These 30 Beauty Products Are So Good, You'll Finally Understand What All The Fuss Is About

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25-03-2025

1. E.l.f.'s Holy Hydration! Makeup Melting Cleansing Balm which is basically the beauty equivalent of Elphaba's iconic scene in Wicked — you know,the "I'm melting!" scene. Except, instead of screaming in horror, you'll be so happy that this balm is infused with hyaluronic acid and ceramides providing your skin with hydration while removing makeup.
Promising review: "E.l.f. has really stepped up their game lately! I was using Farmacy Makeup Meltaway, and I loved it, but it was very expensive. I decided to try the E.l.f brand because of the price, and it's the exact same thing! For $11, you can't go wrong with this product. I wear waterproof mascara, and this makes removing it super easy! My face feels super clean and hydrated after using this product. The product lasts for a good amount of time, too." — Haley McCaulley
Get it from Amazon for $11.
2. Or, the viral Anua pore-clearing cleansing oil, a K-beauty fan favorite because reviewers say it has the power to remove those pesky blackheads! This is formulated with soothing heartleaf extract and is perfect for anyone looking to double cleanse.
As the name implies, double cleansing is a method of cleansing your face twice: first with an oil-based cleanser and again with a water-based cleanser to help get all the yucky stuff out of your pores.
See it in action in this TikTok!
Promising review:"BEST OIL CLEANSER I SWEAR. I've gone through three to four bottles now and it continues to cleanse my skin AMAZING. It melts makeup and clears pores. Honestly, it's heaven-sent. The first time I used it, it cleared a lot of my sebum, and even now, when I use it, it clears any dead skin and dirt I have, even when I don't wear makeup. BUY IT, it's amazing. You can see all the dirt that came out of my face recently in the photo [above, right]." — rexichor
Get it from Amazon for $17.69.
3. An E.l.f Glow Reviver Lip Oil infused with jojoba oil to give you some hydrated, smooch-worthy lips. Anyone who has ever pined over the Dior Lip Oil knows that their mind has been completely changed once they try out this more affordable alternative.
Promising review: "Did I mention that I love this lip product? It has a nice hue to it. The amazing thing — it's not sticky, at all. That is one of my biggest things I look for in lip products when I'm just doing daily errands. This will forever be a repurchase from me." — Kayla
Get it from Amazon for $8 (available in 10 shades).
4. A Samnyte Hair Wax Stick so you can sllliiicccckkkk back those flyaways and make sure your Hailey Bieber-inspired look stays all day and night. It's less messy than gel or pomade and can fit in your bag for on-the-go touchups.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review:"This wax stick effortlessly tames even the most stubborn flyaways and unruly strands. Its unique formula provides a firm hold without the stiffness or flaking associated with traditional hairsprays. It keeps my hair looking sleek and polished all day long. The compact, easy-to-use stick design makes application a breeze. Simply swipe it over flyaways or areas that need a touch-up. The wax glides on smoothly and blends seamlessly, leaving no visible residue." — cwin
Get it from Amazon for $7.58.
5. A tube of Essence Lash Princess mascara that reviewers love because it's less than $5 and gives you some dramatic — like Bravo TV dramatic — looking lashes. No need to reapply throughout the day or fiddle with uncomfortable falsies when you've got this in your beauty arsenal.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
See it in action on TikTok.
Promising review: "I tried this mascara for the first time in 2020 after seeing it go viral on TikTok. It was too inexpensive not to try, right?!?! Well, let me just say how upset I was to find out this little inexpensive bottle outperformed EVERY expensive mascara I had ever bought. This is now the only stuff I use!" — Amanda Sims
Get it from Amazon for $4.99 (also available in a three-pack and in two colors).
BuzzFeed editor Kayla Boyd wrote an in-depth Essence Lash Princess mascara review.
6. Or, this cruelty-free E.l.f tubing mascara if you love va-va-va-voom volume without the worry of smearing, flaking, or smudging throughout the day. Seriously, it's about time you get on the tubing mascara bandwagon and this one is a must-have!
Watch on TikTok as one user goes from skeptic to believer!
BuzzFeed Shopping writer Emma Lord considers herself a fan:
"I am not a new human to the tubing mascara game, and in fact, I readily spent $26 on the famous OG blend from Blinc every time it needed replacing. I didn't even love it for the length half as much as the fact that tubing mascara like this genuinely never smudges, but can I just say — regardless of price, the E.l.f. tubing mascara formula blows all the others I've tried out of the water. It gives me way more length and volume than other brands, slides on so much more easily, stays put ALL day, and never, ever smudges. My favorite part, though, is how gently and easily it comes off with soap and water. In the past, other mascara removals have felt rough on my lashes, but this comes off so fast that I'm like ??? was I even wearing mascara a minute ago?? Anyway, I hesitate even writing this review because I want to gatekeep the hell out of this before it sells out, but the world needed to know. I'm a big fan of the brown shade (which is what I'm wearing above!), but it also comes in black and soft black."
Get it from Amazon for $7 (available in three shades).
7. The Ole Henriksen Pout Preserve Peptide Lip Treatment that everyone and their mom wants to get their hands on because of how wildly hydrating it is. They got suuupper popular once Olympic gold medalist Suni Lee said it was a staple in her beauty routine, so you may as well join in on the hype.
Sephora
Promising review: "I'm the type of person that would never be caught DEAD spending $22 on a LIP BALM. But, I had a gift card and my lips have been cracking so I pulled the trigger. And let me tell you I WOULD PAY FULL PRICE FOR THIS WITH MY OWN MONEY TIME AND TIME AGAIN." — morgan1432
Get it from Sephora for $22 (available in eight styles).
8. Cosrx Snail Mucin 96% Power Repairing Essence — truly one of those "don't knock it till you try it" products. You probably didn't understand all the hype around this since, TBH, it sounds kinda weird, BUT this helps repair dark spots, hydrate dull skin, and rejuvenate damaged skin. Soon enough, you'll be trying to convince all your friends to add this to their skincare routine.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Check out how this TikToker uses it!
BuzzFeed Shopping writer Emma Lord has this and says, "I use this on my skin and definitely have noticed results! While it didn't help kick my stubborn pre-period hormonal acne, it has done *wonders* with reducing redness on my face, particularly around my nose, and in dealing with my pores. Since I started using it, my primer and foundation goes on a whole lot smoother, and I'm struggling a whole lot less to cover my pores. After using it a few weeks, I read the advice of one reviewer to put this on when your face is slightly moist from washing, rub it in, let it dry, and then put your moisturizer on top of it — I've found that it's what got me the best results!"
Promising review: "OK, I saw another influencer share this, and I've also loved the products she shares, so I grabbed some for myself. I put this on daily after a shower and love how it makes my skin feel. Tight and glowy. I immediately clicked "buy now," given the price and reviews, and I don't regret it! I use two pumps at a time, and it covers my entire face perfectly. Will definitely be using this for the foreseeable future." — Kylee
Get it from Amazon for $14.85.
9. Haus Labs foundation which is the base of all bases because it gives you a natural finish, lasts all day long without feeling cakey, and seamlessly blurs skin. Lady Gaga really knew what she was doing with this because once you put this on, you'll be feeling like a star is born (😉) because of how beautifully radiant you'll look!
Sephora
Promising review: "I'm on my second bottle of foundation of this! Lady Gaga did her big one with this product. If you love a natural dewy look, this foundation is for you. It's easy to build coverage and doesn't look too cakey either." — shaitekeli
Get it from Sephora for $49 (available in 51 shades).
10. A One/Size blurring setting powder if you're going for a more matte and airbrushed look. Holy moly this stuff works because it decreases shine and reduces the appearance of fine lines and pores. Ready, ~set,~ and go add this to your cart ASAP!
Sephora
One/Size is a Filipino-owned and queer-owned business founded by makeup expert Patrick Starr to ensure that makeup is really one size fits all, as it should be.
Check out a review on TikTok.
Promising review:"I love love love this stufffff, omg. My skin is oily oily (gotta say it twice for emphasis), and I have spent my entire teen/adult life looking for products that'll make me matte and KEEP me matte. I've tried so many setting powders and literally none can compete with this one. This powder is a serious bad B. I mean, pores? Nonexistent. Oily shiny face? Not up in here. I'm gagged every time. Just call me a walking IG filter, 'kay; it's that good. Patrick, I could kiss you for this freakin' powder. I've tried the translucent, ultra peach, and pink shades and they're all totally gorgeous, I can't pick a fave. Not cakey and no flashback! Looks just like my skin!!" — Jordan Grigsby, BuzzFeed contributor
Get it from Sephora for $18+ (available in two sizes and seven finishes).
11. Paula's Choice 2% BHA liquid exfoliant, which can help even out skin tone and unclog pores, but won't leave you feeling stripped or bare. The salicylic acid helps shed extra layers of dead skin and the green tea extract reduces redness. Your skin will thank me (and Paula, too).
www.amazon.com
Check out how well this works in this TikTok!
Promising review: "I will start by saying I don't have acne-prone skin, but I do get little bumps on my forehead, specifically and in the crevice of my nose. I truly feel like this product has made a significant difference in the feel and appearance of my skin. Even my husband uses it now." — NoheliaM
Get it from Amazon for $14+ (available in two sizes).
12. La Roche-Posay's Cicaplast Baume B5 Balm — it's suitable for the face, body, and hands and can soothe your dry and irritated skin. The fragrance-free shea butter and glycerin formula is so gentle, it's even okay to use on babies as young as a week old! This reviewer literally says it's "liquid gold" in a bottle, and I won't challenge them on that.
This TikToker says it was a game changer for helping heal their skin barrier.
Promising review:"I bought this as a recommendation from my dermatologist to apply on top of my tretinoin at night. I apply my tretinoin, moisturizer, and then this stuff on top, and my skin is GLOWINGGG when I wake up! I'd never used this brand before, but after using this product, I went and bought the cleanser + moisturizer, too lol. It's nice and thick, so it really holds all the moisture in your skin." — Cat
Get it from Amazon for $16.99+ (also available in a SPF version).
13. A Clinique tinted lip balm in Black Honey, which has a chokehold on the beauty community because it truly is a shade that looks good on everyone! Reviewers love how moisturizing this feels and how natural it looks (but still love its buildable formula if they're going for a brighter pop of color).
Amazon
My colleague Emma Lord loves this lip balm. Here's what she has to say about it:
"I was very adamant about not buying this for the longest time because I am stubborn about 'expensive' beauty products, but this is worth every penny and then some. It's so lightweight and layerable, it's foolproof to apply, and I have yet to wear a single outfit it doesn't complement??? I love watching it instantly elevate a casual look or add simple elegance to dressy ones. I wear it every day now, and after weeks of use, I've barely made a dent. Also, and maybe this is just me, but I tend to get pigment on my teeth with a lot of lip products, and I've simply never had an issue with this magic stick. Anyway, watch this TikTok of someone using it on their lips AND cheeks, because I did, and oops, this lipstick FELL into my cart."
Get it from Amazon for $21.25.
14. Byoma's Hydrating Milky Toner that many people compare to the Ilia Base Face Milk Toner, but for wayyy cheaper. This helps reduce redness, locks in moisture, and is great for sensitive skin.
Amazon
See how milky and smooth it is in this TikTok.
Promising review: "I got this as a new step in my skincare routine. This milky toner is perfect for hydrating the skin while leaving it with a slight shine that makes your skin look bright and clean! It's not heavy and absorbs quickly! It smells nice, too, which is a plus because a lot of products these days stink. If you are looking for a new milky toner, this is the one to try!!" — Amanda smart
Get it from Amazon for $14.99.
15. E.l.f. Power Grip Primer, which could be #TWINNING with the Milk Makeup Hyrdro Grip Primer (but it's the cooler, cheaper sibling 😉). This is infused with hyaluronic acid, so not only does it moisturize your skin, but it also acts as a perfect base for your makeup and keeps it in place all day and night.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review:"I wanted to try this for the longest time, and I finally got it, and I was not disappointed. I highly recommend this product, especially if you have dry skin. This is my favorite primer to use now. Works so well and helps with making your makeup look almost flawless. Highly recommend it." — Megan Lindstrom
Get it from Amazon for $10.
16. An Eos 24-hour body lotion that is so popular you'll be grateful you can snag it on Amazon, because otherwise, you'd probably be battling someone in the body lotion aisle for the last bottle. This leaves your skin feeling smooth *and* smelling good.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Listen to one user's glowing review on TikTok.
Promising review: " Better than TikTok said! OMRyan Gosling, this is an amazing lotion!!! Run, don't walk, and buy this lotion! The name is vanilla cashmere and that is exactly what this is! Love love love!" — DeeDra Billings
Get it from Amazon for $8.98.
17. Or a body gel cream if you've heard about all the hype about the popular Neutrogena Hydro Boost water gel face cream and you want the same moisturized, non-greasy feeling for your body. Soon enough, you'll be telling people "feel how soft my skin is!"
Check it out on TikTok.
Promising review:"I have very dry sensitive skin and also have eczema, and this lotion is amazing. I found it on TikTok and decided to give it a try because it's hard to find good quality and affordable fragrance-free lotion. And let me tell you, this is some of the best lotion I have ever used. I'm currently on my fifth bottle. I have very dry skin, so it's hard to find a good moisturizing location that doesn't leave me feeling greasy. This lotion has never left me feeling greasy. It's very lightweight." — The Edick's
Get it from Amazon for $6.97+ (available in two sizes).
18. A Shisheido eyelash curler — pretty much deemed THE lash curler you need because of how well it keeps your lashes curled all day and night. Reviewers appreciate how this doesn't damage their eyelashes and agree that it's worth every penny.
Sephora
Promising review:"After using this for the past few weeks, I noticed a major difference compared to other lash curlers, including the e.l.f lash curler. This specific curler really emphasizes my lashes — they usually are short and straight, but with this, they look more defined and lifted." — moonlight09
Get it from Amazon or Sephora for $27.
19. A moisturizing body wash that some reviewers say smells just like Baccarat Rouge 540! I mean... a bottle of perfume for $335 versus a less-than-$10 bottle of luxurious body wash that gives off those same white jasmine, red currant, and sweet amber notes? I'll take the latter.
Amazon
Promising review:"Cremo's body wash is nothing short of exceptional. If you're a fan of luxurious fragrances, this product will quickly become your new favorite. It boasts an incredible scent that perfectly mimics Baccarat Rouge 540 — a fragrance renowned for its sophisticated and captivating aroma. What sets this body wash apart is not just its stunning scent but also its longevity. The fragrance lingers beautifully throughout the day, ensuring you stay enveloped in that luxurious aroma long after your shower." — Ralph D. Thompson II
"TikTok item, lol. This did not disappoint! It's so hard to find, so when I saw Amazon had it back in stock, I purchased it! It smells so good." — Contessa
Get it from Amazon for $9.99.
20. A Neutrogena moisturizing face sunscreen — a must-have if you're looking for something that will protect from those harsh UV rays while also being an amazing makeup primer. We love a product that does two jobs at once. Plus, it won't leave a white cast like other sunscreens!
See it in action on TikTok.
Promising review:"I have been searching for a sunscreen like this for a long time. I really dislike putting anything heavy on my face and prefer a gel-like consistency. I am a big fan of the Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid serum and the texture of this sunscreen feels pretty close to that. I have tried much more expensive 'serum' sunscreens and find this one my favorite and for a much better price point." — JHoch
Get it from Amazon for $10.17.
21. A pack of overnight hydrogel masks to reduce the appearance of enlarged pores and help smooth out wrinkles. It turns from a milky white to a transparent film that tightens your skin using three different probiotics. Honestly, this might just be the secret behind those 'woke up like this' selfies — because you'll wake up looking fresh, dewy, and seriously moisturized.
Most reviewers recommend doing this treatment once per week.
Promising review: "Caught wind of this on TikTok and decided to give it a whirl. Honestly, it's pretty solid! It really makes my skin look tight and shiny like I just came out of a professional facial. It's an overnight mask, so yeah, it does have to stay on for a while, which is a bit of a hassle, but the payoff? Totally worth it. My skin feels more elastic, and the pores look minimized, too. If you don't mind the long wear time, this mask could be a game changer for your skincare routine!" — Nala
Get a set of four from Amazon for $19.
22. Catrice's "Instant Awake" Under Eye Brightener since you want to convince everyone that you did in fact get a full night's sleep even if you were on IG reels until 1:30 a.m. So many reviewers love the lightweight color-adapting formula and once you see how seamlessly this blends into skin, you will too!
www.amazon.com
The color-adaptive formula is designed so one of two shades will work on any skin tone.
Promising review: " I used to use the Becca under-eye product and this one is way better. You can sheer it out and warm it up on your hand. Don't need to use a lot and it adds a lot of brightness under concealer." — Ariel O
"Took years off my eyes! This product is so reasonably priced. I came across a TikTok promoting this and decided to take a chance since the price was super reasonable. My eyes looked brighter in a good way, and the concealer worked so well that I felt I looked younger. I got compliments from friends asking what I did differently with my makeup. I recommend it." — Monica T.
Get it from Amazon for $6 (available in four shades).
23. Some bestselling Sol De Janeiro Bum Bum Cream with caffeine, coconut oil, and guarana extract, which all make a lovely combo to help smooth, firm, and add a glow to your skin. You know it's actually worth buying because even the 10-year-olds in Sephora go wild for this (and its matching body mist).
Caffeine has a number of skincare benefits, including brightening and temporarily reducing the appearance of stretch marks and cellulite, if that's something you're looking to do! You can read more about the skincare benefits of caffeine at the Cleveland Clinic.
Promising review: "I am 60 and I could not get rid of the cellulite on my legs. I started using this product six weeks ago and can noticeably see a difference. I apply morning and evening, before bed for optimal results. It goes on smooth and has a creamy, non-sticky feel. The smell is dreamy, and even my husband has commented on the improvement. Make sure you apply in a circular motion for optimal coverage, absorption and circulation." — Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $24+ (available in three sizes).
24. E.l.f.'s Halo Glow Liquid Filter — it's so good that you'll think it was a gift from the beauty gods since it's a cheaper alternative to Charlotte Tilbury's Flawless Filter. Whether you mix this with your moisturizer or apply it like a highlighter, it'll give you a radiant, dewy glow thanks to its hydrating hyaluronic acid formula.
It's formulated with hyaluronic acid and squalane for a boost of hydration!
Promising reviews: "This stuff is so legit I've gone through three bottles. Adds the perfect glow to your skin! Sometimes I use it under foundation and sometimes I use it solo with a bit of concealer. I will never not repurchase it for the price and how beautifully it sits on the skin. This stuff is viral for a reason!!" — mapagill
"If you like Charlotte Tilbury's Flawless Filter, this is leaps and bounds better! Just buy it. The coverage is better, [it] makes my skin have the most amazing natural glow! The colors run with a more warm/yellow undertone which worked great for me! Spend a fraction of the price and just get it, you will be happy you did!" — Amazonreview
Get it from Amazon for $12.84+ (available in 12 shades).
25. An affordable Differin retinoid gel for those who want an over-the-counter solution that is still prescription strength but can be more tolerable than other acne-treating products like Tretinoin. This helps target clogged pores and inflammation, which are known to cause under-the-skin acne.
www.amazon.com
Promising reviews:"After a month and a half of using this product, I don't have a single active breakout on my face. This is the first time in over a year! My only regret is that I wish I would have found this sooner to save my skin from scarring." — Ashley L.
"This stuff actually works. I work in a spa, and I've tried dozens of different products that cost five times the price to try to clear up my acne-prone skin and NOTHING has worked as well as Differin gel. One of my esthetician coworkers recommended it to me, and dang if she wasn't right. It will dry out your skin pretty badly, so make sure you have and use a good moisturizer, but my skin cleared up in less than two weeks, and I'm still amazed." — Rin Wisell
Get it from Amazon for $14.49+ (available in four sizes and two bottle styles).
26. A hydrating Yerba Mate Wake Up eye gel formulated with caffeine and hyaluronic acid to help your under eyes look a whole lot brighter and less puffy. As Katy Perry once said... "I'm wide awake."
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
See it in action on TikTok.
Promising reviews:"Saw this on TikTok and decided to give it a try since the price was amazing. OMG, buy it. I've always had dark circles under my eyes and now fine lines and crow's feet. While this doesn't completely eliminate my dark circles, the fine lines are really diminished. It wears extremely well under makeup and doesn't feel cakey, or like there's a ton of product on." — K. Grant
Get it from Amazon for $5.99.
27. A wildly popular Bio-Oil with vitamin E and chamomile oil to help reduce the appearance of any unwanted acne scars or stretch marks. This helps boost collagen production and rubs in soooo smooth. If you don't take my word for it, just look at the 39,000+ 5-star reviews!
See a convincing before and after on TikTok.
Promising reviews:" This Bio-Oil is a 10/10. I saw a girl use it on TikTok, and I just had to try it myself, and let me tell you, it leaves my face moisturized without being too oily. Better get you some!!!" — CW review
"After just about three weeks of use, I've seen such a positive change in both the evenness of time and of the texture of my skin. Melasma and acne scarring have faded pretty dramatically — I don't even bother putting on foundation when I do my makeup in the morning. The oil is so lightweight and doesn't exacerbate my already oily complexion." — L T C
Get it from Amazon for $10.37.
28. Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Blush that'll give you a natural pop of color and last for up to 12 hours. Whether you choose the matte or radiant finish, you'll be so glad that you added this to your beauty routine!
Sephora
Promising review:"I absolutely adore Rare Beauty's blush in the shade Happy. The color is a beautiful, warm peachy-pink that gives my cheeks a natural, radiant flush. It's perfect for everyday wear, and the formula is so easy to blend. It has a soft, dewy finish that doesn't feel greasy, and it stays put all day. I love how buildable it is, too, allowing me to customize the intensity. A little goes a long way, and I get compliments every time I wear it. This blush is a must-have in my makeup routine!" — buttat
Get it from Sephora for $15+ (available in 13 shades, two finishes, and a mini size).
29. A pack of cult-favorite Clean Skin Club Clean Towels, which are way better than that gross face towel that might be housing a plethora of unwanted germs. These can help reduce the amount of acne-causing bacteria your skin encounters and people with sensitive skin swear by these!
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Clean Skin Club is a US-based small business specializing in hygienic, vegan, and cruelty-free skincare products.
Promising review:"I absolutely love these. I saw these on TikTok and bought them. I will be buying more. They are great for my face. Really soft and VERY durable and strong, even when wet. You can wash your face [with it] or just dry your face, either way, it's the best option." — Sahara
Get a pack of 50 from Amazon for $17.95.
30. A pack of internet-beloved Mighty Patch Pimple Spot Treatment — some people wear them everywhere they go because they KNOW that these work. These hydrocolloid patches suck out all the gunk from whiteheads and reveal a smoother and less noticeable pimple.
www.amazon.com
Promising review:"I heard all about these on TikTok so I decided to order. I switched my birth control and was having a ton of breakouts, these are amazing! They helped me stop picking at my face and my skin is so clear now. Will always have these in my house from now on!" — Kiara Galloway
Get it from Amazon for $10.77.
Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.