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    These 36 Beauty Products Have Received The Reviewers' Stamp Of Approval

    Did somebody say beauty holy grails...

    1. LilyAna Naturals' eye cream depuffs and softens the skin around tired eyes with a rosehip and hibiscus-infused formula. Over 18,000 admirers gave it 5 stars, so do your morning and nighttime routine a favor and add this to the lineup.

    a reviewer holding up a 1.7 ounce bottle
    reviewer's before and after photo showing their eye bags disappearing over time

    Check out this TikToker's review after a year of using this magic sauce!

    Promising reviews: "I just started to notice fine lines appearing under my eyes, so I ordered this eye cream on a whim and it is SO WORTH IT! Major game changer, I noticed a huge difference not only in fine lines but also in under-eye darkness and puffiness in only one week! Highly recommend this product to anyone and everyone. I have extremely oily skin and I put this all the way around my eye and haven't had any breakouts, not to mention my skin is super smooth which makes makeup application a dream. 10/10 product, will purchase again!" —Katherine E Brings

    "I’m OBSESSED! I always have trouble with eye creams because my skin in general is very sensitive and dry. Usually I get a bad rash or my eyes tear up when using eye creams so I just stopped using them. I decided to give this one a try with all the great reviews and I’m so glad I did! Super hydrating, doesn’t make me tear up, and sits well under makeup! It did instantly hydrate my under eyes with no reaction and had a brightening effect that made me look less tired! Can’t beat the price of this either, definitely worth a try!" —D

    Get it from Amazon for $14.99+ (available in four sizes).

    2. L’Oréal 8 Second Wonder Water Lamellar Hair Treatment works like a treat in eight, yes, you read that correctly, EIGHT seconds to transform fine to curly textures. Think: mirror-like shine and softer-than-soft locks in less time than it takes to say "arriverderci to you, frizz!"

    to the left, an image of brown hair with the text
    a reviewer with 3c hair showing their results
    @lorealparis / Via www.instagram.com, www.amazon.com

    Apply this directly to wet hair, avoiding the roots, massage it in for eight seconds, then rinse. Effort required = practically zero. You can use one dose for fine- to medium-textured hair, two to three doses for thick- to curly-textured hair, and add one more dose if you have long hair.

    Promising reviews: "I don’t usually do reviews on products, but for this one I absolutely have to. I have 3c type hair and struggle with a lot of breakage, unmanageability, and moisture. When my mom mentioned this product to me I didn’t take her seriously because of the simple fact that we have two completely different hair textures. I never would have thought this brand would work on my hair. I have never in my 22 years felt my hair like this. I feel like I have a completely different head of hair. This product is so amazing and I will FOREVER be using this product in my hair regimen. Thank you so much!! ♥️" —Theressa Hailey

    "It does exactly what it says...makes your hair soft, shiny, and cooperative! I have given this to two of my friends ALREADY — one with thick and curly hair, the other with limp and fine hair — and THEY BOTH swear by this product! Just can't think of enough good things to say! I have short bleached hair, so am getting excellent results using less than half as much as they recommend. Buy this stuff — you'll thank yourself later!!!!!" —enamelcamel

    Get it from Amazon for $9.87.

    3. CeraVe salicylic acid body wash says "see ya!" to scabs left over from picking ingrowns and "au revoir!" to keratosis pilaris flare-ups. This exfoliates without the rough, physical microbeads and buffs away bumpy skin while smoothing — thanks to hyaluronic acid and niacinamide.

    Promising review: "My 6-year-old daughter has keratosis pilaris, commonly known as 'chicken skin.' This year it really flared up during warm weather so I gave this wash along with lotion a try. Wow, I saw results after just a few uses and after a couple of weeks most of her bumps disappeared. Thrilled we skipped a trip to the dermatologist! Can’t beat this price for the results either." —Ashley Steigerwald

    Get it from Amazon for $13.99.

    4. Peripera Ink Velvet Lip Tint becomes one with your skin with a luscious, buildable formula that offers a soft pigment and won't leave you with a cracked kisser. It comes with a precision applicator that moves with the natural shape of your lips, so, humblebrag...applying signature shades just got even easier.

    reviewer wearing the coral link ink and holding the product
    another reviewer wearing the red shade

    Promising review: "OMG, the velvet perfection. This product applies like an opaque cream velvet lipstick — buttery smooth, not at all drying, and pigmented. The doe-foot is pointed for precision around your cupid's bow and holds enough product for full lips in one swipe. Looks great without any blotting. Transfer-proof & mask approved! Great for a long-wear look, as the stain is lasting. I like to wear this product as opaque velvet lipstick in the morning and by the end of the day it's a beautiful natural rosy stain that I can apply balm over for a natural no-makeup glam baddie look. I use shea butter-based balm but haven't tested if other balms smudge or move the stain. Stain is mostly removable with regular cleansing balm and completely removable with a gentle lip scrub. Seriously impressed with this product and amazing price point for under $10. This is the PERFECT lip product, IMHO." —Kenzie Scout

    Get it from Amazon for $9.90 (available in 27 shades).

    5. SoCozy Leave-In Curl Conditioning Spray turns your *and* your little one's after-shower bedtime ritual into one that's a little more manageable (plus features soft, fanciful curls and ringlets). This stuff will gently detangle and restore tresses, all without the use of harsh and nasty chemicals.

    Reviewer's before photo showing their child's curly hair before using the spray and after photo showing glossy curls with the spray
    reviewer pointing to their curly hair

    Reviewers say this spray will leave wavy or curly hair (from 2a–4c hair) shiny, soft, and bouncy. And it's free from parabens, sulfates, phthalates, synthetic colors or dyes, propylene glycol, gluten, wheat, and nuts!

    Promising review: "This is the BEST product EVER! I will never use another hair detangler ever again. We use this product daily in my house, my daughter, my son, and I. Both of us girls have long and thick curly hair, and it allows us to brush through our hair with no problems! And my son mostly uses it to style his hair before gel, and because it smells so good! We tried a few products from Walmart, Ulta, and Target, and nothing was good enough. This is now on my Subscribe & Save every month!" —Tamira McLelland

    Get it from Amazon for $7.99.

    6. Tonymoly Tako Pore Blackhead Scrub Stick comes in the form of a too-cute-for-words octopus-shaped stick that is ridiculously good at removing excess sebum. Rub this over your face post-cleanse and just watch it work wonders on exfoliating your pores to yank out blackheads and whiteheads.

    A black small octopus shaped remover in a reviewer's hand
    the cap off to show the salt on the top of the remover

    Psst! TikTokers love this thing!

    Promising reviews: "Must-have. I use this a couple of times a week. I have terrible blackheads and this manages to scrub 90% of them away and the rest are barely noticeable. Will keep buying." —Princess Jasmin

    "After just two days of use, this adorable little octopus has done wonders for me, smells great too. Here's how I used it: I wore down the stick just a little to where the texture from the salt is visible, scrubbed around on my face so there was plenty of product, 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

    Get it from Amazon for $12.50

    7. Essence Lash Princess Mascara achieves skyscraper, falsie lashes at such a gasp-worthy price, 20,000-plus reviewers haven't been able to shut up about it. Yep, this holy grail sculpts lashes at only $5 a tube, which, if you think about it, is less than a fancy coffee order!

    BuzzFeed editor's eyes before and after using the mascara with the done lashes looking darker and longer
    Kayla Boyd / BuzzFeed

    And this is cruelty-free!

    BuzzFeed Shopping editor Kayla Boyd tried this out and raves: "As someone who isn't a big fan of false lashes (the glue irritates my eyes, and I'm terrible at applying them), this budget-friendly holy grail does the trick for both lengthening and volumizing my lashes. After you've given it a minute to dry, it lasts all day long and doesn't smudge or fade. It seriously gives the effect of false lashes, without the discomfort."

    Promising review: "After using Lights, Camera, Lashes by Tarte for the past year, I got tired of breaking the bank over mascara. My sister suggested Essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect, and I IMMEDIATELY fell in love. It provides dramatic length and great volume. I can honestly say I can’t stop looking at my eyelashes in the mirror every single day because of how awesome they look. Also, it is very long-wearing. I go from an eight-hour work day right to the gym and sweat like wild...and this stuff doesn’t budge! I love it!!" —Carrie E Weikert

    Get it from Amazon for $4.99.

    For more info and review pics, check out Kayla's full Essence Lash Princess Mascara review!

    8. Korean skincare exfoliating mittens slough away dead skin to reveal visibly (and touchably) softer arms...legs...bums...literally wherever you want to use it — and much more effectively than your worn-in loofah!

    Promising review: "I have always had skin issues. Itchy, flaky skin, lotion won't absorb, no product really helps remove the gross dead skin in high friction areas. These changed my life! Remove dead skin with ease, and aren't as coarse as those gloves you see in big box stores! I'm significantly less itchy, lotion absorbs better, and I feel better when I wear tank tops or even less! These things are a lifesaver. Most gross and satisfying, while scrubbing, I noticed the water turning gray in the tub as I scrubbed away all those dead skin cells. My allergies aren't half of what they were a week ago, and I can use all those cute soaps and lotions! I feel great. I'd buy these a million times more. I had no idea how much body soil I was retaining. I feel great after a shower and for once, I feel truly clean." —Rachel Anschuetz

    Get it from Amazon for $7.99+ (available in packs of one or two).

    9. E.l.f. Cosmetics Acne Fighting Putty Primer takes care of breakouts and keeps your all-day look right where you left it. How? Acne-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid and zinc, of course. Plus, the velvety formula sweeps over pimples to smooth uneven complexions — just apply pre-foundation or concealer, let it sit for 30 secs, and voila! Fresh-faced canvas.

    model showing before and after 30 days with a significant improvement in their acne
    Elf Cosmetics

    The 1.8% salicylic acid helps prevent the development of pesky breakouts and redness. Zinc helps reduces inflammation and kaolin keeps oil at bay while minimizing the appearance of pores. 

    Plus! It's vegan and cruelty-free.

    Promising review: I’ve only been using this for about a week, but have already noticed a big difference in my skin! I have normal skin, with an oily T-zone, large pores, hormonal breakouts, and hyperpigmentation that leaves my skin scarred for months even if I don’t touch my breakouts. This primer has been clearing my acne (even the tiny ones on my nose), reducing my scars, goes on smooth and makes my skin feel so soft. I easily use it under my tinted sunscreen, Putty Blush, and Halo Glow setting powder every day and even when I’m not wearing anything else on my face. My skin looks beautiful!" —BeachBunny

    Get it from E.l.f. Cosmetics for $12 or Amazon for $11.91.

    10. An eyebrow soap kit sets brow hairs in place and up for success! Your over-tweezed brows from your teens are *so* jealous of your present brows since this stuff tames and fluffs all at the same time.

    And if you're looking for more definition, this goes on *before* your go-to pigmented pencil or gel for a sleek and fuller look! This kit also comes with two packs of soap and four wands.

    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 BH, but never had luck keeping my brows in place. Well, let me tell you, this stuff is no joke. I had to scrub my eyebrows clean tonight to get them to move. If you need some help holding your fluff, this will be your new favorite product. Also, I was able to ditch the eyebrow pencil since this this stuff holds every hair in the place you brush it." —Bailey M, Deacon

    Get it from Amazon for $7.99.

    11. Esarora Facial Ice Roller depuffs and de-stresses skin — with the added bonus of alleviating sinus pain and migraine ouchies. Just plonk it in your fridge or freezer and use it across your cheeks, eyes, and head. And for some extra self-care: roll this over a sheet mask for better absorption and ultra soothing feels.

    reviewer before and after using the ice roller around their eyes
    reviewer placing the ice roller to their face

    Promising review: "I was skeptical about this product. I wasn't sure how it was much different than rolling any other frozen thing on your body. I'm beyond pleasantly surprised. I've used it for sinus pain, migraines, swollen neck glands, under-eye circles/bags, inflamed acne, TMJ pain, etc. Not to mention, when I used it on my face, it leaves my skin feeling tight and wakes me up in the mornings. It also stays cold for forever but never sweats or leaves water behind. It's like magic. I also bought one for my mom who suffers from nerve damage in her arms and legs. I think it'll really help when she has bad pain days." —Jessica McRee

    Get it from Amazon for $15.19+ (available in eight colors).

    12. Fanola No Yellow Shampoo tones and neutralizes yellow hues in preexisting blondes with a purple pigment. The result? Icy blonde tresses that a) didn't cost you $100+ for a salon treatment and b) look like they belong on a hairspo Pinterest board.

    Reviewer with blonde hair showing before
    Same reviewer with toned white blonde hair

    Promising review: "I'm not one to leave reviews...but this product deserves it! Holy cow! I was going to go into the salon to brighten my hair up, but after discovering this product I cancelled my appointment. I'm totally in love! This shampoo is not drying at all and just after two washes I achieved my desired results! I can't recommend it enough!" —Rachael B.

    Get it from Amazon for $10.99+ (available in two sizes; also available in a travel size!)

    And check out our Fanola No Yellow shampoo deep dive.

    13. And John Frieda's Brilliant Brunette Shampoo elevates brown hues with shine-locking ingredients like natural cocoa and evening primrose oil. Expect deeper, richer, natural-looking shades — even after one wash.

    BuzzFeed Shopping editor Heather Braga says: "I recently received samples of this shampoo and conditioner and, honestly, wasn't sure if it was only for people who had dyed their hair dark. In fact, it is not! It's for brunettes of all kinds — natural and all!"

    Promising review: "I purchased this John Frieda Brilliant Brunette Shampoo and my hair looks golden brown instead of brown with a lot of gray underneath. I didn't want the mess of coloring my own hair nor did I think I could do as good a job as my hairdresser, so I was so pleased that Frieda's shampoo did the job. I definitely recommend this shampoo along with the Brilliant Brunette Conditioner." —Dan Cremeans

    Get it from Amazon for $8.99.

    14. The Ordinary AHA + BHA Peeling Solution reduces the appearance of the oil slick that can show up on your T-zone. With a trio of glycolic, lactic, and salicylic acids, it only needs 10 minutes to rejuvenate, resurface, and decrease congestion caused by the overproduction of sebum. Tired-looking skin, who?

    BuzzFeed writer Daniel Boan after applying Ordinary peeling solution
    BuzzFeed writer Daniel Boan after using Ordinary peeling solution
    Daniel Boan/BuzzFeed

    Check it out on TikTok here!

    BuzzFeed Shopping editor Daniel Boan (seen using this iconic treatment above) had this to say about his experience: "This is my first ever 'TikTok made me buy it' purchase...and I've been hooked ever since. I've been hearing about the wonders of alpha- and beta-hydroxy acids for a while now (they're chemical exfoliants, meaning they help dissolve and loosen dead skin cells instead of sloughing them off like a physical exfoliant), but never quite knew where to start. When I saw this taking over TikTok, I decided to give it a try.

    I started off by applying a thin layer of the blood-red product to my face and braced myself for a slight tingling sensation, though it went away after about 30 seconds. Then I let it sit for eight minutes (Don't go longer than 10 minutes! This is potent stuff!), rinsed it off, and was ah-mazed by how instantly bright and smooth my skin looked afterward. It's now become a weekly treatment for me and will always have a permanent spot in my skincare routine."

    Promising review: "Absolutely love this product! I have been using it for the past two years and it's helped my acne-prone skin significantly. After the first use it made my skin very soft and smooth; also helped with discoloration caused by acne. I have sensitive skin, so I only use it for eight minutes and immediately apply a very good moisturizer that helps soothe/replenish moisture." —Sephora Customer

    Get it from Sephora, Ulta, or Target for $8 (Psst! Sephora is offering free shipping with code FREESHIP at checkout!)

    15. OGX Argan Oil of Morocco Curl-Defining Cream gifts your tresses with a pillowy-soft formula you can comb through towel-dried hair. This = beautifully defined waves and spirals, sans leftover crunch and flyaways.

    reviewer with images of
    another reviewer with big voluminous curls

    A bonus? This stuff is free from parabens and provides a sulfate-free haircare system. Translation: This is gentle for use on all curl types and textures to help bump up your hair's natural strength.

    My hair is the ~perfect~ combo of wavy, curly, and frizzy, and this drugstore product has been a holy grail of mine for some time. I've found that it's the only formula that will give me soft, naturally curly waves come the a.m. and since I'm generally a nighttime hair washer, I have the perfect excuse to avoid blasting my hair with heat. Before hitting the pillow, I like to run my fingers through my towel-dried hair with a pea-sized amount of this, flip my mane over, and then give the ends a good scrunch. In the morn, my hair appears shiny with defined, wavy curls — we're not talking HD — but they have a nice, soft definition to them that doesn't require much styling.

    Promising reviews: "Absolutely love this stuff! It's the one hair product I have to have. I rotate shampoos and conditioners but have never found anything to put on damp hair that I like as much as this. It says it's for curls, but works great on straight hair too. I have had super straight to very curly hair over the years and have loved this on all hairstyles." —Bunco Queen of the Universe

    "I ended up using this product as more of a daily hair 'moisturizer' because it leaves it so wonderfully hydrated, soft, and manageable. This product has made my natural, 4c hair so much easier to style. I really can't say enough good things about it. It's a great product that I will definitely purchase again. I hope they never stop making this stuff! It's as if it was made just for me!!" —razgirl67

    Get it from Amazon for $5.72.

    16. Laura Mercier Oil-Free Tinted Moisturizer protects your face with a broad spectrum shield of SPF 20, and provides a soft, sheer layer of coverage that treats dryness while still feeling like your actual skin (and not a greasy layer of baked-on makeup). So you can subtly even out complexions that haven't gotten their eight hours.

    model with before and after applying the tinted moisturizer
    Sephora

    I can attest that this foundation-alt doesn't draw attention to patches of dryness — it actually does a great job of nourishing your skin as well as providing medium coverage to naturally mask blemishes. I especially love it because I can even out my skin tone in a pinch with just *one* product, instead of having to throw a bajillion things on my face to achieve a healthy-looking glow.

    Promising review: "AMAZING! So lightweight and perfect for every day. It literally looks like I am wearing nothing, but I have that extra coverage and it's very buildable. SO worth every penny!" —Sephora Customer

    Get it from Sephora for $26+ (available in 20 shades and two sizes).

    17. Maybelline Age Rewind Concealer treats *and* defeats dark circles, puffiness, and fine lines that are taking up prime real estate around your delicate eye area. This comes with a built-in sponge applicator so you don't even have to *think* about using another tool when your mind is still on snooze.

    a buzzfeed editor holding the concealer stick
    a gif of a buzzfeed editor applying the concealer under her eyes
    Kayla Suazo / BuzzFeed

    Promising review: "I swear by this neutralizer! It covers my dark circles incredibly well (and instantly!) and the coverage is still light and never cakey. I love that it dries and sets very fast as well. This will not crease if you are applying it properly on the area. I have tried EVERY under eye-circle product that exists and this is now my one and only. I can never find it anywhere except for Amazon and I'm happy that they offer it." —Jasmine

    Get it from Amazon for $8.80 (available in 17 shades).

    Want to know more? Check out our full review of Maybelline Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser Concealer (#4).

    18. Live Tinted Hueguard commits to protecting your skin when you're venturing out — but don't have the patience to apply multiple products. With mineral SPF 30, this sunscreen + primer hybrid moisturizes *and* shields skin sans any annoying white cast. And yes, this works for all skin tones to leave your face with an unbelievably beautiful dewy glow.

    model applying the sunscreen
    Another model with a deeper skin tone wearing the sunscreen
    Live Tinted

    P.S. This is formulated with 18% zinc oxide. And yes, bbs, it's clean, vegan, cruelty- and fragrance- free, *and* it's reef safe!

    Live Tinted is a South-Asian woman-owned beauty brand founded by beauty blogger and entrepreneur Deepica Mutyala. Her brand is built around diversity and inclusion with phenomenal multitasking products that address skin concerns like hyperpigmentation. Just peep their top-selling, color-correcting Huestick.

    Promising review: "This has now become my favorite daily sunscreen/moisturizer/primer. They really do mean it when they say 'no white cast' and the product doesn't feel oily/doesn't block my pores. Love the consistency and that you can travel with it — plus it's a 3-in-1 so it saves me a lot of time. Highly recommend!" —Ulta Customer

    Get it from Ulta (available in two sizes) or Live Tinted for $32.

    19. Bio-Oil gently treats uneven complexions — along with a myriad of other skin concerns. It's so effective that more than 60,000 people love it. It's also noncomedogenic, which means it won't clog pores and — *jumps for joy* — can be used on the face to eradicate acne scars, too.

    Reviewer showing their face affected by shingles before using Bio Oil
    same reviewer showing after use of Bio Oil with a clear complexion and no scarring

    Psst! Bio-Oil contains retinol, which accelerates skin turnover but can make you more sensitive to the sun — so don't forget your sunscreen!

    Promising review: "I swear by this product. Very effective on discolored skin due to scarring. I had shingles on my face brought about by stress because we were moving. It ravaged the lower right side of my face, and I was pretty sure it was going to leave hideous scarring. I bought this and started applying it when I started scabbing and still haven't stopped using it until now. I had my shingles in April, and it's August now. It works. Check the before and after pics. Scars are now gone." —twitch

    Get it from Amazon for $8.47 (available in two sizes and multipacks).

    20. Nyx Concealer Color Correcting Palette disguises any evidence of your late-night happy hours that went well beyond midnight. These creamy concealers hit the Ctrl + Z buttons on literally ANY kind of discoloration (read: acne scars and dark circles). And they can be blended with foundations to fix wonky undertones that don't match with your complexion.

    The palette with yellow, green, purple, peach, pink, and brown color correctors
    reviewer before and after applying the salmon color corrector to their under eyes, with a more evened-out complexion after

    The palette features six shades which are light and medium (to camouflage spots that aren't too dark), yellow and peach (to conceal dullness and dark circles), green (to cover redness), and purple and pink (to brighten). The concealers have a creamy, hydrating formula. Apply the color that will conceal the spot that you want to cover and then put your foundation on top of it as usual. NO, you won't have a purple spot or green spot of concealer sitting on your face. Once you apply your foundation, it won't be detectable at all. Happy blending! 

    BTW, Nyx is cruelty-free!

    Promising review: "I've always used concealers that match the color foundation I use. I decided to try the different color concealers and I'll stick with these. They cover the dark circles and redness with perfection." —Debbie

    Get it from Amazon for $9.85+ (also available two additional correcting versions).

    21. Levoir Winged Eyeliner Stamp receives cult status with beauty newbs and experts alike, since the dual-sided applicator (stamp + pen) gives you the slickest wings of your dreams in little to no time. No more wasting precious minutes — that usually turn into hours — redoing your look.

    reviewer showing both the stamp and pen ends eyeliner
    GIF of BF employee Maitland applying the stamp to the outer corner of her eye
    www.amazon.com, Maitland Quitmeyer / BuzzFeed

    Promising review: "Let me start by saying this isn't my first cat-eye rodeo. I've tried the taping method, normal liquid liner, plastic winged stamping devices, stencils, all of it! Well, this gem arrived and I immediately had to try it out, all while laughing at how terrible this would probably turn out...but to my surprise I put the left cat-eye on first and it was perfect. I thought this was a fluke and did the right eye...again, it came out clean and perfect! I HAVE NEVER IN MY LIFE BEEN ABLE TO DO A CAT-EYE IN UNDER 10 MINUTES, LET ALONE THE TWO MINUTES THIS TOOK TO DO! There were no sloppy streaks that I had to touch up or anything you would expect. Just a clean crisp line. I can now do a cat-eye EVERY day and look/feel like a badass. Everyone can think I spend hours doing my makeup in the morning." —LadyMeow

    Get it from Amazon for $11.97 (available in three sizes or in a combo pack).

    22. Youthforia BYO Blush Oil magically reacts to the pH of skin and actually changes color to adjust to different tones. That means anyone who uses it will have their own unique shade of blush! (AKA so long to the days of wasting time trying to pick a shade that works for you.) Plus, its feather-like formula withstands the heat, never feels greasy, and won't clog pores.

    model wearing the blush
    model before and after wearing pink blush
    Youthforia

    It's also made with skincare ingredients so just in case you *gasp* sleep in it, you'll still wake up with good skin! It's suitable for all skin types, fragrance-free, vegan, and cruelty-free.

    Youthforia is an Asian woman-owned small biz that aims to make makeup that's so good for your skin you can sleep in it. The founder, Fiona Co Chan, even tested the blush by sleeping in it for two months! They are passionate about being environmentally-friendly and not using fossil fuels or gross toxins in their products.

    Promising review: "This blush product is awesome. For me it only takes two very small dabs on both cheeks for desired result. I also dab on my lips for a great under-color base! I hope they never stop making this product!" —Elise F

    Get it from Amazon for $35.99.

    23. Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant improves the texture of flaky skin with a brightening formula of salicylic acid and soothing green tea, which deep dives into pores to unclog dirt and debris. *Hyperpigmentation, acne scars, and dead skin have all left the chat.*

    Reviewer's before and after showing the exfoliant dramatically reduced hyperpigmentation on their cheek and made the skin smoother
    Reviewer showing the effects of the exfoliant on their hyperpigmentation

    If you're new to chemical exfoliants, greetings! You'll definitely want to start off by applying this one or two times a week to take note of your skin's response. Beta hydroxy acid (BHA, also known as salicylic acid) mimics the natural exfoliation process of younger skin by shedding extra layers while *also* unclogging and clearing pores.

    Promising review: "Best exfoliant out there! Ditch the scrubs and start using a chemical exfoliant. I just revamped my entire skincare routine and added Paula's Choice exfoliant to it. I have extremely sensitive and dry skin and often struggle to find skincare products that are effective. When used correctly, this exfoliant helps to rid my skin of the ungodly White Walker looking sheets of skin that fall off my face without being too harsh on my skin. Plus I swear I have noticed fewer blackheads on my face!" —Tray and Celia Henderson

    Get it from Amazon for $13.

    24. Carol's Daughter Mimosa Hair Honey manages curly and kinky hair — from 4c curls to 1c waves — with a lightweight pomade that reviewers mention goes on like an oil to smooth and tame frizz. I mean...the wildly delectable name alone is tempting me and my dry waves to jump headfirst into that jar.

    hand holding the jar of the yellow thick whipped treatment
    reviewer with tight curls after using the product

    This citrus-scented shine pomade moisturizes the hair and scalp with the help of cocoa butter and lavender and sunflower oils. Plus! It can be used to smooth edges and control frizz.

    Carol's Daughter is a Brooklyn-born, Black woman-founded business. Encouraged by her mother, Carol, the creator, Lisa Price, started making homemade haircare recipes in the early '90s right from her kitchen. Fast-forward to today, and Lisa is still creating naturally derived products with a complete line in hair-, body-, and skincare for the now L'Oreal-owned company.

    Promising review: "Hello all my 4c divas. This is an amazing moisturizer. It smells good (has some beeswax in it) and keeps my hair shiny and protected. It does not offer any hold, but it provides moisture, shine, and a light pleasant scent. If you are on the fence about getting this product, just do it!" —Kia

    Get it from Amazon for $11.97.

    25. Glossier Boy Brow fills and shapes sparse-looking brows. With just a couple of swipes of this super popular product, you can achieve fluffy, filled in, natural-looking eyebrows that won't droop out of place.

    on the right buzzfeed editor with no product on her brows captioned
    Anamaria Glavan / BuzzFeed

    Former BuzzFeed Shopping editor AnaMaria Glavan loves this stuff and tell us: "This magic bottle is proof that not all heroes wear capes. The creamy formula, which comes in blonde, black, clear, and brown (which is what I used!), goes on smoothly and doesn’t require a lot of product to do the job. I used the wand to brush baby hairs in the beginning/middle of my brow upwards, and then brushed the longer, toddler-like hairs at the end of my eyebrows sideways. And one coat was more than enough! Boy Brow does exactly what the Glossier brand claims to do; it gives me a filled-in eyebrow that doesn’t look filled in. The finish looks natural, which is exactly what I wanted — my facial caterpillars have never looked better."

    Promising review: "I’ve tried a few different brow products, but nothing compares to Boy Brow! It applies smooth and locks your brows in place, giving them a great shape and tint throughout the whole day. It’s a staple in my makeup routine, and one of my all time favorite Glossier products!" —Glossier Customer

    Yep, and it's cruelty-free! 

    Get it from Glossier for $17 (available in five shades).

    26. L'Oréal Paris Infallible Fresh Powder Foundation promises up to 24 hours of transfer- and sweat-resistant wear in a neat compact formula (that was made famous on TikTok!). It covers like a liquid and mattifies like a powder for a smooth, shine-free, flawless complexion — even after a full day of meetings.

    reviewer before and after wearing the foundation
    reviewer photo of the compact open showing the product, with the sponge with product on it

    Promising review: "I swear, I'm straight shook! I never believe the hype on social media or even makeup in general, but this product lives up to it. It is lightweight and outperforms my expensive concealers and foundation. I did not receive this product as part of a promotion and I am not being paid to make this review, nor do I work in the makeup industry. This is the real deal." —mmix1423

    Get it from Amazon for $12.97+ (available in 18 shades).

    27. Alleyoop's Pen Pal sparks joy (and nostalgia) into your otherwise hum-drum routine. This 4-in-1 tool has the ability to create full looks and easy end-of-the-day touch-ups. Plus, it's *exceptionally* great if you're trying to cut down on the amount of products you're carrying around.

    GIF of Jasmin pushing down the lip liner function of the  pen
    Model holding the pen after using it to create her full face
    Jasmin Sandal / BuzzFeed, Alleyoop

    Alleyoop is a woman-owned small biz that specializes in a line of beauty built on efficiency. Their makeup and skincare products are multi-functional and designed to save you time (and space!).

    I didn't realize I'd ever use a makeup product in my 20s that had the ability to transport me back to a piece of stationery I used in sixth grade, but here we are; and here I am using a multitool pen...for my face. I gotta say, I love the concept of the Pen Pal from Alleyoop! After using all of the functions (eyeliner, highlighter, lip liner, eyebrow pencil) and as someone who LOVES makeup but was applying as little as humanly possible during lockdown, I think it’s a great tool for anyone looking to streamline their routine. It's ideal to use for touch-ups come the end of the work day, or a subtle, minimalist way to apply makeup in the a.m. The brow pencil is particularly soft and pigmented, and filled in my eyebrows quickly. I just adore the ease of application of each product, and appreciate the universal, does-it-all-for-you concept. Plus, it saves me so much room in my already-overflowing makeup bag!

    Promising review: "There are times when I have to head out urgently with no time to get ready but wanting to look presentable. This is my new handy gadget to get ready while in the car." —Alleyoop Customer

    Get it from Alleyoop for $25 (available in three shades).

    28. Freck Beauty Slimelight redefines the meaning of the term "highlighter" with an out-of-this-world pearlescent formula and cream-like consistency. Stroke this across your cheekbones for a strobe-like glow, dab it around your lids for a pop of shimmer, or mix it in with a moisturizer for a look that'll truly wake up your makeup routine.

    GIF of Jasmin with swatches of the three shades demonstrating their shimmering quality
    model wearing the big bang shade
    Jasmin Sandal / BuzzFeed, @Freck / Via www.instagram.com

    Remi Brixton is the founder of OG faux freckle cosmetic company, Freck Beauty. Her brand is a clean, vegan makeup line based in Los Angeles. Remi, along with her team behind Freck Beauty, is known for creating an attitude, in which she prides herself on creating holy grail products that are made for anyone who: "Cares about ingredients, respects the process, but doesn’t care about the rules."

    I consider myself *blessed* to have been able to try out this powerful, feels-so-good-on-the-skin beauty product. It comes in three highly pigmented shades that complement different skin tones. And depending on the occasion, all three really do work for my darker complexion. Big Bang features a green/gold shimmer, Beam Machine a bronze/pink, and Space Face has a violet/purple hue. I like to think Beam Machine is perfect for an everyday glow, Big Bang is for a fancy dinner party, and Space Face for when I know I'm going out out.

    Promising review: "I love that this highlighter is easy to apply both with your fingers or a brush. I prefer to use a brush if I want a bolder look and fingers if I want a more natural look. I also like that this is buildable so you can either have a sheer or more pigmented look depending on how much you apply." —Sephora Customer

    Get it from Sephora for $28 (available in three shades).

    29. Revlon One-Step Hairdryer and Volumizer Brush handles two jobs in one go and cuts your routine in half so you can achieve silky smooth, frizz-free locks in ~30 minutes.

    reviewer with 4a hair showing half with natural hair and other half straightened using the brush
    A hand holding the brush that has bristles all around it.

    Folks, one of my favorite quarantine purchases has to be this godsend from Revlon. I've never been much of a blow-dryer — I never had the patience, energy, or the technique for that matter. But then in swoops this 2-in-1 tool to give my hair the glam of Jackie O in just about 20 minutes. I have relatively thick, wavy, shoulder-length locks and I've never enjoyed witnessing a transformation quite like the one I'm able to achieve with this styler. Giving myself a quick, ~salonworthy~ blowout for morning meetings has been my new way to feel a little less disheveled for the day.

    Promising reviews: "It's a must-have!!! I'm IN LOVE! I'm kicking myself for not getting one sooner. I have fine, shoulder length hair that is wavy when it air dries. It's not a pretty wave, more like a frizzy mess, so I always dried and used a straightener. It was time consuming, hair was all over the bathroom, and some days I wasn't happy with the results. It was a vicious cycle. Now my hair is done in half the time, it's smooth and I barely lose any hair in the process. I let my hair air dry a little before I use the One-Step Dryer on low and the results are amazing. I could never master the hair dryer and brush technique so this is a game changer." —A. Kyle

    "I have 4c African American kinky-coily hair. This dryer cuts my drying and straightening time to just 20–25 minutes! I part my hair in four sections, apply my heat protectant, and use this dryer, and in no time my hair is straightened! This hairdryer is comfortable and practical to use. Highly recommend for Black/AA or textured hair!" —Lisa

    Get it from Amazon for $32.49.

    30. Or! Flexible curling wands help you achieve bouncy, voluminous curls without consistent heat. When your hair is damp and moisturized, simply wrap strands around each one and let them ~work their magic~ overnight for soft, easy, natural-looking waves.

    reviewer with their hair wrapped around rods
    reviewer with curly hair after using the rods

    Just so ya know, they vary in size so you can pick which is best for your hair length!

    Promising reviews: "My hair doesn’t curl. I have used all different curling irons and flat irons at the highest heat but it doesn’t stay. I put these in with a little water and slept in them. It took a little bit to get used to lying on them but I slept fine. I used the biggest rollers so it came out wavy but I loved it. It stayed all day and I got so many compliments. I’m so excited to experiment with them." —Amazon Customer

    "Stop searching for the best value for flexi rods cause I did that already and this is it lol. These are shorter than what I expected but I’m now noticing the 'for short/fine hair' description. But I’m still able to wrap the full 24in length around the rods. Comes with plenty of sizes which I love. You don’t need anything but damp hair and a leave-in to your preference." —Mo

    Get a pack of 47 from Amazon for $13.40.

    31. Artnaturals Hyaluronic Acid Serum plumps up lackluster skin with a collagen-boosting formula that claims to promote hydration for a radiant everyday glow. Reviewers who suffered from acne even noticed their scars diminish!

    bottles of the serum
    Target

    Promising review: "I usually use The Ordinary's hyaluronic acid but I ran out and decided to try this one! I actually love it a whole lot more. I feel like it adds an additional smoothness on top of the boost of hydration to my skin. I use it immediately after washing my face while it's still slightly damp, and top it with my usual facial serum. My skin is typically dry and it looks noticeably more plump! I also have a bit of acne scarring and I feel like it has helped a ton with that." —Brandi

    Get it from Target for $4.99+ (available in two sizes).

    32. Beakey Makeup Sponges apply and blend your holy grails with an airbrush finish every single time — plus, they also absorb less product! That means you won't be unnecessarily wasting your expensive, only-for-special-occasions foundation.

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

    Promising review: "I have put off buying sponges because they are ridiculously high in price! This bag of beauties is wonderful!! Just the right size, not too small and not too big! I love the colors as well as the quality!! They are easy to use and easy to clean up! You don’t have to break your bank cleaning them! Just a little soap and water and dry overnight, it’s just that easy! You can’t even buy one sponge from CVS, Walmart, etc. for the price these folks are charging for five of these jewels! I will be ordering more! You should too!! Heck of a deal!" —Sheri Davis

    Get a set of five from Amazon for $7.99.

    33. Tower 28's SOS Daily Rescue Facial Spray packs a major (and figurative) punch for stressed-out skin with only three ingredients. Think: a gentle hypochlorous acid toner with H2O and sodium chloride that refreshes and rescues irritated skin and prevents flare-ups.

    A model holding the mini and the full size bottles in one hand.
    a before and after of a person using the spray with less facial redness in the after
    Sephora

    Tower 28 is an Asian woman-owned small clean beauty brand designed for sensitive skin. Their products are nontoxic, nonirritating, vegan, and cruelty-free, so you can rest easy when applying.

    Promising review: "HOLY GRAIL!! I tried this spray for the first time about a year and a half ago. I had moved from a dry climate to a humid climate and my acne was out of control! I tried so many products before SOS. When I tell you my acne cleared up within a week…. SHEESH! I haven’t been without this spray since! I keep a mini with me at all times and for travel and recommend to all friends with skin concerns. Don’t walk, RUN to Sephora to get it!" —KuhKristen

    Get it a 1 oz. bottle from Sephora for $12+ (available in two sizes).

    34. Maybelline Lip Lifter Gloss hydrates your pout with hyaluronic acid and leaves your skin with a sheer, silky finish. Reviewers mention that this does a fab job at hiding fine lip lines and leaves them feeling soft, full, and never sticky.

    another reviewer wearing the stone gloss
    reviewer wearing the stone colored gloss

    Promising reviews: "I keep going back to buy more colors. This is THEE gloss. You can throw it on alone and it has enough pigment to look great even without lip liner. I’ve never had a gloss wear this well without being sticky. I have some fine lip lines and it doesn’t bleed. Bonus that as it wears off, it leaves a nice bit of color without any weirdness and my lips just feel moisturized. Excellent price point that makes it fun to keep trying more colors. I just ordered my fourth and love them all. I can’t remember the last time I was this excited about a beauty product." —Natalia

    "Stone is an excellent color for those looking for a natural, everyday gloss. Very moisturizing. Gives a subtle plumping effect which I loved. Not the kind of lifters that make your lips burn and look swollen." —Grace Rodriguez

    Get it from Amazon for $7.98+ (available in 19 shades).

    35. Glossier Wowder softens shine as the final step in curating your selfie-ready look (no Insta filter required). I, for one, cannot stop bragging about its ability to blur pores because the moment this light powder hits, *poof* skin appears smoother and foundation stays put well into the night.

    Jasmin before using Wowder with the word
    Jasmin after using Wowder with the words
    Jasmin Sandal / BuzzFeed

    I had been meaning to give this a whirl since its release a few years ago, and, boy, I don't know why I waited so long to snag it because this stuff has changed the game. I recently moved from New York to California and, let me tell you, with this change in climate, my skin has gone through every phase imaginable: Painfully flaky with patches of dryness, breakouts beyond belief, and shine, ooh, so much shine you'd think there had been an oil spill. (And I'm telling you all of this because no matter what I put on my face, makeup never sits on it quite like I want it to.)

    Enter Wowder — the pillowy-soft powder that has done the unthinkable: blurred my imperfections and sets my concealer without leaving a chalky residue. Now any time I catch my reflection in the mirror I literally have to double take. My skin appears smoother and any fine lines look so much softer. A little goes a long way — and now I can leave my house with a little more confidence and return with a look that hasn't wavered.

    Oh! And it's vegan and cruelty-free.

    Promising review: "I have pretty oily skin and I always look shiny by the end of the day. This setting powder left me with a matte finish that lasted all day. :)" —Sammy

    Get it from Glossier for $22 (available in five shades).

    36. Jill Turnbull Glow Stix define, highlight, and add a touch of shimmer if you're a fan of a full face, or not. These creamy, long-wearing sticks can be applied anywhere you want to add some color. Think: eyelids, cheeks, brow bones, and they can even be used as a lip color for subtle color yet marvelous moisture.

    hand holding the bronze glowstick
    swatches of the two products on three different arms with different skin tones
    Jill Turnbull

    Jill Turnbull is the namesake and owner of this eco-conscious brand that prides themselves on blue beauty. Translation: Their products are formulated with reef-safe ingredients that are 100% biodegradable, cruelty-free, and go through environmentally conscious production that leaves minimal impact on Mother Earth.

    I can attest to the creamy, richly pigmented formula since I was lucky enough to test these babies out. When I'm feeling ambitious with my makeup, I like to dabble in some *light* contouring and these are perfect for that. Now I'm no expert when it comes to beating and baking my makeup, but I do like to add a touch of definition here and there. I use the bronze shade to contour beneath my cheekbones as well as an eyeshadow and the light pink shade is perfect for adding a touch of shimmer to my brow, nose, and cheekbones. They go on smooth and blend in with my skin seamlessly. Plus they're incredibly purse-friendly to carry on the go!

    Promising review: "I am getting older and my skin has changed and powdered blush no longer looks good for me as it settles into my fine lines and wrinkles. The bare is the perfect solution!! It’s creamy and the pigment stays on all day. Plus I can use it on my lips too!! Best buy and I'm hooked!" —Katie Smith

    Get it from Jill Turnbull for $32 (available in two shades).

    Looking for the perfect gift for any occasion? Check out all of BuzzFeed’s gift guides!

    illustrated gift guide graphic