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.
1. A The Saem hydrating eye stick that has a cooling formula to help de-puff the area around your eyes and reduce the appearance of dark circles so no one at the office starts asking you why you look like a Tim Burton character.
It also can help tighten the appearance of eye wrinkles if you'd prefer for them not to be as noticeable. And here's a tip! It reduces puffiness faster if used after refrigeration.
Promising review: "This is definitely a miracle product. I was impressed that it worked so well, so fast, and so instantly. The packaging is silly but whimsical; I enjoy it. This is the last thing I apply before walking out the door. First day I used it, I put it on and got in my car — I looked in the rear view mirror and my heart jumped. My eyes had de-puffed on my walk down the front path!!! So impressive. It's not hydrating, it’s more tightening/brightening. If you have dry under eyes, use a creamy hydrating eye cream first, and apply this over it — problem solved. You don’t get much product, but you don’t need to use much either, and it’s not like it’s expensive. Definitely worth it if a product actually DOES what it claims it’ll do!!! Buy it!" —Joseph S.
Price: $9.99 (also available as a collagen eye stick)
2. Or an eye cream for dark circles featuring yerba mate extract, as well as caffeine, peptides, and hyaluronic acid, at a bafflingly low price for the amount of compliments you're due to receive.
Good Molecules creates simple, effective skincare products using science-backed ingredients.
Promising review: "I tried this cream to reduce bags under my eyes and it seems to be working! I love that it does not irritate my sensitive eyes at all! The tube is small and you only need a dab so it will last a while. The price is also very affordable compared to other brands. The formula is very creamy and glides on easily. Once it sets, you can feel a slight tightening and you can apply your makeup over it without it getting cakey. I will definitely purchase this item again, so with it!" —Grace C
Price: $6
3. An 18-piece makeup brush set that'll help you complete each step of your makeup routine like a total pro. They're so high-quality they even surprised this reviewer with how well they've held up after two years! Plus, the included cylinder case allows you to set them upright on your vanity *and* serves as easy packaging for travel.
Promising review: "I was a loyal IT Cosmetics brush customer, then I went with a few Real Techniques brushes. These actually beat both of those brands — I have no idea how! I ended up tossing most of my brushes now in favor of these. They wash easily, look nice, are soft, and very durable. I’ll keep buying!" —Amazon Customer
Price: $12.99+ (available in eight colors)
4. A bottle of TikTok-famous Cosrx Snail Mucin Power Essence because it will soothe and rejuvenate your skin so effectively, it'll make you think the exact opposite of "ew" when you think of snail mucin. It can also give your skin a natural "I woke up like this" glow that has earned it over 46,000 5-star ratings!
And tell Gary not to worry! The snail mucin is obtained in a safe way, so no snails are harmed!
I've personally been using this for months now and it's amazing how it's improved aspects of my skin that I didn't even know needed improving. I didn't think my skin looked too dull before, but after see how this brightened and soothed my skin, I'm never going back. I spray my face with rose water, gently pat the essence into my skin while it's still damp, and let it absorb. Plus, it absorbs so quickly, it's like your skin is saying "gimme gimme gimme!!".
Promising review: "I’ve been using this morning and night for about two weeks and I can say I understand the hype! My skin looks better than it has in so long. Firstly, the texture surprised me. When you think snail mucin, you think slimy and gross. This wasn’t sticky or slimy whatsoever. I was afraid it was gonna leave my skin feeling gross and slippery. Surprisingly, my skin drank it right up! No residue whatsoever and it’s a nice primer before makeup. I have oily skin and it’s helped with that as well. My skin is so soft, with a nice healthy glow. I’ve noticed my red spots from past acne is fading and my skin just overall looks great. Highly recommend!" —Sarah D.
Price: $17 (also available as a set)
5. A highly concentrated leave-in repair hair mask if you're trying to restore you're processed hair to its silky glory (we've all been there🥲). This mask is enriched with peptides that work their magic to moisturize and reverse the damage on your locks in just four minutes!
Promising review: "So my hair was damaged by heat and color damage and looked really dry. I ended up buying this repair mask and let me tell you, in two days of just using this product, it's mind-blowing. The blatant dryness just disappeared — magic in a bottle! You get what you pay for. It is pricey, but it works, so I'm glad I invested in my hair. I would recommend. Invest in your hair care. It worked for me, and I'm very happy!" —Addina V Bernard
Price: $29+ (available in two sizes)
6. A Beauty of Joseon serum if you're a real glow getter. The niacinamide and propolis extract formula can help you maintain clearer skin, brighten dark spots, and give you a dewy glow, thanks to its honey-like texture.
I've been using this serum for about three months now and cannot say enough good things about it. I got the "glow" serum (I love that there are different options for different skin concerns), and it continues to minimize my pores and makes my skin look plump and radiant!
Promising review: "From the moment I started using this serum, I saw results! The combination of propolis and niacinamide in this serum is a winning formula. My complexion has never looked this radiant and healthy. It effectively addresses dark spots and hyperpigmentation, visibly reducing their appearance. What makes this serum even more remarkable is its lightweight and fast-absorbing texture. It feels like silk on my skin and leaves no greasy residue. I can apply it seamlessly without worrying about it disrupting my makeup or other skincare products. The hydrating properties of this serum are a game-changer. My skin feels intensely nourished and plump, minimizing the look of fine lines and wrinkles. The only downside is the price. I think it's a bit expensive for the amount of product you get. However, it's so good that I'll still leave it at 8/5 stars!" —Yuna Lee
Price: $18.39+ (available in three other formulations; you can also get a pack with all four)
7. An under-eye brightener that works wonders to balance out the bluish tones of under-eye shadows and dark circles. And bonus! It's infused with hyaluronic acid and shea butter to nourish your skin and give you a radiant glow. Wear it by itself or under your concealer for a more full-coverage look!
Promising review: "I have hollow dark under-eye circles, and concealer never works for me bc it just makes my under eyes dry and doesn’t conceal the darkness. THIS STUFF IS MAGIC. It has a very hydrating formula, and a tiny bit goes a very, very long way. I’m so impressed and incredibly happy with this purchase!" —Val
Price: $6
8. A super easy-to-use (and super cute) Tonymoly octopus-shaped blackhead remover — it'll become your nose's best friend. Just scrub it over your nose and watch as it gently exfoliates and removes excess sebum, blackheads, and other impurities. Bye-bye, pore strips!
Promising reviews: "This is hands down the best exfoliator I have ever had. It’s small, so I was concerned, but I exfoliate my face twice a week and it’s been a couple of months there’s still plenty left. 10/10 buy it now!" —Mars
"After just two days of use, this adorable little octopus has done wonders for me and smells great too. Here's how I used it: I wore down the stick just a little to where the texture from the salt was visible, scrubbed around on my face so there was plenty of product, and then I used my fingers to gently massage all the gunk away. Rinse, pat dry, and enjoy the softness. Highly recommended for people with sensitive skin like myself." —LuckLocust
Price: $12.50
9. Missha's Soft Finish Sun Milk sunscreen approved by many reviewers with oily skin who rave about its ability to blend and not leave a greasy finish. It has SPF 50+ protection and resists water, sweat, and tears (Hopefully, tears of joy!). It also creates a silky smooth base — perfect for wearing under a full face of makeup.
In the progression photos above, you can see a reviewer before applying the sun milk, after applying the sun milk, and then the sun milk under makeup.
Although many reviewers say they don't experience a white cast with this, it is an untinted mineral sunscreen — so results in terms of white cast may vary!
Not to be dramatic, but OMG — this product leaves my skin looking and feeling *SO* soft. It gives your skin an ultra-smooth texture, making it the perfect SPF to lay underneath your makeup! Plus, it has a subtle, clean scent. I've been using this product for four months now and will absolutely continue to use it!
Promising review: "I have dark, oily skin and purchased this product after reading recommendations. There is no white cast; you can barely see it upon application unless you use too much. You definitely do not need a lot, it spreads thin. When it dries, any color is gone. It also helps slow down my face getting all greasy as the day goes on, which I love. My skin is very, very oily, but I can still apply this after my moisturizer and feel totally comfortable. I'm not a fan of scents, and the scent on this is extremely mild." —Ms. Renee
Price: $19.70
10. A long-wear Wet n Wild Breakup-Proof Gel Eyeliner — a big claim, I know. But trust me, you could probably survive the apocalypse and this still wouldn't budge. Plus, its intense pigment will bring out your eyes *beautifully*.
11. A Nooni tinted appleberry lip oil made with soothing apple water to help moisturize and soften your lips without giving you that icky sticky finish. It also gives your lips a lovely, natural-looking flush.
This lip oil is vegan, cruelty-free, and has no parabens, sulfates, or phthalates.
I have been using this lip oil for two months and don't go anywhere without it. It's sooo moisturizing and leaves such a lovely, subtle tint. When my lips are feeling a little dry, I can apply this to add relieving moisture *and* some lively color to my lips. I also love that the brand has various options for different preferences!
Promising review: "I love K-beauty and this is one of my favorite lip oils. It makes my lips softer and looking like cherry plump. Plus, this shade acts as a lip tint, and I like how long it stays on my lips. At first, I thought that the bottle seemed small but after applying 2–3 times/day for a month, I still have a lot left to use. It moisturizes your lips and leaves a red tint on your lips, and it's lasted very long!" —Nhu
Price: $11.99 (available in ten colors and in sets)
12. A waterproof crème-to-powder eyeshadow stick, which is perfect for those days when you're running late (...again) and want to add a quick pop of glow to your eyes. Just swipe this across your lids — no brush required! — and you're good to go. Plus, they're enriched with vitamins C and E, and you can choose from a variety of gorgeous shimmery, matte, and metallic shades.
Promising review: "These glide on so easy and the color is so beautiful. They go on like a cream and dry to a powder-like feel, so your eyelids don't feel sticky. Each one also comes with a built-in smudger, which works great. I love the look, and it lasts all day. I bought some for myself, my teenage daughter, my niece, and my sister, and we all LOVE it! I'll definitely be buying more." —Av80
Price: $16 (available in 53 colors)
13. An ultra-lightweight E.l.f. HD loose setting powder that'll subtly blur your fine lines, pores, and blemishes for a soft-focus finish. With this in your makeup bag, who needs an IG filter?
Promising reviews: "I have been in an absolute state of emergency without this and I had no idea until I got it. It was WAY more lightweight than I imagined. My pores don’t feel clogged, my makeup even feels easier to remove now and all together my finishing face just looks smoother and more natural. I have very sensitive oily skin and have to be extremely careful on what products I use, but I can honestly say i have very minimal reaction to e.l.f. products. IDK why but this powder just makes me feel all around way more confident in my makeup. I also love the way it distributes powder!" —Atharvey17
"As a dark-skinned Black woman, I was worried that using a white powder would cause my skin to look ashy or cakey. This powder, however, is perfect. I use this powder to set my foundation, to reduce shine during the day, and also to set my gel eyeliner. I have medium-dark skin, and this powder does NOT make my skin look overly light and it doesn't make my foundation look cakey or thick." —M.C
Price: $6 (available in two colors)
14. A pack of popular Cosrx pimple patches to evict those pesky pimples that have no business invading your face. These are coated with hydrocolloids to protect and heal the blemish more effectively — you officially have no excuses for popping those pimples anymore!
For persistent or bigger pimples, leave a pimple patch on overnight for two to three days to allow the pimple to diminish completely.
Promising review: "I've suffered from full coverage acne since I was 8 or 9 years old (I know. A freakishly young age to start.). I've used every product known to man. Proactive, Neutrogena, Clearasil, medication from dermatologists...the list goes on, and I'm sure most people have experienced the same. BUT THESE WORK. HOLY SHT THESE WORK. They suck everything out in ONE GOSH DARN NIGHT. I buy a whole bunch at a time and go through probably five packets a month and I've never been happier, and I've never had such clear skin. All you have to do is wash your face and stick the dots on before bed. I stick them wherever I see the red starting, feel that 'oh it's a big one' pain under my skin, or where whiteheads have already started." —Danielle
Price: $9.17+ (available in four quantities)
15. A keratin-infused heat shield hair spray to protect your luscious locks from heat damage. Infused with jojoba oil, safflower oil, and botanical antioxidants, this'll have your tresses looking soft and irresistibly touchable.
Promising review: "Bought this to protect my hair while blow-drying with an electric brush that gets very hot. I have baby fine hair, and lots of it.
This product is fantastic. It protects my hair, it also is great to just spray on wet and scrunch it curly if you have wavy hair like me." —Happiness is a choice
Price: $13.45
16. A popular pack of Skin1004 pore tightening and lifting masks that has surprised reviewers with its immediate results. These fast-acting masks are made with albumin, aloe vera, and centella asiatica extract to hydrate and lift your skin, tighten enlarged pores, clear small breakouts, and give you that "just came fresh from the spa" glow.
To use, mix the powder and activator and apply it to your face. FYI — you'll look like a character from The Walking Dead as the mask works its magic (it's called the "Zombie Pack" for a reason!). But once you rinse it off after 10-15 minutes of letting it dry, you'll have some happy and radiant skin.
Skin1004 is a Korean skincare brand that provides high-quality skincare items made of plant-based ingredients from Madagascar. Its signature ingredient is Centella Asiatica extract, a soothing and hydrating antioxidant that is known for its ability to help heal wounds and protect the skin.
Promising reviews: "After years of trying different products on my sensitive, acne-prone, red, rough skin, I saw this mask and all of the positive reviews and thought, 'what the hell, I'll give it a go.' Even after the first application, I was really impressed with the results. My rough skin is smoother, I have no additional breakouts and when I do wear makeup, it actually blends into my skin. It also helps the deep wrinkles on my neck. I even got a compliment on my skin the other day — this NEVER happens. I use the mask twice per week. I'm on month two and I recommend it to anyone with problem skin. My only caution is that it smells kind of funky (who cares), and it's a little hard to remove. I only apply the mask when I'm going to shower and wash my hair. It's zombie life for me here on out!" —Charlie B
"I was a little skeptical when I bought this. Tried it for the first time and was amazed by the results! My skin looks and feels amazing, I felt like I looked at least five years younger. Yes, it doesn't smell the greatest, but it wasn't overly strong. My skin is very sensitive and I avoid trying new products because a lot irritates my skin, but this product didn't. I am so thrilled." —Dayna
Price: $25 (also available in a two-pack and in a variety three-pack)
17. A bottle of hydrating Glow Recipe watermelon glow niancinamide dew drops that'll brighten both your skin and your day. It's infused with vitamin C, vitamin E, and moringa oil to help even out your skin tone and give you a dewy finish. It also has a lightweight texture that absorbs quickly, making it ideal for all skin types so you can glow from the inside out.
Glow Recipe is an Asian-owned business that aims to create fruit-forward, clean beauty formulas to incorporate into your skincare routine.
Promising review: "I love this product with my heart and soul. I've been using it as a part of my skincare and prep routines for a few months, and my skin looks so natural, plump, even, and healthy. I'm ALL about a glowy, dewy, natural look and this product has helped me achieve that, plus it's a great serum packed with goodies that your skin will thank you for! It's definitely worth it. And I will always recommend this to anyone. I use it twice a day, in the morning as the last step before my makeup routine and at night before moisturizer! If using it during the daytime, don't forget to use sunscreen because its vitamin and natural acid contents make skin a little more susceptible and sensitive to sunlight! Hope this helps :)" —Andrea Velarde
Price: $20+ (available in two sizes)
18. A Wet n Wild contour stick, which is delightfully portable and gives a velvety-soft finish. Plus, you can choose from multiple shades depending on whether you want chiseled cheekbones, rosy cheeks, or a glowy complexion.
Promising review: "This makeup stick is a versatile product that offers smooth application and easy blending. Its creamy texture allows for seamless contouring, and the shade "Brown Where's Walnut?" provides a natural-looking contour for a variety of skin tones. The stick format is convenient for on-the-go touch-ups, and the product is known for its affordability, making it a budget-friendly option for those looking to enhance their makeup routine. Highly recommend." —Amazon Customer
Price: $3.99 (available in 19 colors)
19. A beauty sponge — many reviewers claim that it rivals the Beautyblender, but that it expands to a much bigger size (which makes the whole blending process *much faster*)! Plus, its black color makes it easier to see the product and gauge when it's time to clean your sponge again.
Promising review: "I've been buying Beautyblenders for years. Some got tossed, they kept falling apart, and they just didn't last me that long. They also took forever to clean. But... THIS sponge is amazing; it's easy to clean, it applies makeup wonderfully onto the skin, and you can use it with powder and it still does an amazing job. I honestly think this is such an affordable product that I would very much recommend it to anyone who's looking for an alternative beauty product. AND this will last you a long time after cleaning. I'd say stock up on this product. Cause you won't find anything similar to this material and texture. I truly hope it's here to stay. ❤️ I totally recommend." —Honest reviews only
Price: $4.72 (also available as a set of two)
20. A strengthening Dabur Amla hair oil enriched with Indian gooseberry, which is a great source of vitamins E and C to help support a healthy scalp and thick, shiny locks. With this, you'll be looking for any excuse to do a ~dramatic hair flip~.
For best results, apply a fair amount into your hair and leave it for some time (ideally one hour). Then, proceed with your regular shower routine. Apply three times a week.
Dabur is an Indian brand based in Ghaziabad.
Promising reviews: "I have used this oil a total of three times, by the second time, my hair stopped falling. I would shower and leave behind at least a small handful of hairs, but by this third time that I was washing my hair, I swear I must have seen maybe three strands of hair in total. What?! Also, the smell is funky but not bad." —Paula Q
"Came here from TikTok. I have 4C natural hair and I have never seen results the way I did once I added this product to my hair care routine. I mixed it in with my leave in conditioner and it’s been working like magic. Once every two weeks on wash days I cover my head completely in this oil before I detangle, and the way I barely shed is unbelievable. Highly recommended!" —Sierra
Get it from Amazon for $11.65.
21. An illuminating Laura Geller face palette that you can use as bronzer, eyeshadow, highlighter, *and* blush. With all these gorgeous neutral tones, you'll be ready for any occasion.
Promising review: "Wow, love how easy this product is to apply. Doesn’t settle in my creases and looks good all day. Very affordable when you consider all the products in this palette. Best of all, I can travel with it and it doesn’t break apart." —Alllene Parker
Price: $59.95
22. A six-piece (!!) set of high-performance matte lipsticks — you'll probably end up wanting to ditch major brand lipsticks after you try these little beauties. They stay on all day and actually moisturize your lips instead of drying or cracking. Talk about getting more bang for your buck!
Promising review: "I am super picky about my lipstick. It has to cover well and stay on all day. This checks all the boxes. The colors are rich and beautiful, they glide on easily and are not drying at all. I had no transfer after putting it on and letting it set, and it stayed the day. I didn’t see any feathering either." —Heidi DeSisto
Price: $9.99 (available in three sets)
23. An E.l.f. powder blush palette so that you can look pretty in pink. 🩷 This features four gorgeous, ultra-pigmented shades that you can mix and match to create the ideal look for you.
Promising review: "I have never used E.l.f. blush before, and I love this product! Highly pigmented, applies perfectly, and lasts all day! Works just as well as my Dior blush at a fraction of the price. Wish they had more color options!" —Michelle B
Price: $9
24. A *gorgeous* color-changing lip balm that adjusts to the pH of your lips and gives you an adorably rosy tint specific to your skin tone. Plus, the lipstick itself is so pretty, you'll make sure to be around lots of people when it's time to re-apply.
Promising review: "I don’t know how this stuff works, but man does it WORK! It’s all I wear anymore. I got rid of all my other lip products. I have about five of them so that I have one at home, at work, and in all of my purses. It doesn’t last super long since it’s more of a gloss, but it’s affordable enough that I can collect several over time." —Courtney Cunningham
Price: $16.99 (available in five colors)
25. A pack of Korean face masks infused with vitamin E and collagen to help moisturize and brighten your skin. Just lay back, close your eyes, and let your mind wander while your skin gets a shot of hydration (now that's the kind of multitasking I can get into). Plus, you get to choose from oh-so-many options!
I came across these masks while writing this Korean skincare post and absolutely love them! Almost every night, before I finish off my routine with moisturizer, I choose which mask I want to use (you get *so* many options!), lay back for 20 minutes, and unwind. I'm unashamed to say I have, indeed, fallen asleep a number of times with the mask still on.😬 They also leave your skin feeling sooo soft and hydrated!
Promising review: "I am always impressed by Dermal's Korean masks. Putting on one of these masks is a little luxury for me. It has a pleasant but very subtle scent so it's not overpowering at all. I use these for a quick moisture fix or to help me relax after a stressful day. I also use them when I have migraines and lie down on my bed in the dark for 20 minutes. These masks provide cooling, soothing relief! The fruity ones smell best, and I think the rose is also a favorite of mine. I will be a long-time customer of this product. As a college student/young adult, this is a great value product that helps me take care of my skin on a budget." —Melinda
Price: $16.99 (available in five quantities)
26. A Ouai hair texture spray to help you achieve those effortless, beachy waves in a matter of seconds. Plus, it's created with rice protein instead of sea salt to ensure it's safe for all hair types!
Promising review: "This is the best hair product I've ever purchased!! I was skeptical and apprehensive about paying the price to try it, but I'm so glad I did. I didn't think I'd ever find something that could give me these kinds of waves without heat or crunchy stiffness. This product works!! No stiffness, no heat. Once the spray is dry, I can comb my hair, and it still retains the soft waves and leaves my hair smelling so good for at least a couple of days. This is a product I will want to always have on hand. I'm not one to write reviews, but I felt compelled to for this." —Jo
Price: $14+ (available in three sizes)
27. A cooling, calming cream by Dear, Klairs that uses ceramide 3 and centella asiatica extract to soothe irritation and even out your skin tone. A reviewer with rosacea says it's got to be witchcraft! You can also use it as after-sun care to help calm redness and sunburnt areas.
The picture on the left (shown above) is of a reviewer with severe rosacea and the picture on the right is of the results after only four times of applying less than a dime-sized amount of the cream to their face!
Promising reviews: "I've been using this for almost two months. I started because my skin got super red and sensitive from over-exfoliation. This has made a world of difference. I can tell you that it doesn't work quick. I started seeing small results within two weeks and just about two months later, I only have redness where I extract blackheads and it doesn't linger! It's meant for spot-treating redness from irritation or acne scars. This is definitely part of my everyday routine and I'm just about done with my tub, I'll be buying a new one when this one runs out!" —CJD
"Absolutely worth every single cent! I have severe rosacea that leaves my nose and cheeks dry, flaky, and breaking out. I’ve had little success with anything topical that will provide any relief to my irritated skin...I received my order Wednesday and applied it that night after washing my face. By Saturday afternoon, my face is almost completely healed, preventing peeling and helping clear up my rosacea skin irritation!" —Amazon Customer
Price: $24.50+ (available in two sizes)
Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.