27 Unexciting But Extremely Reliable Beauty Products You’ll Always Reach For
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You won’t be looking for a receipt after adding this cushion foundation and natural lip balm to your routine.
Posted 3 hours ago
by Mariel Guzman BuzzFeed BuzzFeed Staff
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.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
While this will protect you from the sun, the clear formula can be hard to see as you apply, so make sure you don't accidentally miss spots like the reviewer above.
Promising review: "I can't say enough good stuff about this. I was looking for an alternative for my Glow Recipe clear SPF stick, and this is, dare I say, better because it gives me more of a matte effect. It has relatively no fragrance and is the perfect size and shape for a wide range of applications. I live in Hawaii and frequently go to the beach spontaneously, so this thing is in my purse cause I use it all day." —Jaecinta Harris
Get it from Amazon for $13.
Check out a TikTok of Gold Bond in action.
Promising review: "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
Get it from Amazon for $11.97.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
It works for all curl types from 2a–4c.
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 in a two-pack).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising reviews: "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. It's gentle on the skin. It leaves my feet feeling exceptionally soft. This has quickly become my new favorite thing." —KimT
"Wow, does this work amazingly! I discovered this from a TikTok video, and I am so pleased with how this works. It is literally like magic; my feet have never been this soft." —Brian
Get it from Amazon for $5.48.
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: "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).
Amazon, www.amazon.com
Check out a TikTok of the Laneige Neo Blurring Powder in action.
Promising review: "I loved this setting powder, it blurred my pores and blended my makeup so well that even my husband noticed. Wow! I will be buying more before people find it and sell it all out, hehehe." —Charlotte Laim
Get it from Amazon for $25.
www.amazon.com, Amazon
Promising review: "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).
www.amazon.com, Amazon
Promising review: "I haven't used Crest White Strips in over five years. Since then, my teeth have stayed really white, and I frequently get compliments or questions about how I got my teeth so white. I decided to get a box to boost the whiteness of my teeth. Wow, I was shocked at how much these have improved! Before, the strips were really flimsy, hard to remove from the package, and really hard to keep on your teeth — the old ones would slip or bunch up. These are such an improvement! The new strips remove easily from the plastic they are on. The strips are REALLY adhesive! These will not budge! Since I've purchased, I have only used them about four times, and I can already notice a difference. Other people have noticed, too. I think these are well worth the money and work as well as a professional treatment. I have had friends who have done professional treatments, and their teeth are not as white as mine. I highly recommend these to anyone who wants a brighter/whiter smile!" —Vanessa5o5
Get them from Amazon for $45.79.
Amazon
Promising reviews: "You get a lot of product for an affordable price! Very happy with my purchase, I still have it after months." —lily
"Awesome!! I'm on Accutane, so I use this on my lips to keep them from getting super chapped, and it really helps! 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
Get it from Amazon for $17.79.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Check out this TikTok of Mikayla Nogueira's review of this foundation.
Promising review: "I struggle with finding a foundation that's not orange. Someone recommended I try a Korean product, and this started going viral around the same time. I lucked into a perfect color match on the first try, but I've learned there are sample packs if you aren't sure about the color. The coverage is incredible. It was very lightweight, not heavy at all. It did settle into my under-eye wrinkles without primer so if you're older that's something to keep in mind. Overall, beautiful and long-lasting. This will be my go-to foundation from now on." —AJ Bond
Get it from Amazon for $9.88+ (available in 40 shades, a matte finish, a dewy finish, and sample kits to find your best shade match).
This product is formulated without parabens, phthalates, petrolatum, or SLS.
Promising review: "I’ve been using this product for years now. My first trip to Costa Rica I had it and trust me when I tell you it’s saved my life. I live in Florida now and I never go anywhere without it. After any time in the sun you can use this and you can believe that your skin will be nourished and moisturized it will not hurt and your skin will not peel if used properly. I said your skin will not peel. I love this product for it." —Kenneth
Get it from Amazon for $9.74.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "One of my favorite skincare products for everyday use. It hydrates my skin really well without leaving behind that heavy or sticky feeling that some glow products can have. The formula feels lightweight and absorbs nicely, so it layers well under makeup or works great on its own. What I like most is the subtle glow it gives. It makes my skin look healthy and refreshed without looking greasy or overly shiny. For the price, it feels like a great addition to any skincare routine." —Claire
Get it from Amazon for $12.97.
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
Get it from Amazon for $14.10.
Amazon, www.amazon.com
Note that the AAD recommends using at least SPF 30 and reapplying as needed for skin protection. You can read about sunscreen myths and facts from dermatologists for more information!
Promising review: "Super nourishing. I have extremely sensitive skin and this helps with protection from everyday friction and irritation from elements like wind burns. Will be repurchasing." —Tricia D.
Get it from Amazon for $14.99+ (available in two sizes and two scents).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Eight Saints is a woman-owned small biz using only eight plant-based ingredients in their skincare products.
Promising review: "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
Get it from Amazon for $33.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "I’ve been using this for a few weeks now, and I’ve definitely noticed an improvement in my skin texture and pores, especially around my nose and T-zone. I apply it regularly twice a day. The pads feel refreshing and gently exfoliate without being too harsh on my skin. My face feels smoother and less oily after using them consistently. I also like that they are easy to use and fit well into my skincare routine. I would recommend starting slowly if you have sensitive skin because the acids can feel strong at first. Overall, I think they are worth trying if you struggle with clogged pores or uneven texture." —Kejdi
Get a pack of 70 from Amazon for $18.90 (available in four other styles).
Amazon, MarielGuzman / BuzzFeed
Check out our Instagram post to see just how grippy it really is. Yup, that's me in the video and photo above!
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: "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).
Promising review: "I’ve used mascara for 15 years, I’ve tried a million kinds and this is by far the best. I have long eyelashes and have always had issues with getting raccoon eyes or it winding up on my eyelid throughout the day. This mascara stays on the lashes for 16+ hours, no smudging, and is incredibly easy to remove at the end of the day. Also, noting less damage to my eyelashes with how easily the product comes off. 10/10, buy this." —Shelby Droegemueller
"This mascara absolutely lives up to the hype. It gives my lashes amazing length and definition without clumping, and I love how lightweight it feels compared to traditional mascaras. The tubing formula stays put all day — no smudging, flaking, or raccoon eyes even after long days — but it removes so easily with warm water at night. It genuinely gives a “lash extensions” effect while still looking natural and separated. One of the best mascaras I’ve tried and definitely worth the price!" —Courtney
Get it from Amazon for $28 ( available in brown and black).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "First off, if you have extremely oily skin, this. is. it. I was so tired of getting blotting powder/wipes. It felt wasteful and always left residue on my face. I saw this on TikTok and NEEDED it. It was backordered but then I got an email saying it was in stock and I was SO excited. Not only is it affordable, but it's washable, which helps you save money and be less wasteful." —Kelsey B.
Get it from Amazon for $7.80.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "Heaven sent for your skin; heavenly scent to enjoy. This feels absolutely amazing going on. Gets absorbed quickly, for a lotion rich with oil. Doesn't leave a greasy feeling, as long as you give it a minute or two to fully absorb. The scent is, for me anyway, like aromatherapy. It smells like an iced sugar cookie and is a great base layer for fragrance. Very relaxing." —Dragonheart Jo
Get it from Amazon for$8.98.
Promising reviews: "I’ve repurchased this many times — it’s hands down my favorite hair product, and I don’t think I’d style my hair without it at this point. I have naturally curly hair that I regularly blow dry and straighten, and this makes a noticeable difference every time I use it. It really helps reduce frizz, even in humidity, and my hair comes out much smoother and glossier than when I skip it. What I love most is that it actually seems to help my hair straighten more easily while blow-drying. I don’t have to go over sections as much with heat tools, and the end result looks sleeker and stays that way longer throughout the day. It’s also lightweight and doesn’t leave buildup or make my hair feel greasy, which is important for me since I try to stretch my washes during the week. Overall: if you deal with frizz or regularly heat-style your hair, this is 100% worth it. It’s the one product I consistently go back to and always keep on hand."—Chais
"I’ve never before reviewed a product online but Dream Coat is too impressive to ignore! I have very thick, coarse, difficult-to-tame hair and have never found a product like this in all my 61 years of life! It has left my hair manageable, soft, and silky. It’s oblivious to my Southern humidity as well! I’m able to style my hair with a straightener with ease now. Prior to Dream Coat my thick hair didn’t respond to the straightener very well. It’s a bonus that the spray is fragrance free, non-sticky, and acts as a heat protectant! Best product on the market!" —Cathy D. Tutten
Get it from Amazon for $28 (also available for curly hair).
Amazon, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Waterproof Eyeliner has been one of the best eyeliners I have ever used. This is my second time reordering this beauty product. The eyeliner glides on easily. The texture of the product helps you control the ease of placement around your eye. It stays on all day. For a wonderful, long-lasting look. Since it glides on so easily, you don't need a lot of the product to achieve the look you want. When removing the eyeliner, it comes off with ease. I highly recommend this product." —beverly ukura
Get it from Amazon for $23 (available in 23 colors; including shimmers and metallics)
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
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 reviews: "I wanted a more affordable option than the Glossier Milky Jelly Cleanser and this is it! Just as gentle, but genuinely cleans so much better!" —user
"Good texture, easy to use. Face feels clean. Better than my more expensive cleanser from a more well-known company. Love it." —ocean water
Get it from Amazon for $14.99+ (available in four sizes).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
This tool also helps soften skin by gently exfoliating as you use it!
Promising review: "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).
Amazon
Read more about the skincare benefits of caffeine at the Cleveland Clinic.
Promising review: "This stuff is AMAZING! I love the larger roller ball, the cooling effect, and the instant depuffing of my eyes. Will definitely keep on hand!" —TRISTA T.
Get it from Amazon for $12.95+ (available in a steel or rose quartz rollerball).
Peach & Lily
Check it out on TikTok.
Promising review: "I absolutely love this product. I'd been going back and forth whether I should buy it for between waxes, as my skin is sensitive and I'm prone to ingrown hairs and overall skin irritation. I have to say I wish I'd purchased it sooner. I use it daily and I've noticed a big difference! I've found that exfoliating is key before applying it for best results. I still get irritation from time to time, but I've been using this solution daily for the past three weeks and have noticed really positive changes in my skin where it usually gets irritated! Due to the roller ball, it doesn't release too much product on application so a little can go a long way! My first body care product from Peach and Lily and I will definitely be reordering once this bottle runs out!" —Claire H.
Get it from Amazon or Ulta for $17.99.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "Omg!!! This is the best detangling brush ever!! Shampoo bath nights have been restored! I dread ever time have have to detangle my daughter's hair no matter how much conditioner I used it would end 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 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).
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* Summer Beauty Products You’ll Use Until They Run Out
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.
Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.
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