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    31 Cheap Yet Amazing Beauty Items That'll Make You Want To Break Up With The Name-Brand Versions For Good

    Featuring products that give similar luxe results to Glossier's cloud paint, Urban Decay's primer potion, and the Drybar brush but without the $$$.

    1. CeraVe's Retinol Serum that uses encapsulated retinol to reduce scars and pores. If you're diving into the retinoid pool for the first time or if your skin usually throws a fit with stronger stuff, this serum works its magic without making your skin flake or turn red like a tomato. Some folks even started to ditch their pricier potions (yeah, I'm looking at you, Murad's $92 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: "I absolutely love this stuff! I saw a dermatologist on TikTok who raved about this product and tried it out, and it's been the most amazing stuff! It's helped my face to clear up very quickly removing all of the blemish spots and dark spots around my face. It's been one of the best products I've added to my face routine. This would be great for all ages/stages and for any weather types. It doesn't moisturize much, but that's not its intention, and there is no scent, so I'd imagine it's great for all skin types and hypoallergenic." —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 $12.24.

    2.  E.l.f. Halo Glow Liquid Filter radiating all the feels of the Charlotte Tilbury's Flawless Filter. It not only serves as a radiant, blurring primer but also mixes seamlessly with your moisturizer or foundation for that "I woke up like this" glow. And for those days you're feeling extra, a little dab on top of your makeup makes for the most natural-looking highlight. But wait, there's more! It's packed with hyaluronic acid and squalane, which means your skin gets a delicious drink of hydration every time you wear it.

    A reviewer with a glowy makeup look
    Another reviewer with a glowy face

    Promising reviews: "This stuff is so legit I’ve gone through three bottles. Adds the perfect glow to your skin! Sometimes I use it under foundation, and sometimes, I use it solo with a bit of concealer. I will never not repurchase it for the price and how beautifully it sits on the skin. This stuff is viral for a reason!!" —mapagill

     "If you like Charlotte Tilbury Flawless Filter, this is leaps and bounds better! Just buy it. The coverage is better and makes my skin have the most amazing natural glow! The colors run with a more warm/yellow undertone, which worked great for me! Spend a fraction of the price and just get it; you will be happy you did!" —Amazonreview

    Get it from Amazon for $14 (available in 12 shades).

    3. And their Halo Glow Beauty Wand capable of giving that perfect glow without going overboard on glitter. It comes with the softest cushion-tip applicator that glides the product on like a dream. The formula is also buildable so you can choose between that subtle “I was born with this glow” look or you can dial it up to full on sun goddess level.

    Person holding a lipstick with the applicator visible; makeup product focus
    The reviewer showing the glow from her cheek using the makeup wand

    One reviewer says it's an alternative to the Charlotte Tilbury highlighters!

    Promising review: "We saw this highlighter in a makeup tutorial video online and thought we would try it. It was an easy decision to purchase it because the price was relatively low compared to other highlighters. It is worth every penny and more! I’ve seen this shade applied on different skin tones and it looks beautiful on everyone! Just the right shimmer, not glitter. It’s gorgeous!" —Joyinmyheart

    Get it from Amazon for $9 (available in three shades). E.l.f. also has reviewer-loved blush and contour shades in the same wand design! 

    4. A super juicy Nyx lip oil that reviewers are saying is even better than the *much* more expensive Dior lip oil. With just one swipe, this magical lip oil will turn your desert cactus lips into a lush oasis. It ALSO has staying power so you can sip your coffee, eat your lunch, and smooch your S.O. without worrying about losing that perfect pout. 👄

    Promising review: "The lip oil trend has fully saturated my TikTok feed. So I was anxious to test and compare. I also own the Dior Lip Oil and TBH, NYX is giving them a run for their money. This lip oil does its job for a fraction of the price. The formula isn't as thick as the Dior product but the color options and leak-proof packing make up for it. I'd definitely recommend picking this up to try!" —Courtney Calestiini

    Get it from Amazon for $8.97 (available in seven shades, plus clear).

    5. Or if you're on the hunt for a splash of bold color, NYX's new Fat Oil Slick Click, complete with click-to-dispense packaging so you’re always getting the perfect amount of product with each application. This lip stick also gives you the control to layer up from a sheer whisper to full-on vibrant glam, rivaling the buzz of Tarte's Maracuja Juicy Lips. And they’re formulated with avocado, raspberry, and cloudberry oils, drenching your lips in lush hydration.

    Close-up of lips with various shades of lip gloss, and a NYX lip product shown
    Lipstick collection with various shades, labeled
    Amazon

    Promising review: "This is an [alternative] for Tarte Maracuja lip gloss. My lips always feel a little dry. I rarely use lipstick, but favor a lip crayon with a layer of lip gloss on top. This product is amazing. My lips feel hydrated and comfortable, the color payoff is better than expected, and it's fun to use (click, click!). The color does transfer a little bit (hello, lip marks on my coffee cup!), so I need to reapply frequently, but that doesn't bother me. I bought it in four colors and am so happy with it." —Lisa Mancuso

    Get it from Amazon for $10.97 (available in 12 shades).

    6. Maybelline's Cheek Heat gel-cream blush you can just dab onto your skin for the prettiest pop of color, it's so simple even the newest of newbies can handle it. This blush lets you play around until you get the look that's just right for you— add a little for a natural flush or add a lot for a dramatic bold look. Reviewers say if you’re into Glossier Cloud Paint then this is totally up your alley.

    BuzzFeed writer holding pink tube of Cheek Heat with it applied to cheeks
    Emma Lord / BuzzFeed

    BuzzFeed Shopping writer Emma Lord says, "I'm a Glossier Cloud Paint stan, so I'll continue to buy it, but I love this affordable alternative, too! It spreads on super easily and can either go on sheer or build for a bolder effect. I got the Rose Flush shade and enjoy it for ~everyday wear~ since it's so easy to squirt a bit on my fingers, swirl it into my cheeks, and be on my merry way. It lasts all day and looks super natural to boot!" 

    Promising review: "Throw all your other blushes away. This one is creamy, not greasy, takes just a dab, and lasts all day. What more could you want? The only thing that would make it better is if it were free or they sold it like beer in the six-pack. Knowing makeup companies like I do, I will order several more because they will soon discontinue the BEST blush ever made, regardless of how well it sells. Am I not right? Clinique had an excellent crème blush similar to this one for YEARS, and then one day....POOF!! GONE!!! So try it and then buy some extras 'cause you know tomorrow it'll be gone." —Velma Martin

    Get it from Amazon for $5.98+ (available in six shades). 

    7. Or E.l.f. Camo liquid blush if the Saie’s Dew blushes and Rare Beauty’s liquid blushes have been all over your FYP but you just can’t bring yourself to spend the coin to try them. This one has the similar beloved doe-foot applicator and even though it’s a bit of a newcomer on the block, it's quickly stolen the hearts of beauty aficionados everywhere. 

    Reviewer posing for a selfie in a white top and pretty makeup
    Three swatches of different lipsticks are shown on a forearm for color comparison

    Promising reviews: "Pretty colors, pigmented, easy to use, and the perfect [alternative] if you’re looking for a cost-efficient Rare Beauty [swap]." —Meg Adams

    "For the price?? Best blush I've tried, lasts all day and has such a pretty color; a little bit goes a veryyyy long way. You really only need a dot for a natural look." —Leah

    Get it from Amazon for $7 (available in nine shades).

    8. A Sol de Janeiro fragrance mist in scent Cheirosa '68, reviewers are buzzing about how it gives off an essence similar to that super luxe and famously coveted Baccarat Rouge 540…but with a lighter body spray twist. It’s a blend of sultry jasmine, playful hibiscus, and that warm, sun-kissed musk. It's like a little escape in a bottle, perfect for when you want to add a touch of exotic flair to your day without going over the top.

    the bottles of fragrance
    Amazon

    Promising reviews: "I finally received my new body spray yesterday and was in complete shock at the resemblance to Baccarat Rouge 540. This body spray is so delicious. It is definitely a Baccarat Rouge 540 alternative. There were so many reviews that said how much this body spray resembled the very pricey perfume, and they were all correct. I absolutely love Baccarat Rouge 540, but it is so expensive compared to other perfumes like Chanel, so I opt not to purchase it regularly. This body spray is a wonderful substitute for overpriced perfume. Today will be my first day wearing the spray, so hopefully, it will have great longevity throughout the day as well. 🤞🏼 Regardless, I would still purchase it again moving forward." —Tina

    "I opened up my package as soon as I got it, sprayed it, and could not believe how IDENTICAL it smells to the Baccarat Rouge. It’s literally the exact same. It’s a very warm-smelling undertone of vanilla with the top scents of Brazilian jasmine and 'sun musk,' just like the description on the bottle. I would definitely recommend this as an alternative for the Baccarat Rouge 540 if anyone were looking for one." —Rachel Jackel

    Get it from Amazon for $38.

    9. Or a bottle of Fine'ry Jungle Santal perfume with the earthy depth of papyrus wood, the subtle, sophisticated twist of oolong tea, and the spicy warmth of cardamom. People are whispering that it rivals those fancy, high-end santal perfumes but you can stumble upon this treasure in the most unexpected place — Target…TARGET!!! 

    The green vintage-looking bottle in a woodsy scene
    Target

    Promising review: "This fragrance is fantastic!! It changes and develops richer woodsy scents on me. Very similar to Le Labo Santal 33 but much less expensive...lasts all day too!!" —Eufy cordless vac

    Get it from Target for $27.99 (and shop all of the Fine'ry scents here).

    10. A tube of the cult-favorite Elizabeth Mott's Thank Me Later eyeshadow primer that'll help enhance the pigment of your eyeshadow, giving it that ✨ pop ✨ you crave. It also helps control oil on your lids to make your makeup last all day. Why spend more on Urban Decay's Primer Potion when this exists (and half the price at that)?

    A reviewer showing their completed eye makeup at 8:30am
    The same reviewer with the eye makeup looking the same at 6:30 pm

    Promising review: "For a long time my go-to primer was the All-Nighter by Urban Decay but in recent times I could no longer afford it. I struggled to find something comparable from the drugstore, none of them were at the level I wanted or was used to. Until I found this one! I tried this one, and it's so excellent. It truly is an alternative for Urban Decay. It's a mousse texture but dries down quickly, so easy to spread and it lasts SUCH a long time. I have oily lids, so this is truly a lifesaver. And the tube has so much product! A little goes a long way — a pea size is perfect to cover the entire lid area. Truly love this product I don't think I'll ever switch. 10/10." —Marissa Olmedo

    Get it from Amazon for $11.19.

    11. CoverGirl's TruBlend matte concealer reviewers say is similar to (if not better than) Tarte's Shape Tape, AND it's ONLY $5!! With 30 different shades to choose from, you're basically guaranteed to find the perfect match for your skin tone — plus, it's super easy to blend. No more awkward orange or ashy patches on your face!

    Promising review: "My everyday holy grail concealer! I really love this concealer for my everyday makeup because it covers my blemishes without leaving my skin feeling heavy and it's really matte — it blends out beautifully into the skin and I love that this is exactly my skin tone!" —Marilegny G. (@marimuabeauty)

    Get it from Amazon for $6 (available in 28 shades).

    12. A bottle of Elizavecca Hair Treatment, which will have your hair feeling like it's on cloud nine. This hair mask is infused with collagen and protein extracts — after applying to wet hair and sitting for only five minutes, your hair will be completely transformed. Think Olaplex (without the $$$).

    According to reviewers, this mask works on fine haircurly hair, and type 4 hair.

    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 $7.50.

    13. The Revlon One-Step Hot Air Brush (now with an upgraded motor)  so you can dry and style your hair in one fell swoop, which means you can hit snooze a few more times in the morning and still come out looking like you just stepped out of the salon. Nice try, Drybar Brush,  you're not breaking any banks over here!

    A reviewer showing their partially blown out curly/coily hair with text
    A reviewer with blown out loose curls

    BTW, while some reviewers with curl types 4a–c like the oval brush, if you're looking for something to blow out tighter curls or coils, try the Revlon One-Step *paddle* brush, which is designed with curlier hair in mind! You can get it from Amazon for $39.99.

    Promising reviews: "I thought my Chi hairdryer was good, but this takes it to a new level. My hair is very wavy, but I was able to straighten it very easily with this dryer. It took much less time, too than the Chi or Drybar dryer." —Kristy C

    "Where have you been all my life? Omg, this dryer was AMAZING!!!!! I don’t understand why I didn’t know about it sooner!!!! My hair is thick and curly and hard to control. Usually, I need to air dry for at least an hour; then it takes 45 min to blow it out. Usually resulting in my arms being exhausted and my hair burned. BEST DRYER EVER! And I have spent $$ on a Drybar dryer. Never again. I need to buy a backup just in case. LOVE" —Brian Halpin

    Get it from Amazon for $38.48+ at Amazon (available in five colors).

    14. A popular pack of Skin1004 8-in-1 treatment masks ready to give you similar (if not better) results as the v expensive Hanacure, if you don't mind looking like a zombie for 15 minutes in exchange for (*takes a deep breath*): reduced fine lines, lifted skin, cleared acne, tightened pores, deeply hydrated skin, improved skin texture, balanced pH level, and a brightened complexion.

    Just wait 15 minutes and rinse to reveal your glowiest glow yet, thanks to the albumin (aka egg white) and aloe formula.

    Promising review: "I was gifted the Hanacure masks and loved them, but they're just way too pricey. I heard SO many wonderful things about the Skin 1004 zombie mask, and at about $2.50 a pop, why not?! Let me tell you, this mask is just straight-up magic. I didn't notice any changes to my skin immediately, but a few hours later, when I looked in the mirror, I was shocked at how wonderful my skin looked. I've never noticed a difference like this. Hanacure who?!?? Don't get me wrong, the Hanacure mask is amazing and magical too, but it's expensive and impossible to maintain the twice-weekly mask schedule recommended. This Zombie mask is every bit as magical with better results, in my opinion. And it's super funny.  A lot of the reviews mention a bad smell, which I was worried about, but I didn't notice a smell, and I'm so sensitive to smell I can't use scented lotions, lip balms, etc. Bottom line, this is better than Hanacure both price and results wise."Dana Dane

    Get them from Amazon for $25.

    15. E.l.f. Poreless Putty Primer, a lightweight base that won't have you feeling like you're wearing a mask all day. This primer also has a blurring effect that reduces the appearance of pores and gives you a velvety smooth canvas for your makeup. Tatcha's Silk Canvas primer, I've got your competition on the phone.

    Reviewer wearing product
    Reviewer holding product in hand

    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.

    16. Or if you're all about that locked-in, super grip primer vibe, check out  E.l.f.'s Power Grip (reviewers claim it’s basically the same as the Milk Hydro Grip). It’s a gel-based hydrating primer designed to help your makeup cling to your face and ensure it stays in place all 👏🏽 day👏🏽 long 👏🏽. 

    reviewer taking a selfie while wearing the power grip primer
    another reviewer showing how their makeup stays in place while wearing the power grip primer

    Promising reviews: "I got a little sample of the Milk Hydro Grip primer, but when I went to buy it...$36 for a relatively small bottle! I wanted to find a good alternative, so I bought this. It is PERFECT! Nearly identical formula. I have sensitive skin and this did not break me out. It really does help keep makeup on all day and makes your skin look smooth. I highly recommend this." —Allison

    Get it from Amazon for $10 (available in two styles).

    17. L'Oreal True Match Lumi Glotion so you don't have to burn a hole in your wallet from the Drunk Elephant Bronzi Drops. This moisturizer has light coverage so it feels amazing on your skin and it also helps to lightly color-correct any little blemishes you might have. It was MADE just for you to bask in the glow of fabulous skin.

    reviewer with wavy hair in sunlight, posing for a photo, potentially promoting beauty products
    Smiling person with wavy hair wearing a scoop-neck top

    Promising reviews: "I used this with my Olay Regenerist Cream (it helps with my wrinkles). I mixed it, and it does a great deal of shine! You should buy it if you're looking for a Drunk Elephant Bronzi Drops substitute! Way better than Drunk Elephant." —raegan kuball

    "I actually like this glowy lotion better than the Drunk Elephant one, and I have both. This goes on smoothly and is not greasy. It leaves you very glowy with a beautiful tan and works well with makeup on top if you so wish. Lasting power, too. Recommend." —ggvega

    Get it from Amazon for $12.99+ (available in four shades).

    18. CeraVe's Skin Renewing night cream just begging to replace your outrageously priced night creams (I’m looking at you La Mer, Drunk Elephant, Charlotte Tilbury, and SkinCeuticals). This cream is packed with niacinamide and hyaluronic acids to deliver that much-needed hydration and softness while keeping your skin's natural barrier protected. 

    author holding a jar of cream that got her thru an allergic reaction
    reviewer with text
    BuzzFeed / Maitland Quitmeyer, www.amazon.com

    BuzzFeed Deputy Director of Shopping Maitland Quitmeyer is obsessed: “It has new packaging just FYI if it looks different when you order it — I just make sure my order is sold by + shipped by Amazon! This is my all time fave, never-be-without night cream, and I always make sure to keep at least one extra jar on hand, because it's sometimes sold out!”

    Promising reviews: "I’ve been using the same cream for over seven years. Every other cream would break me out, not moisturize my skin enough, or just make me too oily. I got this because I’ve been breaking out and I’ve been trying to find something to calm my skin down. The first night I used this, my skin improved!! Redness/bumps reduced, my skin was soft. I have very sensitive, oily, acne-prone skin and this did not irritate my face at all. I wake up, and my skin is soooo soft. My skin texture has drastically changed in just a week. My makeup applies so smooth, and my pores even look better. My new go-to!" —Melody

    "I used to work in cosmetics. Two big name brands. The CeraVe line is an excellent product. No perfumes. Simple and effective ingredients. My dermatologist recommended this line to me recently. I'm thrilled with it. It's a perfect night cream. Spending a lot of money on the high-priced lines is 100% unnecessary. They do not work any better. You are just getting tricked by deceitful marketing ploys." —ClaudyLA

    Get it from Amazon for $15.38.

    19. Cosrx Snail Mucin 96% Power Repairing Essence formulated with 96.3% snail secretion, which is perfectly lightweight and hydrating for all skin types. This essence leaves a nice glow and keeps skin visibly smooth after a few uses — similar to those pricey name-brand moisturizers, but *without* the hefty bill. 

    Reviewer before and after picture with redness healed from their face
    The bottle of serum

    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 $14.59

    20. A pack of two Venus Visage teeth whitening pens because come on, who doesn't want pearly white teeth? These easy-to-use pens brush the whitening gel onto your teeth so you won't have to struggle with the awkward feeling of Crest Whitestrips. (Besides, these are a fraction of the cost.)

    before and after of reviewer's yellow teeth, then cleaner whiter teeth after use
    reviewer holding the two teeth whitening pens

    Promising reviews: "Throw your expensive Crest Whitestrips away! Being the son of a dental hygienist, clean bright white teeth have always been important to me. Though I had my reservations about the whitening pen, it certainly didn't disappoint and works far better than the Whitestrips I've been using for the last several years, not to mention it's a much better deal for your money. I'm a total coffee connoisseur, which has always made having a bright white smile all the more challenging, but the pen is giving me the upper hand." —Franknsd

    "We like these better than Crest Whitestrips and for a fraction of the price! The Crest Whitestrips make my teeth way too sensitive, these work JUST AS WELL and no tooth sensitivity." —Travis Sheveland

    Get a pack of two pens from Amazon for $18.95.

    21. L’Oreal Paris rinse-out lamellar water treatment created with the same ingredients as Redken's version — it instantly smoothes and detangles, making it a breeze to brush through your hair. No more annoying knots or tangles to deal with! Plus, when you dry your hair, you'll notice much less frizz than usual.

    reviewer's curly hair looking damaged and dry
    the same reviewer's hair looking soft and moisturized after treatment

    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 $9.97.

    22. Essence's Lash Princess mascara that gives instant volume and length while also being smudge-proof, so you don't have to worry about looking like a hot mess by the end of the day. And the best part? Reviewers say this $5 mascara delivers the same (if not better) results as options from high-end brands like Too Faced and Benefit. No wonder it has over 247,000 5-star ratings.

    A BuzzFeed editor with mascara on one eye to show the dramatic length difference
    Close-up of a person applying mascara to upper eyelashes, with visible freckles and a nose ring
    Kayla Boyd / BuzzFeed, Amazon

    Promising reviews: "OK. So I’m a mascara snob! This is better than Dior Show, better than Better than Sex. I’ve ordered this repeatedly about 14x and you won’t be dissatisfied, I PROMISE. I use micellar water to remove my makeup on little cotton squares. EASY. Take a chance. $4.99 vs. $40 for Dior. You can’t go wrong. ❤️" —john t dowell

    "I can only praise this mascara! It’s easy to put on, you control how dramatic you want your lashes. No smudge. Very easy to remove and the BEST part is the price!! In my opinion, this is better than Better than Sex. Definitely love and will buy again." —Mayra Z

    Get it from Amazon for $4.99.

    23. Peach Slices acne spot dots ready to shrink your problems overnight. OK, I'm not talking student loans or awkward first date type of problems, but they do help with pimples! These patches, which are comparable to (and cheaper than) Mighty Patch, not only cover up your zits, but they also suck out all the gross gunk, leaving your skin looking fresh and clear. 

    Reviewer wearing small round sticker healing a zit
    Small clear dots on a sticker sheet

    Peach Slices is part of Peach & Lily, a skincare brand founded by celebrity esthetician Alicia Yoon that specializes in toxin-free, vegan beauty products made with recyclable packaging. The company plants a tree with each order, and a portion of its proceeds have gone to to Restore NYC since 2016. 

    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 using 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.

    24. A pack of soft and bouncy makeup sponges — people are saying they're better than Beauty Blender and Real Techniques at a fraction of the cost. Their soft texture allows for a smooth and even application, whether you're blending out foundation, concealer, or contour. Reviewers also love how durable these little sponges are and that they don't easily rip or tear when you wash them.

    Reviewer with foundation blended on their face from the sponge
    Five tear-drop shaped makeup sponges in different sizes and colors

    Promising review: "Don't hesitate, just buy these. I was using the Real Technique sponges for years and bought these on a whim after seeing several TikToks praising these. I love these sponges and the price. I apply liquid foundation with a damp sponge and these work better than Real Techniques. They are dense but soft and 'bouncy.' I wash mine between each use and these hold up very well and much better than the RT. Very happy with my purchase and the price. Will definitely continue to buy." —chris

    Get a set of five from Amazon for $5.85+ (available in 10 sets).

    25. The Ordinary's AHA 30% Peeling Solution, aka a more affordable chemical exfoliant than Drunk Elephant's T.L.C. Sukari Babyfacial. The Ordinary's solution is formulated with similar ingredients, meant to improve skin texture and radiance by removing dead skin cells and unclogging pores. Reviewers say you'll get similar results at a lower price point!

    the bottle of aha peeling solution
    model applying it to their face with text instruction to apply a thin layer for no longer than 10 minutes

    Here are some other skincare products designed to help you get a more even skin tone, BTW.

    This solution uses a mixture of glycolic, lactic, and salicylic acid. The first two are alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) that exfoliate the skin's outer layer while the last one, a beta hydroxy acid (BHA), reduces pore congestion.

    Promising review: "This is my new favorite peel product! In 10 minutes, my skin looked glowy and smooth, and felt soft and even. There was zero irritation, just healthy, happy skin. Babyfacial works, but always left my skin red, extra oily, and hot to the touch. Not this product though! Not to mention it literally costs less than 10% of what Babyfacial costs." —ClaireEB

    Get it from Sephora for $9.50.

    26. The viral Juno & Co. cleansing balm that's making waves in the TikTok beauty world. This balm cleanses without stripping the skin's natural oils, leaving you with a fresh and hydrated ✨ glow ✨.   Many reviewers are saying it’s on par with and even  outshines the pricier ($68!) Elemis Cleansing Balm.

    Juno & Co. was founded by Kyle Jiang in California and specializes in clean-ingredient skincare.

    Check out this balm in action on TikTok.

    I personally use this balm when I double cleanse and I SWEAR by it. Not only does it remove all the dirt and oil you didn't even know was there, but the texture is so smooth it's like rubbing butter on your face. I have dry skin and after using this my skin is so hydrated it looks and feels like I just got a facial.

    Promising review: "A tiny amount goes a long way!! I ALWAYS have makeup under my eyes after washing my face, but this takes it ALL off! Not even a speck of makeup left! Just massage a little on your face then rinse it off, and your makeup is washed clean off! It’s very moisturizing too! I don’t notice a scent at all which is perfect for me since I don’t care for scented facial products." —Audra S

    Get it from Amazon for $14.99.

    27. Physicians Formula Diamond Dust translucent powder so you can shine bright like a diamond without sacrificing your wallet. This highlight is similar to the $40 Fenty Beauty Diamond Bomb, but for the people on a budget who also prefer a more subtle shimmer. 

    reviewer with some of the powder on their cheekbones
    the compact and a finger with some of the product on it

    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 $9.79

    28. A trio of hydrating lip sleeping masks because sometimes our wallet can't handle the splurge of a Laneige lip mask. A little goes a long way with this gem, and it will have your lips feeling soft and moisturized in no time.

    a hand holding three of the tubs
    closeup of reviewer's lips looking soft and moisturized

    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 combos). 

    29. Briotech spray with magical powers rivaling that of the pricier Tower 28 spray. Packed with the same key ingredient, hypochlorous acid, this little gem can be your go-to whenever your skin feels like it's on the brink of a meltdown. Just a quick spritz, and it'll get to work soothing inflammation, calming angry red patches, and fortifying your skin's barrier like a protective spell.

    Reviewer with inflamed rosacea flare labeled before, and after with clear, calm skin
    Reviewer holding their Briotech spray bottle

    BTW, people also love this for helping heal piercings.

    Promising review: "It works just like my Tower 28 spray. Smells the same and feels the same. It's more product and saves you money. It also comes with two lids which is perfect for traveling!" —Andrea Benton

    Promising review: "Just an FYI, this product has the exact same ingredients as the Tower 28 spray! It's been absolutely amazing at reducing acne and texture! It's also so refreshing and gives a lil' glow. So in love!" —BK

    Get an 8-ounce bottle from Amazon for $17.49 (available in four sizes and in packs of two and four).

    30. A bottle of professional-grade callus-removing gel capable of achieving results so good, the pictures speak for themselves. It's like a spa pedicure in a bottle! Just apply the gel and let it sit for 5–10 minutes, then finish up with a foot scrubber to ensure there's no dead skin left behind. If you love the results of Baby Foot but can’t deal with the idea of shelling out $25, you’re going to want to snag this.

    Promising review: "As many folks have said, have all the things you need (gloves, phone, showerhead, etc.) at hand when you apply this freaking miracle. I have heels like a busted can of biscuits, and I don't have much faith in any product. Any trip to the salon is basically worthless for my calluses. So I soaked my feet and dried them. Applied the gel and waited. Rinsed and started using my rasp. I have NEVER seen so much skin come off. And it just kept coming. I rinsed and put lotion on, then slept in thick socks. My feet are so soft! Game changer." —VR

    Get it from Amazon for $14.99 (also available in a two-pack).

    31. rainbow-inspired eyeshadow palette complete with 40 matte, shimmer, and metallic options, at just a glance you would think it's the James Charles x Morphe collab. And because it's loved by both amateurs and pros, you know you're getting a product that's high quality and easy to use.

    a hand holding the palette of 40 rainbow shades
    reviewer's eyeshadow look with orange, pink, and yellow shades from the 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 $9.99

    Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.