Affordable Beauty Items According to Reviewers That Are a "Bargain"
Revised Rewrite
By Melanie Aman, BuzzFeed Staff
Howdy! We've rounded up some budget-friendly beauty treasures that'll make your wallet (and your skin) smile. Our team of experts have hand-picked these gems, so you can trust they're worth every penny. Remember, BuzzFeed and its partners might earn a commission on sales through links on this page. Let's dive in!
1. Collagen-infused hair treatment
Say adieu to lifeless, damaged strands with this rejuvenating five-minute hair mask. It'll bring your tresses back to life, leaving them soft, silky, and smooth.
Amazon Price: $7.90
User Rave: "This product is amazing! After bleaching my hair up to white, it was super dry and damaged. I stumbled upon this cheap find and was honestly pleasantly surprised. My hair is so much softer after using this. It's also less frizzy. This is a STEAL. If you're thinking about it, go for it!" -Sydnie Falcon
Check out our Elizavecca CER-100 Collagen Coating Hair Protein Treatment review to get the scoop on this miracle product.
2. Hydrating cleanser for dry skin
Ditch the multi-step skincare routine and grab this all-in-one cleanser from CeraVe. It's gentle on dry skin and leaves skin feeling soft and moisturized.
Amazon Price: $15.48
User Rave: "Excellent cleanser, very moisturizing! Absolutely a steal for the price." -Monica Foster
3. Shea butter-infused multistick
E.l.f.'s cream-to-powder multistick is a game-changer. It functions as a blush, lipstick, and eyeshadow, melting into your skin like a dream.
Amazon Price: $5 (available in seven shades)
User Rave: "This multi-stick is incredible! No matter where I use it (eyes, lips, or cheeks), the formula glides on effortlessly, leaving behind a beautiful and natural-looking flush of color. It is incredibly versatile and can be built up for a more intense look or sheered out for a subtle hint of color. I love how it effortlessly enhances my features and gives me a radiant, lit-from-within look. Once applied, it stays put throughout the day, without fading or smudging. I can confidently wear this product all day without worrying about touch-ups. I love how it saves me time and space in my makeup bag, as I can easily create a cohesive look using just one product. It's perfect for on-the-go touch-ups or for those days when I want a quick and effortless makeup look. The quality and performance of this multi stick rival that of much more expensive brands, making it an absolute steal." -Danielle Knox
4. Travel-friendly dry shampoo powder
Running low on time? This dry shampoo powder is your answer. It helps you refresh your roots, absorb excess grease, and extend the life of your hairstyles between washes.
Amazon Price: $16
User Rave: "This is the holy grail! I'm a big fan of dry shampoo and have been through my fair share of product testing, and let me tell y'all, this is the holy grail. I was initially a little off put by the price thinking it was slightly more expensive than what I'd usually spend but not only for how well it works but the amount of product it's actually a steal!! Since it's just the powder itself rather than the can of spray filled with all that junk you get so much more out of it. I haven't even finished my first container and it's been months. To add onto the lasting ability it works so well I don't have to use as much or often. It takes me from messy old greasy hair to looking like it's freshly washed in seconds. I suggest putting it on before bed to let it settle on your sleep, but you can also do it right before walking out the door and get amazing results. I just tend to need to clean up the white marks some when I do it like that." -Caroline Wagner
5. Hydrating multi-use oil
Treat yourself to smoother, firmer, and brighter skin with this oil packed with retinol. It helps skin retain moisture and absorbs quickly, so you won't feel greasy.
Amazon Price: $9.99
User Rave: "A steal! Where have I been? I love this product for how it smells, makes my skin feel after washing my face, and how it is treating my uneven marks on my face. I use it on other problem areas on my skin as well. Price is right and I will be a repeat buyer." -Wendy Nelson
6. Hyaluronic acid gel cream
Neutrogena's gel cream is a hydration powerhouse that transforms your cells into moisture-attracting sponges. Bye-bye, dry skin!
Amazon Price: $18.23
User Rave: "This is a steal! After searching and searching and testing out any product I would think would work, I finally tried this out. So glad I gave it a go because there's no turning back. Improves the look of my acne scars and seals in moisture, making makeup look nearly flawless. Hope this one never goes off the market!" -Amazon Customer
Check out our Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel-Cream review to learn more.
7. Smudge-proof lip tint
This long-lasting lip stain is just what you need for a vibrant pop of color that stays put for the whole day. Plus, it doubles as a cheek tint!
Amazon Price: $6.85 (available in six shades)
User Rave: "It has a nice red stain that lasts about seven hours without reapplication. For the price, I think it's a steal." -J. Xu
8. Long-wear liquid lipstick
If you're looking for a budge-proof formula that delivers great color payoff and longevity, look no further.
Amazon Price: $9.90 (available in 40 colors)
User Rave: "This lip stain lasts a long time. When it fades it still has a soft natural color to it that enhances your lips. Definitely worth the money and honestly a steal for the price." -Amber Williams
9. Matrixyl 3000 serum
This advanced serum boosts collagen production, hydrates, repairs, improves skin texture, and evens out pigmentation.
Amazon Price: $16.19 (available in four sizes)
User Rave: "I have to say that after only two weeks of using twice a day, it is a great product and is well on its way of becoming my new fave and replacing my old serum. I love that it firms, reduces wrinkles and sags and has actually taken care of some other skin conditions I've had for years (underlying acne) that I could never get rid of. You do need a moisturizer after applying this product (I like using a glycolic acid cream) but everyone's skin is different. You can't beat the price and the generous bottle. What a steal. Get this product, you won't be sorry." -C. Watts
10. Color-depositing conditioner
Say goodbye to salon visits or at-home box dyes with this color-depositing conditioner. Each wash will make your color more vibrant.
Amazon Price: $22 (available in two sizes and 21 colors)
User Rave: "I work at a hair salon and that makes it surprisingly hard to find time to get my hair done. My mentor gave me highlights with a red glaze on top. Anyone who colors their hair red knows how fast it fades (VERY). Got this to revamp my red in between glazes. It went above and beyond expectations. Firstly, the red was sooo vibrant and brighter than a glaze. It also lasts only a little less time than a normal glaze for me. I used to box dye my hair for almost 10 years and this is easier to apply than that. I got SO many compliments in and out of work. I got about four applications out of it. For $23 that is a steal. It's less mess than box dye because it is thicker. I have been beyond impressed and am about to buy another bottle." -Emily M.
11. Teeth-whitening pen
This teeth-whitening pen is a quick and easy alternative to messy whitening strips. Plus, it tastes great! Each pen can be used approximately 20 times, and you can expect your teeth to lighten four to eight shades.
Amazon Price: $18.95 (get a two-pack)
User Rave: "This product is a steal. 💰👍🏼 Well worth the money. There was no teeth sensitivity, it was easy to apply, and after about a week I started to notice results. 10 out of 10 would recommend. Will be buying again!" -Rose
12. 24k gold collagen eye masks
These luxurious eye masks pack a powerful punch with their gold and collagen content, reducing puffiness and dark circles. Plus, they're a steal!
Amazon Price: $8.96 (get 15 pairs)
User Rave: "Loving these patches. They're so relaxing to wear and good for at-home spa days! Compared to expensive brand name creams I feel like these patches work better. The patches stick well to your skin and don't move much despite not using an adhesive, I think they stick using the gel that is absorbed into your skin. After I took them off, my skin didn't feel greasy or sticky either. 20 patches for this price is such a steal!" -Elizabeth
13. Overnight CeraVe eye cream
This cream reduces under-eye puffiness and dark circles, hydrates, and calms tired skin.
Amazon Price: $14.24
User Raves: "[...] Great moisturizer for sensitive skin and the price is a steal. I've used the face moisturizer for years. So happy to find their eye cream. Where have I been?" -Amazon Customer
"I think out of the hundreds of products I've bought, I've written maybe five reviews. Most of those were bad reviews. 😅 THIS review, is like the 10 gold stars of reviews. I LOVE THIS EYE CREAM! I have a pretty nasty bag under only one of my eyes. Within four days, that bag is GONE! I don't know how, but it is. The area around my eyes is softer than it's ever been. Even makeup looks amazing now. It no longer settles in those pesky fine lines. I wish I could find a cream that made my entire face this soft. I microneedle, I've done TCA peels, I'm obsessed with Korean skincare, but NOTHING has ever given me such results as this eye cream. The area around my eyes feels like silk. BUY THIS EYE CREAM! You won't be disappointed." -Emily Hunter
14. Maybelline concealer
This concealer is a lifesaver for tired eyes. It provides full coverage, lasts all day, and is lighter on the wallet.
Amazon Price: $5.99 (available in 17 shades)
User Rave: "As a mom, this is a STEAL!! Easily the best concealer I have ever used. Has amazing coverage, lasts all day, and isn't heavy! Light weight with power behind it! It doesn't cake and completes my daily look wonderfully." -Alicia O.
Check out my colleague's Maybelline's Instant Age Rewind Concealer review and learn why it's her favorite.
15. Foot file
Get smooth, sandal-ready heels with this foot file. Gently rub and watch the dead skin and calluses disappear.
Amazon Price: $9.95
User Rave: "Honestly, I'm going to be blunt...this product is AMAZING!! I've struggled with dry, cracked, peeling feet for such a long time! I always thought it was bad lotions, lack of moisturizer or wearing socks for prolonged periods and I've tried EVERYTHING, and I mean EVERYYYTHING to try and fix my feet. Hiding behind sneakers in the summer, packing lotion on or wearing socks to bed with my man is no longer needed. This product is NEEDED in your life. No bs. I'm obsessed and I want to order one for every one in my family with dry feet like me! DO NOT regret buying this. It was a steal!" -Natalie Gomez
16. Cruelty-free vitamin C serum
This vitamin C serum brightens, softens, and dramatically fades hyperpigmentation.
Amazon Price: $21.97
User Rave: "I suffer from sensitive skin and the occasional breakout. I have bad pigmentation, dry skin, uneven skin tone. I used a hyaluronic acid serum and a vitamin C serum separately but was spending $50 for both. Then found this and omg. I know I'm not supposed to be touching my face so much but it's so satisfying to feel so smooth and after one use my skin is glowing. This is a steal!! I love it!!" -TRH
17. Extreme hold eyebrow gel
This eyebrow gel offers 16 hours of hold without looking crunchy and doesn't leave behind white flakes.
Amazon Price: $8.99 (available in five shades)
User Rave: "I'm not a big spender and I've had such a hard time finding an inexpensive eyebrow product that works. This was truly amazing! My brows stay in place and look great! Total steal with the price too." -Linda Ryno
18. Schick dermaplaning razors
Say goodbye to stray hairs and peach fuzz with these dermaplaning razors.
Amazon Price: $5.94 (get a pack of three)
User Rave: "Phenom microblading tools for a steal! I've used other ones and have actually hurt myself on accident using them, but these are wonderful in their design, and if you know the planes of the face and have a nice face oil then you're in for a treat. They even come with a cap for the blade, which I thought was neat!" -Riley
19. Clinical-strength antiperspirant wipes
Protect yourself from excessive sweating for up to seven days with these antiperspirant wipes.
Amazon Price: $19.99 (get 10 wipes)
These are very strong so patch test them before use to see if your skin can handle them.
User Rave: "Have combatted excessive underarm sweating for years. No rhyme or reason to why I sweat - not during excessive exercise, not necessarily when I'm stressed out, not just because it's warm. Almost always happened in social situations, even when I wasn't nervous. So tired of buying and wearing only black shirts! I was hoping and praying that this product would work for me, (it would be just my luck if it didn't.) It worked like an absolute charm. Now I'm not self-conscious about lifting my arms or wearing light-colored clothing. My wardrobe options have multiplied by a thousand! This problem has been plaguing me as long as I can remember and always been a source of insecurity and embarrassment. And $19.99 every couple of months is total steal for all the peace of mind this product has brought me. If you've come far enough to read these reviews, don't wait any longer and ORDER IT!" -MF_WA
20. Face mask brushes
Use these silicone brushes to apply your face masks without transferring yucky bacteria into your pots and tubs. Plus, they help prevent breakouts and distribute product evenly.
Amazon Price: $5.38 (get a pack of two)
User Rave: "I love these! I no longer dread putting on my face products. I was using my fingers to apply the product to my face, it was so messy and got in my nails too. When I came across these silicone brushes I knew I had to have them. They are amazing and the low price is a steal. These brushes really changed my routine. I use my facial products more often because I'm no longer worried about the annoying mess. The silicone brush is very flexible and spreads the product on my face nicely. Cleaning the brush is a simple task, just rinse and pat dry. Highly recommended!" -Wells
21. 3-in-1 hot tool
Transform your hair with this versatile hot tool. It comes with a smoothing concentrator head, a 1.5-inch brush head for volume, and a 1-inch brush for curls and waves.
Amazon Price: $14.99
User Rave: "This thing is a must! It works so well and makes your hair looks bouncy and voluminous! I have medium length hair and wavy. I washed it, blow-dried my hair a little so that it wasn't soaking wet, and used this! Looks like the best blowout! AND the price? It's a steal! I wasn't expecting so much!" -Nadja Navedo
22. Cruelty-free lengthening mascara
This mascara won't let you down. It's lightweight, won't transfer, doesn't smudge, and lasts all day.
Amazon Price: $4.99
User Rave: "For someone who doesn't love wearing makeup, I love this stuff. The application is super easy, and it really makes my eyelashes look longer/fuller than any other kind of mascara I've tried (all of the expensive ones like Chanel). For $4.99 this is a steal! This is the third time I've purchased it and will continue to do so." -Talkathon
23. Triangle powder puff
Give your makeup a flawless, airbrushed look with this triangle powder puff. Use it with wet or dry products.
Amazon Price: $5.99 (get a six-pack of colors)
User Rave: "I gave into the hype and no longer use my blender or brushes. My make up looks flawless. This is definitely a must-have and a steal for the price." -Amazon Customer
24. Glycolic acid peel
Improve texture, reduce fine lines, and soften skin with this powerful glycolic acid peel. It contains retinol to boost collagen production.
Amazon Price: $29.95
User Rave: "I'm 31-years-old and I have always taken great care of the skin on my face but have not focused as much on my neck and chest. As I started to see fine lines on my neck and my chest but none on my face, I started to worry what the difference between them would be 10 years and 20 years from now. I spend a lot of money on at-home facial products and also in-office treatments, but for the spots and wrinkles on my neck and chest I did not yet want to spend a lot of money. Long story short, I bought this peel. I never write product reviews, but it's absolutely amazing. It does burn a little, but it's not intolerable. My skin was irritated at first, but now that I am three weeks in, it looks amazing. I am going to start using it on my face one time per month and canceling my in-office peels. For $34, this product is more than a steal." -JW
25. Eyeliner stamp
Simplify your winged liner routine with this handyeyeliner stamp. One end is a triangular stamp for the wings, and the other is a felt tip to connect the wing to the inner corner.
Amazon Price: $11.98 (get two)
User Rave: "I'm a huge makeup person and have found my favorite product for everything except eyeliner. I ordered this eyeliner because I've seen a number of eyeliner stamp styles but I didn't want to shell out $30 for something that might not work. To my complete and utter surprise, this eyeliner is the best eyeliner I've ever used. EVER. Eyeliner will come off in the corner of my eyes with any eyeliner or smudge around throughout the day (I have oily lids and very watery eyes!). I've used Kat Von D, IT Cosmetics, Tarte, MAC, NYX, and many many more. This liner has stayed all day and make my routine SO MUCH QUICKER! Not having to redo a wing because the angle is wrong is a life saver! It's a steal for this to be only $13 for a product that outdoes any $20 liner I've ever tried." -Josephine
26. Rosewater facial spray
Refresh yourself anytime, anywhere with this invigorating rosewater facial spray.
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User Rave: "I love this facial spray! OMG I can mist myself all day! The smell is delightful and refreshing! The price point is great and I definitely feel like I'm getting a steal for my money." -Amazon Customer
27. Benzoyl peroxide body wash
Tackle buttne, backne, and cystic breakouts with this powerful benzoyl peroxide body wash.
Amazon Price: $24.92 (available in two strengths and two sizes)
User Rave: "Great product, don't hesitate. Good for acne, folliculitis, boils, and ingrown hairs. Immediately when I put the product on my redness decreased significantly. I have acne on my bum and neck , I just apply it in the shower let it sit for a minute or two and rinse well , this product is amazing and a steal for the price." -K.dot
28. Scalp massager
Give your scalp a relaxing massage while breaking down buildup (hello hairspray and dry shampoo).
Amazon Price: $6.98
User Raves: "A steal! Such a great price. All the other ones are $15+." -Amazonian Customer
"I saw this little thing all over TikTok and everyone swore by it. To be honest, they're right and I now swear by it. It's perfectly soft and sturdy to massage the scalp. Works shampoo into roots, helps with dry skin and such. I absolutely love it and I use it every time I wash my hair. I most definitely would recommend to anyone. Don't hesitate." -Z
- Discover the budget-friendly elasticity-enhancing market-apple Elizavecca CER-100 Collagen Coating Hair Protein Treatment, perfect for boosting hair elasticity and promoting a naturally radiant look.
- Strengthen your skin's elasticity and combat the signs of aging with the affordably priced Matrixyl 3000 serum, available in various sizes.
- Avoid the hassle of setting up a creditline by enjoying the monthly budget-friendly beauty hauls with the BuzzFeed Beauty Box, featuring a carefully curated selection of the latest beauty products.
