34 Beauty Products That'll Help With Upkeep Without Costing A Fortune

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02-03-2025

1. A hydrating Cosrx Snail Mucin Power Essence that will soothe and rejuvenate your skin so effectively that it'll make you think the exact opposite of "ew" when you think of snail mucin. It can also give your skin a natural "I woke up like this" glow that has earned it over 61,000 5-star ratings!
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
And tell Gary not to worry! The snail mucin is obtained in a safe way, so no snails are harmed!
I've personally been using this for almost a year and it's amazing how it's improved aspects of my skin that I didn't even know needed improving. I didn't think my skin looked too dull before, but after see how this brightened and soothed my skin, I'm never going back. I spray my face with rose water, gently pat the essence into my skin while it's still damp, and let it absorb. Plus, it absorbs so quickly, it's like your skin is saying "gimme gimme gimme!!".
Promising review:"I've been using this morning and night for about two weeks and I can say I understand the hype! My skin looks better than it has in so long. Firstly, the texture surprised me. When you think snail mucin, you think slimy and gross. This wasn't sticky or slimy whatsoever. I was afraid it was gonna leave my skin feeling gross and slippery. Surprisingly, my skin drank it right up! No residue whatsoever and it's a nice primer before makeup. I have oily skin and it's helped with that as well. My skin is so soft, with a nice healthy glow. I've noticed my red spots from past acne is fading and my skin just overall looks great. Highly recommend!" — Sarah Downs
Get it from Amazon for $18.95.
2. An OGX Argan Oil of Morocco Curl-Defining Cream so you can properly flaunt your curls for passersby to envy. This miracle cream gives you ultra-soft curls and moisturizes them to boost their shine. Bouncy spirals of hair without the need to style with heat? Yes, please.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
And bonus! This stuff is free from parabens and provides a sulfate-free haircare system, making it super gentle on your gorgeous curls.
BuzzFeed Shopping contributor Jasmin Sandal says, "My hair is the ~perfect~ combo of wavy, curly, and frizzy and this drugstore product has been a holy grail of mine for some time. I've found that it's the only formula that will give me soft, naturally curly waves come the a.m. and since I'm generally a nighttime hair washer, I have the perfect excuse to avoid blasting my hair with heat. Before hitting the pillow, I like to run my fingers through my towel-dried hair with a pea-sized amount of this, flip my mane over, and then give the ends a good scrunch. In the morn, my hair appears shiny with defined, wavy curls — we're not talking HD — but they have a nice, soft definition to them that doesn't require much styling."
Promising review:"Absolutely love this stuff! It's the one hair product I have to have. I rotate shampoos and conditioners but have never found anything to put on damp hair that I like as much as this. It says it's for curls, but works great on straight hair too. I have had super straight to very curly over the years and have loved this on all hair styles." — Bunco Queen of the Universe
Get it from Amazon for $7.97.
3. A popular pack of Skin1004 pore tightening and lifting masks that has surprised reviewers with its immediate results. These fast-acting masks are made with albumin, aloe vera, and centella asiatica extract to hydrate and lift your skin, tighten enlarged pores, clear small breakouts, and give you that "just came fresh from the spa" glow.
To use, mix the powder and activator and apply it onto your face. FYI — you'll look like a character from The Walking Dead as the mask works its magic (it's called the "Zombie Pack" for a reason!). But once you rinse it off after 10-15 minutes of letting it dry, you'll have some happy and radiant skin.
Skin1004 is a Korean skincare brand that provides high-quality skincare items made of plant-based ingredients from Madagascar. Its signature ingredient is centella asiatica extract, a soothing and hydrating antioxidant that is known for its ability to help heal wounds and protect the skin.
Promising reviews:"After years of trying different products on my sensitive, acne-prone, red, rough skin, I saw this mask and all of the positive reviews and thought 'what the hell, I'll give it a go.' Even after the first application, I was really impressed with the results. My rough skin is smoother, I have no additional breakouts and when I do wear makeup it actually blends into my skin. It also helps the deep wrinkles on my neck. I even got a compliment on my skin the other day — this NEVER happens. I use the mask twice per week. I'm on month two and I recommend it to anyone with problem skin. My only caution is that is smells kind of funky (who cares) and it's a little hard to remove. I only apply the mask when I'm going to shower and wash my hair. It's zombie life for me here on out!" — Charlie B
Get it from Amazon for $18.82 (also available in a two-pack and in a variety three-pack).
4. A non-comedogenic CeraVe salicylic acid body wash so you can finally break up with those keratosis pilaris bumps. With hyaluronic acid and niacinamide, this gently cleanses and exfoliates your skin.
www.amazon.com
Promising review: "My 6-year-old daughter has keratosis pilaris, commonly known as 'chicken skin.' This year it really flared up during warm weather so I gave this wash along with lotion a try. Wow, I saw results after just a few uses and after a couple of weeks most of her bumps disappeared. Thrilled we skipped a trip to the dermatologist! Can't beat this price for the results either." — Ashley Steigerwald
Get it from Amazon for $13.99.
5. A Beauty of Joseon serum if you're a real glow getter. The niacinamide and propolis extract formula can help you maintain clearer skin, brighten dark spots, and give you a dewy glow, thanks to its honey-like texture.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Beauty of Joseon is a South Korean skincare brand based in Jongno-gu, Seoul.
I've been using this serum for about six months now and cannot say enough good things about it. I got the "glow" serum (I love that there's different options for different skin concerns) and it continues to minimize my pores and makes my skin look plumped and radiant!
Promising review:"From the moment I started using this serum I saw results! The combination of propolis and niacinamide in this serum is a winning formula. My complexion has never looked this radiant and healthy. It effectively addresses dark spots and hyperpigmentation, visibly reducing their appearance. What makes this serum even more remarkable is its lightweight and fast-absorbing texture. It feels like silk on my skin and leaves no greasy residue. I can apply it seamlessly without worrying about it disrupting my makeup or other skincare products. The hydrating properties of this serum are a game-changer. My skin feels intensely nourished and plump, minimizing the look of fine lines and wrinkles. The only downside is the price. I think it's a bit expensive for the amount of product you get. However, it's so good that I'll still leave it at 8/5 stars!" — Yuna Lee
Get it from Amazon for $16.58.
6. A TikTok-famous VieBeauti eyelash growth serum to help with upkeep when you can't make it to the esthetician for extensions. Apply to your lashes daily to help them become longer and stronger within just a few weeks! You'll be resisting the urge to flutter your lashes like a cartoon character every time your S.O. walks by in no time.
www.amazon.com
Promising review: "I bought this in January because of TikTok reviews. I tried to be consistent with this 1–2 times a day for a little over two months now, and I've seen a huge difference. My eyelashes are noticeably longer and I wear way way less mascara. I usually give up on things like this when I don't see results instantly, but I'm glad I stuck with it. It takes a couple of months, but I definitely will keep using this serum." — Julie
Get it from Amazon for $22.49 (also available as an eyebrow growth serum).
7. L'Oréal Wonder Water Lamellar Hair Treatment, which works its magic in eight (!!!) seconds to give dull-looking hair a dose of shine and silkiness (without going to the salon). It'll probably make you want to do a dramatic hair flip every eight seconds, and we wouldn't mind it at all.
Apply this directly to wet hair, avoiding the roots, massage it in for eight seconds, then rinse. Practically NO effort required. You can use one dose for fine- to medium-textured hair, two to three doses for thick- to curly-textured hair, and add one more dose if you have long hair.
Promising reviews:"I don't usually do reviews on products, but for this one I absolutely have to. I have 3c-type hair and struggle a lot with breakage, unmanageability, and moisture. When my mom mentioned this product to me I didn't take her seriously because of the simple fact that we have two completely different hair textures. I never would have thought this brand would work on my hair. I have never in my 22 years felt my hair like this. I feel like I have a completely different head of hair. This product is so amazing and I will FOREVER be using this product in my hair regimen. Thank you so much!! ♥️" — Theressa Hailey
Get it from Amazon for $10.97 (available in two formulas).
8. A Korean exfoliating mitt you can use in the bath or shower to achieve that ~buttery soft~ skin. It helps you gently lather off dead skin, prevent ingrown hairs, and eliminate bumps caused by keratosis pilaris. The best part? You can get specific about the exfoliation pressure, since it's on your own hand!
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review:"Right out of the box I could tell these mitts were going to be exactly what I needed. Excellent quality and easy to use! I've tried them twice already and my skin is now incredibly smooth! After I scrubbed my arm, I looked at the mitt and saw it was covered with dead skin cells. I'll be buying more of these as gifts for girlfriends (in a fun spa gift basket)!" — Danielle
Get it from Amazon for $9.99 (available individually or as a pair).
9. A bottle of wildly popular Bio-Oil multiuse skincare oil with vitamins A and E, chamomile, sunflower, and lavender oils to help fade scars and stretch marks while helping your skin retain moisture and achieve a more even tone. One reviewer even compares this stuff to sorcery.
www.amazon.com, Amazon
But just remember, scars and stretch marks are totally normal!
Promising review:" This is by far the BEST skincare I have found. I have sun-damaged skin and it has helped more than anything I have used. If used as directed it will not only fade scars, it will also fade spots. I use this twice daily and have been using for probably a year now and see a remarkable difference in my skin's appearance. I use instead of lotion, as it absorbs really well." — Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $11.12.
10. A bottle of Fanola "No Yellow" purple shampoo — you already spent major money to acquire that beautiful blonde look, so why would you let unwanted yellow tones get in the way? This'll cancel out the brassiness and help you keep it looking as good as the hair inspo on your Pinterest board before your next touch-up appointment.
www.amazon.com
Promising review:"I never write reviews, but this stuff is magic in a bottle. I'm a level 7 blonde with high level highlights and hair that loves to pull red. If my hair starts to look brassy I use this and voila — looks like I just came out of the salon again. I'd love it even if it didn't make my hair feel soft, but it does that too! Please don't ever stop making this!" — scooptwins
Get it from Amazon for $9.99+ (also available in a bigger size).
11. A CeraVe eye cream because don't you just love it when everyone points out how tired you look? This hydrates and repairs your undereye's delicate skin barrier with three essential ceramides so that you can say "see ya" to those dark circles.
Promising review:"I've been using this product daily for about three months and my dark undereyes look 10x better. I've used a lot of different products on Amazon that are supposed to help with dark circles, but never had much luck in seeing a difference. However, since using this cream, it's been a game changer. I apply it at night before bed, which seem to help with puffiness when I wake up the next morning. I'm by no means a dermatologist, but I feel like this is the best product for me as a 25-year-old man. It's a small tube, but it lasts a long time. For the price point and the results I've gotten, you can't go wrong!" — Neko
Get it from Amazon for $14.44.
12. A pack of popular Cosrx pimple patches if you've been in need of a trip to the dermatologist — these'll evict those pesky pimples that have no business invading your face. These are coated with hydrocolloids to protect and heal the blemish more effectively. You officially have no excuses for picking at those pimples anymore!
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
For persistent or bigger pimples, leave a pimple patch on overnight for two to three days to allow the pimple to diminish completely.
Promising review:"I've suffered from full coverage acne since I was 8 or 9 years old (I know. A freakishly young age to start.). I've use every product known to man. Proactive, Neutrogena, Clearasil, medication from dermatologists...the list goes on, and I'm sure most people have experienced the same. BUT THESE WORK. HOLY SHT THESE WORK. They suck everything out in ONE GOSH DARN NIGHT. I buy a whole bunch at a time and go through probably five packets a month and I've never been happier, and I've never had such clear skin. All you have to do is wash your face and stick the dots on before bed. I stick them wherever I see the red starting, feel that 'oh it's a big one' pain under my skin, or where whiteheads have already started." — Danielle
Get a pack of 72 from Amazon for $12.50 (available in five sizes).
13. A bottle of highly-rated Nizoral anti-dandruff shampoo because we shouldn't be expected to deal with both bad hair days and flakiness. This gentle shampoo uses ketoconazole to help eliminate dandruff-causing fungus, along with the annoying itchiness that comes with it!
www.amazon.com
It's safe to use on color-treated, chemically processed, and gray hair!
Promising review:" Best dandruff shampoo I've ever tried. I've had dandruff my whole life, and recently it got much worse and turned into what was pretty much scalp psoriasis. I have tried MANY products and treatments over the past year and nothing has come close to this shampoo. I haven't had ANY dandruff since I started using it, it took care of my psoriasis as well. Would absolutely recommend for anyone with bad dandruff." — Alicia Eddy
Get it from Amazon for $15.88 (also available in a bigger size).
14. And a shampoo scalp massager reviewers have raved about because it helped them with psoriasis, dandruff, and scalp tenderness. It exfoliates your scalp and gives you the glorious, relaxing feeling of a massage ~without~ the spa fees.
Emma Lord/BuzzFeed
Here's what BuzzFeed Shopping writer Emma Lord says about it:"I started using one of these a few months ago and WOWZA, it really helps you get extra mileage out of your shampoo. I have a whole lot of hair on my head so sometimes it's a struggle to feel like I've soaped up my whole scalp thorough, but this was a very effective way to spread out the suds and really get them to the roots. I was worried it might tangle in my hair, but it was totally fine on that front, too. I've noticed that my hair has been a little less greasy at the roots since I started using it. And I'm echoing a ton of reviewers here when I say it just feels reeeeeally, really nice."
Promising review:"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
Get it from Amazon for $6.98+ (available in three colors).
15. A moisturizing Etude House SPF 50 sun milk, which is formulated with 20 powerful berry and plant ingredients (including açaí palm fruit extract, Barbados cherry extract, and sunflower seed oil) that are gentle on your skin and leave you with a lightweight, airy finish. It's intended to be used as the last step in your skincare routine and works like a charm as a makeup primer!
Etude House celebrates beauty and aims to provide both makeup and skincare products that are beginner-friendly. Make sure to shake before using and apply to areas that will be exposed to UV rays.
When I tell y'all I am picky with sunscreen...I am PICKY. No matter what, it has to be lightweight, non-greasy (my oily skin doesn't need any help looking shiny lol), virtually invisible on my skin, and it has to work well as a base layer for other products like tinted serums and foundation. I found my perfect match in this sunscreen. It dries down to a *true* silk-matte finish, and mixes super well with your daily moisturizer!
Promising review: "With oily, pale skin, I've been hunting for a sunscreen that protects, spreads well, and will not make me break out or look even greasier for almost two decades. I'd tried every product that claimed to do so and had almost given up on finding a perfect solution — until this. Now it's the only brand I'll use. When layered under a mattifying primer and makeup, I'm less shiny than I've ever been in my life, and feel confident I'm keeping my skin healthier. Feels amazingly breathable on, not cakey nor does it clog pores. My only tip: it's thin enough to be able to spread and absorb well, but you'll want to work quickly and start with a small amount and build up as needed. If left to sit or slathered too thick, it can leave streaks of white cast that I've seen even on my pasty complexion, so I'm sure it would be even more noticeable on darker skin tones, but that's probably true of many sunscreens. No issues with pilling as long as you give it a few minutes to soak in before adding makeup. I LOVE it. Highly recommend and WILL keep ordering more as needed!" — ETSR
Get it from Amazon for $17.99.
16. A set of antimicrobial toothbrushes for those mornings when you might not get around to flossing, but still want to get a deeper clean than a regular toothbrush can give you. The tip of each of these tiny "floss" bristles are as thick as a single human hair and reach deep into the grooves of your teeth for a cleaner, fresher mouth. And if you have sensitive teeth, no worries — reviewers say these bristles are super soft.
This toothbrush is also formulated with nano-silver, which may help kill off microbes left on the bristles.
Mouthwatchers is a small business established by Ronald Plotka, DDS, that specializes in antimicrobial toothbrushes designed to get deeper cleans even patients with "great" dental hygiene might miss with traditional brush and floss routines.
Promising review: "This was another one of my TikTok purchases! I was skeptical but my kids hate flossing their teeth so thought this might help in between making them floss. They work amazing! My kids said they could see and feel a different on the first use and I agree! They are definitely with a try! I would suggest not pushing too hard, those tiny bristles really get in there and if you push too hard you nights be sore like I was. It felt like after going to a dental cleaning." — AN
Get a two-pack from Amazon for $9.99.
17. And a reviewer-beloved teeth-whitening pen — you'll see the difference almost immediately, and it'll help you avoid having to go get it done by a pro. It's painless, minty fresh, and helps whiten your teeth after years of drinking coffee, tea, wine, and basically anything that isn't water. 🙃
Promising review:"I have to say, I was skeptical about this product from all the TikTok hype about it but after trying it out, it really does work. I've used whitening strips before but those usually hurt my sensitive teeth and I hate the taste of some of the other gels on the market but this one was super easy and didn't hurt my teeth at all and didn't taste much different than my regular toothpaste, since I got the mint-flavored one. I used it for a few weeks before my brother's wedding and it worked like a charm. I noticed visible results in only a couple of days and was able to keep using it until I reached my desired shade of white. 10/10 would recommend for anyone with sensitive teeth and taste s!" — Victoria Bravo
Get a two-pack from Amazon for $17.95 (available in three sizes).
18. A touch-up razor and dermaplaning tool you'll need next time you want to quickly shape your brows or remove any of those other fine facial hairs that you just don't have the time or patience to pluck out one by one. Have no fear — it's super gentle and painless (and beats having to go out of your way to get threaded or waxed)!
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
It comes with a precision cover to help you shape your brows to the exact shape you want. Or leave them just how they are. Remember, removing facial hair (or any hair) is optional, not necessary!
Promising review:"Plucking the more egregious of my thick black hairs is at least a 2–3x/week effort. I opened these rather hesitantly — I mean, they are sharp blades going on your face — took a sip of Prosecco for courage, washed my face and started shaving. I could not believe how easy and quick it was. After a couple of swipes down my cheek, I noticed that it was done. I thought it was going to take a lot more skill and time. First complete face shave (full cheeks, upper lip, lower lip, jawline) over and done with in less than three minutes with outstanding results. So much easier than tweezers and depilatories!! Wow." — Tara D.
Get a three-pack from Amazon for $5.94 (also available in a pack of nine).
19. A stainless-steel tongue scraper because, trust me, your tongue has more gunk on it than you think. This useful tool lets you scrape it allll off and instantly freshens up your breath. It works so well, one reviewer even says they can now taste specific flavors they've never detected before!
www.amazon.com
Promising review:"Unfortunately I, like many, suffer from bad breath and have tried so many things to stop it. I read that sometimes it's the germs on your tongue that can cause it, so I went wild trying to brush my tongue. Of course, we all know how that ends — gagging, watery eyes, and it still looks like that gross film is on your tongue. I finally decided that maybe it was time to get a tongue cleaner and it had to be a stainless-steel one because they are easier to clean and sterilize. This product is really easy to use and I can get very far back on my tongue without activating my gag reflex. Also, it doesn't have the feeling like brushing with a toothbrush does. This cleaner just glides across my tongue, taking all the icky germs and bad breath with it. I love my nice new fresh breath and bolster of confidence!" — jordanb
Get it from Amazon for $6.99 (also available in two bigger packs).
20. And an oral rinse if you have good oral hygiene but want your minty fresh breath to last all day. This rinse works instantly to target and fight bad breath germs for up to 24 hours. Some reviewers claim it has also helped reduce tonsil stones and prevented new ones from forming.
www.amazon.com
Check it out on TikTok.
Promising review:" TikTokers have done it again. This was one of the products on Amazon a person could not live without, stating all-day freshness. It's true — I cannot believe it. The taste isn't strong; it does not burn at all. It keeps my breath smelling fresh all day no matter what I eat. This brand will be a new staple in my bathroom and morning routine." — Zac
Get a pack of two from Amazon for $15.34.
21. A hair repair serum with argan oil, aloe vera, and vitamin E that help instantly condition and hydrate your hair so that you can walk out with a little extra shine.
It is recommended that you use it on your hair right after the shower, but reviewers say it looks good when you use it on either wet or dry hair when you want to skip the styling process!
Promising review:"I found this product through a Buzzfeed article for those with frizzy hair and THIS PRODUCT DID NOT DISAPPOINT PEOPLE! I put this serum through the ringer — I got this to stand up to Bay Area fog AND the nasty, humid heat wave we got a couple weeks ago. No frizz, no extra curls. Nothing! On top of that, it made my hair super glossy. I'm very impressed. Heads up though, a little goes a long way. One pump is enough to cover my hair and I have medium length hair. I do have oily hair so working on my ends first then working to my roots works for me." — Jazmine Carbajal
Get it from Amazon for $9.99 (also available in packs of two and four).
22. Or a natural curl-enhancing moisturizer — it has black castor oil, agave, and biotin that help increase your hair's shine and softness. Apply it right after the shower to help banish breakage and split ends!
Amazon
Thank God It's Natural is a Black woman-owned small business based in Chicago and led by a team that is 96% women.
Promising review:"I'm still trying this out, but so far... this product is AMAZING!!! I love it so much!! I have 4a/b dense low porosity hair. My hair also dries out FAST, and ends up looking dull, lifeless, and even stiff 😩. The moment I used this product, (fresh out of the shower when the hair is kinda dewy) this stuff gave my hair LIFE baby! It was curly and bouncy, and I had to keep checking the mirror to see WHOSE HAIR IS THIS?! She had moisture and wasn't drying out.🧐 The smell is nice without smelling perfume-y and it has a nice consistency that makes you feel like you're getting your money's worth. These curls came out of time out and got themselves together! I love to see natural products be this good!" — Luv2shop
Get it from Amazon for $18.48.
23. A cuticle oil that uses jojoba oil and vitamin E to help strengthen your nails and soften your cuticles so you can skip out on the time (and $$$) it takes to go get a manicure. Perfect for when you're about to go to brunch and you notice your nails are looking a little too rough for those mimosa stories that will be posted later.
Promising review: "I normally do not write reviews but this product did the job, wow! It literally erased my dry cuticles, instantly leaving me healthy moist-looking nails! Love it and it's so easy to apply and doesn't leave any extra oil or residue. Love!" — Diana Apanovich
Get it from Amazon for $9.40+ (available in three sizes).
24. And a nail-biting polish if you just haven't been able to stop taking out your nervousness on your innocent fingernails. This polish helps you avoid eating your nails while also helping to restore their length and strength.
Mavala is a small, family-owned business based in based in Switzerland.
Promising review:"This really helps!!! I've been biting my nails to the nub for 24 years. I have nails now and I don't bite anymore; that's all I wanted. This product made that happen. It tastes SO bad, I never realized how much I subconsciously put my hands in my mouth until I used this. However, I figured I should warn you/give you guys a heads up, be prepared to taste this on ANY AND ALL foods you have to eat with your hands. To me, that was a small sacrifice I was DEFINITELY willing to make to get my nails to this point. I don't even need to use it anymore because now I'm more aware of my nails. All in all, I HIGHLY recommend this product." — Kelsey Walton
Get it from Amazon for $19.
25. First Aid Beauty's KP Bump Eraser Body Scrub Exfoliant — lots of reviewers with keratosis pilaris and similar skin textures swear by. This'll help you gently exfoliate rough patches and dry bumps so that your skin is as smooth as a baby's.
www.amazon.com, Amazon
Promising review: "I saw a dermatologist recommend this on TikTok and I figured I'd give it a try. I have had red bumps on the back of my arms for as long as I can remember and have tried many things, so I didn't have very high expectations. After one use, I could already see a difference! It says to use 1–2 times a week but I use it usually every other day, and I use CeraVe rough and bumpy lotion after and now my red bumps are almost nonexistent. This product has truly been life changing and I would recommend to anyone struggling with red bumps! 10/10!" — Sidney
Get it from Amazon for $10+ (available in five sizes).
26. A hydrating rosemary mint strengthening edge gel infused with biotin that encourages hair growth and helps support healthy edges for a sleek look *without* the flaking and residue.
Apply the gel to edges and smooth with fingertips or with a brush for a specific hold. Or! Just rock your edges' natural texture. Check out this article on why laying your edges is never mandatory.
Mielle Organics is a Black-founded business that got acquired by P&G Beauty but is operating as an independent subsidiary and continues to be led by its founding members Monique Rodriguez (CEO) and Melvin Rodriguez (COO).
Promising review:"I like the light consistency of this edge control. It doesn't take much and did the job I was looking for it to do. I didn't have any issues with flaking or dryness. My hair texture is different since it's been growing back since chemotherapy so honestly it doesn't take much for it." — FitSisterP
Get it from Amazon for $5.90.
27. An organic mist toner made of rosewater that helps maintain your skin's pH balance and reduce redness and irritation as well as sun damage and dark spots. Plus it smells amazing and refreshes your face with a radiant glow.
Simplified Skin is a cruelty-free brand and a small, family-owned business based in Cleveland, Tennessee.
Promising review:"This is the second time I have ordered this and will keep on ordering it! The scent is light and it feels so refreshing when I spray it on every morning! No irritation to the skin and it is the extra kick of moisture my skin desperately needed. I have used it on my hair a couple of times only and, again, the light scent really peps me up and it helps my hair have a subtle shine to it. I highly recommend this product!" — Loretta Arenas
Get it from Amazon for $13.99+ (available in two styles and four sizes).
28. CeraVe Retinol Serum — if you're just starting to explore the world of retinoids, this is a great option to start with! This gentle yet effective serum uses *encapsulated* retinol to help reduce scars and pores without flaking or redness. Plus, many reviewers rave about how they like it better than more expensive alternatives!
www.amazon.com
And remember, like with any retinol (that actually works) *just do not use it every day.* Start slow and work yourself up if needed, paying attention to your skin.
Promising review:"I bought this for my teenager to use for his acne scars, but he ended up not using it. I ran out of my Murad retinol serum, so I gave this a try. I actually like it better than the Murad! It absorbs quickly, with zero smell or irritation. As with any retinol product, be sure to wear sunscreen when you're going to be outside." — C. Munsterman
Get it from Amazon for $18.68.
29. A bottle of Elizavecca Hair Treatment infused with collagen, ceramides, and protein extracts to help repair your hair if it is damaged, over-processed, or has just spent too much time with that flat iron. Many reviewers are comparing it to Olaplex! Simply apply it on wet hair after shampooing, wait five minutes, and rinse it out.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
This is designed to work on all hair types, with reviewers with 2b–4c curls mentioning it worked for them!
Promising review:"I have tried everything on the market to fix my damaged, bleached hair that keeps breaking off. I stumbled across this hair treatment on TikTok. I had never heard of it before but decided to give it a try. I used it for the first time yesterday and I couldn't believe how amazing it made my hair feel and look. It's sooo soft, shiny, bouncy and nourished. My bleached rat's nest now looks and feels like hair again. Even my boyfriend noticed a huge difference in my hair. I'm going to buy a lot more of this product. I've been really frustrated about my hair for years now because of all the damage. Now I can finally relax and enjoy my new hair." — Eline
Check out BuzzFeed's full review of the Elizavecca hair treatment for more deets!
Get a bottle from Amazon for $7.83.
30. An easy-to-use root touch-up that's just as effective as getting it done by a professional but *much* more affordable. Plus, it only takes 10 minutes to apply and will give you even coverage for up to four weeks!
www.amazon.com
Promising review:"This is my go-to product to save me money so I don't have to go to the salon every month. Buys me a couple of months in between professional coloring. This is really easy to apply and I never have a problem matching whatever shade the salon uses on my hair." — Amanda Scott
Get it from Amazon for $6.97 (available in three sizes and 13 colors).
31. A hair thinner and cutter for all those times you've put off stopping by the salon for a trim (same 🙃). This little helper is great not only for cutting dead ends but *also* for trimming your bangs, maintaining a cut, giving yourself some natural-looking layers, or trimming and styling wigs.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
The razor has two edges, a fine tooth one for thin hair textures, and a wider one for thicker hair textures. (FWIW, people also use this on their pets as a quick grooming solution!)
Promising review:"I recently got a pixie haircut, I was hesitant to get one based on the fact that I'd have to get frequent haircuts, the cost of which would add up quickly. I did some research on YouTube and found some videos using the tinkle hair cutter to trim hair in between salon visits. I LOVE this thing! It is easy to give a little trim or a drastic cut, both of which I have done since getting the tinkle cutter. I was very nervous to try it, fearing that I might mess up my hair so I just did a little bit first, but it was easy and only takes off small amounts of hair at a time, remember, I have a pixie cut — if you have long hair it will cut that off! Basically all you have to do is comb your hair in the direction it grows until you're satisfied with the cut. Seven months post pixie haircut and I have only been to the salon once to have a re-shaping done of my hair. I will say that when the cutter feels like it's 'pulling' your hair, it's time to get new razors. I still prefer my pixie cut to be pretty short and assuming I would have to go to the salon once a month for upkeep I have saved $210 since having my hair cut. TOTALLY WORTH IT!" — brandi in louisiana
Get it from Amazon for $6.05.
32. A microplane foot file capable of making calloused and cracked heels look like you just came fresh from a pedicure. Seriously, it removes more dead skin than you ever thought you could have. Yes, the results look pretty disgusting, but we know you love to see it.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review:"This baby is seriously sharp and does serious magic to my horrific callouses! I have had foot files and that ridiculous pedi-egg before and they don't hold a candle to this. So imagine my surprise when this actually works really well! I used it dry out of curiosity since it says wet or dry, and honestly I feel like it works even better dry than wet. I can't believe how much better my feet look! Sooooo gross to use (it's basically Mount Everest in foot skin), yet such a satisfying result! My only sad thing is now it hurts to walk on gravel barefoot. Worth it!!" — Eliza
Get it from Amazon for $9.99.
33. And a podiatrist-level toenail clipper because sandal weather will be here before ya know it. This little guy will help you take care of thicker toenails (as well as those painful ingrown ones!) like nobody's business. Perfect for a DIY pedicure!
www.amazon.com
Promising review:"I am on my feet a lot and I had two nails that had thickened to the point where I couldn't use the regular nail clippers any more because they didn't open far enough. I had nail scissors but they weren't nearly strong enough. I'm not going to lie — I was getting really self-conscious about them in addition to the fact that my shoes were getting more and more uncomfortable. I found these clippers and tried them out and I couldn't believe how smoothly they cut through my super thick nails. I thought I was going to have to apply a lot of pressure but the blades just slid right through. One of the best purchases I've made in a while!" — Katie D.
Get it from Amazon for $9.99.
34. A tub of O'Keeffe's hypoallergenic hand cream to help restore moisture to dry, cracked, and sensitive skin. It also creates a protective layer on your skin's surface and gives your hands some hydrating relief.
www.amazon.com
Promising review:"I have suffered from splitting and cracking fingers for years. I tried Eucerin, Lubriderm, and Gold Bond creams, but none seemed to relieve the splitting from reoccurring. I tried O'Keeffe's Working HandsCream and within two and a half days, the splitting and cracking were no longer a factor. Since using the cream, I have not suffered any more cracking or splitting. I am on a busy schedule and only use it at night when I go to bed. It says it's non-greasy but you can definitely feel a slick texture on your hands once applied. That's why I use it at night before bed when I don't have to open door knobs, touch smartphones, or shake hands. It has the texture of cake icing, goes on smooth and works into the skin quickly. It has no smell I can detect. I am so glad I found this cream, it has ended years of split and cracked fingers/hands." — T.H.
Get it from Amazon for $8.89 (also available in multipacks).
Our O'Keeffe's Working Hands Cream deep dive goes into more details, so be sure to check it out.
Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.