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I’m so glad we’re finally in the age of drugstore tubing mascara.

I'm a Shopping Editor who uses my passion for hitting "add to cart" (and my 8+ years in media) to curate the best products on the web — I'm particularly passionate about finding the best beauty products, which probably stems from my days of working at Lush Cosmetics, where I learned about effective skincare ingredients while getting covered in bath bomb dust every day.

Beauty products are getting *ridiculously* expensive, but luckily, affordable alternatives are popping up more than ever before. The days of having to spend $30+ for makeup, skincare, and haircare products that actually work are truly over. Whether you need a firming cream for your "bum bum," a lip balm that'll deeply moisturize for under $5, or a setting spray you won't feel guilty for overspraying, we found 31 beauty products that give high-end results without the high-end prices.

Promising review: "Better than Brazilian Bum Bum! It works! Smells great! Non-greasy and sinks right in. I was conflicted about writing this review because I don’t want it to sell out!" —smg

"I’m a sensitive skin girlie, and I love the whole coconut line from Palmer's, but I especially love this cream! I have used the original Bum Bum Cream, but it broke me out in a rash, so I couldn’t use it. This is better than the Bum Bum Cream for me. First, the scent is divine and tropical-smelling, but not overpowering, which I appreciate. The texture is nice and thick, and it absorbs well onto my skin. It does seem to have a little shimmer to it, but it’s barely noticeable, and I actually like it! This didn’t break me out or give my sensitive skin any rash, just leaves your legs looking flawless all day! Definitely worth it! Definitely recommend, it’s my new favorite moisturizer." —Francesca

Promising review: "Buy this! If I could rate this with 10 stars, I would. This oil is so nourishing for my nails, cuticles, and skin. A little oil goes a long way. After dabbing it on the top of my fingers, I rub it all over my hands. My nails (no polish) have not looked better. My cuticles look great, too. The fragrance, oh boy, it smells so nice. It does take a lot of rubbing to get the oil to absorb, but it absorbs completely. This has to be my favorite nail/skin treatment I have ever bought. I highly recommend this!!!" —Amy G.

Get it from Amazon for $9.79+ (available in 14 scents).

Promising reviews: "I love the warm terracotta color! The stick is easy to apply and blends well! I love this product!" —Jamie W.

"I purchased this based on the recommendation of an Instagram influencer, but I'm glad I did... the color is lovely. I'm fair-skinned and bought the Baby Pink, and it looks really natural on my skin." —Amazon Customer

Get it from Amazon for $9.99 (available in three colors).

Promising review: "These are fantastic. I bought all four, and I hope they add more colors. They are giving Patrick Ta, but better, at a fraction of the cost. They really last all day individually, but if you want you can layer them for even more color saturation. The textures are great, easy application. The two pinks are very pigmented and vibrant, so go easy at first. Highly recommend." —Joan A.

Get it from Amazon for $7 (available in four shades).

Promising review: "Alright… let me give you the lowdown on what an amazing product this is. I’m not lying when I say it does EXACTLY what it says it’s supposed to do. I bought the tube eight months ago, and I use it daily. A pea-size amount is perfect for my neck area. The tube lasts a long time. I still have some left and bought it again. It’s scentless and rubs in quickly and smoothly, leaving no greasy feeling behind whatsoever. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but figured I’d give it a try. I always hated my hangy double chin. After eight months, I have the tightest, most beautiful neck. Dude, I have a new neck! I am delighted!! I think I paid like $12 for it at the time. Worth it!!! I will use this stuff every day for the rest of my life. Gold Bond makes amazing products." —Gloria Betters

Get it from Amazon for $11.97 (also available in a two-pack).

I am the world's #1 Rhode Peptide Lip Treatment fan. It's my absolute favorite nighttime formula (it's THICK, so it's not my go-to daytime balm) and always makes my lips feel super smooth when I wake up in the morning. However, I am not a huge fan of the $20 price tag, so I've been on the hunt for something more affordable that I can swap to every now and then. This is it! I wasn't expecting much for the $5 price tag, and was expecting even less when I realized it wasn't as thick as the Rhode treatment upon first application, but the results were almost exactly the same. My lips felt super soft and smooth the next morning. The only difference? Rhode is so thick that I can still feel some of it on my lips after 8 hours, while this is usually fully absorbed by the time I wake up. And Rhode's scents are a little stronger, but that's a worthy trade-off for such a huge price difference.

Promising review: "Skip the Laneige and Rhode products and get this!!! This is better than any of the other expensive lip treatments I’ve tried.

This is PERFECT for sensitive skin. A ton of lip products cause my lips to peel, but I have been using this for two weeks, and my lips have never felt better... This is going to be the only thing I put on my lips for the foreseeable future. WORTH IT a million times over." —Nick R.

For reference, the Laneige lip mask contains 20 grams of product, while each of these measures 5 grams, or 15 grams for the entire set. So, even with product sizes taken into account, these are a much better deal! 

Promising review: "It’s been four months since ordering this, and it’s now part of my nightly routine. I can’t go to bed before putting this on. I highly recommend this! And it’s worth it to get the three-pack. The flavors are not overly sweet, and I think my favorite is the berry. I like it more than the Laneige night lip mask. For me, Laneige absorbs pretty quickly, and in the morning, I feel like my lips are dry again. With these, my still lips feel moisturized in the morning. It has a thicker consistency. I used to get dry/peeling lips pretty often, as I’m outdoors/in the ocean a lot. However, since incorporating this into my routine, I haven’t had peeling lips in a long time. Loooove these!" —Angela

Get the set of three from Amazon for $9.90 (available in four combos). 

Promising review: "Love this primer + setting spray! You get the perfect amount in the size bottle, and the spray mechanism came and worked perfectly fine. The packaging is sleek and professional, and when applied onto the face, it does not leave skin feeling oily or have that slimy texture left behind as some primers do. When used together with a full face of makeup, I swear it lasted over eight hours with no touch-ups. Perfect, perfect, perfect setting spray + primer choice. Will always buy!" —Lauren Snay

Promising review: "Smells just like YSL Black Opium!! My husband actually commented all day the first day I wore it how much he liked the smell. Lasted quite a while too!" —Kristen S.

Get it from Amazon for $26.12 (also available in four other scents).

Promising review: "I have super frizzy, curly hair and live in New England, where we have super humid summers. I have been struggling to find a product that de-frizzes my hair without making it look oiled down, and this is it. I put it in my wet hair after washing, towel dried, and put my hair in a ponytail to go to work. My hair was frizz free all night — even working outside in high humidity. People even asked if I did something to my hair! This is an amazing product for the price. Absolutely buying again and would recommend to anyone with a frizz issue." —Marissa 

"Awesome product, repeat buyer." —Amanda

Promising review: "This stuff is amazing. It has light to medium coverage. It lasts all day. The oils in my skin usually breakdown foundation but this one stays in place and after a little blotting looks good as new... I just recently purchased the Fenty Eaze Drop Blurring Skin Tint in 6 and like it, but I actually prefer the Wet N Wild Tinted Hydrator better. You can buy six of these for the same price as the Fenty. I’m so happy I tried this." —Nancy

Get it from Amazon for $5.47+ (available in eight shades and also in packs of two).

Promising review: "Saw this on TikTok and after looking around where I live for some clear soap and coming up short I decided to try these out. They are a great value for the price. Super easy to use and give a great effect on the brows." —Linds

Get a set of two with four brushes from Amazon for $7.99 (also available individually and with a bottle of clear brow gel).

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). 

Promising reviews: "I’ve been desperately searching for a more affordable option to Tarte’s Tartelette tubing mascara, and I dare say that I like this mascara better. Definitely worth the purchase." —Michelle

"Each lash was instantly transformed, looking noticeably longer, fuller, and completely free of clumps. The overall effect was so natural that it genuinely looked like I had beautiful lash extensions.

Then came the real test… getting them wet. WOW! Nothing smeared, flaked, or ran. When it was time to remove the mascara, all I needed was warm water and my fingertips. The tiny 'tubes' simply slid off my lashes with no rubbing, pulling, or tugging. My lashes were clean in under a minute. I’ll definitely be buying this again because I’ve finally found 'The One!'" —MysteryGirl

You can check out Vaseline's radiant body oils and lotions for more options! 

Promising review: "I am shocked by how pretty it is and how good it smells. Also, great price and great quality. It’s not too greasy, just really nicely moisturizing :)." —Faith Bremmer 

Promising review: "Like so many, I found this scent on TikTok. I was a bit skeptical at first but finally got around to trying it. First off, this scent smells amazing! Almost every time I've worn it, I receive compliments. It has a sweet smell, almost like warm cake or sugar cookies with a hint of lemon. With such an affordable price, I would definitely recommend this to anyone curious about trying it." —Chrissy

Promising review: "I love this product and have noticed a huge difference when using it consistently. I am on the younger side and don’t have the worst under-eye bags, but on those occasional mornings when my eyes are puffy with somewhat visible dark circles, this product definitely does the trick! Honestly love all the Good Molecules products." —Hayden Smith 

"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 

The color-adaptive formula is designed so one of four 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).

Promising review: "Throughout high school I never knew how to do makeup. But then I heard this product was the absolute best on TikTok. And trust me, they were not lying. It has really good coverage and hides my 'raccoon eyes.' And the best part is that a little bit goes a long way. So if you’re starting out or want to try something new I definitely recommend you try this out." —Liela Lee

Get it from Amazon for $9.98+ (available in 24 shades).

It's designed to last for up to six weeks.

Promising review: "I used this product years ago and had the most amazing skin, but I assumed it was mostly genetics. Now that my skin is showing signs of aging, I decided to give it another try — and I’m so glad I did. My skin is transforming daily. They say your skin can rebuild itself, and it really does — especially when you remove the buildup of dead skin cells. I’ve been using it morning and night, and I genuinely look younger. My skin feels polished, my pores are noticeably smaller, and I need much less makeup. Such a fantastic product — highly recommend!" —Sweet Caroline 

Promising review: "I love this tinted lip balm! It gives my lips the perfect wash of color while keeping them super soft and hydrated. The texture is smooth and lightweight — not sticky at all — and it feels like I’m just wearing a nourishing balm, but with a natural lipstick look. The tint is buildable too, so I can swipe once for a subtle glow or add more for a deeper pop of color. It’s perfect for days when I want a little something without doing a full face of makeup. Plus, it’s great for touch-ups on the go. Highly recommend if you want moisture and color in one easy step!!" —J.P. 

Get it from Amazon for $6.74+ (available in 10 shades). 

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 a pack of two from Amazon for $8.49 (also available in the pink honey and nude honey versions).

Promising review: "After 30 or so years of looking for a product to give me that wet and curly look while holding moisture, I have found it. Smells wonderful and is easy to apply. I can use it on wet hair or if I need to revitalize my curls the next day. I use a lot of this brand's products and will continue to do so!" —Ambeezy Conyeezy

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 five sets).

Promising reviews: "I have used Moroccanoil for years and decided to give this a shot. This is better than Moroccanoil and I will be buying again. It keeps my hair soft and smooth even in summer humidity. Great product." —Caitlin K.

"This product is a legit alternative to the Ouai hair oil. They smell identical, they feel exactly the same, and they left my hair shiny and soft. And most importantly it saved me some money for the future." —Brianna Reed

Get it from Amazon for $9.99 (available in packs of two and four).

Read more about nail care, including how nail strengtheners may help nails, at Mayo Clinic.

Promising reviews: "My Dior nail glow ran out and I saw this brand had a [lookalike} for that. I liked this color even more... Excellent everyday, clean-looking polish. Seems stronger than Essie." —reviewer22

"Growing out my nails has always been a challenge for me; I’m guilty of biting and peeling/picking at my nails when I’m nervous. This product has completely changed my nail game. It gives my nails a hard protective coating, and the tint of pink makes even my stubby nails look professional and pretty." —Andi

Promising review: "Ok, so I absolutely LOVE this stuff! I tried it on a whim after hearing a few different people rave about it. I had tried a similar product from Rhode and was not really 'wowed' by it, but thought it was still a nice product. This milky toner, however, blew me away. I apply it after washing my face with my hands and gently pat it in, and it just leaves a moisturized, dewy finish. I also have recently started mixing it in with my foundation when I apply it to my makeup and it’s been a game changer. Since it’s winter and I live in the northeast, I have had issues with my foundation being really dry lately — this has solved it. It leaves a beautiful satin finish. For the price point, amount of product, and versatility, you just can’t beat it. Will be repurchasing!" —talon12

Promising reviews: "Love this product. I always use it, and I am a sweaty person!! 😅 I sweat easily.. not even kidding. I compare it to the One Size and I have to say that I do like this one much better. It really doesn’t budge." —Zully B

"This works just as well as the One Size. I have very oily skin and need a high-quality setting spray, and this one works amazing! Skip the expensive one and try this!!" —Shopgirl

Get it from Amazon for $10.98 (also available in a pack of two).

Promising reviews: "Love these better than my glow recipe! Better because it doesn't have the smell... Makes my skin feel amazing and so juicy! Great value for the money." —Tiffany T.

"I've used Glow Recipe's Watermelon Dew Drops, and while I liked the product I wasn't too fond of the strong scent or the price point. The texture, finish, and feel of this product is pretty much identical, but without the fragrance and at a better value. Smooth, absorbs quickly, works well as a lightweight primer that doesnt pill with makeup, and subtly evens skin tone over time." —K.C.

Get it from Amazon for $11.97 (available in two sizes). 

It's designed for all hair types, though reviewers with thin to wavy hair seem to have the most success.

Read more about how biotin shampoo could help with the fullness of hair at Cleveland Clinic. 

Promising review: "If you're anything like me, you have a giant basket under your sink overflowing with hair products you've tried and eventually abandoned as you continue your mission to find the holy grail. Well, folks, you have found it! (One of them, at least.) Having naturally curly hair that I bleach on a regular basis, my haircare routine/products must be on point. I have tried dozens upon dozens of conditioners, whether they be deep, leave-in, masks, or your run-of-the-mill standard conditioner. I will say of all of them, this is one of my top favorites that I continue to purchase and keep in rotation; it leaves my hair feeling incredibly soft with no oily or heavy residue, and best of all, the scent is dreamy." —LKru

Get it from Amazon for $9.98+ (available in three sizes)

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Plus, finds from Amazon, Glossier, Soko Glam, 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.

The reviews used in this post have been edited for length and clarity.