializes in personal fragrances and essential oils.
Promising review:"If you love Basic Instinct by Pure Romance, you will LOVE this affordable alternative! To me it smells almost exactly the same; there is an extremely slight difference in smell that I'm sure others around me wouldn't even pick up on, and I still LOVE the smell! I love Basic Instinct, but ran out a while ago and just couldn't justify spending that much money on more. I'm so glad I found this alternative!" — MN Tigerlily
Get it from Amazon for $14.90.
43. A cruelty-free brightening facial scrub that'll quickly become a series regular in your skincare rotation thanks to its magical powers. Reviewers love how well the sea kelp and French green clay work together to detoxify, soften, and get rid of dead skin cells. Plus, it's more affordable than the pricey versions, like Clinique and The Body Shop, for example.
The reviewer on the left above is showing an improvement in melasma on their forehead after using this scrub (before applying a serum).
My coworker Jenae Sitzes says: "Psst — this is one of my go-to exfoliators! I have super sensitive skin and this doesn't irritate it at all, but it DOES leave my face silky smooth and soft."
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 works even 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 $11.99+ (also available as a two-pack).
Reviews in this post have been edited for length and/or clarity.
