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Staying up to date with skin, hair, and makeup products is literally part of my job description as a beauty editor. For the last 14 years, I’ve gotten thousands upon thousands of packages (I know it sounds glamorous, but after a while it’s like any other job). One thing I’ve learned on the job is that a high price and quality are not necessarily synonymous. While I appreciate a mid-range or luxury product when it’s worth it, I also love an affordable product that delivers. I may love the latter even more, because who doesn’t like saving money?!
Sure, I have some pretty high-end potions in my beauty collection, but they’re well-balanced with products that are just as effective and significantly lower in cost. No matter how elevated my bathroom vanity gets, there are some budget-friendly products I will never part ways with because they’re just that good. Here are 15 of my favorite products for $20 or less that deliver outstanding results.
1.
This liquid exfoliant by Paula's Choice that leaves your skin's surface smooth, soft, and radiant
I switch out my skincare products pretty often because beauty editors are always trying things. But Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA liquid exfoliant is my favorite toner, and it's not something that I easily part with, no matter what new, exciting product comes in the mail. After cleansing, I apply a few drops to my face and neck with my hands, and my skin instantly looks radiant and smooth. Beta hydroxy acid sheds dead skin and buildup, green tea extract calms redness and irritation, and methylpropanediol hydrates skin while preventing water loss for a more glowy finish. Test out a mini for just $15, and you'll soon be investing in the full-size bottle.
Promising review: "This has been my go-to BHA for over a year now, and I don't see that changing anytime soon. I do recall a purge phase when this was my first ever BHA/AHA toner, but that went away after a month, and my skin went noticeably clearer/brighter after.
I honestly wasn't even sure what this product was meant to do for you. But in my experience, it alleviated the redness from my acne-prone/scarred combination skin to the point where I began going out without makeup for the first time since puberty 10+ years ago..." — Ali01
Promising review: "This has been my go-to BHA for over a year now, and I don't see that changing anytime soon. I do recall a purge phase when this was my first ever BHA/AHA toner, but that went away after a month, and my skin went noticeably clearer/brighter after.
I honestly wasn't even sure what this product was meant to do for you. But in my experience, it alleviated the redness from my acne-prone/scarred combination skin to the point where I began going out without makeup for the first time since puberty 10+ years ago..." — Ali01
2.
The Tend Skin Solution to nip ingrown hairs in the bud and prevent others from popping up
You'd be hard-pressed to not find Tend Skin solution on my bathroom sink. If you're prone to ingrown hairs and razor bumps, try this blue bottle after your shave routine. I mainly use Tend Skin on my bikini area, although it's safe for legs, underarms, bikini lines, chin, neck, and face, too. Just be sure to follow the instructions and patch test. I pour a few drops into my hands and pat it on my bikini line area every day after I shower, and it keeps any irritation caused by shaving at bay. I regularly shave, and I can't tell you the last time I had an ingrown hair or razor bump. I will use the product until eternity... or until I laser away all my hair.
Promising review: "I’ve been using Tend Skin for a while now, and I keep it in my bathroom at all times now. This product is a must-have for anyone who deals with razor bumps, ingrown hairs, or razor burns – it works exactly as advertised. I’ve always struggled with razor bumps and occasional ingrown hairs, especially after shaving my legs and bikini area. Tend Skin has been a game-changer! I started applying it to the affected areas right after shaving, and within a couple of days, the redness and bumps began to disappear. It even helped clear up ingrown hairs that had been stubbornly stuck under the skin for days..." — Delaney Mahan
Promising review: "I’ve been using Tend Skin for a while now, and I keep it in my bathroom at all times now. This product is a must-have for anyone who deals with razor bumps, ingrown hairs, or razor burns – it works exactly as advertised. I’ve always struggled with razor bumps and occasional ingrown hairs, especially after shaving my legs and bikini area. Tend Skin has been a game-changer! I started applying it to the affected areas right after shaving, and within a couple of days, the redness and bumps began to disappear. It even helped clear up ingrown hairs that had been stubbornly stuck under the skin for days..." — Delaney Mahan
3.
This super hydrating Neutrogena Lip Sleeping Mask that nourishes, soothes, and softens dry lips
I first received Neutrogena's hydrating lip sleeping mask in a press package, and to be honest, I wasn't expecting to be wowed by a drugstore lip care product. But it instantly became one of my favorite lip balms! It's formulated with hyaluronic acid, which is a hydrator found naturally in skin. Even though it's an overnight treatment, you can also apply it during the day like a normal balm. While it's less pricy than your higher-end lip care, it is more expensive than a lot of drugstore products. That said, it's worth every penny in my opinion.
Promising review: "I’m absolutely obsessed with the Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Lip Sleeping Mask! In my late 40s, I’ve noticed a loss of plumpness over the years, but this product has made a real difference. It deeply hydrates overnight and leaves my lips feeling soft, smooth, and noticeably fuller. A must-have in my routine!" — Teacher Heather
4.
A melanin-friendly SPF 30 that protects your skin from the sun and doesn't leave behind a white cast
We all need sun protection, but unfortunately, not all sunscreens are made with all skin tones in mind. Black Girl Sunscreen is an amazing moisturizing product with SPF 30 that works on all shades. I've been using it for years, and it's a staple in my skincare routine. My skin is always protected from the sun, and it's easy to reapply with your hands or a makeup sponge if you're outside for long hours. It's a clean formula, free of parabens, fragrance, oxybenzone, octinoxate, silicone, and aluminum, and it's infused with jojoba oil. There's a matte option, but I like a dewy finish, so I prefer this one.
Promising review: "Love it, it leaves my skin moisturized, protected with a healthy glow, and it doesn't leave a white-purplish ashiness on my skin. I believe it is great and universal to all skin tones and types. Just remember to do a skin patch test with any skincare products if it's your first time using it, especially when it comes to your face. I love it, and my daughters, son, and husband love it too." — Serenity
Promising review: "Love it, it leaves my skin moisturized, protected with a healthy glow, and it doesn't leave a white-purplish ashiness on my skin. I believe it is great and universal to all skin tones and types. Just remember to do a skin patch test with any skincare products if it's your first time using it, especially when it comes to your face. I love it, and my daughters, son, and husband love it too." — Serenity
5.
Byoma's Milky Moisture cleanser and toner duo for skincare essentials that aren't overly complicated or expensive
If you're looking for some simple skincare staples that work but you don't know where to start, let me introduce you to Byoma's Milky Moisture Cleanser and Hydrating Milky Toner. The cleanser is gentle and made with ingredients like tri-ceramide complex, oat extract, and panthenol, which support skin health, ease inflammation, and hydrate skin. The Milky Toner, a TikTok fave, is made with barrier lipids to aid in restoring the skin barrier, as well as polyglutamic acid and cica for pentetrative hydration and preventing water loss from the skin's surface.
Promising review: "I love both of these products and they've quickly become staples in my morning routine. The toner feels soothing and hydrating, without leaving behind a sticky residue. It leaves my face feeling soft and moisturized. The face wash does a great job of cleansing dirt, oils, and leftover makeup, but doesn't feel harsh or overly oil stripping. I have mildly dry skin and both products feel fantastic. I will definitely be repurchasing." — Kate
Promising review: "I love both of these products and they've quickly become staples in my morning routine. The toner feels soothing and hydrating, without leaving behind a sticky residue. It leaves my face feeling soft and moisturized. The face wash does a great job of cleansing dirt, oils, and leftover makeup, but doesn't feel harsh or overly oil stripping. I have mildly dry skin and both products feel fantastic. I will definitely be repurchasing." — Kate
6.
The Lip Bar liquid matte formulas that will stay on, even after a full meal
I know gloss is really popular, but no matter how "in" juicy, slick lips are, we'll never fully retire a classic matte lipstick. The Lip Bar vegan matte liquid lipsticks have been in my rotation for years, with the classic red Bawse Lady being my go-to shade. The shades are very rich, complementing of a wide range of skin tones, and even though the formula is matte, it's not patchy — the application is smooth and easy. And when it comes to staying power, I can't think of another matte that outlasts The Lip Bar. It's worth every cent, and it lasts a long time because you don't need much.
Promising review: "Love love love this brand. I’ve been wearing this for some years, and it’s great. It stays on a long time, I get compliments on my matte lipsticks whenever I wear them." — Deitra
Promising review: "Love love love this brand. I’ve been wearing this for some years, and it’s great. It stays on a long time, I get compliments on my matte lipsticks whenever I wear them." — Deitra
7.
A gentle and refreshing body wash by The Good Good Shea to clean your skin and wake up your senses
The Good Good Shea refreshing citrus body wash gives your skin a thorough cleansing while retaining moisture and leaving it supple. It's made with Ghanaian shea butter, lemon and grapefruit fruit extracts, plus cucumber extract to liven dull-looking and uneven skin. I especially love using it in the mornings or after the gym because the citrus scent gives me a boost of energy and puts me in a good mood. I also have the brand’s African net sponge, which gently exfoliates, so my body is extra soft after the shower.
Promising review: "I absolutely love it! It has that nice citrusy scent like the lotion. I find it the perfect happy wake-me-up scent for the morning. It also doesn’t leave that filmy feel that some other body washes do. I love it so much that I’ll be adding it to my Christmas bundles for my family!" — Tammy K
Promising review: "I absolutely love it! It has that nice citrusy scent like the lotion. I find it the perfect happy wake-me-up scent for the morning. It also doesn’t leave that filmy feel that some other body washes do. I love it so much that I’ll be adding it to my Christmas bundles for my family!" — Tammy K
8.
Nizoral Anti-Dandruff Shampoo to relieve dry, flaky scalp when nothing else works
As someone with dandruff, I know how frustrating it can be to find a shampoo that cleanses your scalp, soothes irritation, and doesn't leave your hair feeling completely stripped and lifeless. I started using Nizoral anti-dandruff shampoo three years ago, and I haven't looked back since. Before Nizoral, I would wash my hair one day and literally later that day or the next day my scalp would start to feel itchy again. After my first use, I felt immediate relief, and my scalp remained clear until my next washday the following week. To say it changed my life may sound dramatic, but it's true! It's the only over-the-counter dandruff shampoo with 1% ketoconazole, a clinically proven, dandruff-fighting ingredient, which would explain why it's so effective. While it's not as drying as a lot of other OTC and prescription anti-dandruff shampoos, it is still slightly stripping. I always follow-up with a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner, and my hair feels soft and ready for styling.
Promising review: "This is one of my favorite dandruff shampoos. I needed a Ketoconazole shampoo and this one works perfect. I like that you really can use a very small amount and it has a lot of lather to it. I have used it when my hair is dry and flaky and also when my scalp is sensitive and either way it has not irritated my scalp or caused any discomfort. After using my scalp clears up and the flakes are visibly reduced. Compared to other dandruff shampoos this one also doesnt dry my hair out like others have. Overall this is my 1st choice for dandruff shampoo." — Alicia Ramirez
Promising review: "This is one of my favorite dandruff shampoos. I needed a Ketoconazole shampoo and this one works perfect. I like that you really can use a very small amount and it has a lot of lather to it. I have used it when my hair is dry and flaky and also when my scalp is sensitive and either way it has not irritated my scalp or caused any discomfort. After using my scalp clears up and the flakes are visibly reduced. Compared to other dandruff shampoos this one also doesnt dry my hair out like others have. Overall this is my 1st choice for dandruff shampoo." — Alicia Ramirez
9.
The Juvia's Place Blushed Duo compacts so pigmented you only need one swipe
Juvia's Place launched in 2016 and immediately gained popularity among makeup lovers for its punchy color cosmetics. Nearly a decade later, and the pigments are still bold and vibrant, as proven by the Blushed Duo compacts. The blushes come in six different shade combos that can be worn individually or together. Don't be surprised if you still haven't hit pan after a year. A single swipe has huge payoff.
Promising review: "It's very pigmented, and it looks soooo good. I get multiple compliments when I use this blush. I love it, and have used it for over a year and I still have quite a bit left over" — Jay
Promising review: "It's very pigmented, and it looks soooo good. I get multiple compliments when I use this blush. I love it, and have used it for over a year and I still have quite a bit left over" — Jay
10.
The Sephora Collection lip liners for a lip combo that's not unreasonably expensive
I love a defined and filled-in lip as much as the next person, but as a millennial who grew up getting lip gloss from the beauty supply store, I've always thought the lip-combo resurgence was unnecessarily pricey. Lip liner is one of those products I refuse to pay over a certain amount for. Sephora Collection Colorful 8HR Longwear Transferproof lip liner isn't as affordable as the drugstore pencils of yesteryear, but they rival the quality of your big-brand liners at a fraction of the cost. The product glides across your lips with ease, the pigment is rich, and the color stays put so you don't have to keep reapplying all day. There are 16 shades, and Molasses is my absolute favorite.
Promising review: "I’ve been using the Sephora Collection lip liners, and I’m honestly blown away by how long-lasting they are! I put mine on in the morning before work, and by the end of the day, it’s still there. Sometimes I even have to use makeup remover to take it off completely. The texture is super creamy and smooth, making it easy to apply without tugging. The pigment is rich and bold, and the shades are absolutely gorgeous — they flatter every skin tone and look amazing on all complexions. I love how versatile they are, too. I can wear them alone for a soft matte look or pair them with gloss or lipstick for extra dimension. They don’t dry out my lips and stay put all day. I received this product for educational purposes in exchange for my honest review, and I’ll definitely keep using it!" — annazi4
Promising review: "I’ve been using the Sephora Collection lip liners, and I’m honestly blown away by how long-lasting they are! I put mine on in the morning before work, and by the end of the day, it’s still there. Sometimes I even have to use makeup remover to take it off completely. The texture is super creamy and smooth, making it easy to apply without tugging. The pigment is rich and bold, and the shades are absolutely gorgeous — they flatter every skin tone and look amazing on all complexions. I love how versatile they are, too. I can wear them alone for a soft matte look or pair them with gloss or lipstick for extra dimension. They don’t dry out my lips and stay put all day. I received this product for educational purposes in exchange for my honest review, and I’ll definitely keep using it!" — annazi4
11.
Naturium's TikTok-viral body wash that exfoliates and softens bumpy skin
If you don't spend your days scrolling TikTok like I do, you may've missed all the craze around The Smoother Glycolic Acid exfoliating body wash. The bath product is formulated with an AHA blend including glycolic, lactic, pyruvic, and tartaric acids, which exfoliates dead skin and bumpy texture and brings to surface revived, smooth skin. It's been exceptionally helpful in ridding keratosis pilaris, also known as strawberry skin, and fading hyperpigmentation from acne and scars. The formula is also clean and gentle enough for the face.
Promising review: "BLOWN AWAY! Full transparency I had had acne on my butt for yearssssssssssss, I learned to accept it seeing how nothing ever worked for me. Bleaching creams, medicated creams, bio-oil, nothing worked until I tried this. I finally caved and bought a bottle. I have only used 1/2 and have seen such a difference. The scars have faded; some have fully disappeared. This is not a sponsored review, I bought this with my own money. And I am sold. I will keep this in my routine. Thank you for making a product that is changing one of my biggest insecurities." — spenderoffunds
12.
Reusable press-on nails, designed by a real nail artist, so that you can skip the nail shop
These tortoiseshell-print press-on nails are one of a few designs by Nail Thoughts that give a salon quality finish, while still being budget-friendly and time-effiicient. The set can last up to two weeks, and they're easy to apply. Stretch your mani and reapply it whenever you feel. The tortoise print is fun and wild, but it's also very universal with grounded, earthy colors.
Promising review: "Love these torties! Everything you need comes in the box, and I love that you can use the glue or the stickers. I opted for the stickers, and the nails stayed on until I took them off — just a bit of nail oil and the stick that came with the nails did the trick. No damage. Highly recommend!" — Erica
Promising review: "Love these torties! Everything you need comes in the box, and I love that you can use the glue or the stickers. I opted for the stickers, and the nails stayed on until I took them off — just a bit of nail oil and the stick that came with the nails did the trick. No damage. Highly recommend!" — Erica
13.
An old-fashioned jar of Vaseline for all-over moisture during the coldest time of year
Some things just work, and Vaseline Healing Jelly is one of those things. Every year, as we start making the transition from fall to winter, I switch out whatever body moisturizer I'm using for good ol' Vaseline. A lot of standard lotions, even the fancy ones, just don't keep my skin moisturized for an entire winter day, and I absolutely hate dry, flaky skin. I particularly like this Cocoa Butter scent because it's faint, but still warm and cozy. I get a lot of compliments on how good I smell whenever I wear it.
Promising review: "Petroleum jelly is one of those things that are in general use in most households. For years, I've had no issue using store brand or generic versions. Recently, I've been dealing with major dry, scaly skin, mostly on my legs, due to thyroid issues. I'm talking fish scale-level dry skin that would flake off like a snowstorm! Two months ago, I scooped up Vaseline because I had a rebate offer that made it cheaper than the store brand... It is SO smooth and glides on my skin easily, leaving a quality moisture barrier after showering and shaving my legs. I'll never use another brand of petroleum jelly on my skin again!" — Walmart Customer
Promising review: "Petroleum jelly is one of those things that are in general use in most households. For years, I've had no issue using store brand or generic versions. Recently, I've been dealing with major dry, scaly skin, mostly on my legs, due to thyroid issues. I'm talking fish scale-level dry skin that would flake off like a snowstorm! Two months ago, I scooped up Vaseline because I had a rebate offer that made it cheaper than the store brand... It is SO smooth and glides on my skin easily, leaving a quality moisture barrier after showering and shaving my legs. I'll never use another brand of petroleum jelly on my skin again!" — Walmart Customer
14.
The Doux Crazy Sexy Curl Setting Foam for max curl definition and style hold without any crunch
Whether you need a curl definer or a setting foam, The Doux’s Crazy Sexy Curl setting foam is an amazing light-weight product that delivers without the crunch. I have type 4 hair, and I like it for twist-outs and wash-n-go's, but it's truly versatile and it works on a range of wavy and curly textures. The foam is infused with aloe, bamboo extract, and silk amino acids for added moisture, so your hair doesn't feel hard after it dries.
Promising review: "I LOVE this mousse! It is by far the best mousse I've ever tried. I get really effortless curls/waves. I scrunch the mousse in after my shower when my hair is very, very wet. I do a couple pumps of the mousse for each side of my head. It's kind of sticky on your hands, but it doesn't feel sticky on my hair. Once I either diffuse or air-dry my hair, I add a little hair oil to my hands and scrunch my dry hair. Works like a charm! I just bought two more bottles of this mousse after trying it once." — IslandGirlSeaglassing
Promising review: "I LOVE this mousse! It is by far the best mousse I've ever tried. I get really effortless curls/waves. I scrunch the mousse in after my shower when my hair is very, very wet. I do a couple pumps of the mousse for each side of my head. It's kind of sticky on your hands, but it doesn't feel sticky on my hair. Once I either diffuse or air-dry my hair, I add a little hair oil to my hands and scrunch my dry hair. Works like a charm! I just bought two more bottles of this mousse after trying it once." — IslandGirlSeaglassing
15.
These Taylor Swift-approved glitter freckles patches by Fazit
Sure, if you want natural-looking freckles you can paint micro dots on your face with liquid liner. But if you want to look like a magic fairy princess, you may want to try Fazit’s makeup patches. The stickers went viral after Taylor Swift was spotted wearing them a year ago, and they've been a hit ever since, They're gentle for all skin types, and are beyond easy to apply. Six patches come in a pack, and there's a variety of colors, designs, and even placements for eyes, face, and decolletage.
Promising review: "These are the best, so much better than loose glitter/glitter gel. Temporary tattoo style, quick and easy to apply, though may apply more smoothly over less makeup (pulls on underlying foundation a little bit). But the shape and the sparkle is so pretty. Stayed all night and removed easily with regular face wash. Hope I have another event/excuse to wear again!" — J
Promising review: "These are the best, so much better than loose glitter/glitter gel. Temporary tattoo style, quick and easy to apply, though may apply more smoothly over less makeup (pulls on underlying foundation a little bit). But the shape and the sparkle is so pretty. Stayed all night and removed easily with regular face wash. Hope I have another event/excuse to wear again!" — J