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Empty Your Carts Of All Those Expensive Products And Get These 36 More Affordable Versions
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BuzzFeed and our publishing partners may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page. Read More There will be no buyers remorse with these finds in your cart. Here's what BuzzFeed Shopping writer Emma Lord says: "I bought this because I crave that Black Honey and will buy it until the day I die, but I am always paranoid of losing it, so I almost never let it leave my bag. I have tried probably five or six "almost" versions of Black Honey that came close, but this one genuinely spooked me. It has the same easy glide, same buildability, and the same refreshingly hydrating effect. It was a two-pack so I gave one to my BFF, another Black Honey fan, who also could not detect the difference!" Promising review: "Better than Clinique! I bought this one on a whim but never liked the real Black Honey Almost Lipstick by Clinique, since it tends to run red on me. This shade, in my opinion, is exactly what Black Honey SHOULD be, as it looks more like Black Honey in pictures. For the price, it can’t be beat, so I’m buying more." —HAC Get it from Amazon for $6.99 (also available in the pink honey version, and in a two-pack that mixes both!). My colleague Jenae Sitzes uses it: "The packaging similarities are impossible to ignore, but that's not where the comparisons between this E.l.f. sunscreen and Supergoop's cult-fave product end. I've tried both, and I honestly prefer this E.l.f. version. Supergoop's had a slight graininess to it that I didn't love, while this E.l.f. sunscreen is exactly what I'd hoped Supergoop's would feel like: totally smooth and velvety. Like Supergoop's, it goes on totally clear and doesn't feel like you're wearing a mask; it sinks in immediately. And of course, a major selling point: A 1.7-ounce bottle of E.l.f. Suntouchable will cost you $14, while Supergoop's Unseen Sunscreen in the same size will put you back $38. Now, it's worth noting that Supergoop's Unseen Sunscreen has SPF 50, while E.l.f.'s product offers SPF 35. Both of these meet the American Academy of Dermatology's recommendation of using a sunscreen with SPF 30 or more, which blocks 97% of the sun's UVB rays. Anything over SPF 30 offers only slightly more protection (and nothing can block 100% of the sun's rays), yet the higher number, the more brands tend to charge. So do with that info what you will! This isn't the only SPF I use, but I love having it in my arsenal, especially when I do want to layer makeup on top!" Promising review: "This sunscreen is a gem. I was not expecting to love it as much as I do. I absolutely love E.l.f. products, but I rarely try their skincare. Something told me to try this. When I put it on, it gave a smooth silicone finish and feel. I was faithful to Supergoop but didn't want to spend as much as the product is listed for. I will continue to use this sunscreen; it has been one of the best I’ve ever tried. I’ve been into skincare since I was 15; I am 37, and for me to say that this product is a gold mine is rare." —Angelina S. Get it from Amazon for $14 (available in two sizes and as a two-pack). Promising review: "I’ve been buying these for years. They replaced my Ray-Bans that look identical! Fit great and with the price point, I don’t have to worry too much with my kids and being on the go!" —Jessica M Get a pack of three from Amazon for $16.99+ (available in 12 sets, as well as packs of two and individual pairs). It's suitable for all hair types! Reviewers with everything from straight, fine hair to thick, curly hair said it worked for them. Promising review: "I have really thick, dark, straight-ish hair and this is the best hair oil I have ever used. I used to use an $80 Gisou hair oil, and I can gladly say that this product does work waaaaaay better than those expensive oils. I trust Korean skincare and I know the quality is better, so obviously hair care has to be better too right? This makes my hair soooo soft and it takes away all of the frizz from my hair. It smells really good and it smells fresh and clean. This bottle has lasted me soooo much longer than I expected. A little goes a long way. I love using it after the shower on damp hair, but also on dry hair. It is just an amazing hair oil and I will never use anything else but this." —Brianna Get it from Amazon for $18.77+ (available in two sizes, as a mist, and five other formulas). Promising review: "Wow wow wow!!! 🤩 This blanket is so soft and the colors and image is so vibrant! The material is great. Lightweight but also snuggly weighted, I don’t know how to describe it. I almost bought the one from Anthropologie, but this is exactly like it [for] way less price! I think I’ll be gifting a few of these because they are so nice!" —Amy Get it from Amazon for $34.39+ (available in five sizes and 17 styles). BuzzFeed Shopping writer Emma Lord says: "I bought these on Prime Day, which is the only day I will buy leggings because I hate wearing leggings with a burning passion. My 'I'm not like other girls' bit is that for some reason I am always comfier in jeans than leggings. BUT NOT THESE!!! They slide on. The fabric is so lightweight and breathable that it feels like a whisper. The band is so deceptively comfortable that sometimes I'm like, 'Am I still wearing them??' I use them to run outdoors because that is the only circumstance I'll wear leggings, and I'm happy to report that after several washes, they are durable and compressive enough to withstand workouts. They would be excellent for lounging if I weren't wired in this odd anti-legging way. I have already bought two more pairs and made my friends buy them, too. Promising review: "Super comfy. I usually don’t write reviews, but I tried these first before buying Lulu, and these are the most comfortable leggings for everyday and even for workouts. Highly recommended!" —Criselle Johnson Get them from Amazon for $29+ (available in women's sizes XXS–XXL, two inseams, and 21 styles). Promising review: "I am LOVING this 'ONE AND DONE' product. I'd watched a few videos about how wonderful having this dual-ended item was; blush on one side, bronzer on the other. I needed something easy for travel, and I love creamy textures, so I thought I'd try them. WOW; I'm in love. They glide across the skin, blend out, and look very natural. The value is fantastic compared to other dual-ended makeup sticks. The smell is light and a touch tropical." —Vanessa Sykes Get it from Amazon for $14.97 (available in four shade combos). If you're wondering what oud is, think of the smell of fallen trees in the woods after a hard rain. Lulu Candles is a US-based small business that specializes in scented candles and perfumes. Promising review: "I was staying over at a friend's house and sitting next to her coffee table. She had this candle on the table and even though it wasn't lit I could smell it, and it was so delicious that I instantly went online to find it and bought it for myself! If this came in a perfume I would buy enough to last the rest of my life. I don't know how to even explain the scent but if you are an amber/patchouli/vanilla fan, this is absolutely for you. The jasmine adds an unbelievable freshness without a flowery scent. I even bought the shampoo and conditioner which I will probably use as more of a body wash and shaving cream but that is how desperate I am to get this scent on me!" —Melissa I. Get it from Amazon for $18+ (available in seven sizes, in gift box options, in packs of two, and in a variety of scents). Promising review: "I have a real diamond tennis bracelet that I don’t always like to travel with or wear in the water. This is the perfect swap! The quality for the price is amazing, and it shines like it’s real. I’ve worn it all summer in the pool, and it hasn’t tarnished at all." —Sarah Reeves Buzzfeed Shopping writer Emma Lord says: "For what it's worth, Pavoi — the company behind this piece — has gone TikTok viral time and time again for its classic, modern, and expensive-looking pieces. I personally own almost all my "daily wear" jewelry from Pavoi and swear by it (particularly this gold-plated ring and these chunky gold-plated earrings!). Everything is so easy to accessorize and makes my outfits look and feel so much more put together, and the pieces are so durable that they're easily worth twice what I paid. Check out the rest of Pavoi's line of jewelry for more options, including earrings, bracelets, and anklets!" Get it from Amazon for $19.95+ (available in three colors, two styles, and three sizes). Promising review: "Took years off my eyes! This product in 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." —Placeholder Get it from Amazon for $6 (available in four shades). Popilush is a small business that specializes in activewear and shapewear. Promising review: "Run to get this! PURCHASE!! I ordered a large — I’m usually wearing an XL, however, it fit perfectly. It does not cut off my thighs, so so comfy! No bra needed, will be a staple this summer. It’s not overly thick, but it’s not cheap material. I’m obsessed!" —Andrea Get it from Amazon for $29.99 (available in women's sizes S–XXL and eight colors). Check out a TikTok of the E.l.f. tubing mascara in action. Buzzfeed Shopping writer Emma Lord says: "I am not a new human to the tubing mascara game, and in fact 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 $8 (available in three shades). Promising review: "Don't hesitate, just buy these. I was using the Real Technique sponges for years and bought these on a whim after seeing several TikToks praising these. I love these sponges and the price. I apply liquid foundation with a damp sponge and these work better than Real Techniques. They are dense but soft and 'bouncy.' I wash mine between each use and these hold up very well and much better than the RT. Very happy with my purchase and the price. Will definitely continue to buy." —chris Get a set of five from Amazon for $5.66+ (available in four sets of colors). BuzzFeed Shopping editor Jenae Sitzes says: "I've used Ecotools brush cleaning shampoo for years, and it makes cleaning my brushes so much easier. I just add a bit of the shampoo to my brush and gently rub it against a silicone mat under running water, and it makes quick work of removing all the makeup that's built up on my brush for, frankly, way too long. You'll see the water start running brown immediately, which is always super gross but also really satisfying, and once you see your brush return to its original color, you know you're done. And the bristles are always left as soft as before too!" Promising review: "The best, most affordable brush and sponge shampoo on the market! No joke, I have tried everything; even homemade hacks like dish detergent mixed with olive oil. Nothing works like this brush shampoo. Don't waste your money on the Beautyblender soap and other big-name brands." —Lily Promising review: "At first, I was a little skeptical — I have been wanting to find a Skims-like material shirt for a while but didn't want to pay the price of one, lol, and this shirt feels amazing. I will be getting one in every color now." —Julianne Get it from Amazon for $9.99+ (available in women's sizes XXS–3XL and 29 colors). It's designed to fit laptops up to 15.6 inches. Promising review: "I purchased this tote to opt for a more classy look. I love it!!! Would definitely recommend. Great for college students’ textbooks and laptop. It comes with over six compartments and has plenty of storage!" —Talia Arielle Get it from Amazon for $32.59+ (available in six colors). Promising review: "I love these! So great for yoga or mat Pilates. I like that they are 2 pounds each, which is the perfect weight, and you can even take off weight as well. I use them every week for my workouts. Very durable band as well!" —Robyn Get a pair from Amazon for $22.99 (available in two sizes and 15 colors). 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 reviews: "This product is magic in a bottle!!! I have been struggling to find a good skincare routine that will remove my acne scars and dark spots on my face. I will forever buy this product! I’ve only been using this for two weeks and noticed a huge difference right away! I am so excited to clean my face in the morning and at night now! I also bought the Cerave hydrating cleanser, moisturizer, and eye cream, and they have been amazing as well! CeraVe is the best! Don’t think twice about this product, just buy it!!!" —mallory brook bravo "I've been using this for a month or two! I definitely notice smoother skin and less breakouts. Wish I’d tried this sooner. Currently only using 2–3 times/week!" —Rachy Unlike other hair dryers, this one can be held closer to the roots and scalp for a higher volume and lift, and helps you curl hair at the end while it dries. It comes with three heat settings and is designed to work on all hair textures — reviewers with 2a–4c hair mentioned it worked for them, and especially noted that it helps cut down on drying time! 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 the 2.0 model from Amazon for $45.05+ (available in seven styles, including an older model). Many reviewers with curl types 4a–c prefer the oval brush, but if you're looking to blow out tighter curls or coils, try the Revlon One-Step paddle brush instead. This model is made for users with curlier hair. You can get it for $24.02. Reviewers of this brush also say it's the best thing they've bought for their hair! Promising review: "Really well constructed. Comfortable fabric. I don't wear shorts, so these will be great for summer. The fit is great. I ordered these pants in three more colors the day after the first pair arrived. Excellent value!" —Montana Fam Get it from Amazon for $29.74+ (available in women's sizes XS–XXL and 14 colors). Promising review: "Saw Urban Outfitters had a tomato lamp for $100 and said hell naw. But then this lamp came along from the Amazon gods for just under $30 and no way I could pass up such a sick lamp. Smaller than anticipated but it's immaculate. Runs almost everyday/all day and has been doing great for a year now. Remote has never failed me yet (knock on wood)." —Samantha L. Promising review: "Not only does it work perfectly on my grinder guard, but I used it on a water bottle and a coffee mug, and it was perfectly clean. Had a mint flavor, so that’s the only reason I washed them. Got the coffee stain out and everything." —Rachel 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 Amazon for $15.99+ (available in three sizes as a two-pack). BTW, people also love this for helping heal piercings. Promising reviews: "It works just like my Tower 28 spray. Smells the same and feels the same. It's more product and saves you money. It also comes with two lids, which is perfect for traveling!" —Andrea Benton "Just an FYI, this product has the exact same ingredients as the Tower 28 spray! It's been absolutely amazing at reducing acne and texture! It's also so refreshing and gives a lil' glow. So in love!" —BK Get a 4-ounce bottle from Amazon for $13.99 (available in fives and in multipacks). My colleague Maitland Quitmeyer can vouch for these: "I bought a pack of these recently, and so far love dusting with them! All the dust sticks right on, so you don't end up breathing in all the dust you just tried removing. It's great for baseboards, too!" Promising review: "I rarely review products, but this little sponge literally changed my life! It picks up EVERYthing in one swipe! Hard water marks on your bathroom mirror, no problem! Hair clippings on your sink and counter, one swipe and they are gone! Dusty blinds? Swoosh, swoosh, swipe! And ala-presto ka-bam, like magic, they are perfect and dust-free! I just need one of these for my floors! I love, love, love how the sponge picks up everything, and with a little running water, all the dust, hair, muck, and guck just rinsed away! This will not disappoint! Thank you!" —DayDreamer Get a four-pack from Amazon for $9.99+ (available in six color combos and in packs of two or eight). It's designed to work on all hair types, with reviewers with 2b–4c curls mentioning it worked for them! Promising review: "Like many others, I tried this as a replacement for Olaplex. Honestly, Olaplex never had a great effect on my hair and certainly wasn’t worth the price. This did an unreal job on my hair!! I was skeptical (tried a little bit first because I was petrified it would burn off my hair and I would end up bald!) but, lo and behold, it was magic! My hair is so strong, silky, and healthy looking after just one use. Plus you can’t beat the price! Have already ordered another box. I should also add I have curly/wavy hair that’s been colored to a light brown. Buy it!!" —BB Promising reviews: "My favorite sheets have to be Cozy Earth. But they are way too pricey for a guest bed. These sheets are just as good without the huge price tag. Side by side comparison to these versus expensive brands like Cozy Earth or Peacock Alley — these sheets are thinner and deeper, which actually fit better on our deep mattress with a 3-inch topper. These sheets are just as cool feeling as the higher-end ones when you get in bed. They wash well. They hardly wrinkle. And even after months of use, they are still in great shape. They haven’t started to peel yet or fray. No loose threads or tears. Great sheets!" —Susan "We have Egyptian cotton sheets that were expensive and I promise we have changed them back out for the comfort of these sheets. The cotton sheets were cold and these were just right. The other thing is my husband has thin skin that any nick he will bleed. Well he has bled on these white sheets and when we washed them (in cold water as instructed) the blood always comes out and never stains. I can't say enough great things about them except to say all three of my adult kids are receiving a set as part of their Christmas!" —Sheree Chrestman Get a set of queen sheets from Amazon for $29.97+ (available in sizes twin–California king, plus sheet sets with deep pockets for taller mattresses and 45 colors and patterns). BuzzFeed Shopping editor Maitland Quitmeyer says: "This is my go-to satin pillowcase. I have two Slip pillowcases, and several of these, and actually the Bedsure ones wash up much nicer and retain an incredibly silky smooth feel after dozens of trips through the laundry. They're the only ones I'll buy going forward, and I recommended them to my mom and now she's in love with them too!" Promising review: "My hair has never been better! I got this because of TikTok and it has done wonders for my hair. My hair isn’t frizzy or dull looking when I get up in the morning." —Aaron Key Get a set of two from Amazon for $7.99+ (available in four sizes, 35 colors, and in packs of four or individually). Promising review: "Love these drops. So effective, a little goes a long way. Great for a boost of hydration, especially in the colder and/or drier months. Great as a primer before makeup to smooth the skin. Such a value for a product that packs a punch. My skin hasn't looked better!" —Ken These require three AAA batteries per candle that will last you about 150 hours. Promising review: "I like that you can control the brightness with the remote and timer selection is just not one selection, that is the first time I have seen a remote for candles with lots of options. These candles are better than my expensive flameless Luminara candles and look just like a real candle. This is my second set and I just purchased a third set. You won't regret this purchase." —Experiencedandiknowit Get the set of three from Amazon for $25.99 (available in four colors/styles). Promising review: "I have Fenty Cherry Treat, a lip oil from Dior, and several other brands that were $20 or more…and the Nyx Fat Oil is better! Same consistency as the others, but a little more color, which is a good thing. About as long lasting as any other thick lipgloss. It’s always awesome to find a less expensive [option] for the high-end products I like." —Jennifer Get it from Amazon for $9.49 (available in 14 shades). It's great for many skin types, including sensitive, oily, dry, and combination! It's recommended that you do a patch test 24–48 hours before applying this all over your face, as it's a strong, concentrated formula. After that, apply three to five drops once daily and follow with a moisturizer (ideally one with SPF if you apply in the morning!). Though the bottle looks small, reviewers say it'll last you several months with daily use. Promising reviews: "Best $20 ever spent!!! The results are unbelievable. I was a bit skeptical because all the reviews were from Caucasian [people], and I was slightly worried that my skin would not respond as well, but I was quite mistaken. With or without makeup, my skin is bright and smooth, and my spots are disappearing. One other result I am sure a number of people have not noticed is that your palms get softer too; I guess the residue on the palms makes it soft and supple." —Mayowa O. Get it from Amazon for $19.99+ (available in two sizes). BuzzFeed Shopping editor Elizabeth Lilly says: "I wear a size L/XL in clothing, and sometimes waist bags just don't work out so well for me. With this one, I can confirm that it fits around my waist comfortably without outerwear, across my chest without outerwear, *and* over a thick coat and several layers. The pockets inside are so handy, and I even had room to spare throughout my Iceland trip. Just make sure that you zip the zipper ALL the way because the zipper goes down pretty far on the sides for easier access to contents." Promising review: "I’m SOO impressed with the quality of this bag! I’ve worn the Lululemon belt bag, and I gotta say, this is pretty similar. Almost identical, except the Lululemon is a tiny bit smaller size. The Lululemon one also has a plastic zipper, but this Amazon one is metal. I prefer the plastic, but this one is OK. It might be better than Lululemon JUST for the fact that they have so many color options!" —Em Get it from Amazon for $13.98+ (available in 39 styles). Just in case you do have a spill, this suede cleaning kit should help you out. Promising review: "Great slipper. Easily compares to my Uggs for so much less. Run long and narrow. I can comfortably wear them with socks or without." —Laurie Get it from Amazon for $49.99 (available in women's sizes 6–11, wide sizes, and five colors). Joy Jolt is a small business that specializes in modern and pop culture-themed drinkware and kitchen accessories. Promising review: "These square wine glasses are just like the ones from Crate & Barrel but half the cost. So worth the money. They come well packaged and look so good on display. Buy them, you won't regret it!" —Heather W. Get a set of two from Amazon for $13.95 (available in three styles). Elizabeth Mott is a Korean American woman-owned biz! Promising review: "I am very happy with this purchase! The primer lasted on my client for 14 hours, including 10 hours of on-camera work and running around doing interviews. Pleased as punch! This is what I needed to hear! Finding a good shadow primer is like the holy grail in the life of a makeup artist. I have used many products and wasted a lot of money and I believe I found a winner with Elizabeth Mott’s product! I am thankful and impressed!" —Miss Lilly BuzzFeed Shopping is service journalism first: our writers and editors spend all day shopping so you don’t have to, vetting products, fact-checking brand claims, and surfacing what actually helps in real life. We center readers over revenue, recommend products with authenticity (using real experiences, not ad-speak), and reflect our diverse audience, inclusive of a variety of price points, people, and needs. We cut through fake deals, favor useful info over glossy fluff, and recommend both budget and splurge options with context so you can decide what’s right for you — and still have a little fun along the way. Reviews in this post have been edited for length and/or clarity.
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