1. A L’Oreal Paris rinse-out lamellar water treatment that'll transform your hair in just eight seconds (!) to leave your hair shiny, silky, and ultra-hydrated, no matter your hair type! This lamellar water treatment is probably my favorite beauty purchase of 2024 so far. My hair is thin, fine, color-treated, and prone to frizz, but ever since I started using this every time I wash my hair (about twice a week), my hair has literally never looked and felt better.
It makes my hair look and feel silky soft, and once it dries, there's way less frizz (I have started using a Kitsch satin towel wrap for drying my hair, which helps too). Promising review: "Wow! I have waist-length 3C curly color-treated hair that’s usually a nightmare to deal with in the summer and this stuff is a game-changer. My hair is silky, my curls are defined, it dried in like half the usual time.
..seriously impressed!" — Stavana Jubinsky "This product is [just like] Redken's Lamellar Water at less than half the price.
I finished the Redken product and went right to the L'Oreal product and there is no difference. Great for repairing bleach/color-treated hair. Instantly makes my fine hair soft and smooth and much easier to comb through after showering.
I use it in between shampoo and conditioner and love it. It's a hair game changer." — anonymous87 Get it from Amazon for $10.
97 . 2. An oddly satisfying foot file for gently removing dead skin buildup and calluses on the heels of your feet to leave them so smooth, you won't be able to stop touching them.
You can use it on dry or wet skin! Promising review: " Omg GAME-CHANGER. I am astonished. I have actual control over my calluses.
My feet are embarrassing unless I literally go every two weeks for pedicures. I slack off? It’s terrible. It was an ongoing joke between me and my ex-husband.
After using this ONE TIME I could cry with excitement. In a few strokes, it shaved off all the hard, thick, ridiculous callused mess that are my feet. I had to actually be careful to not be so aggressive like I am used to.
I had literally resorted to taking a box cutter to shave off calluses. Hoping I didn’t slip. If you know what I’m talking about? Get it.
Skip the files (electrics too) and the exfoliating BS. Skip the single blade shaver. Go.
Get this." — A. Donato Get it from Amazon for $9.
99 . 3. LilyAna Naturals eye cream to brighten and firm undereye skin to reduce puffiness, fine lines, and bags, but it doesn't stop there — this potent cream also nourishes the delicate area with restorative ingredients like rosehip seed oil, organic hibiscus flower extracts, and vitamin E.
Promising review: "The product is a game changer for me . I would have dry creases under my eyes no matter how much primer or expensive foundation I used. I use this in the a.
m. and p.m.
, and it has made a 100% difference. I was at the doctor’s waiting room and was chatting with a woman and I mentioned I was going to be 53 in two weeks. She was shocked and said she thought I was 35, saying I had barely had any wrinkles.
It made my day!" — Angela Kilburn Get it from Amazon for $22.99+ (available in three sizes and a two-pack). 4.
A potent vitamin C serum that's basically a skincare superhero with powerful ingredients like retinol, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and salicylic acid all rolled into one. This stuff might just spell the end for any acne, rough skin, fine lines, clogged pores, and dark spots you have. Reviewers say it's *especially* effective for sensitive, acne-prone skin and oily/combination skin types (though reviewers with dry skin report great results too).
Promising review: " This is a game-changer. I'm an esthetician so I have access to a lot of products, some of them are very expensive. This is an extraordinary product, having five of the most coveted ingredients for most skin types.
I haven't even used the whole bottle yet and I can a difference in my skin. It's smooth, has already lightened the three hyperpigmented areas, and has kept my skin moist even in the cold climate of Colorado. The price is very affordable for what's in it.
I cleanse with a gentle cleanser , mist my face with pure rose water , apply a small amount, and put my moisturizer over it. It really changes the skin for the best." — Helen Griffis Get it from Amazon for $14.
99+ (available in two sizes). 5. A Revlon volcanic face roller capable of keeping excess oil at bay throughout the day, absorbing shine in seconds without messing up your makeup or requiring you to pack on more powder.
If you have oily or acne-prone skin, this clever roller might just be your new holy grail. The face roller is reusable! Just twist the ring to pop out the stone, then wash it with a mild soap/cleanser and let it air dry after every use. Promising review: " This little miracle worker is a game-changer for oily skin like mine.
I am amazed at how much oil it absorbs without smudging or removing any of my makeup. Every time I think this oil-eating monster has had its fill and surely I should get a new one, by the next morning, the oil has disappeared, and the roller looks brand new again!! MAGIC!!" — Jason Zapata Get it from Amazon for $9.77 .
6. Urban Decay All Nighter setting spray if you dread putting on makeup on hot days because you know it won't last once you start sweating. I recently stumbled upon this holy grail product, and it's been a 👏 game changer 👏.
It ensures your flawless ~lewk~ will survive rain, sweat, and nights out without smudging *or* transferring off inside a mask! I first put this setting spray to the test for a wedding that involved taking multiple trains in and out of Manhattan on a hot day and being in crowded rooms where airflow was ~limited~. As such, I was sweating up a storm, but my makeup looked *flawless* by the time I got home that night. Soon after that event, I put it to an even bigger task: surviving sweat, tears, and 12 hours of wear for the Taylor Swift Eras Tour.
My makeup look was done by 2 p.m., and it stayed completely intact (minus the lipstick I purposefully wiped off while scarfing down post-concert pizza) until the time I got home just after 2 a.
m. Here's what it endured during that timespan: multi-leg public transportation to and from the venue, waiting in lines under the blazing sun to get in, multiple meals and drinks, jumping, screaming, and literally full-on crying multiple times during the show. Most recently, I wore it to the Governors Ball music festival, where I was very concerned about my carefully crafted Chappell Roan-inspired eyeshadow look [pictured above] lasting all day under the very, VERY hot sun — and was pleased with how well my makeup held up.
I now own this stuff in both a full- and travel-size. It dries on your face quickly and doesn't feel heavy or sticky (it doesn't feel like anything at all , TBH), and it's caused no issues for my dry, sensitive skin. It's been a complete game changer, especially during the hotter months, and I can't recommend it more! Get it from Amazon for $17+ (available in two sizes).
7. And a Rimmel mattifying primer some reviewers found was the only thing they needed to survive the summer heat without their face becoming Shine Central. If you wear makeup on top, it can keep it from becoming patchy throughout the day! Promising review: "If you are an oily person like me, this is for you!! I put this on, then wait maybe two minutes, then I put my foundation on and the rest of my makeup.
I have worn makeup with this all day and night — no oils come through, no makeup smudge, nothing. This is a game-changer if you like the matte look!!! This has lasted me over a year." — Shaina Get it from Amazon for $5.
97 . 8. Verb Ghost Oil — meet your secret weapon against frizzy, dry hair (especially if you color it frequently).
It'll soften and smooth your strands while weightlessly adding shine. Promising reviews: " I have long, 4a textured hair that I blow out straight in the winter. I use this oil as a finisher after blowing and/or flat ironing AND I use this on the ends of my hair every single day.
This has been a game-changer for me. No split ends means I've had tremendous hair retention this year and this oil probably deserves 75% of the credit. Nice smell.
Good moisture. Great protection. Also, it doesn't lay on top of hair, it melts into hair, which is why most could use it daily.
Will be buying this product forever!" — Lisa Lang Blakeney "This stuff is amazing. I have fine hair, but a lot of it. This doesn't weigh it down at all.
One pump is all it takes for my shoulder-length hair. It's a miracle and a total game-changer for me. Worth EVERY PENNY.
" — K. Garvey Get it from Amazon for $20 . 9.
Maybelline's Instant Age Rewind Concealer claiming holy grail status from professional makeup artists, reviewers over 50, and more. It's perfect for a quick touch-up (without cakiness!) on days when you're not feeling a full face of makeup. Dark, puffy under-eye circles and redness are no match for it.
Promising review: " Game-changer. I have tried so many concealers and they all end up caking up and settling in the lines under my eyes 😭😭😭. I recently decided I would try this because of all the makeup tutorials I watch and OMG!!!!! I use this under my eyes to cover up my dark circles.
The coverage is fantastic, it goes on so smooth and I really like the applicator! This is such an amazing makeup product; it's hard to believe it's so inexpensive. This concealer delivers exactly what all the professional makeup artists claim it delivers ." — RobinX Check out our Maybelline's Instant Age Rewind Concealer review for more deets.
Get it from Amazon for $6.52 (available in eight shades). 10.
A hair finishing stick that lets you take control of all those flyaways and slick them back without feeling greasy. This petite stick can go right in your bag so it's on hand for mid-day touch-ups. Promising review: " GAME CHANGER.
I'm in my 50s and have long, permed, and colored hair. I work in healthcare and wear my hair up 85% of the time. I have these unruly short hairs across my hairline.
I've tried everything — literally. From less blow dryer to conditioner, edge wax, gel, and hairspray. Hairspray and wax work, but it leaves buildup, and it flakes.
This product is truly amazing. Holds short hairs in place and makes my hair feel smooth and silky. I really didn't have much hope, but thought it was worth a try; it wasn't expensive and could be returned.
I was truly amazed with the first sweep of the brush, and the next morning hair was still in place and still felt silky smooth. I wish I would have known this existed years ago, I already bought another tube and have it on Subscribe & Save so I never run out." — C.
Pierce Get it from Amazon for $6.99 . 11.
E.l.f.
Poreless Putty Primer to blur your pores and create a smooth, velvety texture for makeup to glide over and also grip onto. Infused with squalane for hydration, this popular primer has a mattifying effect that doesn't look dry — plus, it's small enough to take on the go in case you need touch-ups. Promising review: "This stuff is amazing.
Will even out fine lines and help with super porous areas; my T-zone is the worst for pores, and this definitely gave me a boost in confidence. I would highly recommend. Especially to those not to familiar with makeup, this is a game-changer.
Honestly, it works better than my $30 primer from Urban Decay and lasts all day. I am oily, so I usually blot some powder on later in the day, but if you have dry skin, this could be the ultimate game changer!" — Olivia Get it from Amazon for $9.03 .
12. A mattifying powder shampoo you won't want to go anywhere without once you see how effective it is at mattifying oily roots. Just dab it on your roots to release an ultra-fine powder that absorbs oil and revives ~volume~ so you can stay fresh from morning to night.
BTW, this is cruelty-free! Promising review: "I bought this in desperation after having elbow surgery, which left me unable to wash my own hair. I have tried countless dry shampoo sprays and have been disappointed every time. But this? Absolutely 100% game changer.
It kept my hair feeling clean and oil-free for several days at a time. It's easy to use, absorbs in quickly, no white residue on my dark hair, and you don't need much. I will never buy another brand again.
This is my holy grail of dry shampoo ." — Bad Girl Get it from Amazon for $18 . 13.
An oil-free Laura Mercier tinted moisturizer beloved for its soft, sheer coverage that evens out your skin tone without feeling like you have a greasy layer just sitting on top of it — your skin still feels like *your* skin. This is my personal *fave* tinted moisturizer! It has a blurred matte finish thanks to oil-absorbing powders that keep your face shine-free, while licorice root extract soothes irritation and vitamin E protects against sun damage. Reviewers of all skin types call it a staple! This has been my personal holy grail tinted moisturizer for months now! (That's me wearing it above, on its own, with no filter.
) I've never been the type to buy expensive name brands like Laura Mercier, and finding tinted products that actually match your tone is SUCH a struggle, but I took a gamble and have found my match made in heaven with this moisturizer. It blurs my freckles a bit without covering them completely, and it still looks like "my skin," just with a more even skin tone that looks soft and healthy. Now, like many tinted moisturizers, this is very light, sheer coverage and you'll probably have to pair with concealer if you have blemishes or spots you want to cover.
I love this for no-foundation days when you just want a light base to wear on its own or with a bit of blush and mascara. Also, I'm using a damp sponge to apply it above, but you could def just use your fingers! Promising review : "Game changer. Omg.
This product legit changed the makeup game for me. I was ready to give up on face makeup forever before I found this. It matches my skin tone perfectly, sinks into my skin well, and is undetectable even after hours of use!" — Nats20 Get it from Laura Mercier or Sephora for $54 (available in nine shades and also in a mini size for $29).
14. A value-size bottle of sulfate-free biotin shampoo if your hair is thinning and you're eager to do something about it. In addition to volumizing biotin, this shampoo contains other natural ingredients like keratin, rosemary oil, and tea tree oil that moisturize the scalp to help your mane grow in thicker and healthier than ever.
Read more about how biotin shampoo could help with the fullness of hair at Cleveland Clinic . Promising review: "This shampoo was a game-changer. I’m a breast cancer survivor and this shampoo helped my hair grow back healthy and thick and so much faster than I expected! This is a miracle shampoo.
Thank you!!" — rissa714 Get it in a value size from Amazon for $32.95 (also available in smaller sizes). 15.
Lightweight Cosrx snail mucin essence , a hydrating holy grail for many people with dry, sensitive skin and a gentler, cheaper alternative to many name-brand moisturizers and serums. It's effective on all skin types, and reviewers report seeing improvement after just a few uses! Acne scars, dark spots, and fine lines are about to meet their match. Promising review : "Game-changer.
I don't know what kind of sorcery this is but it has literally changed my skin!! First time I used it, my skin felt tighter and more balanced. A week later twice a day, my skin is so much brighter. Better texture and even coloring.
Pores seem tighter. Not a single pimple since. It looks so healthy.
Whatever magic this is, it works better than any expensive designer skin lab crap that I've tried." — Np Get it from Amazon for $14.99 .
16. A Denman hair brush literally made for curly hair — it detangles, distributes product evenly, and shapes curls so you can dash out the door with perfectly sculpted spirals and time to spare. Also, its mini size makes it easy to hold and great for curly-haired kids to use as well.
Promising review: " Game-changer. Wow! I did not know my hair was this curly. I never thought a brush could define my curls like this.
I now use this every time I wash and prep my hair. It’s really changed the way I style my hair now. The bristles are easy to remove and apply.
It’s easy to clean. It’s lightweight." — Marissa Get it from Amazon for $16.
95+ (available in three styles). 17. An Essence Lash Princess mascara beloved for its ability to give you bold, dramatic lashes while also separating them to prevent clumping — and, most of all, for its $5 price tag! 2024: The year we stop spending over $10 on mascara.
Promising review : "I've been wearing makeup for 35 years, so I have worn my share of different mascaras. Dollar store, drugstore, high-end, you name it, it's been on my face. This little unassuming sucker is a GAME.
CHANGER. She is now my holy grail. I scrape the whole brush, sometimes even lightly blot it, because I don't like a lot of product right out of the gate.
A little wiggle and a swish, and I legit have eyelashes that look like they've been glued on. They're feathery and defined and full, super dark, no flakes, no smudges, no traveling under your eyes. I add one more light coat to the tips of my lashes and voila, I'm a doe-eyed princess.
The trick is to CURL YOUR LASHES first. That goes for any mascara, because it makes a massive difference. Blast your curler with your blow dryer for a second if you're feeling super fancy.
Don't sleep on this, queens! For the results I get with this mascara, I would happily pay triple the price, but the gag is, you don't have to! Scrape your change together and buy this!" — ByeFelicia Get it from Amazon for $4.99 . 18.
Plus: An eyelash separator comb because when you've spent so much time crafting the perfect eye look, the *last* thing you want is clumpy, sticky lashes (and to risk messing up your makeup while fixing). With a slightly bent handle that makes it easier to hold, this stainless steel comb will gently separate your lashes and remove any clumps, leaving them perfectly ~wispy~. It also comes with a cap to cover the comb end for travel and storage.
Promising review : " Game-changer! I'm not sure how long this type of product has been out, but I'm so glad I finally found it. I've been using a pin to separate my thick eyelashes after applying mascara. It terrifies onlookers, but I had no other way of doing it until I found this eyelash comb.
It's absolutely made a difference ." — Bronwyn E. Get it from Amazon for $4.
99 (available in six colors). 19. A double-sided silicone lip brush if you're constantly applying lip balm but your lips still don't look or feel soft — chances are, they just need some exfoliation so your moisturizing product can be fully effective and your lipstick can look its best.
I use brushes like these and swear by them! My lips are chronically dry and chapped, and using an exfoliating brush before I put on lip balm or lipstick makes all the difference in how they look and feel. Promising review: "My lips have been incredibly dry over the last few months. After buying these and some better lip balm, my lips are super soft! I use these with a lip scrub and then use them to apply and rub in the lip balm.
Absolute game-changer for me ." — PANYK Get a two-pack from Amazon for $8.99 (available in three pack sizes).
And you might want to consider pairing it with this effective little lip scrub , if you're in the market. 20. Long-lasting Peripera Ink Velvet Lip Tint , worth the try if you like a little color on your lips but can't be bothered with lipsticks that constantly need touch-ups.
This'll give your pout a smooth, ultra-pigmented stain with a silky finish, *and* it also has a lightweight feel that's not sticky or clumpy! A few reviewers compare the rosy nude shade to Charlotte Tilbury's popular Pillow Talk lipstick; other similar products mentioned include YSL Velvet Cream and Tartist Creamy Matte Lip Paint. Promising reviews: "Goes on smooth and lightweight. I hate clumpy lipsticks, but this is absolutely velvety.
Even when I do have to reapply, it doesn’t get sticky or messy to add additional layers. The matte is beautiful. This lipstick is a new fave and an absolute game-changer .
" — Ashlee Harrop "This is velvet, full coverage without feeling like glue on your lips. It does transfer. The color is very pigmented, so what you see is what you get.
Honestly, it is one of the best lip color products I've ever used. I put this above Charlotte Tilbury. " — Lexi Lee Get it from Amazon for $9.
80 (available in 29 shades). 21. A hair protein treatment formulated to deeply repair and hydrate your hair thanks to restorative ingredients like collagen and ceramide 3.
You just apply it after shampooing, wait as little as five minutes, then rinse it out for hair that looks *and* feels silky soft. Some reviewers say it's even BETTER than Olaplex (despite being a fraction of the price). I've been using this stuff lately and have to say, my hair has never felt better!! My hair is color-treated and tends to feel really dry at the ends, and I'm used to globbing on so much conditioner in an effort to have it feel silky and hydrated.
With this Elizavecca treatment, I don't have to use very much, and it feels like it really permeates my strands to leave them sooo soft. Sometimes I leave it on for just five minutes if I'm in a rush, and other times I'll actually get out of the shower (after washing my hair) and leave this on for a full 20 minutes while I do other things. I've noticed that my hair legit feels better for days afterward — which is a good thing, since I only wash my hair a couple times a week! BTW, reviewers with everything from thin, fine hair to 4c curls have reported positive results from this moisturizing formula, which is particularly recommended for folks whose hair is damaged from using hot tools, bleach, and the like.
Promising review: "I have VERY thick hair and it easily gets dried out. I don't use a lot of product (if any) but I do need to condition my hair almost every time I wash it. I saw this product discussed on social media and I admit: I was very skeptical.
I've heard about a lot of 'miracle products' that did nothing for me. I decided to give it a try, why not, it's cheap. And holy wow! Where has this been my entire life?? My hair was instantly softer and shinier.
I only left it on for maybe 7 minutes tops the first time and I still noticed a total difference. I cannot recommend this product enough! It really is a game-changer. " — Nurse SportsFan Check out our full Elizavecca Hair Protein Treatment review for more deets! Get it from Amazon for $7.
40 . 22. Paula's Choice 2% BHA liquid exfoliant with salicylic acid and smoothing green tea extract so you can say goodbye to blackheads, enlarged pores, and redness.
It exfoliates dead skill cells on your face to leave it ultra-smooth, and it's gentle enough for daily use! BuzzFeed Shopping contributor Rachel Dunkel looooves this stuff: "Not my skin above, but I 100% vouch for this liquid exfoliant's amazingness. It's helped to even out my skin tone and control the hormonal acne around my mouth. It's the only thing I feel like has actually helped start to slow down those breakouts, and for that, I'm forever thankful.
I apply a thin layer in the morning and at night after cleansing and before moisturizing." Promising review: " GAME-CHANGER! I thought I had tried EVERYTHING on the market for congested skin (I don’t get breakouts anymore, but very clogged pores along the T-zone) and enlarged pores. I’ve only been using it for a week and just at night, and the difference in blackheads along my nose and enlarged/congested pores is almost unbelievable! This just might be my very favorite Amazon purchase EVER!" — AJDEX Get it from Amazon for $14+ (available in two sizes).
23. A bottle of First Aid Beauty KP Bump Eraser Body Scrub made with 10% AHA to decongest skin and whisk away dry, rough bumps, helping your "strawberry" or "chicken" skin (as keratosis pilaris is sometimes called) feel and look much healthier and smoother. It's both cruelty-free and vegan.
Promising review: "Save yourself the time and just buy the big bottle. This product is a game changer. It’s reduced the KP bumps on my arms significantly, by like 60%! Also, it has almost completely cleared up the rough skin and acne on the backs of my thighs.
It’s made my skin so smooth! I can not remember a time when my arms were this smooth. It’s been like 20 years. I feel so much more confident and comfortable.
I LOVE this product." — Whitney Schaeffer Get it from Amazon for $11.75+ (available in five sizes and a two-pack).
24. Hydrating Lancôme Teint Idole Care & Glow foundation , which I fell in love with immediately upon first wear. This glowy serum foundation provides buildable medium coverage and has an 82% hyaluronic acid formula to hydrate and plump the skin — a dream for those of us with face dryness.
This is the best foundation I have ever owned, folks. I literally get excited every time I get the chance to put it on. I saw it recommended in a TikTok (which I can't find now, sry!), and even though it costs more than I've ever spent on foundation, I was pulled in by the idea of a hyaluronic acid formula that's hydrating and glowy with decent coverage — and it's proven to be just that.
The skin tone match is PERFECTION (Sephora nailed it with the "Find Your Shade" tool, which you can click on underneath the shade options), and it blends like a dream, working as the perfect base for blush, highlighter, and more. It's lightweight and buildable, and my dry, sensitive skin has had no issues with it. The bottle is also lasting me a loooong time, so it's been worth every single penny in my experience.
When I want more coverage for a bolder makeup look, whether for events or going out, this is my go-to! Promising review : "Game-changer. I have combination skin, and this foundation balances my skin perfectly. It’s buildable without making the oily parts of my face greasy.
It doesn’t catch on my dry patches either like other foundations do. I can wear it all day without my face feeling like a mask or that my makeup is sliding off." — HajaB Get it from Amazon or Sephora for $57 (available in 30 shades).
25. Blume's Meltdown acne oil , aka a skincare holy grail for its gentle, effective acne-fighting formula. It not only works to reduce acne but also helps fade acne scars, calm redness, *and* basically tells future breakouts, "Nope, not allowed here.
" 🙅♀️ Use it for spot treatments *or* mix it with your moisturizer for all-over coverage! Blume is a POC-owned small biz cofounded by sisters Taran and Bunny, who wanted to create a line of transparent, eco-conscious self-care products that destigmatize and de-mystify the shame-centered talk around periods and puberty. HuffPost Shopping writer Haley Zovickian says, "I have had hormonal, cystic acne since adolescence and still deal with painful hormonal acne, plus skin that's somehow dry *and* oily. I was initially skeptical that an oil of all things would help my skin, but I LOVE this thing .
It is somehow so lightweight while feeling truly nourishing. My breakouts have cleared up since starting this product, and my skin is less oily and more even, like the oil has been balanced out. I've been looking everywhere for a skincare product with black cumin seed oil (a v underrated antibacterial and anti-inflammatory oil that helps fade pigmentation and is gentle enough to calm even eczema), so I was delighted that it was a main ingredient in this.
" Promising review : "I love Blume so much that I’m actually stressed about it ever being discontinued or sold out. It has been a game-changer for my skin. I’ve had pretty bad hormonal acne for the past two years and it was seriously deflating.
While many products made a slight difference, none of them changed my skin. I tried Blume on a lark and was amazed when I noticed a difference next day. Now my skin is mostly clear with occasional hormonal break outs, but even those are easier to cover and go away faster.
I attribute my clear skin entirely to Blume. " — Karmen Get it from Amazon for $26 . 26.
And a 36-pack of Mighty Patch hydrocolloid stickers to keep any unexpected zits from ruining your plans. Stick one on before bed or during the day — either way, it'll get to work drawing out all that nasty gunk clogging your pores, leaving you with noticeably flatter skin in 6–8 hours. It'll prevent any picking at the area too! BuzzFeed Shopping editor Amanda Davis says, "I've tried various (countless 😅) pimple patches in the past and Mighty Patch definitely takes the cake.
I stick it on and honestly forget that it's even there. The adhesive is strong, so it stays on during my tossing and turning at night, but I often wear it during the day, too! I work from home, and it's not noticeable during my video calls, which I truly, truly appreciate." For more deets, check out her full Mighty Patch review ! Hero Cosmetics is an Asian woman-founded brand and home of The Mighty Patch.
Ju Rhyu launched the brand in 2017, which has evolved with products such as cleansers, toners, nose strip Mighty Patches, and more! Promising review: " Using this product has been a game-changer. It’s as if the adhesion of it literally pulls all of the bad stuff from the spot and you’ll know when it’s time to remove when it turns up white on your sticker — so easy to remove and my spot has went drastically down. I’m on my fourth box, or maybe fifth? They’re my go-to at the slightest spot I get to try to nip it in the bud.
Might I add that my hormonal cystic acne spots have been majorly suppressed by these — as soon as I feel one coming on, I take a hot washcloth to the area and put a sticker on overnight for a couple of nights and the deep underneath feeling of that spot is gone. I love these so much, and you will too." — Deborah Hart Get a pack of 36 stickers from Amazon for $10.
77 . 27. A cuticle oil if you've nearly given up on your poor peeling nails and shredded cuticles.
Made with jojoba oil, almond oil, and vitamin E, this ultra-popular conditioning treatment not only strengthens nails but also heals and smoothens cuticles. With a little persistence, it'll have you doing a double take in wonder at your new model-worthy nails like, "Are these mine ?" Promising review: "I started using this product 10 days ago and it is a miracle liquid. I pick my nails, especially my thumb cuticle, to the point where I am so embarrassed by the way they look.
I would cover with nail polish but then begin picking again, making it that much worse. My thumb was demolished. I made a point to stop picking — and then I found this cuticle oil.
I apply it multiple times throughout the day and my nails are strong and look amazing. My thumb still has work to do but I can stand to look at it and the nail is strong, growing and looking the most normal it’s looked in years. All my other nails look super healthy and are so strong! I work in sales and to not be ashamed of my nails in front of clients is a game-changer .
This liquid is light, smells like a hint of almond (delicious) and absorbs quickly. Most importantly, this stuff works!!!" — Amazon Customer Get it from Amazon for $9.40+ (available in three sizes).
28. Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay , worthy of being your holy grail hair and face mask. This cult-favorite mask is made of 100% natural calcium bentonite (a type of volcanic ash) clay, which draws impurities out of skin and buildup out of hair.
It's great for people with oily skin and hyperpigmentation when used as a face mask. Combine the powder with apple cider vinegar for the best results! Promising reviews: "I don't normally leave reviews but this product is a game-changer! I have only used it one time and noticed results right away! This mask gets deep under your pores and removes all the dirt and bacteria. Combine with apple cider vinegar for the best results!" — Joidon Jennings "Curly hair game-changer! I have extremely spirally curly hair.
I am used to having lots of it fall out while I'm washing my hair. I've used this the last two weeks before washing my hair and only lost a couple of strands — total game-changer! Also is a great deep cleaner for my pores, especially on my nose." — marathongirl1968 Get a 2-pound jar from Amazon for $22.
95 . 29. Micellar cleansing water to gently but effectively remove dirt, excess oil, and even waterproof makeup from your face without leaving it dried-out or requiring any harsh rubbing.
Promising review: " Game changer . LOVE! LOVE! LOVE! I used to use the small bottles of eye makeup remover. This is a game-changer.
Not only can I remove my eye makeup, but all of my makeup in one sitting. Does not dry out my skin, leaves it refreshed. There is no oily residue that I have found with some of the other makeup removers.
I will be buying this again!" — K&J's Mom Get it from Amazon for $8.97+ (available in two sizes and a two or three-pack). 30.
A Revlon hot air brush so you can treat yourself to a salon-level blowout without stepping outside the house, and in a fraction of the time you'd spend using a traditional blow-dryer. It handles drying and styling in one step! I barely know how to do anything with my hair, but this is one of those tools that's basically like, "It's OK..
.I gotchu." Now when I blow-dry my hair, I can style it at the same time, and it's as easy as just curling my hair around this brush as I go.
I seriously never thought I'd be able to achieve a salon-worthy blowout at home, but even with my non-existent skills, I can get pretty dang close with this hot-air brush. It has two heat and speed settings and a cool option, and it's designed to work on all hair textures — reviewers with 2b–4c hair mentioned it working for them. Promising review: "Game changer! I always dreaded the blow-drying process, holding a heavy dryer in one hand and a styling brush in the other and spending waaaaay too long on the process with shoulder-length hair.
This has changed the game for me and I couldn't be happier — only one hand needed and the drying/styling is all done so quickly despite having a very thick head of hair . It's cut my time in half. Highly recommend this!" — maidindetroit Get it from Amazon for $35.
56+ . 31. And a blow-dry spray that not only protects your hair from heat and eliminates frizz after washing, but *also* decreases blow-dry time by 50% so you have time to make that run to Starbucks before your 9 a.
m. meeting. Promising review: "This has been a game-changer for my daughter's long, thick, heavy hair.
So much less time to dry and it leaves it silky smooth. Also, has been a game-changer with blow-drying my curly hair straight in the morning so I don't have to freeze with wet hair and can wear a hat without hat head! Quick run over with the straighter to smooth and it lasts all day. Our hair has never looked healthier.
Great value since the smaller bottle lasted the two of us sharing it for 6 months ." — JM "If you have gray hair you know that blow-drying your hair can often times turn your hair yellow and dull. I have long straight gray/white hair and never blow-dry my hair without this.
It has been a real game-changer for me. Now I can dry my hair with confidence and know that I will never have to worry about the dreaded yellow hair again." — bellicent Get it from Amazon for $16+ (available in three sizes and two-packs).
32. Dr. Jart Cicapair Tiger Grass Color Correcting Treatment to tackle redness head-on, going on as a green cream that blends to match your skin tone, neutralizing redness in minutes.
One BuzzFeed editor says she uses it daily as a moisturizer under foundation; others even use it as a CC cream. Thankfully, it has SPF 30 as well! Note: Some reviewers mention this doesn't seem to blend as well on darker skin. Another color-corrector to try for darker complexions: L.
A. Girl's Pro Conceal HD Concealer . BuzzFeed Shopping editor Elizabeth Lilly says, "I use this every single day and to demonstrate just how well it works, I put it on half of my face in the pic [above].
Seriously, the color-canceling prowess is impressive. Also it took me nearly a year to go through the full-size jar. So if the price has you feeling iffy, you can try out the mini size.
Seriously, I'm forever indebted to this stuff." Promising review: " This product is a game changer for anyone with red rosacea-prone skin. I have used everything from drugstore to expensive products from my dermatologist, plus many IPL treatments to reduce the redness.
Nothing worked until I found this. A small amount goes a long way so I use a sunscreen underneath. I found patting it on my skin worked and the redness is gone instantly and stays that way all day.
" — DGladMarten Get it from Sephora for $54 (also available in a mini size for $25). 33. A long-lasting eyeshadow primer that'll make your eyeshadow look bolder and extra pigmented, but also combat oil and creasing so your smoky eye looks flawless all night long.
If you're still applying eyeshadow without primer, you're not getting its full effect. Promising review: "This eye primer is amazing!!! I have super oily eyelids and was getting to the point that I would rarely bother with eyeshadow because even with expensive primers it would be smudged and creased within an hour. So glad I don't need to shell out for Urban Decay or Mac Paint Pot anymore; they don't hold a candle to this and it's so much cheaper.
Game-changer ." — Chloe Get it from Amazon for $13.99 .
34. A winged eyeliner stamp addressing the bane of every makeup wearer's existence: creating the perfect, symmetrical cat-eye. Now you don't have to spend an hour redoing your wings — this easy-to-use stamp creates the same wing on each side, and no one will even know the difference.
🤫 Promising review: " Game-changer!! As a makeup beginner, this has completely saved me!!! The stamp works great, and I’ve even gotten more confident not using the stamp thanks to my practice WITH the stamp. After having it for 5–6 months, I think the stamp has become more dried out, but it’s 100% still worth it. Eyeliner is so difficult; I’m glad I got this.
" — C Get it from Amazon for $14.98 (available in three sizes and a combo pack). 35.
CeraVe Moisturizing Cream , aka THE holy grail for people with dry, sensitive skin. Its essential ceramides bring relief to dry, flaky, itchy skin by hydrating and restoring the skin's protective barrier — keeping the moisture in and pollutants out. Psst — This is the moisturizer I swear by for my dry, sensitive skin! I put it on as the last step in my morning and night skincare routine and it makes my face feel soft and plump for hours.
I recommend getting the style with a pump on top so you don't have to dip your fingers into the tub! Promising review: " I’m 64, with some psoriasis, especially in winter months. Every body part, including my face, is perpetually dry. I’ve used SO many moisturizers and oils, most all have left my skin feeling greasy but not less dry.
I’ve been using this for only a few days, and it’s a total game-changer. Nothing is greasy, everything is hydrated. I can use this on my face AND on my elbows and hands.
Give it a few minutes to sink in, and it vanishes. One-stop shopping. Love it! 5 stars!" — Kim Get the bundle with a pump from Amazon for $21.
99 (also available separately and in a smaller size). 36. Tower 28 ShineOn Lip Jelly , because it makes the impossible *possible* for those of us who can't stand a sticky gloss but want our lips to look shiny and ~juicy~ at the same time.
This bb uses apricot kernel, raspberry seed, and rosehip oils to soothe, protect, and nurture your lips — without your hair getting stuck to them approximately every five seconds. Check out an unboxing and application of the lip jelly in the sheer pink shade XOXO on TikTok. Tower 28 is a Asian woman-owned small clean beauty brand that makes skincare, plus makeup that acts like skincare.
Their products are nontoxic, nonirritating, vegan, and cruelty-free, so sensitive skin can breathe a little easier. Promising review: "I am usually not a lip gloss girl. Those were always beautiful-looking, yet kind of thick and sticky, and as someone with sensory problems, I would find myself wiping it off within 10 minutes.
HOWEVER, this lip gloss was SUCH a game-changer!! It feels not like a thick sticky gloss, but actually like a hydrated oil/balm treatment. Doesn't leave my lips sticky and dry; it leaves them feeling hydrated, pretty, and glossy. I would 1000000% recommend this!" — samantha444 Get it from Sephora or direct from Tower 28 , both for $16 (available in 11 shades and finishes).
37. An antibacterial butt acne-clearing lotion made with tea tree oil that's effective at penetrating the skin to target the roots of acne, leaving your bum clear and baby-smooth. Bacne, you've met your match-ne.
Promising review: "This stuff is PHENOMENAL! I've had breakouts down there since my teens but it's seemed to get much worse with age. I can sweat for 5 minutes, and boom! Breakout time. Benzoyl peroxide wash just wasn't cutting it anymore so, I decided to give this lotion a try.
After using it for only a few days, morning and night, my breakouts were gone! Smooth as a baby's bottom! The name of the product was a little off-putting, but the label came off of the bottle super easily, so you can keep it discreetly without anyone knowing what it is. I'm SOOO glad I decided to give this stuff a try. Seriously, a game changer!!" — Pamela Get it from Amazon for $24.
99 . 38. A brightening facial scrub that leaves your skin positively soft and glowy thanks to Madonna lily in the ingredients, but it also packs in lemon peel, French green clay, and sea kelp to cleanse and de-gunk your pores.
This scrub is one of my go-to exfoliators — I use it in the shower a few times a week, and it leaves my skin *so* soft and smooth. The scrub itself also hasn't been irritating to my dry, sensitive skin , something I was definitely worried about considering I use a retinol cream once or twice a week (though I do avoid doing them on the same day). Without regular exfoliation, the dead skin cells on top of your skin can actually prevent your serums, moisturizers, and other products from sinking in as well , and I definitely noticed that after using this exfoliator, my post-shower Cerave cream seemed much more effective, keeping my skin moisturized for much longer.
This is one product that's going to be in my beauty arsenal for as long as they keep making it! Promising review: " Game-changer. I noticed my skin was really dull but oily. I was breaking out ever since my wedding and saw this item in one of those BuzzFeed articles.
I was hesitant to try, but this scrub had so many positive reviews and was quite affordable, so I tried it. I use the scrub every 3 days. The scrub seems really gritty when you first squeeze it out, and Is an ugly dark green color.
The scrub is surprisingly gentle. I never felt like I was damaging my skin, and after the scrub, my skin is softer and looks healthier. I feel like I’ve got my youthful glow back and I don’t break out anymore, probably because my skin is cleaner.
" — frances r flores Get it from Amazon for $11.99 . 39.
An internet-beloved set of makeup sponges — reviewers sing their praises as a budget-friendly swap for the Beauty Blender , since you get five of these for less than $10! Plus, when it comes to blending foundation, concealer, powder, and BB creams, there's no better tool for a ~flawless~ finish. Promising review : "I am VERY picky when it comes to my makeup sponges. For years I would only use a Beauty Blender because, to be honest, nothing else compared or gave the same foundation finish.
These are truly a game-changer! They are not 100% identical to the name-brand blender in texture, HOWEVER they DO give the same flawless foundation finish. I would even go as far as to say they soak up less foundation, which means you aren't wasting as much product. And can we talk about this price point?!?! Save your hard-earned money and PURCHASE THESE! You won't be disappointed.
" — Lindseyy Get a set of five from Amazon for $5.82+ (available in six colored sets). 40.
A Solawave red light therapy wand in case giving yourself a professional-level facial at home sounds appealing to you (🙋♀️). This cute tool looks simple, but it's packing some highly effective technologies inside: red light therapy to help reduce dark spots and fine lines, microcurrents that stimulate and lift the skin, facial massage to reduce puffiness, and therapeutic warmth to promote product absorption. TL;DR: It's a skincare superhero, folks.
Solawave is a LGBTQ-owned small biz based in Los Angeles. BuzzFeed Shopping editor Amanda Davis vouches for it! "This. gadget.
is. worth it! 👏🏾 Using the Solawave was my first time introducing red light therapy into my skincare routine and the difference in my hyperpigmentation is honestly mind-blowing. The tone of my face is much more even and the dark circles around my eyes have nearly disappeared.
Essentially, it's like a mix of a jade roller (which I already love using anyway) and an LED mask in one...
with microcurrent/vibration therapy, too. You can apply the specific Solawave activating serum or any conductive gel of your choice (I use a different one, myself!) and it will really absorb the benefits when used with the wand. I only use it once every other day (at night) and it's super relaxing.
My skin is always ✨glowing✨ the next day!" Promising review : "The Solawave Wand is an absolute gem in my skincare routine, and I couldn't be happier with the results . This little beauty gadget has truly transformed the way I approach skincare. It fits comfortably in your hand, and the instructions are straightforward.
I appreciate that it offers multiple functions, including radiofrequency and LED therapy. These technologies work in harmony to rejuvenate your skin, targeting fine lines, and overall texture. Another big advantage is the convenience.
I can easily incorporate it into my skincare routine, and it takes just a few minutes. A beauty game-changer! " — Vendula Disla Get it from Amazon for $149 . 41.
A buttery soft bronzer to give you that sun-kissed look without looking too orange or clownish. Brush this into your cheekbones, hairline, and temples for a natural flush — it has a cream-to-powder finish with a light shimmer and velvety smooth texture reviewers rave about. Promising reviews: " I’ve never been able to master the bronzer look without it looking completely unnatural and unblended, but this was a game-changer.
It was really easy to apply and looked great." — Amanda "This bronzer doesn't disappoint. It's a beautiful, warm color with a bit of shimmer in it.
It gives me a sun-kissed glow with no orange tones at all. The texture is velvety smooth and feels really nice on my skin. I also have acne-prone skin, but it doesn't make me break out.
Definitely recommend." — Jheneya Get it from Amazon for $7.10 (available in nine shades).
The reviews for this post have been edited for length and clarity..
