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.

    23 Smol ​Beauty Products For People Who Are Scared Of Commitment

    Take these skincare, haircare, and makeup essentials for a test drive before investing in the full sized products.

    1. K18's leave-in hair mask is *seriously* a game changer. Reviewers are obsessed with this product's ability to repair damaged hair after the first use. The travel sized bottle is worth the price as a little goes a long way. 

    the hair mask on a model's hand to show the texture
    a model with dry hair before using the hair mask / the model's hair after using the hair mask
    Sephora

    The patented ingredient in this mask is K18Peptide, which repairs broken keratin chains for stronger and healthier hair. This TikTok-famous product is formulated to treat a variety of hair concerns, including chemical damage, heat damage, and dryness. 

    Promising reviews: "I cannot rave enough about how using the K-18 leave-in molecular hair mask has transformed my hair. This product is a true curls whisperer. It immediately restores the shine and tightness of my curls even though they are heavily heat damaged. I’m between 4B/4C, I straighten my hair a lot and honestly don’t really have a hair routine. K18 has truly protected my curls from total disaster which is why I wholeheartedly recommend it."—perledesir

    "I have DRY DAMAGED BLONDE HAIR. I was at a loss with everything that I tried. I got this as a sample with 100 points. I used it the first time and went to bed with wet hair, didn’t notice much of a difference...just tried it again tonight and blow dried my hair and WOW...the number one thing to remember is EMULSIFY in your hands before using. I prefer using this on damp hair as it is easier to apply. Please give this a shot."—lexiemarie8

    Get the mini 0.5-ounce mini size from Amazon or Sephora for $29 (the full-size 1.7-ounce version is also available for $75).

    2. Urban Decay's mini eyeshadow palette gives you six long-lasting mattes and shimmers to create stunning eye makeup looks. This smol palette is the perfect size to throw in a purse, suitcase, or weekend bag. 

    all three eyeshadow palettes showing the different mattes and shimmers
    the six mattes and shimmers from the Half Baked palette

    If neutrals aren't your thing, the palette also comes in two different color combinations (Sin and Foxy). All three palettes have a beautiful mix of mattes and shimmers that are highly blendable. 

    Promising review: "This palette is my GO TO! I went to Mexico and took this one palette for my eyes and let me tell you it was more then enough. You can create fresh day glam and transform them to tonight time glam so easy. It’s small and easy to travel with. Also VERY pigmented and glides on your eyes like butter."—Foxy

    Get it from Amazon or Sephora for $29. 

    3. Peach & Lily's Oily Skin Kit is the perfect way to upgrade your skincare routine without sinking a ton of money into the full-size products. This kit comes with a resurfacing mask, toner, and water-gel moisturizer. The mask and toner gently exfoliate while the oil-free moisturizer calms and hydrates. 

    the three products offered in the oily skin kit
    the three products up close showing the texture and consistency
    Target

    This Asian-owned brand is also clean, vegan, and cruelty-free. Other popular offerings from the brand include a matcha pudding antioxidant cream and glass skin refining serum

    Promising review: "This kit is absolutely fantastic. This is the perfect little summer routine and year round routine if you have oily skin. I purchased because I needed a quick routine that I could easily travel with and this was perfect! After a week of using it my skin was clearer than ever from breakouts and I wasn't oily at all, even in the hot weather! This kept me super hydrated! The moisturizer is literally like an aloe gel from the gods! And let me tell you... that Resurfacing Mask is NO JOKE! It feels professional and even though it tingles hard there was no redness on my face when I washed it off! I am certainly buying the full size ones for home!"—TravelGal

    Get it from Target for $37.

    4. Too Faced's Better Than Sex Mascara gives you the bombshell lashes of your DREAMS with minimal effort. The hourglass brush perfectly separates lashes and adds major volume. 

    the mascara tube and close up shot of the brush
    a model before applying mascara / a model after applying the mascara
    Sephora

    Promising reviews: "This is the only mascara I use because it doesn't come off on my contacts. Love the brush and the way it makes your lashes look so long. The brush sometimes grabs more mascara than I need but I just scrape it off in the tube."—cher427

    "I love this mascara!!!!!! It’s the best. It volumizes your lashes so much, holds the curl, and it doesn’t even feel like you have anything on when you're wearing it. Best mascara I’ve ever used and so easy to apply. It gets all your lashes effortlessly. GO BUY IT!!"—ryyannn

    Get it from Amazon for $12.84 or Sephora for $16 (the full size 0.27-ounce version is also available for $28). 

    5. Bread Beauty Supply's leave-in conditioner leaves you with softer, smoother, and more defined curls. The silicone-free formula relies on mango butter and quinoa protein to nourish and strengthen strands. 

    a model showing her hair before and after using the Bread Beauty Supply conditioner
    the hair cream in the packaging
    Sephora

    Bread Beauty Supply is a Black-owned haircare brand (and small biz!) that proudly champions diversity and inclusivity. The brand's offerings, from their beloved hair oil to their creamy hair wash, are tailored to textured hair.

    Promising review: "I live in Arizona and my curls NEED all the moisture they can get—this conditioning leave-in does just the trick, making my curls defined, hydrated, and soft during this 110-degree weather. I put it in after shampooing and conditioning in the shower. Great heavy cream if you need more hydration for your curls."—Mecca1111

    Get the 1.69-ounce mini size from Sephora for $16 (the full size 8.4-ounce version is also available for $28).

    6. Drunk Elephant's mini Protini moisturizer is destined to become a holy grail skincare product. The creamy formula will glide over skin and instantly improve the tone and texture. It's also vegan and cruelty-free! 

    The moisturizer
    the mini Protini moisturizer and the full size product
    Sephora

    All of Drunk Elephant's products are designed to be used together, so you can combine this moisturizer with any of their oils, serums, or creams. 

    Promising reviews: "I was skeptical of this product due to all of the hype so bought the mini to give it a try and was surprised by how well it worked! It really moisturized & hydrated with a small amount of cream."—ripley88

    "Wow! I noticed a difference after the first use. Skin was firmer and younger looking when I washed my makeup off in the evening, after having applied the cream in the morning. Really impressed by this. Can’t wait to see more. Also, it seemed to minimize my pores. Try it out for yourself!"—LiveTall2018

    Get it from Sephora for $22 or Ulta for $22 (also available in two additional sizes, a 1.69-ounce size and a 3.33-ounce value size). 

    7. R + Co Biotin Thickening Shampoo adds gorgeous volume and shine to your locks. The mini bottle is perfect for throwing in your bag the next time you're traveling (or even when you're not traveling). Plus, it smells *amazing* thanks to ingredients like saw palmetto berry extract and coconut oil. 

    the shampoo bottle
    a reviewer showing her glossy hair after using the shampoo

    Promising review: "I am 74. Hair thinning. Thought I would give this a try. I just am blown away! I try not to use heat on my hair. I do have it professionally colored and get highlights. I used this shampoo once. ONLY once and cannot believe how much better my hair lays. It is shiny again and looks thicker. Stays shiny and soft, but not so soft that it doesn't keep the curl and lift. I am psyched. I will be buying this again, telling my daughters and friends. Wonderful. Thank you R+Co, I have tried $$$$$$$$$$$ of product throughout my life. This product does what it says and more."—Scrapbook girl

    Get the 2-ounce mini size from Amazon for $15 (the full size 8.5-ounce version is also available for $32).

    8. Nars Radiant Creamy Concealer instantly brightens and conceals blemishes, scars, etc. Nars has an impressive shade range (30 shades to be exact) and a matching foundation that pairs well with this cult-favorite product.  

    the concealer with the applicator
    a before photo without concealer / the same model wearing the concealer
    Sephora

    Promising reviews: "Honestly love this product. I used to use the Makeup Forever concealer religiously, but this is my new favorite. Had to get it in mini first just to try it out because it is a bit expensive. It is so worth it. It lasts so long and does a great job covering just about anything. Definitely worth the hype."—BelleH

    "I tried a bunch of concealers, drugstore and higher end, and none perform like this. Never bought it because honestly I wish the packaging were cooler/more unique lol but finally caved because I was going through a dry season and I needed a concealer that would give coverage and not immediately crack/flake. This concealer has a great shade range (Madeleine is a perfect neutral for light/medium East Asian skin) and amazing consistency and longevity. Got the mini but will be restocking with the regular size when I run out!"—vicwu

    Get the 0.05-ounce mini size from Sephora for $14 (available in 30 shades). The full size 0.22-ounce version is also available for $31.

    9. Fresh's Hydrating face wash removes oil, dirt, and makeup without stripping the skin. The gel-like consistency of this facial cleanser feels like a dream and has a mild, spa-like scent. 

    the face wash
    a model using the face wash
    Sephora

    This hydrating cleaners is safe for all skins types and it's formulated without parabens!

    Promising reviews: "I love using this cleanser after a scrub; it helps soothe my skin and keeps it feeling moisturized. Typically after cleansing, my skin would feel tight and dry, but this face wash is so gentle. I highly recommend for combination skin."—Danitzacas

    "I’ve been using this face wash for over a decade for my sensitive skin. It’s a soothing and gentle cleanser. I recently developed rosacea and it still works great for my skin. My dermatologist was okay with me continuing to use this cleanser despite the changes we made with some of my other products. I also always leave a bottle of this cleanser in our guest bath because it feels luxurious and special and it is gentle enough for all skin concerns. I am never without this cleanser and I even stock smaller bottles of this product for travel."—ynt1

    Get the 1.6-ounce mini size from Amazon for $15 (the full size 5-ounce version is also available for $38).

    10. Hourglass Mini Ambient Lighting Bronzer imparts an UNREAL glow wherever you apply it. The brand uses Ambient Lighting Powder in their blushes and bronzers to help them refract light and blur imperfections. Reviewers like that the different shades work for all skin tones and blend easily.  

    the mini ambient lighting bronzer up close showing the color and texture
    two models showing the different bronzer shades on their arm

    Promising reviews: "Perfect size, love that it has a built-in mirror and the blend of colors make it so easy to use over my entire face! Also makes a quick and easy eye shadow base or even just using it alone because the different colors work perfectly together. Would recommend to anyone as a go-to, must have!!!"—MbngsMom

    "This bronzer lives up to its hype. It gives me such a beautiful and natural looking inner glow. I love that it is buildable which gives me the option to look healthy with some color or like a bronzed babe. The price point is quite steep for the amount of product you get, but honestly, it's worth it."—KScout

    Get the 0.04-ounce mini size from Sephora for $28 (available in three shades). The full size 0.39-ounce version is also available for $56

    11. Tower28's SOS Daily Rescue facial spray will calm irritated skin in a matter of seconds. Just spray over clean skin and follow with the rest of your skincare routine! The pH balanced spray is 100% natural, safe for all skin types, and can be used anywhere on your skin. Many reviewers have seen impressive results when using this spray on eczema, hives, and sunburn, too. 

    before and after photos for the rescue spray
    Sephora

    Promising reviews: "I am obsessed with this. I had acne ever since going off birth control a couple of years ago and have been searching for a skincare routine to help with it. I use this as my third step and my skin is literally glowing. My acne has subsided dramatically and my face feels so hydrated all the time. Highly recommend. I won’t go without this!!!!."—RyannaElezibeth

    "LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE. This product is absolutely amazing. I started adapalene about a month ago and my skin has been freaking out, and the masks don’t make it any better. This spray literally 'saved my skin.' I rarely write reviews, so this means I absolutely adore this product. I also have very acne prone skin, and this did not break me out. I saw some reviews about a smell, but the smell is actually fine. It smells like a fresh scent, not artificial though, like a clean smell. The smell also dissipates within seconds so it wouldn’t be an issue even if I didn’t like it. If you struggle with redness, GET THIS! This spray does every single thing it advertises. You won’t be disappointed."—mollyluvsskin 

    Get the 1-ounce mini size from Sephora or Tower28 for $12 (the full size 4-ounce version is also available for $28

    12. Fenty Beauty's Pro Filt’r Instant Retouch Setting Powder glides on and brightens the skin while also blurring imperfections. Reviewers rave about this powder's ability to smooth and set their makeup without making them look cake-y. Magic

    The setting powder with the lid off to show the texture
    The setting powder

    Promising review: "Love this powder. I tried the foundation and primer and just didn’t love it. With that said, I was skeptical on trying anything else because first impressions matter. I’ve been trying to find an under eye powder to set and wow. It’s so soft and so buttery. Makes my skin and overall finish amazing. My favorite powder and definitely will buy again! Now I definitely want to try more things! Love this!"—lonely21

    Get the 0.27-ounce mini size from Fenty Beauty for $14+ or Sephora for $20 (available in six shades). The full size 0.98-ounce version is also available for $34

    13. Egg Mellow Cream is a priming moisturizer, neck cream, eye cream, overnight mask, and more. This multi-tasking product does it all! Collagen fibers and egg white extracts help tone and firm the skin while also boosting hydration. 

    up close picture of the cream
    the mini size egg mellow cream
    Amazon

    Promising review: "I received a sample of this recently and I absolutely fell in LOVE with it! I usually just use it on my face and neck. I have very oily skin and while this product isn't targeted toward my skin type, it never leaves my face filmy or greasy, just soft and fresh looking. I was sunburnt the other day and it made my face feel SO much better immediately! I wish it was sold in buckets!!"—Catherine S

    Get the 0.5-ounce mini size from Amazon for $6 (the full size 1.76-ounce version is also available for $36).

    14. Then I Met You Living Cleansing Balm eliminates makeup and excess oil in the ~most~ luxurious way possible. Gently massage a dime size amount onto dry skin and add water to remove impurities. Rinse thoroughly and voila! If you're curious about the color of this cleansing balm, sea buckthorn oil is responsible for the balm's vibrant yellow hue. 

    the cleansing balm up close without the lid
    SokoGlam

    Then I Met You is an AAPI, woman-owned skincare brand that's focused on meaningful rituals and products. Their award-winning cleansing balm smells oh-so fresh thanks to rosemary, grapefruit, and rosewood oils! P.S. - The brand recommends using a water based cleanser after their cleansing balm to double cleanse.

    Promising reviews: "This is truly a luxurious cleansing experience. The balm melts into a beautiful sherbet-like oil that glides across skin and leaves it nicely moisturized after rinsing off without feeling like there’s any film left behind."—Saul

    "As always, this cleansing balm is amazing! I have tried so many others but I just keep coming back to this one. It has a delicious smell and leaves my skin so soft. Perfect for the first step in my cleansing routine. I pair it with the Cosmic Dew Water Cleanser to help keep my skin clean and soft."—Maddie P.

    Get it from SokoGlam for $6 (the full size 3.17-ounce version is also available for $38). 

    15. Tatcha's Dewy Skin Mist will leave your skin glowy, hydrated, and perfectly luminous. Spritz this baby on before or after makeup — it won't cause your makeup to slide off. 

    the spray bottle surrounded by some of the active ingredients
    Sephora

    Promising review: "When I tell you that this is the best dewy skin mist you will ever find, I 100% mean that and will stand by it until I come across something better. I have been searching forever to find a dewy skin mist that will leave my makeup looking radiant and dewy and I have tried everything until this. The Fenty one is a close match, as it looks dewy as well. But something about the way this settles onto the skin and leaves it looking refreshed and hydrated really amazed me. I went back and purchased the full size two days later, the full size is worth the money. Beautiful product."—mmyrandah

    Get the 0.4-ounce mini size from Sephora for $22 (the full size 1.35-ounce version is also available for $48).

    16. Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant is a reviewer loved exfoliant that effectively unclogs pores to reveal brighter, smoother, and healthier skin. The salicylic acid is gentle enough to be used daily once your skin has acclimated to the product. Just remember to use SPF 30+ when using this treatment!

    The liquid exfoliant
    A reviewer showing before and after pictures of their skin

    Promising review: "I have every skin issue you can think of. Rosacea, acne (hormonal, cystic, whiteheads, blackheads), dehydration, excessive oiliness, redness, all of it. I’ve spent probably thousands on a multitude of different products, trying to find one that would at least make a dent. I’ve had many procedures, many trips to the dermatologist. Nothing I’ve ever used, nothing I’ve ever done, has made such a profound difference in the appearance of my skin. Having rosacea, my face often felt hot, bumpy, and burned. While my complexion is naturally fair and pink, this has seriously covered all my bases in a gentle and effective way. I’ve been trying to turn my skin around for YEARS!! this was the product that did it. If I could give it 100 stars I would. It has seriously changed my life!!!"—hc

    Get it from Amazon for $11+ (the full 4-ounce size is available for $32).

    17. Living Proof's Perfect hair Day (PhD) Dry Shampoo will trick people into thinking that you ~just~ washed your hair, even if you're on second or third day hair. We won't tell! 

    the mini dry shampoo bottle
    a model showing a before and after using the dry shampoo
    Sephora

    Promising review: "I’ve struggled to find a good dry shampoo. They were always so heavy and made my hair still look greasy, yet dull. I bought the trial size of this just to test It out. HANDS DOWN THE BEST dry shampoo I’ve ever used. My hair looks freshly washed even on day 3 and 4. I will never not buy this. Recommend 10/10!"—Jackieemiller

    Get the 1.8-ounce mini size from Sephora or Ulta for $15 (the full size 4-ounce version is also available for $28). 

    18. Summer Fridays Mini Jet Lag Mask softens and smooths skin that might need a little extra TLC. The hero ingredients of this multi-tasking mask are glycerin and hyaluronic acid, which draw hydration to the skin for a glowy look that even your esthetician will compliment. 

    the mini size jet lag mask next to the full size version
    the creamy texture of the jet lag mask
    Summer Fridays, Sephora

    This woman-owned brand boasts clean ingredients and a recycling program that encourages customers to send back their empty bottles and containers. 

    Promising review: "I really really really love this mask. I have very sensitive skin due to being on Accutane when in high school, and this gets rid of all my redness just the next morning. I use it as a moisturizer almost every single night. Absolutely obsessed and worth a shot for anyone with redness and sensitive skin."—bridgetfduff

    Get the 1-ounce mini size from Amazon or Sephora for $26 (the full size 2.25-ounce version is also available for $49). 

    19. Urban Decay's All-Nighter Long Lasting Makeup Setting Spray will seriously extend the life of your makeup and keep it looking fresh. Reviewers with different skin types all rave about this product, calling out the nondrying formula and extra-fine mist. 

    a model wearing makeup plus the all-nighter setting spray on top
    Sephora

    Promising reviews: "This makes my makeup stay in place all day long. It's really unbelievable. I used this in addition to the urban decay primer potion for my eyeshadow/liner and after a 18-hour day of partying in NYC on a hot summer day all of my makeup was intact and all of my friend's makeup had vanished. Everyone asked me what I had on and I told them to go get this setting spray and the eye primer potion. Got home at 4 a.m., went straight to sleep, my makeup was still in place in the morning when I woke up. I was shook."—catalinamr

    "Best setting spray and primer ever! YES, you can use this as a primer too. I’ve dry, sensitive skin, so after applying my hydrating base, I spray this and with my damp blender, I press it in. Let it dry for couple of minutes before continuing with the rest of the makeup. Spray again at the end to lock it in! You’re in business. I always have a backup because it’s THAT good and trustworthy."—shahteaa

    Get the 1-ounce mini size from Sephora for $15 (the full size 4-ounce version is also available for $33).

    20. Girl + Hair Ultimate Braid Care Kit effectively nourishes the scalp and hair under protective styles. Developed by Dr. Camille Verovic, the products rely on natural ingredients like tea tree oil, castor oil, and aloe vera. The smol bottles are perfect for throwing in your bag so you have them on hand ALL the time. 

    a model holding the braid care kit
    mini bottles of Girl + Hair products
    Girl + Hair, www.instagram.com

    Girl + Hair is a small business with an impressive array of products that help maintain natural hair in protective styles. This travel-friendly set includes their apple cider vinegar rinse, leave-in conditioner, and hydrating hair milk. They have another fab set that includes their best selling water-to-foam cleanser!

    Promising reviews: "I love the braid care kit, especially the scalp protective balm! My scalp has not felt this great in a while under a protective hair style! Will be purchasing again!"—Alise J.

    "Such an amazing product! Usually when I’ve tried washing my hair in braids, it doesn’t end well… but with the braid kit *chef’s kiss*🤌🏾😘 My scalp is clean, moisturized and not itchy! Already recommended this to my mom who is also passing the word along!"—Ashley B.

    Get it from Amazon and Girl + Hair for $25.99.  

    21. Sol de Janeiro mini Cream Discovery Set lets you sample the brand's most iconic body lotions before investing in the full size products. Their lotions are formulated with skin-loving ingredients like guaraná extract and vitamin C. Plus, the delicious scents will trick you into thinking you're on a tropical vacation!

    the three mini body creams along with their major benefits
    a close up image of the Brazilian bum bum cream that shows the thick, creamy texture

    All of the body lotions in this discovery set smell AMAZING and provide deep hydration, but each cream has a slightly different formula that makes it unique. Brazilian Bum Bum Body Cream has firming capabilities and gives your skin a subtle shimmer (the shimmer comes from mica, a natural mineral). Bom Dia Bright Body Cream gently exfoliates with fruit AHAs and vitamin C. Last but certainly not least, slather on Coco Cabana Intense Hydration Body Cream for immediate hydration. Dry skin doesn't stand a chance against these lotions!!!

    Promising review: "I have always wanted to try these body creams but could not decide on a scent at the store. This is the perfect set for those just getting into this brand. I have tried each of these and especially love the original! My husband comments every time I use these as well. I will definitely be purchasing these full sized and keeping the mini containers for travel. I love this set!"—Vickytoria4

    Get it from Sephora for $35

    22. Supergoop! mini Glowscreen Sunscreen SPF 40 leaves you with a lit-from-within-glow that also protects your skin from harmful rays and blue light. Wear it alone or under makeup for a touch of color and instant hydration. Reviewers love that it's easy to reapply throughout the day and can work as a primer under makeup!

    supergoop glowscreen in both shades, sunrise and golden hour
    a model before wearing supergoop glowscreen / a model after applying the glowscreen in sunrise

    If you're looking for a sunscreen with a little more color, the shade golden hour is a tad darker and gives you a just-left-the-beach kinda glow. 

    Promising reviews: "I can’t get enough of this product! I love the the consistency and the fact that it doesn’t have a scent. It wears really well under makeup and gives your face a pretty glow. I’m on my 3rd bottle and will continue to purchase. Highly recommend!"—scw15

    "This is a new holy grail SPF. I have gotten so many compliments while wearing this. It has the prettiest glow and is perfect for a no makeup day to give your skin a little color. No greasy texture like some sunscreens. I’ll always have this in my makeup bag!"—Ahannah75

    Get the 0.68-ounce mini size from Amazon and Sephora for $20 (the full-size 1.7-ounce version is also available for $36).

    23. E.l.f. Bite Size Lip Balm gives you the prettiest wash of color while smoothing and moisturizing your pout at the same time. You can layer this balm with other lip products for a multidimensional look. (Or just combine the different balms for a customized shade). 

    the four different shades of the bite size lip balm
    three models showing the different shades of lip balm on their arm
    E.l.f. Cosmetics

    This teeny-tiny lip balm comes in four juicy colors: watermelon, berry, coconut, and mint. 

    Promising review: "These lip balms are so cute and the shades are subtle. Great shape size in my opinion so one or two swipes are enough. I bought all the shades because I couldn’t decide which one to get! I’ve noticed a very subtle smell that matches its shade name. (Ex: coconut smells like coconut) again very subtle you barely notice the smell. Also really good for a go to lip balm to have in my purse. Worth the buy!!"—Demilove

    Get it from E.l.f. Cosmetics for $4

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