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    32 Low Cost, High-Reward Beauty Products To Upgrade Your Routine

    Including a fan-favorite mascara that costs less than $5, a heatless way to curl your hair, and the cutest little blackhead remover you've ever seen.

    1. A blackhead remover you simply glide over your face to help scrub away sebum, blackheads, whiteheads, and other skin impurities. The little octopus is so cute, you may wanna buy it for that reason alone.

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

    Promising review: "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 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

    2. A foundation powder great for those with oily skin that just does not agree with liquid foundation. This stuff can be built up as little or as much as you'd like for gorg full face coverage.

    reviewer showing skin with foundation
    reviewer showing skin with foundation on

    Promising review: "This is one of the best makeup products of the year. I've tested this many different ways over the last two weeks and it has held up every time. I have used this on its own as a powder foundation, with and without primer, and over foundation as added coverage as a light setting powder. This stuff is great; it holds up. My makeup looks flawless all day with minimal shine/oil break through." —Amazon Customer

    Get it from Amazon for $12.97 (available in 20 shades).

    3. moisturizing hair treatment to leave your locks looking shiny and silky. Salon-level hair all day, every day, BB. 

    reviewer showing what their hair looks like before using the treatment
    the same reviewer's hair looking shiny and healthy after using the treatment

    It's recommended to use this two to three times a week on wet hair after you use shampoo — you can use one dose on fine/medium-textured hair and two to three doses on thick/curly textured hair, plus another dose on long hair. You can also use conditioner after if you'd like. Avoid applying to the scalp, and only apply to lengths!

    Promising review: "I picked this out based on a review, and I am so glad I did. I have super fine hair that breaks easily and frizzes – just eight minutes and a quick blow dry later, and my hair is soft, smooth, and shiny. I HIGHLY recommend and am so glad I bought more than one bottle." —Paula and Richard Engel

    Get it from Amazon for $9.97 (available in three formulas).

    4. A hair minimizing butter made with moisturizing ingredients like shea and cocoa butter so you can treat your skin to the hydration it deserves.   

    Reviewer holding tub of Tree Hut Hair Minimizing Body Butter
    Reviewer showing results of using Tree Hut Bare Hair Minimizing Body Butter

    While some reviewers claim they experienced the hair-minimizing effect advertised in the product name, it's important to note many of them say they added it to their normal shaving routine. Many reviewers didn't see the effect advertised, but still loved this solution for its moisturizing benefits and delicious smell!

    Promising review: "After just about three weeks, I noticed that the hair on my legs had considerably slowed down growing. I normally shave my legs every day but now I can go a few days without shaving. Great smell and keeps your skin super soft too!! I love it so much that I’m on my second container of it!" —Amazon Customer

    Get it from Amazon for $7.99.

    5. A body scrub for buffing away red bumps. Use it one to two times a week for smoother skin — it's like a microdermabrasion treatment at a fraction of the cost and without having to leave the house. 

    reviewer's before and after of their arm that's been treated with the product
    reviewer holding the purple tube of body scrub

    My colleague Ciera Velarde loves this stuff, here's what she has to say about it:

    "I've had keratosis pilaris since I was a teenager (it's especially bad on my thighs), and after trying dozens of products to treat it with no luck, this magical product is the only thing that's truly worked for me. I usually use this once a week for maintenance, but in the winter if I notice flare-ups and I have drier, rougher, bumpier skin, I use this twice a week, and any flare-ups disappear within the week. I scrub it over my thighs and then actually let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing it off. I have notoriously sensitive skin, and I've never had an issue with this before. It's truly the best product out there for any fellow KP sufferers out there!"

    Get it from Amazon for $12+ (available in four sizes). 

    6. An air dry curl cream designed to help define your oh-so-stunning natural curls and hopefully prevent some frizz in the process! Bouncy, bodacious ringlets here you come!

    Reviewer showing results of using OGX air-dry cream
    Reviewer after using air dry cream

    Promising review: "I'm so grateful that I found this product. My hair is wavy and frizzy. Every once in a great while my waves resemble curls but the frizz is always there. I've only used this product one time so far and I never want to be without it. I put some on after towel drying (no brushing) my hair, and my waves actually resembled curls! It wasn't instant so I was skeptical but after about 15 minutes I caught a glimpse of my hair in the mirror and I was amazed. It looked styled rather than a ratty mess. I slept on it and it still looked great in the morning!!!" —mich0610

    Get it from Amazon for $7.97.

    7. A primer with a cult-following because this stuff may help reduce the appearance of pores AND can assist in seamless makeup application. It's a win-win.

    reviewer with their makeup done
    reviewer holding the tin of beige colored primer

    Promising review: "I saw this on TikTok and thought I'd take a chance. I have sensitive skin and have to watch what I use. I LOVE this product! Goes on smooth and you don't need to use a lot. I put it on before I put on my foundation. Makes a huge difference. Highly recommend and will buy again!!" —Brooks Crim

    Get it from Amazon for $9.

    8. A glimmer glow lipstick whose color actually adjusts to your pH level so you can rock a shiny shade of pink — just apply and let it do the magical color-matching work for you! Plus!! It's vegan and free of parabens, alcohol, and oil.  

    Reviewer with pink lip stain
    The clear glittery lipstick in its case

    If a light shade of pink is all you're going for then just a simple application will do. If you'd like a bolder pink, then you can layer this stuff on as much (or as little) as your heart desires! 

    Promising review: "This is such a pretty pH color lipstick, viral for a reason — it's very pretty to look at, it's not sticky at all, and the more you layer it, the darker the pink shows up. The only thing I don't like is the scent in it, I can almost taste it a bit. It's nice to have in my purse if I need a quick color while I'm out in case of sudden dinner plans or a meeting, because you can control the color saturation to how light or bold it is." —Kristina Bumbelow

    Get it from Amazon for $3.99

    9. A serum foundation for those with sensitive skin who know the struggle of finding a foundation that won't irritate the skin is TOO REAL. This lightweight product contains vitamin B3 and SPF 50 because the year is 2023 and it's time the foundation we use comes with benefits beyond just coverage!

    Reviewer holding L'Oreal Age Perfect Radiant Serum Foundation
    Reviewer wearing L'oreal Age Rewind Radiant Serum Foundation

    Promising review: "Ladies over 50, listen up! I was so discouraged as I was looking for liquid foundation — they all looked orange and cakey on me and settled into my fine lines. I had just about given up on the idea of foundation until I found this! It's amazing! Matches and blends in with my skin flawlessly, and moisturizes and smoothes my wrinkles! I'm so excited I found it!" —Kol Rinah

    Get it from from Amazon for $10.97 (available in 30 shades).

    10. An exfoliating glove that'll help slough away dead skin so easily, you'll be confused as to how you made it this long without owning this genius product.

    A customer review photo of their pilled dead skin after using the mitt
    A customer review photo of their pilled dead skin on their arm and on the mitt

    Promising review: "These really work! No lotions or gels needed — just water and SO MUCH dead skin came off. I was both grossed out and strangely satisfied by this…my skin has honestly NEVER felt this soft and I’m very happy with my purchase. I will update my review after I see if it helps with keratosis pilaris (little bumps on back of arms), but already my skin looks and feel better!" —Brooke Parent

    Get it from Amazon for $6.99.

    11. Radha rosehip oil for quenching dry skin with the hydration it craves. Plus, some reviewers mentioned this helped reduce the appearance of wrinkles!

    Promising review: "This is LIFE-CHANGING! I'm 33 and have had dry skin my entire life. I decided to try this because the price was reasonable and the reviews were great. I was NOT disappointed. I cleaned my face the first night, applied a thick layer of rosehip oil, and went to bed. Eight hours later, I woke up to a new face. I have used this oil every night for about five weeks and it has completely changed my skin. My mom saw me one morning and remarked that my skin looked like it did when I was eight! I also love that you get a large quantity of oil for a super affordable price, and a little bit goes a long way. For the amount you get, it's SUCH a bargain." —TuffLuckCowgirl

    Get it from Amazon for $14.95.

    12. A collagen hair protein treatment that'll help repair damage from things like heat, sun, and dye, just to name a few, because we want you to be able to do all the cool, experimental things with your hair.

    a before-and-after photo of BuzzFeed editor showing her hair looking softer and healthier after using the protein treatment
    Bek O' Connell / BuzzFeed

    Read our Elizavecca CER-100 collagen coating treatment review for more deets!

    Promising review: "I’m mad it took me 26 years of life to find this product because it’s amazing. I have no idea what’s in it but I don’t even care. I’ve used this several times but I could see a big difference just after the first use. Hair is much softer/smoother and feels thicker too. I just wish it came in a bigger size!" —Alexis

    Get it from Amazon for $7.44.

    13. And on the topic of giving damaged hair a little replenishment, this wonderful hair serum you can use this stuff daily on both straight and curly hair to reduce frizz, tangles, and split ends, all while delivering some lovely shine.

    Reviewer's hair before and after using hair serum
    Reviewer's hair after using hair serum

    Promising review: "Love this serum. I use it on my hair when it’s dry to reduce the frizziness and flyaways. My go-to finishing product on my hair." —Jackie

    Get it from Amazon for $11.99 (also available in a pack of two or four).

    14. A reusable oil-absorbing face roller that'll be a lifesaver for anyone who tends to get extra oily. Just glide it over your face, it's THAT easy. 

    a reviewer hand holding the oil roller
    Gif of reviewer using Revlon oil-absorbing volcanic face roller

    Promising review: "First off, if you have extremely oily skin, this. is. it. I was so tired of getting blotting powder/wipes. It felt wasteful and always left residue on my face. I saw this on TikTok and NEEDED it. It was backordered but then I got an email saying it was in stock and I was SO excited. Not only is it affordable, but it's washable, which helps you save money and be less wasteful." —Kelsey B.

    Get it from Amazon for $13.40

    15. A miracle hair mask boasting tons of glowing reviews from folks with Type 3 and 4 hair! Its raw honey and olive oil formula help to nourish dry, damaged, and color-treated hair, as well as reduce scalp itchiness.

    Tgin is a Black woman-owned small business based in Chicago!

    Promising review: "This product is AMAZING! I'm a hairstylist with curly hair, and I have now incorporated this product into my personal and professional lineup. I have been suggesting it to some of my clients. It's great for all types of hair, but it works especially well for natural hair. Also, it works well for all sorts of hair damage." —dcdaigle

    Get it from Amazon for $14.69.

    16. A mascara to give you lashes so dramatic, no one will believe you when you tell them you bought it for less than $5 on Amazon. No need to spend hours wrestling with falsies to get the long lashes of your dreams. Reviewers also rave that this lasts all day. Thank goodness! You have better things to do than re-apply throughout the day. 

    buzzfeed editor kayla boyd showing comparison of her eyelashes with and without mascara on
    a gif of kayla applying the mascara
    Kayla Boyd / BuzzFeed

    Promising review: "I’m a teacher and since the pandemic hit, I no longer wear makeup to school. Makeup irritates my skin with my mask so I just haven’t been wearing anything plus it makes morning time hella easy. #bareface I only put on the mascara, literally no other makeup on my face. Just my lashes were done with this $5 magic. I kid you not — my lashes were literally ALL I heard about that day. Upon walking into the building, a teacher friend from all the way at the other end of the hall and was like 'oh she got makeup on today!!!!' Each kid that came up to me commented on the lashes. And the best story of all: A teammate of mine was out and the sub was having trouble with the announcements and so I went in to help her. Her homeroom just went bananas about my lashes and then they started clapping and I got a standing ovation. A literal standing ovation. Best $5 I’ve ever spent LOL!" —Katie

    Get it from Amazon for $4.99.

    17. A powerful exfoliating serum you simply let sit on your face for up to 10 minutes (no longer than that!!!), rinse it off, and enjoy baby soft smoothness. 

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

    This is a powerful serum though and may not be suitable for those with sensitive skin. Be sure to speak with your dermatologist prior to adding new skincare products into your routine! 

    Promising review: "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 skin care routine." —Daniel Boan

    Get it from Sephora, Ulta, and Target for $9.50.

    18. A hydrating eye stick because it may help reduce dark circles and puffiness — but let's be real, you're mostly gonna want to buy this for the satisfying cooling sensation it'll give your skin and the v cute polar bear. 

    The small polar bear shaped eye stick in a reviewer's hands
    Before and after pic of reviewer with dark under eyes that are gone in the second pic

    Promising review: "I have always had serious dark circles and bags under my eyes and this has really changed this for me. The results are incredible. The puffiness is gone. The dark circles are hardly noticeable. My sensitive skin has not broken out. I never write reviews, but this was so good that I had to write a review. This actually works." —Ben

    Get it from Amazon for $9.99

    19. A tinted lip balm to provide your lips with a hydrating blend of coconut oil, shea butter, and vitamin E (just to name a few) AND give it a lovely red tint at the same time. It's the best of both worlds.

    Model holding tube of Tinted Rose lip balm by Heartspring
    model applying the lip balm
    Heartspring / Etsy

    Heartspring is a small biz based in Santa Monica, California that sells beauty products!

    Promising review: "I’m actually obsessed!! The color is even more gorgeous than I thought it would be, plus it’s moisturizing. All my close girlfriends have asked what I’m wearing on my lips when I use it. Highly recommend!" —Jacy

    Get it from Heartspring on Etsy for $8.

    20. A carbonated bubble clay mask that'll be REALLY FUN to use because it'll make your face all foamy and bubbly. You'll almost be sad you have to rinse it off after.

    A customer review photo of them wearing the mask
    reviewer holding the mask jar

    This is good for cleaning pores and removing blackheads!

    Promising review: "I first saw this on Facebook and thought it was cool, but not realistic. Well, let me tell you it's the best $10 I've ever spent! It's so fun! I put the clay on my face and it bubbled within 30 seconds of putting it on. Once I got it all over I could hear and feel the bubbles, and watching it bubble up was cool. I couldn't stop laughing! You know it's time to wash it off when it stops bubbling, and taking it off was just as fun as putting it on. It has also left my face feeling soft, and you could see a difference in my face. My skin looked healthier, felt healthier. I did put moisturizer on after because I live in the northeast and right now it's dry and cold and my face is dry, but I don't think I really needed to. This stuff is legit!" —Hollie Lalene

    Get it from Amazon for $9.15.

    21. A winged eyeliner stamp so you can cut down time during your makeup routine trying to nail the perfect cat-eye. Just stamp it on and go, go, gooooo!

    reviewer wears cat-eye look created with the winged eyeliner stamp above
    hand holds the winged eyeliner stamp

    Promising review: "I just want to make my morning routine as easy as possible. I love winged liner, but I don’t have the steady hand for it without mistakes. This makes the perfect and consistent wing every time. Love it!" —Julie B

    Get it from Amazon $14.97 (available in three sizes).

    22. A Maybelline concealer reviewers love for its excellent price point, smooth sponge applicator, and the fact that it provides great under-eye coverage on those mornings when you wake after broken sleep. It helps brighten up the area and brings a lovely glow to your gorg eye makeup lewks. ✨

    BuzzFeed editor applying the concealer under eyes
    BuzzFeed editor showing the under-eye coverage
    Kayla Suazo / BuzzFeed

    Promising review: "Throughout high school I never knew how to do makeup. But then I heard this product was the absolute best on TikTok. And trust me, they were not lying. It has really good coverage and hides my 'raccoon eyes.' And the best part is that a little bit goes a long way. So if you’re starting out or want to try something new I definitely recommend you try this out." —Liela Lee

    Check out our Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Concealer review for more deets.

    Get it from Amazon for $7.47+ (available in 16 shades).

    23. A conditioning detangling spray people of all ages can use, because nothing ruins the vibes after a shower or bath like working a brush through stubborn, knotted strands.

    Reviewer photo of hair before using detangling spray
    Reviewer photo of hair after using detangling spray

    Promising review: "This stuff is a holy grail product for me for a reason I wasn’t expecting! I bought this to keep in my beach bag for days out on the boat. My hair is always a tangled mess by the end of the day, so I thought this would help. It definitely helps with tangles, but it also has tamed my frizz so well that I use it every day now! I spray it on right out of the shower and comb through. I have also sprayed it on dry hair on days when I didn’t wash my hair. It’s fantastic!" —Chelsea

    Get it from Amazon for $6.49+ (available in three scents).

    24. Schick Silk touch-up tools perfect for painless, precise eyebrow shaping, cleaning up peach fuzz hairs on your face, and even clearing away dead skin. These little guys go a long way.

    A reviewer showing a before-and-after of peach fuzz being cleaned off their face with the touch-up tool
    A reviewer holding the tool with hair on it

    Promising review: "I regularly used the Tinkle facial razors which I thought worked well, but I just used one of these razors for the first time yesterday and OMG the amount of peach fuzz and to my surprise dead skin that came off was shocking and oh-so-satisfying. I will definitely be stocking up." —I & S. Stark

    Get a pack of three from Amazon for $5.94.

    25. A set of collagen under eye patches that may help reduce puffiness and dark circles, but if nothing else, is gonna feel cooling and hydrating which will undeniably feel nice.

    Reviewer wearing under eye patches by Le Gushe
    Reviewer's eyes after using masks

    Promising review: "First of all, amazing deal for the price! Secondly, they work amazing!! I have issues with tired eyes and I used the patches for about 30 minutes after I washed my face, while I was in the shower, then took them off when I did my makeup, and my under-eye was so moisturized and rejuvenated!" —Tiara Baker

    Get a pack of 20 pairs from Amazon for $17.97.

    26. A leave-in conditioner to assist in locking in moisture on your fabulous curls resulting in more definition and sheen. 

    Reviewer showing hair after using Eden BodyWorks leave-in conditioner
    Reviewer's hair after using Eden BodyWorks leave-in conditioner

    Eden BodyWorks is a Black woman-owned biz that sells natural hair products. Reviewers with 2A through 4C hair rave about this stuff!

    Promising review: "This product is soooo moisturizing! I have type 4b/4c hair with some 4a in the front and I’m low porosity, and my hair loves this product! The consistency is really nice and it smells good too. You don’t need a lot either." —Shanteshia

    Get it from Amazon for $9.99.

    27. An argan oil hair mask you can use about once a week to help prevent things like heat from styling tools and coloring from making your hair look damaged or dry.

    Just a head's up that this does have silicone in it, in case that's an ingredient you try to avoid. Check out our Arvazallia Hydrating Argan Oil Hair Mask write-up!

    Promising review: "My hair is very thin and curly. The ends are damaged from heat and color, causing my hair to look even more unruly. I do oil treatments once a week and only wash my hair two to three times a week but NOTHING has made my hair feel like this product does. There is an immediate difference as soon as this product touches my hair. It leaves my hair feeling so silky, even after I rinse it out and dry my hair." —Melissa

    "I have natural 4C hair and this product was amazing. I did not think it would be because of the texture, but once it was saturated in my hair, my hair felt more healthy. I had less breakage and my hair seemed to stay moisturized throughout the week. I use this mask once a week." —adrain tucker

    Get it from Amazon for $12.95.

    28. A set of TikTok-famous blending sponges for treating yourself to some seriously smooth makeup application!

    model holding blending sponge
    set of five blending sponges

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

    Get a pack of five sponges from Amazon for $6.99+ (available in seven color combinations).

    29. A heatless curling rod so you can achieve easy, breezy curls all without having to turn on hot styling tools.

    Reviewer with the headband woven into their hair
    Reviewer with curly hair

    This set comes with a curling rod, a claw hair clip, two duckbill hair clips, and two hair scrunchies. It works best when rolled with damp hair boasts being compatible with all hair types.

    Promising review: "Before purchasing, I’d seen a lot of reviews and tutorials on TikTok showing the results. My hair is thick, coarse, and naturally wavy, so I figured this might be a good alternative to rollers that are time-consuming to put in, difficult to sleep in, and ultimately not worth it. And MAN was I right to be hopeful. Wrap pieces of damp hair around it before bed, the tighter the wrap, the tighter the curl. Easy to sleep in since there’s nothing on the back of your head, and my curls are BOUNCY the next morning. My only complaint is that it doesn’t help give any top-volume, but nothing some teasing can’t fix. 10/10. I’ll never go back to a curling iron." —Mariah

    Get it from Amazon for $7.99+ (available in six colors). 

    30. Bio-Oil, a skincare oil for helping reduce the appearance of scars left behind by acne, pregnancy, injuries, or surgeries thanks to a powerful (but gentle) combo of vitamin A oil, vitamin E oil, sunflower oil, lavender oil, and chamomile oil.

    My colleague Emma Lord swears by this! Here's what she has to say about it:

    "FWIW re: scars, this stuff really works. I had thyroid surgery a few years ago and Bio-Oil took me from looking like I'd stumbled out of the Red Wedding to virtually no detectable scar within a few months. All I did was apply it once in the morning and once at night." 

    Get it from Amazon for $10.26.

    31. A rose gold temporary tint hairspray so you can channel Taylor Swift Lover-era vibes without having to commit to pink hair dye. 

    Reviewer with pink hair from using product
    reviewer taking a selfie showing the pink in their hair

    Promising review: "I absolutely love this stuff. There's no commitment and no staining the hair. It is literally a put-in-and-wash-out product. I have platinum-blonde hair and there was no tint of pink left behind or anything. I love this stuff! It's gives you rose-gold pink hair, so beautiful." —Lee

    Get it from Amazon for $10.78.

    32. An ultra-hydrating lip balm rich in antioxidants, vitamin E, and green tea your still-dry-as-heck-from-winter lips are gonna be so very thankful for. 

    Reviewer's lips before using Jack Black lip balm
    Reviewer's lips after using Jack Black lip balm

    Promising review: "I'm going to get straight to it. I have NEVER had a lip balm that does what this tube of magic does. I have had chapped lips for years, no matter the season, and no other lip balm works like this one. It goes on smooth, not greasy, and absorbs SO WELL. After just three days of use my lips are soft and smooth. No peeling or flaking, and I...AM...IMPRESSED! I'm literally conceited now, LOL. I've taken 93 selfies with the infamous duck lips pose, AND my hubby even noticed during our last smooch sesh that something changed, LOL....TMI? Maybe. But y'all need to know how friggin' awesome this product is. I'm stocking up ASAP!!" —iamzenobiamarie

    Get it from Amazon for $10 (available in six flavors). 

    Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.