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27 Beauty Products Reviewers Say They’ve Been Using For Years
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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 This snail mucin essence might just become part of your family legacy. I'm a resident writer on the Buzzfeed Shopping team, where my love for shopping (and doomscrolling on TikTok) helps me curate lists of the most trending lifestyle, home, beauty, and fashion products. Double cleansing is a method of cleansing your face twice: first with an oil-based cleanser to break down oil-based products like makeup and excess sebum that gets trapped in your pores. You then go in with a water-based cleanser to help get all the extra gross stuff off your face, like sweat and dirt. Promising reviews: "I started using this product four years ago, and I haven’t stopped since! My face feels so smooth and clean every time I use it. I also love using it with a gua sha so it can glide easily." —Calendula "This is my first time ordering an oil-based cleanser and I’m so glad I purchased this one. I originally saw this product on TikTok and wanted to see what the hype was all about. After using the cleanser on my dry face for 2–3 minutes, I could visibly see my white- and blackheads on my fingers. I was a little hesitant to try oil cleansing because I have acne-prone skin; however, my face has never looked better. After each use, my face is as soft as a baby's bottom, and my scarring doesn't look as deep! The cleanser has a light, clean scent. Not super strong! I am currently pairing this cleanser with the Anua Heartleaf soothing toner to achieve glass skin. #glassskinera" —Myshel Cagle Just a little cleanser, buff, and moisturizer for the smoothest skin you've been dreaming of. Promising reviews: "I love these facial sponges! I have used these for years. A very gentle way to clean makeup and other things we all collect on our skin during the day. These sponges last a long time for me and are inexpensive." —Char "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 reviews: "Been using this for two years, I will always repurchase this. It’s the only balm that removes my stubborn lash glue off with ease and at a great price point. One tub lasts a long time!" —Amy "E.l.f. has really stepped up their game lately! I was using Farmacy Makeup Meltaway, and I loved it, but it was very expensive. I decided to try the E.l.f brand because of the price, and it's the exact same thing! For $11, you can't go wrong with this product. I wear waterproof mascara, and this makes removing it super easy! My face feels super clean and hydrated after using this product. The product lasts for a good amount of time, too." —Haley McCaulley Get it from Amazon for $5+ (available in three sizes). Promising review: "I started using this serum almost three years ago, and at this point, it has become one of those products that stays in my routine without much thought because I know it works for me. I’ve tried plenty of skincare products over the years that were popular for a while, only to be forgotten. This one stuck. The first thing I noticed was how hydrated my skin felt after using it. Even now, after years of use, I still like how soft and smooth my skin feels afterwards. It gives my skin a healthy, moisturized look without feeling heavy. The texture can seem unusual at first because of the snail mucin, but it absorbs better than people might expect. I use it consistently, and my skin feels more comfortable and less dry when it’s part of my routine. I’m 52, so I care less about miracle claims and more about whether a product actually keeps my skin feeling good over time. For me, this has been one of those products.The fact that I’ve continued using it for nearly three years says more than a first-week impression ever could." —April Rogers It works for all curl types from 2a–4c. Promising reviews: "I’ve been using this mousse for years, and it never disappoints! It works really well and keeps my hair looking neat and defined all day. It tames my hair extremely well without making it feel stiff or crunchy, which I love. It also adds a nice shine and helps with frizz, especially on humid days. This is definitely a staple in my hair routine — I highly recommend it!" —Elaina.S "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 Good Molecules is a small business that specializes in affordable skincare products. Check out a TikTok of the eye gel in action. Promising reviews: "I love this eye gel and have been using it for years because it works to improve my under eye area appearance, absorbs quickly into the skin, is gentle yet effective, and it’s affordable! I highly recommend it!" —Mary T Torres "I was skeptical to order this because I have tried so many others like it, claiming to work, and I end up just wasting my money. I am happy to say that this product actually works GREAT! It is soothing and has a cooling sensation when you apply it. There is no sticky residue, and your makeup does not clump under the eye from it. I have tried products that were 10 times the cost and didn’t work like this does. I am on my second order and will order again!" —Keri Clark My review: I have tried plenty of foundations and this one has always been my go to! Literally since high school! Back in my cheer days this would last hours of sweat and crazy lifts without budging (or making me look like a greasy pizza). It's super buildable so I can use a light layer for everyday wear or add a bit more if I am going full glam. I never feel too cakey even with several layers on. I also love liquid products so this blends beautifully with my many layers of blush and contour. Promising review: "I love this stuff! I've purchased more expensive foundations, but this is the best. No shine, looks beautiful on my skin. I typically use a lightweight primer underneath, but even without the primer, this foundation glides on beautifully. It doesn't feel heavy, it looks like my natural skin and it lasts all day. Perfect!" —MP Gallagher Get it from Amazon for $8.98+ (available in two sizes and various shades). Promising reviews: "Love this product for my hair and extensions. I’ve been using it for years; will always repurchase! Doesn’t leave a film or weigh down like some products can!" —CC@amazon "I have fine hair that’s prone to breakage and gets dry easily. This is the best oil I’ve ever used and is well worth the price. I’ve used argan oil, jaboboa etc. This oil is lightweight and not greasy. It makes my hair feel healthy and gets soaked up instantly leaving a long lasting shine. My hair feels very soft afterwards, especially pairing with a boar bristle brush. It also smells GREAT! This will be a forever oil for me and my hair routine. If you have fine hair, I definitely recommend." —Rowen Watch this TikTok of someone using it on their lips AND cheeks! Promising reviews: "This has been my 'go to' lipstick for years. It provides shine, moisture, and just a hint of color! I have them all over my house, in my office, in my purse, and even one in my travel bag to be sure I am never without one!" —Pam O'Donnell "This lipstick is a game changer. It goes on and stays on well. It is pretty sheer, but buildable. I have trouble with most red lipsticks turning pink after a bit. So, I will put this over my other colors, and it absolutely makes a difference. It's a great staple to keep in your cosmetic bag. It is something I will definitely buy again. You should absolutely try it!" —Amy H. Get it from Amazon for $25 (also available in pink honey!). Promising reviews: "I’ve been using this stuff for several years now. I use it in summer as a tinted moisturizer, the only thing I really wear, or underneath my foundation as an extra priming layer. It always adds to my routine and helps me look a little more glowy. I really like how this adds, or just makes a nice subtle look for summer." —Ramona "Love love love this stuff. This is such a stellar product that is so versatile. Can be worn alone to put some glowy life to skin. Add to foundation or layer it. Beautiful. Use it as a base where 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 $14.82+ (available in four shades). My review: I've been dealing with the worst acne breakouts for the past couple of years and finding a cleanser that won't burn my skin, leave me feeling sticky, or dry me out like the desert has been a real struggle. This has been my favorite so far! It's a milky formula that feels so light when you apply, making it super easy to wash off. My skin feels like it can actually breathe. It's my favorite part of my routine because it's so soft and literally cools your face as you rub it in. I've seen a huge difference in my skin; it's so soft, and my acne has minimized since I'm not leaving any impurities on my face. My gentle skin, acne-prone people need to try this before folding to a 30-step skin routine. I've learned that no serums or oils will work if you aren't starting off with a good cleanser. Promising review: "My daily face wash for years! It cleanses well without stripping my face of oils and wrecking my moisture barrier. I first use an oil based balm to remove makeup, then this cleanser to get rid of the rest. Highly recommend for all skin types but especially great for dry and/or maturing skin. Great for using with a dermaplaner too!" —Amazon Customer Get it from Amazon for $14.99+ (available in four sizes). Check out a TikTok of the Mighty Patch Micropoint Patches in action. Promising reviews: "I’ve been buying these for several years now and recommend them! When I feel a deeper blemish starting (my deep ones are large, painful, and then nothing happens besides showing itself for a week), I put one of these boys on it at night, and it is typically smaller by the morning. I do it again the next night and it normally is gone after day two." —Adam Sarah Z "I’ve been buying these for several years now and recommend them! When I feel a deeper blemish starting (my deep ones are large, painful, and then nothing happens besides showing itself for a week), I put one of these boys on it at night, and it is typically smaller by the morning. I do it again the next night, and it normally is gone after day two." —Adam Z. Get a pack of six from Amazon for $17.99. BuzzFeed Shopping editor Natalie Brown says: "I've used this primer exclusively since about 2018, and it works just as well as the MAC and Urban Decay primers I used before it! Even glittery shadows effortlessly stay on through rain, sweat, or eye-rubbing. I've gone through several tubes over the past six or so years, and it never disappoints." Promising review: "Saw this used by a makeup artist on TikTok giving a tutorial for women over 40. Totally changed how my eyeshadow works. No clumping or crease lines!" —wo1995 "Love this primer! I will buy it again and again! Just a tiny bit, and my eyeshadow stays all day long and maintains a vibrant color." —Nicola Nella Promising reviews: "Really works! I’ve been using this product for several years, when my teeth start to look stained, I simply spend a few minutes doing a treatment. It’s unbelievable how well it removes coffee and red wine stains in just a minute or two." —J Devlin "I have extremely sensitive teeth from over-whitening in high school but this product has been such a lifesaver! I am a daily black coffee and red wine [drinker] so my teeth have taken a toll as far as staining goes. Seriously, I was very hesitant on getting this because of how sensitive my teeth are but I wish I got it sooner! This is such a great product!" —Mimi Doherty Get a two-pack from Amazon for $14.95 (also available individually and in a four-pack). Promising reviews: "A very effective cream for my lips and cuticles. I have used it for years and would not buy anything else. And, it is so inexpensive!" —christine field "Awesome!! I’m on Accutane, so I use this for my lips to keep them from getting super chapped, and they really help! It’s super moisturizing, and I love that it’s in a big tub, so I don’t have to keep repurchasing! If you have chapped lips, I definitely recommend it; it’s super moisturizing and hasn’t caused any breakouts around my lips so far." —M Promising reviews: "I’ve been using this mascara for many years, and it has always been my favorite. My natural eyelashes are short, straight, and don’t have much shape, but this mascara makes a huge difference. It gives my lashes a beautiful curl, makes them look longer, and adds just the right amount of volume without feeling heavy. I love the effect it gives my lashes, they look more defined, fuller, and much more noticeable. It lasts well throughout the day and doesn’t easily smudge. I’ve tried other mascaras over the years, but I always come back to this one. I highly recommend it, especially if you have short or sparse lashes like mine." —Reina Montano "This mascara is the bomb! Every single time!! Works great! Makes lashes look long and beautiful in this black color. I just love this mascara! If you don't have many lashes, this works superbly in making people think you do! And works well for those with lots of lashes. They all stand out. Look a lot like fake lashes, or you can go light. AND THE BEST PART. The price is pretty awesome for such a great product! Highly recommend." —Mary Get it from Amazon for $10.82 (available in 13 colors). 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: "I've been using TruSkin Vitamin C for 5 years. It helps lighten dark spots, moisturizes, leaves my skin soft, and is very gentle on my face. This product is more effective, plus a much better price than other very expensive Vitamin C products that did not work!" —npt "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). Promising reviews: "Are there times when you find yourself in between colorings, or you are just too tired to get your hair colored? This product is my fave go-to in those moments. The applicator is so easy and 'pounces' on your hair to apply the coloring. Covers for more than one day, and when you are ready, it easily washes out. Great coverage (I have black hair) that lasts and have used for years now." —Monica I "This product is awesome. Covers the grays/roots. Stays on all day. Also, if you have thin hair, it will fill in the spots nicely. Comes with a sponge that you unscrew off the bottom. This will last a very long time. This is much easier to use than the spray that doesn't always get the right spots and tends to get on your clothes. A good selection of colors. Great price. Will re-order when the time comes." —Amazon Customer Get it from Amazon for $17.95 (available in two sizes and 14 colors). Caffeine can brighten skin and temporarily minimize the appearance of cellulite, if that’s something you’re looking for in a product. Read more about the skincare benefits of caffeine at the Cleveland Clinic. Promising reviews: "I got a sample of this in one of those subscription boxes, and ever since then, I have been buying this for years. It is literally my favorite cream ever. People compliment me on my scent every day. Customer for life." —Lisa Danger "Absolute Holy Grail! I am absolutely blown away! From the very first application, I noticed a massive difference. The hydration is unmatched, leaving my skin incredibly soft, smooth, and visibly firmer. What really sets this apart, though, is the scent — it is an absolute dream that lasts all day long and gets me endless compliments. It absorbs super quickly without leaving any greasy residue, which is a huge plus. It has truly worked wonders for my skin’s texture and radiance. It is worth every single penny, and I will definitely be restocking! Highly recommend!" —Wendis Get it from Amazon for $24 (available in three sizes). Eight Saints is a woman-owned small biz using only eight plant-based ingredients in their skincare products. Promising reviews: "I’ve used this face lotion for a few years now and keep buying it. I’m 36 years old with two young children and work full-time. My skin is a combination of dry and oily, and I break out easily. This lotion goes on smooth, rubs in easily, and doesn’t make me shiny or feel greasy." —Courtneyrose7 "I’ve been using the Eight Saints Cloud Whip Vitamin C Face Moisturizer for a while now, and it’s quickly become one of my favorite parts of my skincare routine. The whipped texture feels light and airy, and it absorbs almost instantly without leaving any greasy residue. My skin feels soft and hydrated throughout the day, and I’ve noticed a brighter, more even tone after consistent use. The stable form of Vitamin C really does its job — my sun spots and uneven patches have started to fade, and my complexion looks healthier overall. I also appreciate that it’s gentle; even with my somewhat sensitive skin, I haven’t experienced irritation. The fact that it’s cruelty-free and reef-safe makes me feel even better about using it. While the price is on the higher side, I think the results and the formulation make it worth the investment. For me, it’s a reliable daily moisturizer that delivers both hydration and visible improvement in skin tone." —Doug D Promising reviews: "I use this for myself and my four-year-old. It doesn't pull or break hair and really feels wonderful on both wet and dry hair. I would recommend giving this a try. It is also very easy to clean. I have had it for a few years already, and it still looks new. Great brush for the money, strong and ergonomic on handling." —Katrina O. "Omg!!! This is the best detangling brush ever!! Shampoo bath nights have been restored! I dread every time I have to detangle my daughter's hair; no matter how much conditioner I use, it ends in tears and frustration! My daughter's hair has super-tight curls, and I don't think I have ever really fully detangled it until now! We have used other combs and brushes and this one by far was the holy grail! No more tears, and I feel confident her hair is fully detangled!!" —Ashlee Gordon Promising review (for natural hair): "I never write reviews, but I had to for this one. This brush cured my cancer, paid my rent and revived Jesus from the dead. This. is. a. holy. grail. I have the tangliest (IDC if that's not a word) terribly hard to manage curly, natural hair. But this brush gave me shine brighter than a haole baby's bottom and glided through my hair with ease. 100% RECOMMEND." —Amazon Customer Get it from Amazon for $11.88 (available in six colors). Check out our Instagram post to see just how grippy it really is. Yup, that's me in the video and photo above! My review: This is my HOLY GRAIL primer! I use it every time I have a big event or just need my makeup to last more than an hour. As an acne-prone girly, I've tried so many primers to find one that doesn't irritate my skin and actually leaves it looking relatively smooth. This one has yet to let me down! Make sure to wait 30 seconds before applying your foundation to ensure it has fully set, since it does go on a little tacky. Also, ALWAYS PAT IN for best results. I have made the mistake of rubbing it in like other primers, and it doesn't leave the same smooth finish, or it will clump up a little. The cooling gel is also so nice because it makes your skin feel hydrated and helps your makeup not flake off. It is water-based, so I recommend checking your foundation ingredients to ensure it is compatible. The rule of thumb is: Water-based primer goes with water-based foundation, and silicone-based primer goes with silicone-based foundation. Promising reviews: "Have used this for three years, I would not apply foundation without this! Holds it in place and helps with dryness! A little goes a long way!" —Tayler Paige Myers "I got hooked on a little sample of the Milk Hydro Grip primer, but when I went to buy it...$36 for a relatively small bottle! I wanted to find a good alternative, so I bought this. It is PERFECT! Nearly identical formula. I have sensitive skin and this did not break me out. It really does help keep makeup on all day and makes your skin look smooth. I highly recommend this." —Allison Get it from Amazon for $7+ (available in three sizes). Check out a TikTok of Gold Bond in action. Promising reviews: "I’ve been using this cream for years, and it works pretty well for me. I use it every morning and night. Makes my neck and chest feel so smooth afterward, it’s a good moisturizer. It also firms my neck well. This will always be my go to moisturizer." —Teddy's Angels "Absolute sorcery. I have sagging skin at the jawline from weight loss. This stuff has absolutely helped! I’m really impressed. Has smoothed out the crepe paper look. Try it!" —S. Livingston "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 'facelift.' 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 This tool also helps soften skin by gently exfoliating as you use it! Promising reviews: "I’ve been buying these for a few years now. They’re fantastic to give your skin or eyebrows a quick touch-up. I love that they’re disposable, so it’s a good sanitary option. Definitely one of the better options on the market and I will continue to buy them." —Paris Alize "I saw these on TikTok and was skeptical but they work so well. I use them for any facial peach fuzz and to shape my eyebrows and they're perfect." —Megan Kopicko Get a set of three from Amazon for $5.67 (also available in a nine-pack). Read more about how biotin shampoo could help with the fullness of hair at Cleveland Clinic. And read more about how rosemary oil could be helpful for encouraging hair growth at Cleveland Clinic. Maple Holistics is a small business that specializes in beauty products with all-natural ingredients. Check out a TikTok of the biotin shampoo in action. Promising reviews: "Have been using this shampoo for two years and loving it. My hair is very fine, and the shampoo adds some volume and texture to it without making it greasy. I’ve tried many fine hair shampoos in the past, and this is my favorite one." —NYer "My hair was starting to thin rapidly in my mid-20s. Thankfully, I caught it early. I started using this shampoo regularly, and haven’t done any other treatments. The thinning immediately slowed and eventually stopped. It’s six years later, and I still have a great, full head of hair. Judging by my family history, I should be totally bald by now, and this product is the only thing I've used. I credit this stuff with saving my hair! What a miracle!" —Amazon Customer This formula is nongreasy, fragrance free, noncomedogenic, oil free, and paraben free. Read more about sensitive skin and physical sunscreen at the American Academy of Dermatology. Promising reviews: "I want to love other tinted sunblocks, but nothing I've tried beats this specific brand and product. I love that this one stays put, has physical SPF, goes a long way, and mixes so well with my other makeup/skin products. I have been wearing this tinted sunblock for years. I used to get it from my dermatologist until I found that Amazon carries it. I have three different dermatologists (due to them being booked up) and all three recommended this tinted sunscreen." —Karen "It feels like you have nothing on! It's the first sunscreen I've worn where I didn't feel like I had to wash my hands after applying. Awesome product, very lightly tinted, looks slightly whitish when first applied but that blends into medium tone or tanned skin if you let it sit for a few minutes. I love it so much! It leaves a very clean feeling on your face and does not make me break out and I have sensitive skin. I'm 62 years old, live in Florida, and have been using it for two months. I will purchase this product again." —M. Moody Get it from Amazon for $48 in either a fair-to-medium tint or a light rosy tint. Promising reviews: "The last new lip balm you will ever try. Once you use this, you will only want to use it. Sweet Mint is my absolute favorite. They nailed the formula with Poppy and Pout chapsticks. I used to apply and reapply balms all day long to my dry lips. I've tried everything. Always searching for something that truly gave some life to my lips. I've been using P&P now for several years and highly recommend it to anyone and everyone I can who needs a good lip balm. And the packaging is just the cutest!" —Christina ~ WA "Just bought my first lip balm and I am now hooked! The best part is that this lip balm is actually effective for chapped lips!! You really don't have to reapply constantly. Good variety of flavors. I bought the lemon flavor and love it! The thicker/wider size stick makes this lip balm so easy and convenient to apply!" —Hillary Get it from Amazon for $9.95 (available in 12 flavors). * Beauty Products Reviewers Say They’ve Been Using For Over 5 Years * Easy Makeup Products That Won’t Require You To Watch Beauty TikTok Tutorials * Trust Me When I Say You’ll Want To Add These 38 Beauty Products To Your Routine ASAP * TikTok-Approved Beauty Products That’ll Convince You That App Isn’t A Total Waste Of Time * Beauty Items With Results So Good, You'll Wonder If Otherworldly Forces Are Involved Plus, finds from Amazon, Glossier, The Ordinary, Sephora, Soko Glam, Tarte, Ulta, 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.
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