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I’ve decided not to gatekeep my holy grail mascara (you’re welcome).

I’m a resident writer on the BuzzFeed Shopping team covering a variety of topics in a fun and mindful way, including travel, home, beauty, gift guides, and anything that’ll add just a bit of whimsy into people’s lives.

Promising review: "The texture is thick! But it’s a good thick. These feel so smooth on the lips and are very glossy. Currently, my favorite E.l.f. lip product, over the Glow Reviver Oil. Smell is not overwhelming, and neither is taste. I came back to order them all." —Khloe3

Get it from Amazon for $7.97 (available in three shades). 

Check out a TikTok of Gold Bond in action. 

Promising review: "This cream has tightened the skin around my neck beyond my expectations. I’ve been using it daily (morning and evening) for over two months and still have product left. I’ve even tried it on my face and it gives me a bit of a 'face lift.' I’m officially a Bond girl. A bit sticky to the touch after a few hours of wear, but that doesn’t bother me. Will order again." —AP Wang

Get it from Amazon for $11.97 (also available as a three-pack). 

Reviewers mention this has worked on fine straight hair, thick wavy hair, and curls. 

Promising review: "I was not expecting this brush to be so amazing. I usually use a Wet Brush, and NO MORE of that. This one doesn't pull when the Wet Brush did. Feels amazing on my scalp. Just a very refreshing brush to find. I would definitely recommend this to everybody who has a hard time brushing their hair (even kids), very soft, and the price is excellent as well. Love love love this brush. Would definitely buy again and again." —Katy Shoemaker

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

Reviewers do say it has a bit of...spice...to it. So if you experience a tingling sensation, that's totally normal! Some people also said the closer you get to the bottom of the tube, the harder it is to get the product out — you can snag a squeezer to prevent that from happening!

Promising reviews: "At first, I was kind of skeptical. But after a week of using it, there is a difference. The age beige is disappearing. My teeth are much whiter and on the way to being much brighter. My breath is much fresher and without my buds being tasteless. Yes, it does taste and even smell like Pepto Bismol — but it's absolutely magical. No more regular toothpaste that absolutely does nothing but leave an unpleasant scent in your mouth as if you didn't brush." —Angelique Cox

"I have never had a toothpaste make my teeth slay this hard. They’re SO white. I was upset because I had been through so many teeth whitening treatments, and yet my teeth were still yellow and felt stained. It’s been a few days, and my teeth already look at least seven shades lighter. There are so many toothpastes that say 'whitening' and don’t do the job, but this one ACTUALLY whitens, which feels like a rare find. It’s also minty, and my mouth feels super fresh every time I use it. If you’re tired of having yellow teeth, this toothpaste is going to do its job and blow you away!! Never going back to any other toothpaste, I am too in love with these results." —Alexis Myer

Get it from Amazon for $13.99 (also available in larger packs).

Check out a TikTok of the Volufiline plumping serum in action.

Promising reviews: "I am pleasantly surprised with how this has plumped my under eyes. I had tried everything. I've now been using it consistently for a couple of weeks, and I can totally tell the difference. I noticed after week one. Naturally, I was skeptical, but I'm so glad I tried it because no amount of moisturizers and empty promises from other products worked. I recommend 100%" —Crystal

"I am a lip filler girl, and I usually get my lips filled every three to four months, but I cannot afford it anymore, as it's pricey!!! So when I saw this could possibly plump lips, I wanted to try. I started using this less than two months ago, and LET ME TELL YOU, my lips look amazing, and I think I can go months longer without filler. I will be buying this on repeat and it has become a part of my AM and PM routine!!!!!" —Jill

Get it from Ulta or Sephora for $21.40. 

BuzzFeed Shopping writer Emma Lord uses this: "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 and nude honey styles, and individually or variety two- or three-packs). 

This is designed to work on all hair types, with reviewers with 1c–4c hair mentioning it worked for them! 

Promising review: "THIS STUFF IS AMAZING. Super easy to apply. I have fine, curly hair, and it leaves my hair glossy and soft without weighing it down. Works better than any Moroccan Oil, L'Oréal, or Briogeo product I've used and is wayyyyy cheaper. Gifted a bottle to a friend with very thick, curly hair, and they said it works amazingly on them, too. Just do it once a week, and you're set!" —Mid-west

Read our review of Elizavecca CER-100 Collagen Coating Hair Protein Treatment to learn more about why one BuzzFeeder calls it "the miracle product I've been searching for."

The color-adaptive formula is designed so that one of four shades will work on any skin tone. 

Promising review: "I never write reviews, but I bought this on a whim on Prime Day. This stuff is *amazing*. Worth every penny. I often wake up and shower before my kids are up, throw on some moisturizer and sunscreen, do my hair, start errands or school drops off, then put on some makeup later in the morning. This makes me look alive and put together and like less of a tired mom! Better than any concealer I’ve ever used. Brightening without being cake-y, illuminating without being tacky and sparkly. Price makes it 10x better. Will be buying forever." —Kristen H. 

Get it from Amazon for $6 (available in five shades). 

Promising reviews: "I never write reviews, but this eye cream has made a difference on my under eyes! I’ve only been using it for a week and I would definitely recommend it. I’ve bought several eye creams (expensive brands) and never noticed a difference as fast as I’ve seen using this product." —Natalie

"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 $5.97 (available in a pack of two and three). 

Kuumba Made is a small business that specializes in luxury scents at affordable price points. 

Promising review: "This has become my favorite scent! It goes on with a coconut/vanilla scent that turns into a soft musky sweet sandalwood/amber scent. It’s a thicker oil consistency that lasts. I got the small roller bottle that is perfect to keep in my purse and for traveling. I’ll definitely buy again!" —Roberts0816

Get it from Amazon for $12.49+ (available in two sizes) — and check out other scents on Kuumba Made's landing page!

Check out a TikTok of a dermatologist explaining the different ways this can be used! 

Promising review: "My sisters were constantly raving about this toner, so I decided to try it. Since using it, I’ve realized why they love it so much! My skin went from bumpy and textured to smooth and glowy. My clogged pores have completely disappeared. I’ve already recommended this product to a bunch of my friends, and they love it too! I’ve been using this product for about two months, and it’s still doing wonders. Definitely worth buying!" —Noa May

Get it from Amazon for $9+ (available in two sizes and as a pack of two). 

As an oily skin gal who could never find a formula that didn't end up underneath my eyes a few hours in, this mascara bewitched me, body and soul. My thin lashes point downward and don't like to hold a curl, so I'm not sure what magical concoction is in this tube, but with a single coat I've got long, wispy lashes that I can practically hear going *fwoosh fwoosh fwoosh*! The Long Curling has been my go-to for a while and has survived sweaty, humid summers, super long days, and every cry sesh. I don't wear too much makeup, and imo it adds the perfect "medium amount" of volume, length, and definition — but if you prefer, they also have a Volume Curling (which is thicker for a bolder look) and a Fine formula (so pretty for no-makeup days and bottom lashes!). It does dry *super* quickly on my lashes, so I have to move fast while applying, and at the end of the day, I gently rub my eyes with my trusty Anua oil cleanser and have had zero problems with removal (and my lashes are super delicate). I never got complimented on my eyes until I started wearing this, so there's nooo way I'll stop any time soon! 

Get it from Amazon for $14.90 (available in six styles, four colors, a three-pack, and as a remover). 

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 

Reviewers with fine, thick, straight, and curly hair mention this works for them. 

Checkout a TikTok of the K18 AirWash Dry Shampoo in action. 

Promising review: "What sorcery is this????? I have found my holy grail dry shampoo!!!!! I was shocked, SHOCKED, from first application. I have thick, pin straight, Asian black hair, so dry shampoos usually have the same issue of showing up in my hair. I’ve been on the hunt for a dry shampoo that does what it claims — absorbs oil, 'cleans', doesn’t smell atrocious, and doesn’t show up on my dark hair! I’ve tried them all!! As a mom of two toddlers, I need something QUICK that WORKS. THIS IS IT. It sprays on wet (I know, I was skeptical too), and I shimmy my fingers through my scalp/hair. You guys — it literally SHAMPOOS your hair. It smells so light and fresh! I tried it for the first time on day five hair and it far exceeded any expectations I have. Then it dries within seconds and poof I have magical, clean hair. I don’t usually leave reviews for products, but for this, I simply had to. 500000 stars. Still in shock." —Hope

Promising review: "I was very skeptical about this product. I thought it was another celeb 'paid and promoted' kind of thing. I use it as a mask only on and around the T-zone. It greatly reduced whiteheads and blackheads! It’s a miracle! Usually, I could feel the white head bumps. It now looks so smooth and clean! I've used it four times so far. Don’t leave it longer than recommended if you are using it as a mask. I felt my skin getting dried out." —solemia2

Get it from Amazon for $17.99 (available as a two-pack and a rice dough formula). 

Promising review: "This is another absolute hit from Medicube. I’m 52 with post-menopausal, dry skin, and I’m very particular about body washes because so many leave my skin feeling tight or stripped. This one has been a standout for me. The first thing I noticed is the scent — a really nice, fresh citrus fragrance that feels clean and uplifting without being overpowering. It makes showering feel refreshing and a bit luxurious. The formula lathers well, rinses clean, and most importantly, it does not dry out my skin. My skin feels comfortable, smooth, and refreshed after using it, not itchy or tight. For post-menopausal dry skin, that’s a big deal. It feels like it cleans effectively while still being gentle and supportive, which is something I consistently appreciate about Medicube products. I use a lot from this brand, and they truly have yet to disappoint me. This is another win, and one I’ll definitely continue using and repurchasing." —TheFaceLadyG

Get it from Amazon for $19.80+ (available in two sizes). 

Psst — Medicube dropped a whole line powered by Kojic Acid and Turmeric (along with this body wash, their other newest addition is this eye serum)!

Promising review: "This is the best nail polish I’ve ever used! I’m a nurse, so I wash my hands A LOT. Normally, I have to paint my nails every two days because they chip so easily. This polish lasted six days! Including two 12-hour shifts! Not a single chip! Plus, it goes on so nicely. Definitely would recommend." —Jenn P

Get it from Amazon for $12.50 (also available in five other shades).  

Check out a TikTok of the Coco Colada body scrub. 

Promising review: "Heavenly. The scent is amazing and makes your legs feel so good after shaving. If you close your eyes while using, you think you are on tropical island!!!" —SBlanks

Get it from Amazon for $8.94 (available in two sizes, a two-pack, and 19 other scents). 

Promising review: "Great sunscreen. Does not break me out or pill when applied under makeup. It’s a very glowy and hydrating sunscreen. If you have oily skin (like I do) I recommend to just use this as a moisturizer (except on eyes) since it works as both. Love how it has added benefits to it so it’s a two-in-one. When I am in a hurry or have an errand to run, I just wash my face and slap it on because I know it’s going to hydrate and protect my skin from the sun." —sammy

Promising review: "I love this little sunscreen stick! I am very fair-skinned, and it was recommended by my doctor that I wear sunscreen- and that I reapply before leaving work each day. I didn't want to carry around a bottle of sunscreen so I decided to try this out. It is so convenient! It doesn't leave me shiny. It doesn't leave me sticky. It goes on smoothly and feels perfect. It's a pretty small size, but I already bought another one. It does leave a slight residue on black clothing but that was only when I directly ran the stick over the fabric." —Amanda

Get it from Amazon for $23 (also available in a glowy formula, a two-pack, and a liquid style).

Reviewers with 2b–4c hair mentioned this works for them.

Promising review: "Oh this is THAT girl! I have like 4a hair with low porosity, and oh my this is just fantastic. It is so lightweight but creamy and melts into my hair like butter on a hot summer day! And yes, it did leave my hair tender! 10/10 I love you, Tracee!" —Maya

Get it from Amazon for $12+ (available in three sizes and as a two-pack). 

Promising review: "I debated buying these for sooo long because I was worried all the TikTok reviews were over-exaggerated or fake. I’ve fallen for that before. But after months of trying different products, hoping they’d get rid of my stubborn bumps/clogged pores to no avail, I figured I didn’t have much to lose. No joke, I started seeing results after a couple of uses. Every time I use them, I wake up with the softest, glowiest, 'glass' skin I’ve been dying to achieve. I was skeptical at first use because they felt so gentle, but I was also relieved there wasn’t any stinging sensation on my very sensitive skin. I couldn’t be happier with the results. For reference, I have sensitive, combo skin and my main concerns were textured forehead, closed comedones/clogged pores." —Marissa S

Get a pack of 70 from Amazon for $18.90 (available in five other formulas). 

Promising reviews: "Obsessed. I bought this specifically for my hands. Sun exposure has prematurely aged them. Medix retinol cream is amazing! I saw a difference within a few days. I’m hooked!" —Valerie

"INCREDIBLE BEAUTY PRODUCT!! Works like magic! I am 66 years old, and after using this moisturizer for only 4 days, I have not needed to use foundation. This Medix retinol cream is a serious game changer!" —Nancy C. Trussell

Get it from Amazon for $19.99 (also available fragrance-free, in two- and three-packs, and six other formulas). 

Several reviewers say they just throw theirs right in the washing machine to clean it! They also make a smaller one designed for the bikini area and a long, narrow back scrubber for hard-to-reach areas. 

Promising review: "Right out of the box I could tell these mitts were going to be exactly what I needed. Excellent quality and easy to use! I’ve tried them twice already and my skin is now incredibly smooth! After I scrubbed my arm, I looked at the mitt and saw it was covered with dead skin cells. I’ll be buying more of these as gifts for girlfriends (in a fun spa gift basket)!" —Danielle

Get it from Amazon for $10.99+ (available in six colors and as a two-pack).

Promising reviews: "Ever since I've been using this toner, my skin has been so happy! It's been incredibly calm. I have not seen any acne pop up, and it has reduced acne scars and pigmentation." —Kajal P. 

"This toner does what it says — it gives me the ‘glass skin’ that people talk about. Not oily, just glowy!" —Catherine Z. 

Get it from Amazon for $26.46 or from Soko Glam for $28.

Promising review (wearing Smooth Neutral): "I AM OBSESSED with this nail system. My nails look better than they have in a long time. Lasts perfectly for about a week with heavy use of hands, which is the longest I’ve had a nail polish last. Looks like you have a subtle milky polish. The pictures are with two coats, looks even better in person!" —Jennifer

Get it from Amazon for $19 (available in four shades).

Reviewers with 2a-4c hair mention it worked for them! 

Promising reviews: "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 

"My baby has curly hair, and since the texture is a lot different than mine, I have been trying out different products for her hair. I saw this one on TikTok and decided to give it a try. It is slowly becoming one of my go-to products for her! It does not leave the hair crunchy at all, and it moisturizes her curls nicely. Also smells good!" —Heather 

Get it from Amazon for $4.22 (also available as a two-pack). 

Check out a TikTok of the Biodance mask in action.

Every so often, I need the confidence of some ethereal being glowing from within, and that’s the exact kind of energy these make me feel! I love wearing one overnight before a trip or big event to create a super smooth base for my makeup, orrr when I’ve been skipping my skincare and need a lil’ reset to remind my skin I love it. I’m pretty acne-prone, but they’ve never caused a breakout — just left me with an ultra-hydrated, radiant complexion that I swear lasts a week. Or maybe that’s the confidence talking, but either way, these ingredients have worked some wonders on my skin!

Promising review: "Oh…my god…. 🤯 No scent. It starts milky white and turns clear. I left it on overnight, woke up, and I was shook!! Pores? Where? Dry patch? Where? Fine wrinkles? Whheeerrrrrre??? I put it on over my lips as well, and it almost looked like I had filler. It was so plump! 10/10 recommend. Holy grail of face masks <3" —Kichi

Get a pack of four from Amazon for $19 (also available in a pack of 16 and three other formulas). 

Check out a TikTok of the Anua cleansing oil in action. 

I've tried a couple of cleansing oils as an acne-prone, oily-skinned gal, and this is the one that earned its permanent place in my routine! Some have caused my skin to break out, and others have been too thick, but this one is the *perfect* consistency to actually get in my pores and draw out the gunk lurking in there. The first time I used it, I massaged it into my nose for a few minutes and got those bits on my fingers like the reviewer above (which is SO satisfying), and though it's not like that every time, it has truly helped with the size of my pores and leaves my skin feeling so soft, hydrated, and free of any makeup (ready to be followed up by a cleanser)! And when I've ever dared to doubt its power (when I ran out, or was lazy and skipped the step), I definitely saw the difference in my skin's texture — so it's here to stay for me! 

"I can't live without this cleansing oil; it's magic in a bottle. This is the only thing that's been able to clear the sebaceous filaments on my nose after consistent use daily!! It also helps the milia/filaments under my eyes! LOVE ITTTTT WHO LET ME LEAVE THE HOUSE WITHOUT DOUBLE CLEANSING AT NIGHT" —Sarah Coleman

Promising review: "Great lip tint that's buildable. It dries soft to the touch with no transfer. Lasts hours! Can be drying on the lips, so I put a lip oil on top of this lip tint — the tint doesn't budge or smear away. I'm buying more of these!" —Abelle

Get it from Amazon for $7.50+ (available in six shades). 

It's designed for every hair type longer than 3 inches. Reviewers with hair ranging from 2a–4b mention that it worked for them!  Check out a TikTok of the Edgelift Curl Brush in action. 

Bounce Curl is a small business that specializes in curl brushes. 

Promising review: "Best brush hands down, I am a mixed girl with thick curly hair, and when I run this brush through my hair wet, it does magic. My curls after using this in the shower to detangle are amazing, then I use my choice of product to style it row by row, and it gives me bouncy curls that help cover more scalp but separate effectively. It's extremely sturdy. I break brushes all the time, and this one lasts!!!" —Janay K 

Get it from Amazon for $30 (available in five colors). 

Promising review: "This product delivers exactly as promised and is incredibly easy to use. I suffer from dry skin and often apply various products to soften my feet. With this, I simply spray it on and immediately massage it in with my hands. The dead skin comes off effortlessly. There's no waiting time, and it's gentle on the skin. It leaves my feet feeling exceptionally soft. This has quickly become my new favorite thing." —KimT

Get it from Amazon for $5.48 (also available as a two-pack). 

The foundation oxidizes, so reviewers suggests choosing a shade lighter. Check out this TikTok of the TirTir cushion foundation.

Promising review: "I should have ordered this foundation as soon as I saw it on TikTok!! I waited months because I’ve bought “viral” foundation before and it wasn’t any good. This, however, is perfection! It is the perfect shade match for my skin and goes on so smooth. The tiniest bit covered my entire face. I did a wear test without powder or setting spray and it stayed on amazingly. It didn’t rub off when I touched my face like other foundations do. Also, it didn’t settle into my fine lines. This is my new go to foundation!" —Stephanie D. 

Get it from Amazon for $15+ (available in 40 shades, two sizes, and a matte or dewy finish). 

If the name rings a bell, it's likely because you've used or heard of this brand's beloved under-eye masks! You can check out Grace & Stella's Amazon page to find those and more high-quality, affordable versions of beauty products.

Promising review: "I’ve used several Clean Skin Club products and the Grace & Stella ones are a perfect replacement. They may not be as thick but the size of the towels and the effectiveness is practically the same. Easier to get one out of the box too. Nice quality and leaves my face dry but not overly dry. I like these ones because they don’t have the odd smell the CSC ones do. 10/10 recommend." —Jordan Couch

Get a pack of 60 from Amazon for $9.95 (available in larger packs and as a facial puff style). 

Promising review: "Absolutely in love with this jelly cream. My skin looks amazing — no more chafing and peeling, and it feels and looks 'bouncy' and glowing, it’s hard to explain. As for people saying it’s sticky — they must be using way too much!! It dries beautifully, not sticky. A little goes A LONG way. This little tub should last a year or more easily. I use it under my Tret at night too. Love it!" —Beachy1

Get it from Amazon for $17 (available with a gua sha). 

Promising review: "I wanted to give this product 10 stars but was only limited to 5 :( This stuff is AMAZING!!!! I'm almost 30 and my face has become super oily — like I can fry chicken on it by the end of the day. So for months I've neglected wearing any kind of foundation or makeup in general. After reading reviews I figured I would give this a try. The glow it gives you is AWESOME!!! It makes my skin so soft. I'm probably going to wear just this and no foundation 50% of the time. After the Texas heat..and the sun..and amounts of sweat...my face was PERFECT......STILL! No oil...no smears...no pores... This is literally sent from heaven!!!! My ONLY dislike is the fact that you can't purchase this in 5-gallon buckets!" —Jessica

Get it from Amazon for $12.99 (available in two versions and as a prep formula). 

Reviewers with everything from thin, straight hair to coarse, 4c hair mention it has worked for them. 

Promising review: "I looooove this so much. The smell is amazing, and it tends to stick around for a while, so I love getting whiffs of it throughout the day. My hair is softer and doesn’t seem as frizzy as before. I put it on after washing my hair and then after it’s dry. I tend to wash my hair two times a week, so I’ll use it in between washes on my ends to make sure they still look nice and healthy. Great value, too; I’ve been using it pretty consistently since purchasing, and I’ve barely made a dent in it. Love it!" —Noley

Get it from Amazon for $17.99+ (available in two sizes, a leave-in cream style, and five other formulas)

Promising review: "Love love love this stuff. This is such a stellar product that is so versatile. Can be worn alone for some to put some glowy life to skin. Add to foundation or layer it. Beautiful. Use it as a base wear you put highlighter on top. Mix some with moisturizer. This in my opinion is better than so many high-luxury brands that make similar products. And I am pretty sure it can be used by all skin types. It’s not oily feeling at all and it doesn’t dry out skin either. Just a total package. Can’t beat the price either." —Figgy08

Get it from Amazon for $14.97+ (available in four shades, two sizes, and in two-packs).

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Plus, finds from Amazon, Glossier, The Ordinary, Sephora, 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.

Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.