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27 Easy, Affordable Products For Beauty Beginners Who Don’t Know Where To Start
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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 For anyone who’s ever stared at a beauty aisle like it was a final exam they forgot to study for. I am a contributor who has been writing for the BuzzFeed Shopping team since 2020; as a film nerd and long-term pop culture enthusiast, I bring an engaging, conversational voice to my work and love discovering and testing new products to share with readers. Promising review: "Beginner friendly! I don’t wear makeup that often do to the fact I’m not so good at it, and doing my own eyeliner was so hard for me to do. I was always so scared to get to the eyeliner part when doing my makeup lol. Until now! This eyeliner is so easy to use. I got the 10mm for an event I was having and I love it. I’m definitely going to want the 8mm for an everyday look and the 12mm for when I’m going out and feeling a little extra with a bigger wing. Definitely recommend!! 👍" —Carolina Carrillo Get it from Amazon for $17.99 (available in three sizes and as a multi-pack). Promising review: "I have had this on all day and no smudging and so easy to apply. I am not sure why but one eyelid has always been harder for me to do. This makes it super easy to get both lines even on each eyelid. Great for beginners!!!!!!" —BRENDA JAPCHEN Get it from Amazon for $24+ (available in 11 colors). BUT we want to add that no one should feel pressure to lay their edges, unless they want to! Check out, "Just A Friendly PSA That You Don't HAVE To Lay Your Edges Down If You Don't Wanna." Promising review: "I love this edge control!! At first, I was very skeptical because I didn’t know how to use it properly. It would leave a white residue on my edges. Once I started adding water while applying the product, it made a huge difference, and it no longer leaves any residue at all. It also lasts a long time and is easy to refresh throughout the day. My biggest tip is to use it with water it works amazingly well!" —Khia Promising reviews: "These are great! Once you get the hang of it it’s such an easy way to get cute hair the next day. I wore them almost every night of vacation so that my hair looked great the next day with minimal time spent doing my hair. The picture is after a full day of wearing the curls with no hairspray! They get looser throughout the day but such a cute wave! You can make the curls tighter or looser based on how close you wrap it. Easy to sleep in. I’m a big fan!" —Amazon reviewer "I've been wanting to get a heatless hair curler for a long time after hearing my coworkers talk about using one and coming in with beautiful curls to work. I chose this one for the softness and different style of curls I could get from using it. I love that I can wrap my hair up in it at night, sleep without interruption from some bulky curlers, wake up and easily remove in the morning, and have flawless curls. I just remove the curler in the morning, run my fingers through all the pieces, and spray some hairspray. I have extremely thick hair which tends to get heavy and not hold curls, but this, along with the hairspray, would keep my curls fluffy all day long. It's at a great price point and I've not had any issues with it (have had for several months now). Would definitely recommend this one!" —Krystina J Get it from Amazon for $14.99+ (available in six colors). Promising review: "I adore this little guy! I use it whenever I am overheated or have puffy eyes from crying, and it helps immensely! The cool metal feels fantastic against my skin when it's hot, and it helps soothe under my eyes after a nice cry. It's super simple and easy to use! My mother borrowed mine so much that she eventually got her own. It is very refreshing, and I definitely recommend it just for a soothing coolness you can apply any time. :)" —Katie Get it from Amazon for $12.95 (available in three formulas). Promising review: "I needed to buy a certain amount of Ulta Collection to get a GWP and decided to give this a try. It looked like fancier all-in-one cheek compacts and it was cheaper. I really love this little palette! The bronzer looks really nice, and the highlighter and the lilac/rose blush go well together. The only thing I can foresee is that the bronzer is a much bigger proportion of the compact than the other two, so I don't know whether I'll run out fast of the highlighter and blush. But for now, this a really quick and easy way to add some shape and color to my face!" —Alyssa Get it from Ulta for $18 (available in three color combos). Promising review: "Easy to apply and great alone or under makeup. Nice, light texture." —Only1 PureEssenceFragrance is a small business that makes handcrafted soaps and scented candles in small batches. Promising review: "Exactly what I was looking for. Easy to use, great lather, and smells amazing." —Tina Get it from PureEssenceFragrance on Etsy for $12+ (available in 10 scents and with the option of a soap-saving net). Promising reviews: "I’ve been in love with this serum for four years now. It makes my skin look healthy and glowy. Helped with my acne and acne scars. No fragrance. Size is great, last around 4–6 months depending if I use evening as well. Easy to pump and use."—Mikelle "As someone with sensitive skin, I really appreciate products that are both effective and gentle—and this one delivers. The Cosrx Snail Mucin Repairing Serum absolutely lives up to the hype. It’s simple, straightforward, and consistently effective. I use it after cleansing and applying a hydrating toner. In the morning, I layer my daily SPF on top, and it noticeably boosts hydration throughout the day. In the evening, I apply it before tretinoin, followed by moisturizer, and it helps buffer potential irritation while keeping my skin comfortable. It’s lightweight, deeply hydrating, and non-irritating—this has easily become a staple in both my morning and evening routines. For the price, it’s an incredible value. I have repurchased many times and will continue to do so. The only thing to note is the texture—it has that signature slightly sticky, 'snail mucin' feel. Personally, I find it comforting and protective, but I can see how it might not be for everyone." —Pam S. Get it from Amazon for $12.99 (also available as a two-pack). Promising reviews: "It goes on smoothly and doesn't feel cake-y. It matches my skin and it's so beginner friendly!" —Lilly Eckhart "I love this BB cream. It provides great coverage while still looking natural on the skin. The texture is smooth, easy to apply, and blends very well. It helps even out skin tone and feels lightweight throughout the day. The SPF protection is an added bonus, and the finish looks fresh and healthy. I would definitely purchase this product again." —Maryiris sarantes Get it from Amazon for $14.90 (available in seven shades). Promising review: "I will continue to reorder these! They are like magic, I wish they were around when I was a teenager! They make such a difference overnight. Great value as there are so many in each pack. Easy to peel off; I usually just do it when I am washing my face to make it even easier. I have never had an issue causing irritation on my skin." —Megan Get a 36-count pack from Amazon for $12.99 (also available in 72- and 75-counts). Promising review: "Easy to apply, easy to blend, easy to wash off at the end of the day. This stick is not greasy, but rather soft on the skin. It provided a soft and easy-going color after blending. I like that there is no noticeable fragrance. I feel this was a good purchase and provided great value for the money!" —J. Barz Get it from Amazon for $6 (available in seven shades). Promising reviews: "I have tried countless conditioning treatments, but nothing compares to the Moroccanoil Restorative Hair Mask. I saw incredible results after just one use! My hair went from dry/frizzy to unbelievably soft, shiny, and smooth. It absorbs quickly without feeling greasy and smells divine. If you're on the fence, get it-your hair will thank you!" —Gris "Thick consistency which feels like a hair mask but non-greasy and easy to wash out. Love the way it feels and it’s making a big difference in my hair repair from color treatments." —J. Meggers Get it from Amazon for $18+ (available in three sizes). Promising review: "Gorgeous finish. Application easy with the wide applicator tip. Looks amazing on it's own and over lipstick/lip stain/lip liner. Somewhat translucent, but the tint is just right. I have fair skin and thin lips...I typically avoided darker lip colors, but I went with a darker lip tint and am loving it. Definitely recommend." —Meredith Get it from Amazon for $8 (available in 10 colors). Promising reviews: "WOW! My upper lip was disgustingly chapped. I put lip balm on it, and my lip soaked it up immediately. I tried this stuff and was shocked at how well it did. It literally rubbed all of the dead skin off my lip, and my lip feels amazing. I know it sounds too good to be true, but this is for real! I’ll be interested to see if my lip starts scabbing over tomorrow. As for now, though, it feels great and looks great." —Gregory Scott "Easy to use. Tastes good in case you lick it. leaves your lips smooth and hydrated." —Archana Patel Promising review: "I’ve been using Neutrogena Makeup Remover for a while now, and it does an amazing job at removing makeup quickly and easily. It takes off everything — even waterproof mascara — without needing to rub too hard. What I really like is how gentle it feels on my skin. It doesn’t leave any irritation or greasy residue, and my face feels clean and refreshed after using it. It’s also super convenient, especially the wipes they’re perfect for travel or those nights when you’re too tired for a full routine. The only downside is that the wipes can dry out if the package isn’t sealed properly, so make sure to close it tightly. Overall, a reliable and effective makeup remover that I always keep on hand!" —Franchesca Landestoy Promising review: I was a little nervous ordering this from Amazon since it was my first time buying ColourPop here and not directly from their website. I half expected to get some random knockoff, but nope, it was the real deal. I got the color Golden Pollen, and OMG, it’s adorable. It’s not a super bold, pigmented eyeshadow, but more of a soft shimmer that gives your lids this pretty, glowy sparkle on naked lids. It’s really cute for everyday wear and honestly feels kind of magical. I love how easy it is to just swipe it on and go. No brushes or blending needed. I have very hooded eyes and usually anything creamy or stick-based ends up creasing or transferring all over, but this one did not! Once I gave it a minute to dry, it stayed exactly where I put it. No smudging, no creasing, and it lasted all day, all night, and the next morning! I didn’t even use eye primer, which is wild to me. I kept checking in the mirror like, 'wow... it’s still there!' I’ve used a few other Shadow Stix colors before, and I’m a big fan of ColourPop in general. Their gel liners are amazing too, super pigmented and smooth. This one just adds to the love. It’s pretty, it’s easy to use. I definitely recommend this item if you like chonky eyeshadow sticks or just want to try something new." —Madam Anastazja Get it from Amazon for $12 (available in four colors). Promising review: "I love this pen cuticle oil. Easy to use and I can easy throw it my purse or car and take with me to use during the day. No fragrance and the oil feel very rich on my skin." —Amazon reviewer Get it from Amazon for $8.99 (available in eight scents). Promising review: "I have VERY oily hair and it’s very long, so washing my hair is a chore so try to wash it every two days. I’ve tried very expensive dry shampoo and every kind that says helps with oily hair. I have use this for a week now and I can’t believe how much it absorbs the oily, adds so much volume and is easy to rub it all in without white residue showing. Love love love!!! —Jordy Get it from Amazon for $6.97 (also available in a two-pack). Promising reviews: "Love this moisturizer!! It is thick but spreads easily. It feels a little sticky until it fully dries, but that doesn’t bother me. I put it on before bed, and when I wake up, my skin is so hydrated and glowy! I will definitely be repurchasing this!" —Kindle Customer "I have been trying to find something that does not feel greasy or heavy that can hydrate my face. This is perfect. It keeps my skin soft and from flaking. It smells good and it easy to use. Cooled my sunburn right down. I use it nightly." —Holly Get it from Amazon for $12.60+ (available in two sizes). Promising reviews: "I bought this on a whim as part of a rouge promotion, and I’m SO glad I did. The compact is actually super nice with a mirror inside, and the cream blush has a cover that flips up/down. The cream blush blends like a dreammmm. Like it goes on so smooth and seamlessly. I’m pretty fair-skinned, and the berry color looks great and isn’t too much, it’s like a perfect natural flush. Overall I’m really happy with this, def my new favorite blush product and the mirror will be handy!" —jessicaeve1023 "Absolutely love this shade, and the pigment is really easy to build; it goes on light and builds nicely so it’s easy to get an even and well-blended look." —meghanvee09 Get it from Sephora for $9 (originally $18; available in three color combos). Promising review: "I’ve been using this cream for about a month now and so far I’m getting excellent results! The skin under my eyes is definitely smoother and lighter. It’s not heavy on your skin and it’s easy to apply. The tube is bigger than the others eye creams out there so it’s a great value for your money!" —Dani Get it from Amazon for $17+ (available in two sizes). Promising review: "I love this sunscreen! The smell is amazing, and the bar shape makes it super easy to apply to my face. Very gentle to your skin, no acne after using it. Living in Florida, this is my go-to sunscreen. It's clear and doesn’t leave a white residue, but be careful not to apply too much, as it can feel oily. Just use a little and spread it with your fingers, and you won’t even remember you have it on!" —Estefania Marcano Promising review: "Easy to apply, nice definition and doesn't clump. Won't add too much volume or length, but creates a natural look instead. For me, it's totally worth the price. Great choice for beginners." —Nancy Promising review: "I have dark circles, and this is the best product I have ever found for covering them. Most other products are difficult to get even coverage. This product covers well, and it stays on." —Wanda H "I bought this concealer because my face has been burning with other concealers and foundations. I read online that mineral based makeup won’t cause this so I looked around for a mineral based concealer, of course all of them were brand name and extremely expensive. I saw this and was unsure of it because it doesn’t have too many reviews but I still gave it a shot. It’s medium to full coverage, hydrating and easy to blend. I’m very happy I did give it a chance. My face also isn’t burning with it I’m so happy! I would recommend this product!" —Molly Get it from Amazon for $10.29+ (available in five shades). Promising review: "I keep coming back to Vanicream products because they just work. This cream is thick and moisturizing without feeling irritating or overly scented. My skin can be sensitive and this has been great, especially during dry weather. I also love the pump container because it’s easy to use and feels more hygienic than sticking your hand in a jar. Simple, effective, and worth buying again." —Gina Marciniak Get it from Amazon for $13.56 (also available in multi-packs). Promising reviews: "This adjustable silk bonnet is perfect for protecting my curls while I sleep. The soft silk material reduces frizz and prevents breakage, keeping my hair smooth and hydrated overnight. The adjustable strap ensures a secure, comfortable fit without slipping off. It’s lightweight and gentle, making it easy to wear all night. A simple but effective way to maintain healthy, beautiful curls—highly recommend!" —Misty "Love the softness and the quality that this is made out of. Really easy to use, keeps your hair from becoming frizzy." —Virginia Hess Get it from Amazon for $13.99+ (available in 17 colors). * TikTok-Famous Beauty Products Reviewers Say They’ll Buy Again * Beauty Items With Such Jaw-Dropping Results, You’ll Be Fully Convinced A Witch Invented Them * Makeup Products Reviewers Actually Go Back To Time And Time Again * Beauty Products That'll Make You Think, "Why Didn't I Start Buying This Years Ago?" * Beauty Products That Can Outlast Whatever Sweat Your Body Throws At Them Plus, lip stains and finds from Sephora, Tarte, and Walmart. 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 for this post have been edited for length and/or clarity.
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