Empty Your Online Carts Of All Those Expensive Products You’ve Been Hesitant To Buy And Get These 40 More Affordable Versions Instead
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
My colleague Emma Lord can vouch for 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 a two-pack from Amazon for $9.99 (also available in a pink honey version, individually, and as a two-pack that includes both!).
Promising review: "I absolutely love this bracelet set! The pieces are delicate yet sturdy, and they can be worn together or separately for different looks. The design is simple but elegant, making it perfect for both casual and formal occasions. They’re also really comfortable to wear all day. Definitely worth the price!" —Brandy Gay
Get a set of three from Amazon for $18.99 (also available in sets of two).
Jenae Sitzes / BuzzFeed, www.amazon.com
My colleague Jenae Sitzes uses it: "The packaging similarities are impossible to ignore, but that's not where the comparisons between this E.l.f. sunscreen and Supergoop's cult-fave product end. I've tried both, and I honestly prefer this E.l.f. version. Supergoop's had a slight graininess to it that I didn't love, while this E.l.f. sunscreen is exactly what I'd hoped Supergoop's would feel like: totally smooth and velvety. Like Supergoop's, it goes on totally clear and doesn't feel like you're wearing a mask; it sinks in immediately. And of course, a major selling point: A 1.7-ounce bottle of E.l.f. Suntouchable will cost you $14, while Supergoop's Unseen Sunscreen in the same size will put you back $38. "
Now, it's worth noting that Supergoop's Unseen Sunscreen has SPF 50, while E.l.f.'s product offers SPF 35. Both of these meet the American Academy of Dermatology's recommendation of using a sunscreen with SPF 30 or more, which blocks 97% of the sun's UVB rays. Anything over SPF 30 offers only slightly more protection (and nothing can block 100% of the sun's rays), yet the higher number, the more brands tend to charge. So do with that info what you will! This isn't the only SPF I use, but I love having it in my arsenal, especially when I do want to layer makeup on top!
Promising review: "This sunscreen is a gem. I was not expecting to love it as much as I do. I absolutely love E.l.f. products, but I rarely try their skincare. Something told me to try this. When I put it on, it gave a smooth silicone finish and feel. I was faithful to Supergoop but didn't want to spend as much as the product is listed for. I will continue to use this sunscreen; it has been one of the best I’ve ever tried. I’ve been into skincare since I was 15; I am 37, and for me to say that this product is a gold mine is rare." —Angelina S.
Get it from Amazon for $14 (available in two sizes).
It's suitable for all hair types! Reviewers with everything from straight, fine hair to thick, curly hair said it 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 through 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 $18.99+ (available in two sizes, as a mist, and four other formulas).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "I’ve been buying these for years. They replaced my Ray-Bans that look identical! Fit great and with the price point I don’t have to worry too much with my kids and being on the go!" —Jessica M
Get a pack of three from Amazon for $18.99 (available in 14 sets, as well as packs of two and individual pairs).
Kuumba Made is a small business that specializes in luxury scents at affordable price points.
Promising review: "AYOOOO this is perfect, literally smells exactly like that Sol de Janeiro spray #71 — the perfect beachy, vanilla, and coconut mix, I’m obsessedddd!! I put it on to test on my skin and hours later, it smells like I JUST applied it!" —Isabella Jimenez
Get it from Amazon for $9.97 (available in several scents).
Amazon, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "Wow wow wow!!! 🤩 This blanket is so soft and the colors and image is so vibrant! The material is great. Lightweight but also snuggly weighted, I don’t know how to describe it. I almost bought the one from Anthropologie, but this is exactly like it way less price! I think I’ll be gifting a few of these because they are so nice!" —Amy
Get it from Amazon for $34.82+ (available in six sizes and 17 styles).
Promising reviews: "I can't say enough great things about these leggings! They don't roll down, and they feel amazing on. I have all kinds of brands Lululemon, Vuori, Athleta, etc. and these are my favorites and the ones I feel the best and most confident in!! And you can't beat the price — it's a win-win. I will be back to purchase even more colors!" —Lauren
"The stitching and logo placement is similar to Lulu; however, these feel more compressive and thicker than Aligns, which I prefer. Lulu stretches over time and for a fraction of the price, this entire line feels way better." —Fiona
Get them from Amazon for $24.99+ (available in women's sizes XXS–XXL, two inseams, and 22 colors).
Amazon
Promising review: "I am LOVING this 'ONE AND DONE' product. I'd watched a few videos about how wonderful having this dual-ended item was; blush on one side, bronzer on the other. I needed something easy for travel, and I love creamy textures, so I thought I'd try them. WOW; I'm in love. They glide across the skin, blend out, and look very natural. The value is fantastic compared to other dual-ended makeup sticks. The smell is light and a touch tropical." —Vanessa Sykes
Get it from Amazon for $14.97 (available in two shade combos).
Lulu Candles is a US-based small business that specializes in scented candles and perfumes.
Promising review: "I enjoy having a scented candle burning in my house. But I don’t like heavy, floral scents, so finding the perfect scent is difficult. This scent is perfect. It doesn’t slap you in the face, it doesn’t cling to your clothes and hair hours after leaving the house. This candle is warm, inviting, and elegant." —Micknan
Get it from Amazon for$19.95+ (available in six sizes, in gift box options, in packs of two, and in a variety of scents).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "Took years off my eyes! This product is so reasonably priced. I came across a TikTok promoting this and decided to take a chance since the price was super reasonable. My eyes looked brighter in a good way, and the concealer worked so well that I felt I looked younger. I got compliments from friends asking what I did differently with my makeup. I recommend it." —Placeholder
Get it from Amazon for $6 (available in four shades).
Amazon
Popilush is a small business that specializes in activewear and shapewear.
Promising review: "Run to get this! PURCHASE!! I ordered a large — I’m usually wearing an XL, however, it fit perfectly. It does not cut off my thighs, so so comfy! No bra needed, will be a staple this summer. It’s not overly thick, but it’s not cheap material. I’m obsessed!" —Andrea
Get it from Amazon for $31.99 (clip the 20% off coupon on the product page for this price; available in women's sizes S–XXL and eight colors).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "At first, I was a little skeptical — I have been wanting to find a Skims-like material shirt for a while but didn't want to pay the price of one lol, and this shirt feels amazing. I will be getting one in every color now." —Julianne
Get it from Amazon for $9.99+ (available in women's sizes XXS–3XL and 34 colors).
Emma Lord / BuzzFeed
Check out a TikTok of the E.l.f. mascara in action.
BuzzFeed Shopping writer Emma Lord swears by this: "I am not a new human to the tubing mascara game, and in fact readily spent $26 on the famous OG blend from Blinc every time it needed replacing. I didn't even love it for the length half as much as the fact that tubing mascara like this genuinely never smudges, but can I just say — regardless of price, the E.l.f. tubing mascara formula blows all the others I've tried out of the water. It gives me way more length and volume than other brands, slides on so much more easily, stays put ALL day, and never, ever smudges. My favorite part, though, is how gently and easily it comes off with soap and water. In the past, other mascara removals have felt rough on my lashes, but this comes off so fast that I'm like ??? was I even wearing mascara a minute ago?? Anyway, I hesitate even writing this review because I want to gatekeep the hell out of this before it sells out, but the world needed to know. I'm a big fan of the brown shade (which is what I'm wearing above!) but it also comes in black and soft black."
Get it from Amazon for $7 (available in three shades).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising reviews: "I have several pairs of Rothy’s in a very similar style to these, and they are actually just as comfortable right out of the box as Rothy’s…maybe more so. I also purchased in black. LOVE THEM!!" —Amazon Customer
"I couldn’t be happier with these flats! As a result of them dropping in price, I purchased four pairs in varying colors to wear with jeans and sweaters. Not only do they look cute, but they are also decently padded and comfortable. I have been buying Vivaia flats for over $100 and these look just as good and are more comfortable to wear." —PSK
Get it from Amazon for $32.99 (available in women's sizes 6–10 and 14 colors and patterns).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Aesthetica Cosmetics is a small biz based in Miami that makes vegan, cruelty-free makeup products and tools.
Promising review: "I was super skeptical because I love the OG beauty sponge. I had tried other alternatives before and hated them. *This* one has that same soft, squishy texture as the OG. When you wet it, it expands and stays soft and bouncy like the OG. I’ll say that one difference I note that this one is sliiiightly softer when wet, but that does not bother me. I wash mine after each use and do find I need to squeeze it/wring it out a bit more. Really glad I tried this because at this price, it’s easy to justify buying more frequently and not risk germs/bacteria." —PC
Get a pack of five from Amazon for $7.95.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
BuzzFeed Shopping editor Jenae Sitzes says: "I've used Ecotools brush cleaning shampoo for years, and it makes cleaning my brushes so much easier. I just add a bit of the shampoo to my brush and gently rub it against a silicone mat under running water, and it makes quick work of removing all the makeup that's built up on my brush for, frankly, way too long. You'll see the water start running brown immediately, which is always super gross but also really satisfying, and once you see your brush return to its original color, you know you're done. And the bristles are always left as soft as before too!"
Promising review: "The best, most affordable brush and sponge shampoo on the market! No joke, I have tried everything; even homemade hacks like dish detergent mixed with olive oil. Nothing works like this brush shampoo. Don't waste your money on the Beautyblender soap and other big-name brands." —Lily
Get it from Amazon for $5.82+ (available in two sizes).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising reviews: "It’s much more spacious than it looks. It’s very sleek and stylish. I use it as my work bag and find that it looks professional and has enough space for all of my stuff. I carry a laptop, pencil case, two books, makeup bag, water bottle, wallet, lotion, phone and laptop charger, and other small miscellaneous objects. Still plenty of space. And when you carry it, it doesn’t feel bulky or cumbersome." —Su
"Purchased for my daughter, who is an attorney. She said she really likes it and has gotten many compliments on it from her peers." —J Cliett
Get it from Amazon for $35.99+ (available in 10 styles).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
The weights are covered with a sweatproof, skin-friendly silicone layer that's comfortable, and the adjustable elastic band helps you get the right fit. You can even remove weights as well if needed!
Promising review: "I love these! So great for yoga or mat Pilates. I like that they are 2 pounds each, which is the perfect weight, and you can even take off weight as well. I use them every week for my workouts. Very durable band as well!" —Robyn
Get a pair from Amazon for $21.68+ (available in two sizes and 15 colors).
And remember, like with any retinol (that actually works) *just do not use it every day.* Start slow and work yourself up if needed, paying attention to your skin.
Promising reviews: "This product is magic in a bottle!!! I have been struggling to find a good skincare routine that will remove my acne scars and remove dark spots on my face. I will forever buy this product! I’ve only been using this for two weeks and noticed a huge difference right away! I am so excited to clean my face in the morning and night now! I also bought the Cerave hydrating cleanser, moisturizer, and eye cream and they have been amazing as well! CeraVe is the best! Don’t think twice about this product just buy it!!!" —mallory brook bravo
"I've been using this for a month or two! I definitely notice smoother skin and less breakouts. Wish I’d tried this sooner. Currently only using 2–3 times/week!" —Rachy
Get it from Amazon for $18.68.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Unlike other hair dryers, this one can be held closer to the roots and scalp for a higher volume and lift and helps you curl hair at the end while it dries. It comes with three heat settings and is designed to work on all hair textures — reviewers with 2a–4c hair mentioned it working for them, and especially noted that it helps cut down on drying time!
Promising reviews: "I've had my eye on a Dyson Airwrap, but given the cost, I figured I'd try this while I save up. This thing is fantastic. I have waist-length hair that's naturally straight, but gets frizzy when damp. I've had salon blowouts that have left my hair looking great, but I simply can't manage a round brush without it getting tangled in my hair. This device has been a game changer. It works best if you air dry for a while before you use it, then use it to finish your style. My hair miraculously doesn't get snarled in it, and it leaves my hair looking like I've had it professionally styled. I love it, and I'm no longer interested in blowing $500 on a Dyson. Highly recommend!" —Ilsa
Get the 2.0 model from Amazon for $29.99 (available in eight styles, including an older model).
Many reviewers with curl types 4a-c prefer the oval brush, but if you're looking to blow out tighter curls or coils, try the Revlon One-Step paddle brush instead. This model is made for users with curlier hair. You can get it for $24.11. Reviewers of this brush also say it's the best thing they've bought for their hair!
Promising review: "I was going to buy the $80 one from UO, and decided to look for cheaper alternatives. I'm really happy with this lamp! The little remote with light settings and timer features is a nice addition. If you're thinking about buying this, I'd recommend you do!" —Jules F
Get it from Amazon for $29.90.
Some reviewers use these for cleaning vases too! Note: One of our editors has used similar tablets for cleaning coffee mug stains before and says they work best when you use them with boiling water.
Promising reviews: "These tablets work great. I usually use them for aligners daily and even to clean metal water bottles! They’re effective, and I’d repurchase." —Ange P.
"I was very pleasantly surprised at how well these work! This stuff brightens [my retainer/night guard] in one use and I feel like they are clean. You can also use it for other things like your sports shaker bottles too." —Amaris Mathews
Get a pack of 120 from Amazon for $18.81 (also available in packs of 60 or 240).
Amazon, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "Really well constructed. Comfortable fabric. I don't wear shorts, so these will be great for summer. The fit is great. I ordered these pants in three more colors the day after the first pair arrived. Excellent value!" —Montana Fam
Get it from Amazon for $26.39+ (available in women's sizes XS–XXL and 14 colors).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
LilyAna Naturals is a family-owned small business using natural ingredients to craft high-quality skincare products.
Promising review: "I've been using this for a couple of months now and I really like it! Previously I've used Clinique or Origins...this works just as well or better. I wish I had found this sooner as it is a lot less expensive than other alternatives. I've seen other reviewers say they keep it in the fridge and while I don't find that necessary I may have to try because it sounds very refreshing!" —Cat SV
Get it from Amazon for $14.99+ (available in two sizes and in packs of two).
Promising reviews: "Helps with pain relief and massage in pressure spots I wasn't able to get before. I had access to use a TheraGun before and haven't noticed any difference between items, and it's at a much lower price point. Whatever extra TheraGun features there might be, I haven't needed and the heads are interchangeable between TheraGun and this. Very happy with my purchase." —tauntaun
"I used a TheraGun for about a month and although it was great, this unit is better suited for my needs. I found the TheraGun to be too powerful on the lowest setting and bulky to handle. Some people prefer a lower setting than the 'professional' brand offers. This unit is also easier to handle when massaging my partner than the TheraGun. This gun goes from a comfortable low setting to very powerful on the highest setting. Much better fit for me and my partner, plus it's got a solid battery life." —Pierremoe
Get it from Amazon for $69.99+ (available in seven colors/styles).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
BTW, people also love this for helping heal piercings.
Promising reviews: "It works just like my Tower 28 spray. Smells the same and feels the same. It's more product and saves you money. It also comes with two lids which is perfect for traveling!" —Andrea Benton
"Just an FYI, this product has the exact same ingredients as the Tower 28 spray! It's been absolutely amazing at reducing acne and texture! It's also so refreshing and gives a lil' glow. So in love!" —BK
Get an 8-ounce bottle from Amazon for $16.99+ (available in five sizes and in multipacks).
My colleague Maitland Quitmeyer can vouch for these: "I bought a pack of these recently, and so far love dusting with them! All the dust sticks right on, so you don't end up breathing in all the dust you just tried removing. It's great for baseboards, too!"
Promising review: "I rarely review products, but this little sponge literally changed my life! It picks up EVERYthing in one swipe! Hard water marks on your bathroom mirror, no problem! Hair clippings on your sink and counter, one swipe and they are gone! Dusty blinds? Swoosh, swoosh, swipe! And ala-presto ka-bam, like magic, they are perfect and dust-free! I just need one of these for my floors! I love, love, love how the sponge picks up everything, and with a little running water, all the dust, hair, muck, and guck just rinsed away! This will not disappoint! Thank you!" —DayDreamer
Get a four-pack from Amazon for $7.49+ (available in six color combos and in packs of two or eight).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Simply apply it on wet hair after a shampoo, wait five minutes, and rinse it out. It's designed to work on all hair types, with reviewers with 2b to 4c curls mentioning it worked for them!
Promising review: "Like many others, I tried this as a replacement for Olaplex. Honestly, Olaplex never had a great effect on my hair and certainly wasn’t worth the price. This did an unreal job on my hair!! I was skeptical (tried a little bit first because I was petrified it would burn off my hair and I would end up bald!) but, lo and behold, it was magic! My hair is so strong, silky, and healthy looking after just one use. Plus you can’t beat the price! Have already ordered another box. I should also add I have curly/wavy hair that’s been colored to a light brown. Buy it!!" —BB
Get it from Amazon for $7.60.
Promising reviews: "My favorite sheets have to be Cozy Earth. But they are way too pricey for a guest bed. These sheets are just as good without the huge price tag. Side by side comparison to these versus expensive brands like Cozy Earth or Peacock Alley — these sheets are thinner and deeper, which actually fit better on our deep mattress with a 3-inch topper. These sheets are just as cool feeling as the higher-end ones when you get in bed. They wash well. They hardly wrinkle. And even after months of use, they are still in great shape. They haven’t started to peel yet or fray. No loose threads or tears. Great sheets!" —Susan
"We have Egyptian cotton sheets that were expensive and I promise we have changed them back out for the comfort of these sheets. The cotton sheets were cold and these were just right. The other thing is my husband has thin skin that any nick he will bleed. Well he has bled on these white sheets and when we washed them (in cold water as instructed) the blood always comes out and never stains. I can't say enough great things about them except to say all three of my adult kids are receiving a set as part of their Christmas!" —Sheree Chrestman
Get a set of queen sheets from Amazon for $36.97+ (available in sizes twin–California king, plus sheet sets with deep pockets for taller mattresses and 45 colors and patterns).
Amazon
BuzzFeed Shopping editor Maitland Quitmeyersays: "This is my go-to satin pillowcase. I have two Slip pillowcases, and several of these, and actually the Bedsure ones wash up much nicer and retain an incredibly silky smooth feel after dozens of trips through the laundry. They're the only ones I'll buy going forward, and I recommended them to my mom and now she's in love with them too!"
Promising review: "My hair has never been better! I got this because of TikTok and it has done wonders for my hair. My hair isn’t frizzy or dull looking when I get up in the morning." —Aaron Key
Get a set of two from Amazon for $9.99+ (available in five sizes, 39 colors, and in packs of four or individually).
www.amazon.com, Amazon
Promising review: "Love these drops. So effective, a little goes a long way. Great for a boost of hydration, especially in the colder and/or drier months. Great as a primer before makeup to smooth the skin. Such a value for a product that packs a punch. My skin hasn't looked better!" —Ken
Get it from Amazon for $11.97.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "I have Fenty Cherry Treat, a lip oil from Dior, and several other brands that were $20 or more…and the Nyx Fat Oil is better! Same consistency as the others, but a little more color, which is a good thing. About as long lasting as any other thick lipgloss. It’s always awesome to find a less expensive [option] for the high-end products I like." —Jennifer
Get it from Amazon for $8.97(available in 14 shades).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
These require three AAA batteries per candle that will last you about 150 hours.
Promising review: "I like that you can control the brightness with the remote and timer selection is just not one selection, that is the first time I have seen a remote for candles with lots of options. These candles are better than my expensive flameless Luminara candles and look just like a real candle. This is my second set and I just purchased a third set. You won't regret this purchase." —Experiencedandiknowit
Get the set of three from Amazon for $22.99 (available in six colors/styles).
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 $21.99+ (available in two sizes).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "Great slipper. Easily compares to my Uggs for so much less. Run long and narrow. I can comfortably wear them with socks or without." —Laurie
Get them from Amazon for $25.64+ (available in women's sizes 6–11, including wide sizes, and in six colors).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
BuzzFeeder Elizabeth Lilly also owns this — she packed it as her only bag for a trip to busy trip to Iceland, and not only did it hold a ton and keep her hands free, it easily fit around her waist over her outerwear.
Promising review: "TikTok told me this compared to Lululemon, and it’s true, it is. Love this little bag! And the price — you can’t beat it." —Jolie
Get it from Amazon for $12.98 (available in 41 colors).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Joy Jolt is a small business that specializes in modern and pop culture-themed drinkware and kitchen accessories.
Promising review: "These square wine glasses are just like the ones from Crate & Barrel but half the cost. So worth the money. They come well packaged and look so good on display. Buy them, you won't regret it!" —Heather W.
Get a set of two from Amazon for $19.95 (available in three styles).
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "Run Forrest run!! Don’t walk!! This is a perfect Vivienne Westwood [alternative]. I bought this when I didn’t have enough money for the real one but unless if you do a microscopic closeup of the two, this necklace is the literal perfect [copy] of the original. It feels pretty weighty and doesn’t tarnish easily. The size is also perfect and the color matches the real one better than the other ones in the market. The packaging was also super cute and protective." —Ziaaaa
Get a two-pack (gold and silver) from Amazon for $13.99 (also available in two other styles).
Elizabeth Mott is a Korean American woman-owned biz!
Promising review: "I am very happy with this purchase! The primer lasted on my client for 14 hours, including 10 hours of on-camera work and running around doing interviews. Pleased as punch! This is what I needed to hear! Finding a good shadow primer is like the holy grail in the life of a makeup artist. I have used many products and wasted a lot of money and I believe I found a winner with Elizabeth Mott’s product! I am thankful and impressed!" —Miss Lilly
Get it from Amazon for $15.35.
Reviews in this post have been edited for length and/or clarity.
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