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    Give Your Bank Account A Break With These 28 Beauty Products That Are Better Than Pricier Versions

    Because "more expensive" doesn't always mean "better."

    1. A rainbow eyeshadow palette that'll make just about any lewk possible! This highly pigmented palette contains cool and warm tones as well as mattes and glitters, so go absolutely awf.

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

    Promising reviews: "I really love this! The colors (that I've tried so far) go on wonderfully and blend easily. I had recently bought a palette by Morphe; I had never tried them before but it looked nice...it was HORRIBLE! The colors were chalky, didn't blend, and barely showed up. This is so much better and for a third of the price!" —adorkable

    Get it from Amazon for $7.99

    2. A plant-based Peach Slices exfoliating toner if you're in need of a gentle formula that'll help clear, hydrate, and smooth your skin. This salicylic acid treatment will decongest pores and help prevent future breakouts!

    Promising review: "This is my second time buying this product as I used up my entire bottle from the first time I purchased it. I read that this was a great alternative for the raved-about Paula’s Choice AHA/BHA Exfoliating Toner. I have to agree that the comparison is accurate. This price point can’t be beat and you get the exact same results for much less cost. One bottle also lasts a long time and I use it by dropping the toner directly onto my hands then patting into my face rather than a cotton pad…even by doing that method one bottle still goes a long way. Non-irritating, great for acne-prone skin, and not drying." —RICH & LISA

    Get it from Amazon for $10.48.

    3. A bold NYX liquid eyeliner you'll want in every color to match each and every one of your moods and 'fits. Go a little wild and mix and match 'em!

    Amanda wearing blue liner above black
    a model wearing lavender liner
    Amanda Davis / BuzzFeed, Amazon

    Check out a TikTok of the Nyx Epic Wear Liquid Liner in action. 

    Here's what BuzzFeed editor Amanda Davis, pictured above, has to say about it: "I'm wearing the blue liner there on the left, and the reviews are 100% right. This liner LASTS. I love to throw it on top of my usual black liner when I want an extra pop on a night out or am just feeling a little 'adventurous.' The liner's super thin tip glides nicely and makes it easy to be precise, too!" 

    Promising review: "Guys, I have hella hooded eyes, and any time I tried those expensive Sephora or Ulta eyeliners, they would smudge or fade INSTANTLY. I LOVE THIS PRODUCT!!!! The color pops, it's easy to use, and it NEVER SMUDGES, NEVER FLAKES, DOES NOT MOVE IN WATER!!! I fell asleep with it on, and it looked like I had just applied it when I woke up. ... Best eyeliner out there, take it from a girl who has tried ALL of those expensive eyeliners (Stila, Urban Decay, YOU NAME IT). I will never switch to anything else." —Jakjak

    Get it from Amazon for $9.99 (available in 14 matte and metallic shades).

    4. A curly hair children's leave-in detangling conditioner made with jojoba oil, vitamin B5, and plum seed oil so wash day for your little one is waaaay easier.

    image of reviewer's child with healthy looking coily hair
    image of another reviewer's child with healthy looking curly hair

    Promising review: "I have kinky/curly hair that tangles easily and this stuff is just as good if not better than the It’s a 10 leave-in conditioner at half the price. It used to take me like 15 minutes to brush out my hair and now it’s less than 5 and I have less breakage. Definitely buy this stuff everyone! Plus it has a neat little lock on the sprayer!" —Lauren Sheffield

    Get it from Amazon for $8.69+ (available in three sizes).

    5. A hypoallergenic cream-to-powder highlight because it'll give you that sunny glow you're after. Radiance looks good on you!

    Promising review: "This is just gorgeous. It sells out in the store the second it hits the shelves so I am so glad that I can order it from Amazon. This highlighter is stunning. I wear it on the cheekbones and bridge of my nose and in the inner corners of my eyes. You will not regret buying this. I prefer it over the various Becca highlighters that cost twice as much. It has the heavenly scent of coconut, and it is slightly creamy but goes on as powder and just sinks into the skin." —Debbie

    Get it from Amazon for $11.99.

    6. A topical hypochlorous acid spray if you need fast-acting relief from skin irritation, redness, itching, or sun sensitivity. This gentle, vegan formula can be used anywhere on your body. Comfort is on its way!

    Lots of reviewers use this to help piercings heal!

    Promising review: "Better than Tower 28. Why spend the money on the brand name when this works so well, if not better!" —LAURA Martino

    Get it from Amazon for $9.99+ (available in four sizes and multi-packs).

    7. Differin acne-treatment gel, a water-based and unscented topical retinoid designed to reach deep under your skin to help clear breakouts and prevent new ones from forming. It may also help reduce the risk of acne scarring and hyperpigmentation. Many reviewers say it improved their skin's texture and tone with consistent use.

    Since retinol makes your skin more sensitive to the sun, it's important to remember to apply sunscreen during the day. It's also a good idea to use this gel at night (rather than in the morning) to potentially prevent further discomfort.

    Promising review: "I chose to try Differin in lieu of refilling my very expensive prescription. Glad I took the chance. It works just as well. There is no scent and it goes on super easy. Highly recommend giving it a shot." —User

    Get it from Amazon for $13.45+ (available in four sizes and in a pump or squeeze tube).

    8. A revitalizing hair protein treatment for conditioning and repairing dry, damaged, and over-processed hair. TBH I'm already obsessed with your hair evolution!

    GIF of reviewer shaking their long, shiny hair
    before image of a reviewer with dry damaged and frizzy hair and after image of the same reviewer with smooth and shiny hair

    Promising review: "I have used this product three times now and it has changed my hair drastically; it's so soft and glossy looking. I don’t even have to use any leave-in products because it’s so easy to comb through right out of the shower. So inexpensive and better than any hair salon products I’ve used in the past. Works better than K18 or Olaplex." —Alyx Ming

    Get it from Amazon for $6.85+ (available in two sizes).

    9. A rejuvenating eye cream because its vegan ingredients absorb quickly into the skin to help start the process of brightening and lifting your under-eye area. Perpetual late nights got nothing on this cream!

    the bottle of eye cream in a reviewer's hand
    before and after images of a reviewer whose dark, saggy under eyes become less saggy and brighter

    LilyAna Naturals is a family-owned small business using natural ingredients to craft high-quality skincare products.

    Promising review: "Best eye cream I have ever used!!! Better than Benefiance by Shiseido and Clinique or Lancôme, for less than a third of the price with the amount you get. It is rich enough to do the job but not greasy. It doesn't interfere with concealer, yet softens lines. Love it so much!!!!" —Lory Lacy

    Get it from LilyAna Naturals on Amazon for $16.25+ (available in three sizes).

    10. A Sol de Janeiro hair and body fragrance mist whose notes of pistachio, salted caramel, and vanilla will have you (and those close enough to you to smell you) reminiscing about fall — no matter the season.

    Promising review: "It smells fresh and clean. Exactly what I was looking for. I bought some expensive Dolce perfume, but this body mist is stepping on necks. TRUST ME. No need to layer this scent unless you want to." —Noel

    Get it from Amazon for $24 (available in five scents).

    11. A long-lasting mascara formulated to give you bold and intense lashes even *you* will think are falsies. Salon quality at a fraction of the cost? Yes, please!

    Promising reviews: "The best I’ve tried so far and I used Dior, Tarte, Too Faced, you name it. I always have a problem with brand-new mascara because they have too much product on the brush, especially first few uses, and my lashes stick together. I didn’t have this problem with this one. I could layer it without any product starting to fall off or my lashes sticking together. And I love that they don’t test on animals." —Detti

    Get it from Amazon for $4.99.

    12. A waterproof cream-to-powder eyeshadow stick that's hydrating and rich in antioxidants since it contains both vitamins C and E. This double-ended stick even has a built-in smudger so you don't have to dirty another brush to get the perfect application.

    image of reviewer wearing the stone matte eyeshadow on their lids
    another reviewer wearing the evergreen shimmer eyeshadow on their lids

    Promising review: "As I have gotten older, I want to spend less time getting ready. I love these eyeshadow sticks. I originally purchased to see if they were similar to the Laura Mercier Caviar sticks. These are more affordable and, in my opinion, better quality. The shadows lasts all day. I even used them as eyeliner. I have repurchased several times and own a number of shades." —Kristin Jones

    Get it from Amazon for $15.82 (available in 53 colors).

    13. Or a vegan and cruelty-free E.l.f. glitter liquid eyeshadow so you can look like the magical unicorn you know you are deep down inside.

    reviewer eyeshadow look with e.l.f. liquid glitter on lids
    reviewer holding e.l.f. liquid glitter shadow

    Promising review: "I love this glitter eyeshadow. I used to use Stila and this is so much more affordable and easy to spread without spotting. Definitely recommend getting all the shades, it is worth it for a pop of shimmer." —beautyandbeast

    Get it from Amazon for $5.53+ (available in 11 shades).

    14. A mattifying dry shampoo powder whose benzene-free formula is designed to absorb excess sweat, oil, and dirt without leaving behind a white cast. Refresh your hair with this voluminizing powder!

    before image of reviewer with frizzy, dirty hair
    after image of reviewer with clean and smooth hair

    Promising review: "I have tried IGK, Living Proof, Not Your Mother's, Amika, and so many others but THIS LASTS THE LONGEST! I am impressed by this product. Don't listen to the haters because I have severely fine and oily hair and this product allows me to last for one week without washing and it gives me volume without the toxicity of spray dry shampoo." —473X

    Get it from Amazon for $18.

    15. A hydrating and lightweight E.l.f concealer that offers long-lasting full coverage, gives a satiny finish, and doesn't flake off. This concealer is doing The Work®.

    Promising reviews: "This stuff works better than my Naked concealer and it lasts all day! I will not be going back, you just can’t beat it for the price." —Leslie Strasshofer

    "I used to use Tarte Shape Tape and wanted something that performs well but was more cost friendly. This is it! Doesn’t crease, sets well, and wears all day on my skin. I have repurchased this twice now!" —Taylor

    Get it from Amazon for $7+ (available in 26 shades).

    16. tinted plumping lip oil made with cocoa butter, beeswax, and essential oils to help lock in moisture as it gives you the pout you deserve.

    Promising review: "I love this product. It's so glossy. It's definitely better than the Dior lip oil and cheaper." —Lexi

    Get it from Amazon for $6.70+ (available in five colors).

    17. Or a nonsticky NYX lip gloss because it goes on smooth and packs a lustrous punch!

    Promising reviews: "I was looking Fenty alternatives and came across this. Definitely recommend. It smells great and lasts pretty long without feeling tacky. It’s currently my fave gloss." —Tatiana

    "I don't know what to say other than, after I purchased these in four colors, I got rid of my Kylie Jenner glosses. This blows them out of the water and look at the price...under $5. No sticky feeling, it's pigmented, and doesn't get that weird white line after hours in summer heat." —amanda mas

    Get it from Amazon for $4.80 (available in 41 colors).

    18. A super soft facial cleansing brush so your skin can get the deep but gentle exfoliation it needs to serve a healthy glow all day, every day.

    Promising review: "I have been using this brush for a few months, and it’s definitely a great substitute for the expensive Foreos. It helped a lot with the blackheads on my nose. After using, I noticed how smooth and soft my skin was." —Blake

    Get it from Amazon for $19.59+ (available in five colors).

    19. vitamin C serum with hyaluronic acid, retinol, and salicylic acid to help brighten skin and clear acne. This is perfect for anyone who prefers serums with several actives so you don't need to apply them separately. Fresh-looking skin is just a bottle away!

    Promising review: "I absolutely LOVE this serum. I was spending an absurd amount of money on SkinCeuticals products. This serum is way better. My skin is clearer and more bright. The only negative about this serum is the smell. It's awful! I will tolerate it and continue to use it because of its effectiveness and price!" —Tish

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

    20. A L'Oreal natural glow enhancer infused with glycerin and shea butter for an illuminating tint and a sun-kissed glow that lasts all day long. Go get your shine on!

    a Black reviewer wearing the medium lotion
    image of reviewer wearing the deep lotion

    Promising review: "This is the product to buy instead of the more expensive brand (the well-known one with the tipsy animal name lol). The color is beautiful. It's just as good as the $$$ brand." —ANDREA BALKIEWICZ

    Get it from Amazon for $13.49 (available in four shades).

    21. Garnier micellar water facial cleanser that removes makeup and oil, cleanses, and soothes skin without the need for a rinse. And it does all of that without drying you out! 

    Hands holding the bottle
    https://www.instagram.com/p/B1i6bOrHWRQ/ / Via @garnierusa

    Promising reviews: "OMG!!! I can not believe that I have to say that this product is better (and cheaper of course) than Lancôme Bi-Facil makeup remover." —sarampion2000

    "I used to use Bioderma micellar water and it was my favorite. Then I came across this little gem, which works just as great and is a heck of a lot cheaper. This is my favorite makeup remover. It's great for sensitive skin and removes heavy makeup." —Patrick Mahoney

    Get it from Amazon for $3.99+ (available in two sizes).

    This is our budget pick for best makeup remover!

    22. A cruelty-free Milani powder blush for natural-looking rosy cheeks even Cupid would be jealous of! 

    reviewer selfie of them smiling wearing the blush
    reviewer holding powder blush that's shaped as a rose

    Promising review: "I bought this on a whim and wondered how it would be, and I am so happy I did. It glides on so smoothly and has a soft dewy look to the skin. I am very fair with blonde hair and blue eyes and I don't want to look like a Kewpie doll with big rosy fake colored cheeks. This blush is great. Five stars. I highly recommend Milani. It's a lot less expensive than Dior or Estee Lauder." —Nancy Ann

    Get it from Amazon for $8.97+ (available in 23 shades).

    23. An advanced retinol night cream to smooth and hydrate skin, even tone, and prevent moisture loss with a combination of shea butter, glycolic acid, and squalane.

    Promising review: "Honestly I prefer this over tretinoin. It works just as well, is less expensive, and it doesn’t burn my face like the tretinoin did." —Melanie

    Get it from Amazon for $19.10.

    24. Nivea face and body cream for moisturizing any and all dry skin. It's especially great for anyone whose skin is prone to acne.

    Promising reviews: "Works as a great alternative to the expensive La Mer  moisturizing cream." —Amazon Customer

    "I've used this as a night cream and eye cream for over a month now. I love it! I can really see a difference in my rosacea. It is clear. I stopped using Nivea for a couple of days and my rosacea got worse. My skin is very soft. It's better than the expensive creams I have." —A. Tsames

    Get it from Amazon for $9.98.

    25. An organic and antioxidant-rich cleansing balm because it can help brighten, hydrate, and even skin as it rids your face of dirt and makeup. Plus, it's only got 10 ingredients in it, so if you're one for a simple solution, this might just be made for you.

    image of reviewer with dark gray makeup over the left side of their face
    image of reviewer with a completely clean face

    Juno & Co. is small skincare business whose products are made with minimal ingredients but offer a maximal result.

    Promising reviews: "Takes off all makeup, even mascara, just as well as the more expensive brand Elemis. A little goes a long way! Using over time I've noticed my skin barrier has improved, not near as many breakouts! Love this product" —Pamela74

    Get it from Juno & Co. on Amazon for $14.99.

    26. A moisturizing remedy oil if your face, nails, or hair need help on the rejuvenation front. Formulated with cold pressed olive oil, sweet almond oil, grapeseed oil, vitamin E oil, and lavender essential oil, this vegan oil is designed to shrink pores and give you richer-looking hair.

    Before photo of reviewer with psoriasis flare-up around their mouth and on their cheeks
    The same reviewer with skin that looks healed now

    Promising reviews: "I love this scent, and I love this product! Super moisturizing. I use it like a traditional serum, before my lotion. I think it's a close alternative to the Kiehl's Midnight Recovery." —Amber Lange

    "I’ve used the expensive skin serums from other companies because I couldn’t find any other great options until I found this. I use it on my face, body and hair and it works great! Quality skincare on a budget" —David

    Get it from Amazon for $14.99.

    27. A Revlon hot air brush for drying, styling, AND adding volume to your hair in one fell swoop! With this oval brush, you can say goodbye to tangles and frizz.

    image of reviewer with wet, wavy hair
    image of the same reviewer with dry, straight hair

    Have coilier hair? This paddle brush might work better for you!

    Promising reviews: "I've had my eye on a Dyson Airwrap, but given the cost, I figured I'd try this while I save up. This thing is fantastic. I have waist length hair that's naturally straight, but gets frizzy when damp. I've had salon blowouts that have left my hair looking great, but I simply can't manage a round brush without it getting tangled in my hair. This device has been a game changer. It works best if you air dry for a while before you use it, then use it to finish your style. My hair miraculously doesn't get snarled in it, and it leaves my hair looking like I've had it professionally styled. I love it, and I'm no longer interested in blowing $500 on a Dyson. Highly recommend!" —Ilsa

    Get it from Amazon for $40.41+ (available in five styles and nine colors).

    28. An extreme hold tinted eyebrow gel because it'll not only help you create the perfect brow shape, but also help you keep that shape for up to 16 hours. This flake-resistant brow mascara offers a natural look you'll be glad you can get every single day.

    before photo of a reviewer's natural lashes
    after photo of the same reviewer's lashes looking thick and defined after applying the eyebrow gel

    Promising reviews: "If you like feathery soap brows, this product is for you! Less is more! Cute packaging and the price blows my mind. Much better then Patrick Ta compact of soap brow product and about 30$ cheaper!" —ShellBell

    "This is a great product if you want that hold! It really does keep the brows exactly as you want them. I used to use the one from Anastasia, but it's nothing special and far too expensive. This is my new go-to!" —Mel

    Get it from Amazon for $8.99+ (available in six shades).

    The reviews for this post have been edited for length and clarity.