Bustle March 3, 2024

Bustle

Beauty


Beauty Experts & Stylists Are Obsessed With These 40 Weird, Cheap Things On Amazon
 

 

Instant add-to-cart’s.

Deciding which style and beauty products are worth the hype can cost you time and money. Instead, look to the experts who know the tricks of the trade and have personally tried and tested countless products on the market. Each item on this list is expert-approved so you can build a well-rounded collection of beauty tools, skincare must-haves, and hair sprays and serums you never knew you needed. The best part? None of these items will hurt your wallet.

This Primer & Setting Powder That Makes Your Makeup Last All Day

Mally Beauty Evercolor Poreless Face Defender

If you’re looking for a product to make your makeup last the entire day, Ashley Nicole Gibson, makeup artist and owner at Paraposh, has got you covered. “As a makeup artist, Mally Beauty's Face Defender has been a staple in my personal and professional kit for a long time,” Gibson shares. Use it as a primer, setting powder, or blotting powder. Gibson also suggests using a setting spray beforehand and then “seal the deal” with this.

This Stunning Glitter That Has So Many Uses

Unicorn Snot Face & Body BIO Glitter

Gibson loves using this Unicorn Snot Glitter Gel for multiple uses. It’s a “game-changer for my creative makeup applications,” she says. “This long-lasting glitter gel, available in various shades, adds sparkle to the face, body, or hair! Whether for festivals, parties, or themed events, it allows for versatile use and is incredibly travel-friendly.” Best of all, this lightweight formula is super easy to apply and does not require primers or adhesives.

Available colors: 7

This Face Lotion That Controls Oil

Carpe Sweat-Absorbing Face Lotion

If you find yourself constantly blotting sweat from your face throughout the day, Gibson recommends this Carpe Sweat Absorbing Face Lotion as your solution. “This product effectively manages the appearance of sweat and oil across the forehead, face, and scalp, delivering a matte, shine-free finish,” Gibson explains.

She also suggests using it as a makeup primer or as needed. The sweat-absorbing formula includes jojoba esters, vitamin B3, aloe vera, and colloidal oatmeal. Some reviewers even use it on their scalp.

A Serum That Experts Say Is “Magic”

mixsoon Bean Essence (1.69 Fl. O.z.)

Every skin-care routine can benefit from an exfoliant, and Gibson’s go-to is Mixsoon Bean Essence. “It stands out for its gentle exfoliation paired with intense moisturization, effectively removing dead skin cells and balancing sebum production without irritating the skin,” she explains.

“Its magic lies in fermented beans, which enhance moisture, firmness, and resilience for healthier, supple skin,” Gibson adds. Not only does the formula absorb into the skin quickly, but it’s also suited for sensitive skin so you can use it every day.

A Unique Sponge That Cleanse Your Makeup Brushes

TailaiMei Brush Color Removal

Gibson dubs this special sponge as “a game-changer” when applying multiple shades of eyeshadow. According to Gibson, “[this product] offers a quick and effective way to switch eyeshadow colors without needing water or drying time.” With a 4.5-star average rating and thousands of perfect reviews, this sponge is beloved for being so easy to use and how well it works.

These Genius Spatulas To Ensure You Don’t Waste Your Foundation

Spatty Daddy Makeup Spatula Set

No one wants to see their expensive makeup go to waste, and now you can get the most bang for your buck with this genius makeup spatula set. “These tiny yet mighty spatulas are your secret weapon to rescue every bit of your beloved beauty products. These spatulas fit into nearly any jar or bottle to retrieve every drop of your beauty products, ensuring you get your money's worth!” Gibson says.

The pack comes with two sticks that are both dishwasher safe. Use these spatulas for everything from foundations to face creams.

This Portable Flat Iron That Is A Must For Your Next Trip

Wavytalk Mini Portable Flat Iron

Kristina Maccaro, owner and creative director at Love Lane Salon, is a big fan of this mini portable flat iron. This compact hair gadget fits in the palm of your hand and is perfect for traveling with or keeping in your tote bag. It measures 6 inches long, while the ceramic plates are 2.5 inches wide. It also comes with a convenient drawstring pouch.

Available colors: 4

A Shower Cap Lined In Cozy Microfiber To Keep Your Hair Frizz-Free

Aquior Shower Cap

Another favorite of Maccaro is this triple-layer shower cap. The exterior is crafted from a smooth satin material, while the middle is made with waterproof plastic, and the inside is lined in a cozy microfiber terry cloth. The interior absorbs moisture to keep your hair dry and frizz-free while you shower. Reviewers love how big the size of this shower cap is. It can also be easily cleaned in the washing machine.

Available colors: 12

This Hair Catcher That Will Prevent Your Drain From Clogging

Shower Cat Hair Catcher

Say goodbye to clogged drains with this clever cat hair catcher that mounts to your shower wall. Simply swipe your fingers across the silicone teeth of the Shower Cat to remove the loose strands trapped within your hands. It features an adhesive backing that works on all types of surfaces including tile, glass, stone, wood, marble, plastic, and more.

A Heat-Resistant Travel Bag For Your Hair Tools

BAREFOOT CARIBOU Hair Tools Travel Bag

Another go-to item for Maccaro is this travel bag that’s ideal for storing your hair tools for your next trip. It’s designed from a double-lined neoprene fabric to protect your hair tools. Perhaps the best part is that the interior rolls out into a heat-resistant mat so you can lay your tools out before storing them. It also features multiple zipper compartments so you can keep your hair ties and clips all in one place.

Available colors: 3

A Scalp Massager That Promotes Hair That Improves Circulation

VWMYQ Silcone Scalp Massager

Suited for wet or dry hair of any texture, this scalp massager works wonders removing dandruff, improving blood circulation, and promoting hair growth. It’s made with ultra-soft silicone bristles that gently reach the scalp roots. It also has a comfortable grip and the compact size is great for traveling. Choose from an assortment of pastel colors like pink, purple, and green.

Available colors: 5

This Eyelash Serum That Nourishes & Strengthens Your Lashes

Nutra Luxe Md Eyelash Conditioner

Austin-based medical aesthetician, master educator, and advanced-level cosmetic injector Kristin Gunn counts herself as a huge fan of this eyelash conditioner. “Let me tell you, this stuff is amazing! [...] My lashes are touching my glasses and I have zero eye irritation!”

Formulated with vitamin-based ingredients that protect your lashes from environmental damage, this conditioner strengthens and nourishes the roots. Simply swipe a thin layer across your lashline once a day and you could start seeing results in just four weeks.

This Exfoliating Face Truffle That Has The Best Reviews

SKIN&CO Roma Truffle Therapy Face Gommage (5.07 Fl. Oz.)

With an impressive 4.8-star average rating, this face lotion is worth the hype according to Gunn. “I LOVE a good Gommage (the French word for ‘erase,’ as in erasing all of the dead skin and impurities off your face!),” Gunn shares with Bustle.

It’s formulated with plant-based oils, essential fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals that all work to plump the skin. Reviewers especially love the brightening properties that’ll leave your complexion looking healthy. “I have sensitive skin and this product works perfectly for me with no side effects or sensitivity,” Gunn notes.

These Wipes That Remove Stubborn Eye Makeup

Dr. Fischer Tea Tree Eyelid Wipes

If you have sensitive eyes, you’ll want to be in the loop about Gunn’s favorite eyelid wipes. “These wipes are amazing for anyone suffering from dry eye, or allergies or even for a quick makeup remover. I have these little one-use packets in my bag at all times and never travel without them,” she tells Bustle. Aside from the hydrating formula that includes tea tree oil and hyaluronic acid, these wipes also help relieve eye fatigue caused by staring at our screens all day — a win-win.

This Hair Volume Powder That’s Safe For Color-Treated Hair

RPZL Hair Volume Powder

If achieving thicker-looking hair is a part of your hair goals, Raven Hurtado, stylist at Maxine Salon in Chicago, has the solution. “This volumizing powder instantly adds body and grit to dry hair,” she explains. The vegan formula is packed with a volumizing lotion that gives your hair extra body and is safe to use on color-treated hair. According to Hurtado, “a little goes a long way,” which means you’ll get the most bang for your buck.

This Hair Wax Stick To Tame Your Flyaways

AnWoor Hair Wax Stick

Hurtado also recommends the Anwoor Wax Stick, explaining it’s “a great wax stick that tames and smooths down flyaways for sleek styles and buns.” She also noted, “It doesn’t make your hair feel greasy or oily.” I can personally attest to the magic of this wax stick as it’s been a staple in my hair routine when it comes to taming frizz along my hairline.

A Microfiber Hair Towel That Dries Your Hair So Quickly

Hicober Microfiber Hair Towels (3-Pack)

“Microfiber towels from Amazon are affordable and absorbent, soft and gentle, and good for all hair types,” Hurtado says. “These come in a pack of three so you don’t have to reuse the same one.” They are crafted from a quick-drying material that absorbs way more water than a traditional cotton. Not only will this save you so much time drying your hair, but they can also help you avoid excess heat damage from blow dryers.

Available colors: 9

These Affordable Makeup Sponges That Experts Swear By

AOA Studio Collection Makeup Sponge Set

Miami-based makeup artist Natalie Dresher swears by these makeup sponges compared to everything else on the market. “You’ve probably seen more beauty sponges on Amazon than you can count, but these egg-shaped blending sponges from Beauty Bakerie are slightly under-the-radar,” she explains. “The sponge is crafted from a super soft and vegan material that seamlessly blends your cream or powder makeup to perfection.”

This Eyelash Tape To Perfect Your Cat Eye

JASSINS Eyelash Tape (6 Rolls)

While this eyelash tape is primarily used during eyelash extension procedures, Dresher uses it as a genius makeup hack. “Never struggle with winged liner or a cat eye ever again with this tape. Simply apply along the angle you want your liner or eyeshadow to go and apply the shadow or liner! Super simple and a great hack.”

Available colors: 7

These Best-Selling Plaque-Remover Picks That Have So Many Uses

GUM Proxabrush Go-Betweens Interdental Brushes (10-Count)

The eyelash tape is not the only hack Dresher has. She uses these plaque-remover picks to apply bottom-lash mascara, as the extra-small bristles make for a way more precise application than a traditional wand. “These little interdental brushes make for the FLAWLESS bottom mascara application,” she shares. “Coat the brush in your favorite mascara and get bottom lashes that can pass for top lashes!”

These Eyelash Spoolies That Come In A Pack Of 100

CHEFBEE Disposable Eyelash Brush (100-Count)

Amazon shoppers love these eyelash brushes for many reasons. For Dresher, they are perfect for brushing through lash extensions. “It allows for the shadow veto to fall off the extensions and straightens out any wonky ones!” The bristles are super soft and flexible making it easy to brush your lashes from any angle. These spoolies come in a pack of 100 for an unbeatable price.

Available colors: 8

These Blotting Sheets That Help Unclog Your Pores

boscia Black Charcoal Blotting Linens (100 Count)

Valerie Aparovich, a certified aesthetician at OnSkin, is a fan of these top-rated blotting linens by Boscia. “These oil blotting sheets, made of natural linen with black charcoal, do a great job absorbing excess sebum from the skin’s surface [...] and providing a lasting mattifying effect without messing up your makeup.” The compact design is perfect for storing in your purse whenever you need an on-the-go touch-up. Each pack comes with 100 sheets.

Available colors: 3

A Chilled Eye Mask That Reduces Puffy Eyes

L'AUTRE PEAU Gel Bead Eye Masks (2-Pack)

“A cooling gel bead eye mask is a quick, 20-minute long way to reduce puffiness and refresh a tired look,” Aparovich says. “Due to cold compress therapy, the mask provides, it helps normalize lymph flow, alleviate fluid stagnation, constrict capillary walls, and therefore, depuff you around the eye.”

This mask works as a cool compress and can also be used as a heating pad by simply placing it in the microwave for less than 30 seconds. It’s made with a comfortable velcro strap so you can adjust the perfect fit.

This Charcoal Mask That Brightens The Skin

Purederm Deep Purifying Black O2 Bubble Mask (10-Pack)

If you’re in the market for a new face mask, Aparovich approves of this deep purifying black bubble mask with rave reviews. “The mask helps draw out dirt from the pores, refresh the skin, and achieve a more radiant and glowing complexion,” explains Aparovich. In just five minutes, the bubbles transform to create a foamy texture that absorbs into your skin for a deep detox.

Available types: 4

This Genius Tape That’s The Ultimate Fashion Hack

Vapon Topstick Toupee Tape

Whether you need to tailor pants in a rush or keep your plunging neckline in place, Jaquelyn Wahidi, a San Diego-based personal stylist, recommends this Top Stick. “This is a cheaper, stronger alternative to Fashion Tape. Use it to keep bra straps hidden, temporarily hem pants, or prevent wardrobe malfunctions,” she explains. It comes in a pack of four and the tape is double-sided. Best of all, it’s 100% waterproof so your garment will stay in place regardless of the weather.

These Closet Dividers So You Can Easily Organize All Of Your Clothing

Blulu Closet Dividers (50 Count)

Getting dressed in the morning should be the easiest part of your day. Wahidi recommends these closet dividers “to organize your outfits for the week.” They come in a pack of 50 and include a marker so you can easily label each section, or categorize it by color, size, style, and more. Each divider is crafted from durable plastic and has an open slot making it easy to install on the clothing rod.

These Mini Brushes That Gently Detangle Your Hair

Wet Brush Mini Detangler (3-Pack)

“It's a good idea to keep a brush in your purse, car, and office for touch-ups throughout the day,” Wahidi says. “These mini Wet brushes are so small they fit into a belt bag, but they get the job done.” These brushes come in a pack of three and are available in bright colors that are easy to spot in your tote. The gentle bristles work for all hair types ranging from straight, curly, textured, thick, and wavy.

Available colors: 13

This Handy Measurement Tape That’s Easy To Carry Around

GDMINLO Soft Tape Measurer

This soft measuring tape is a handy item to have around the house. Wahidi says, “Proper measurements are the key to successful online shopping. Keep one near your computer. This way, you can always order the correct size according to the brand's sizing chart.” This one is double-sided and measures 60 inches long. Over 7,400 shoppers rated it five stars.

These Gold Eye Patches That Are Packed With Collagen

CELOR Gold Under Eye Masks

Packed with collagen, castor oil, and other hydrating ingredients, these gold eye masks are a game-changer for reducing dark circles and puffy eyes. Celebrity makeup artist Mia "Mimi" Johnson describes them as “a good temporary fix for a long night/early morning.” Johnson recommends chilling them in the fridge first so they’re nice and chilled when you apply them under your eyes.

This Lash Set That Will Make Your Eyes Pop

Mavphnee Half Lash Set (8 Pairs)

This lash set, approved by Johnson, is perfect for a night out or formal events. “These are so great for layering or wearing alone for a natural lash application!” she says. They are made from fluffy faux mink that instantly add volume and length to your natural lashes. These lashes come in nine different shapes including cat eye, and foxy for a more dramatic look.

This Volumizing Hair Texture Spray That Lasts All Day

Shu Uemura Wata Wave Texturizing Spray

Bianca Hillier, celebrity LA master colorist and Olaplaex ambassador says this wave texture is her “absolute favorite styling product.” The long-lasting formula is flexible and leaves your hair with a soft matte finish. It provides ultra-volume, no matter how thin your hair is. “Perfect for polished styling or ropey air drying. I like to build on this so I’ll wet my hair in the morning and apply more product without shampooing out,” she added.

This Semi-Permanent Hair Color That Has The Best Reviews

Arctic Fox Semi-Permanent Hair Color

“Hair experts, including myself, are predicting colorful bold hair trends for 2024,” Hillier says. This Arctic Fox hair color will do the trick. “These are the perfect at-home gloss/toners for people who want to experiment with semi-permanent fantasy colors,” she explains.

Choose from over a dozen bold colors ranging from sunset orange to periwinkle. The formula is incredibly long-lasting and is made with only vegan ingredients. “The color Electric Paradise is what I use on international DJ Diplo,” Hillier added.

Available shades: 23

This Viral Hair Product That Gives You “Luxurious” Hair

COLOR WOW Dream Coat Supernatural Spray

Dubbed a best-seller on Amazon with thousands of perfect reviews, the Color Wow Dream Coat is one of TikTok’s most viral hair products; even Hillier is a fan. “Dream Coat is exactly as it is named. This gives the most luxurious, dreamy, silky, tamed hair,” she raves.

Not only does this vegan formula leave your hair frizz-free, but it also coats your hair to make it waterproof in case of humidity. It’s also formulated without sulfates and parabens.

This Foaming Hair Mask To Hydrate Your Hair

ARCTIC FOX Pool Party Foaming Hair Mask

Another hair product Hillier loves is the Arctic Fox foaming hair mask. “It’s such a score! It’s easy to use and hydrates the hair. This is perfect for a wet look, think Kim K at the Met circa 2019,” says Hillier.

Reviewers report using it also as a pre-shower hair mask and leaving it in for 10 minutes before rinsing and conditioning. It’s packed with castor oil, sunflower seed oil, and other essential fatty acids that help fight frizz while keeping your hair hydrated.

These Best-Selling Pimple Patches That Work Wonders

Mighty Patch Acne Patches (36 Count)

If you need to get rid of a zit fast, Rachel Lozina, licensed esthetician, laser technician, and Founder of Blue Water Spa, has the trick. These patches cover your pimple to prevent you from picking at your skin and causing irritation, while also working to heal the cyst from the inside out. They are packed with hydrocolloids, which Lozina defines as, a “gummy-like gel that heals wounds.” Each box comes with 36 dots.

This Root Cover-Up Spray That Can Save You A Trip To The Salon

L'Oreal Paris Magic Root Cover Up

Lozina says, “This Magic Root concealer fixes the pesky grey roots that never fail to pop up when you need to look your freshest.” It’s available in nine shades ranging from blonde to medium brown and red. The formula is lightweight and perfect for temporary touch-ups in between salon appointments. “It’s ammonia- and peroxide-free so it won’t damage your hair and it doesn’t smudge, transfer, or leave a sticky residue behind,” Lozina adds.

Available shades: 9

This Shimmering Body Oil That Gives You A Glow

Vaseline Illuminate Me Shimmering Body Oil

“If you’re looking for a more natural glow, this is your best bet and you can’t beat the cost,” says Lozina. This Vaseline body oil absorbs quickly, according to Lozina, and the infused, responsibly sourced mica glistens beautifully. “The shimmer in this formulation is subtle but the hydration is epic and it smells really good with a light cocoa butter scent,” she adds.

These Matte Lip Tints That Come In Over 30 Different Shades

Peripera Ink the Velvet Lip Tint

These velvet lip tints boast a 4.5-star average rating with over 34,000 reviews and are highly recommended by Lozina. “These lip tints, available in 30 dazzling colors, really pack a punch and last all day. The precision applicator leaves a velvet stain that doesn’t dry out your delicate lips.” Wear this lip tint every day or save it for special occasions.

Available colors: 37

A Silicone Patch For Your Neck & Décolletage

Wrinkles Schminkles Neck Wrinkle Patch

Manhattan Beach-based celebrity aesthetician of SkinLab, Joshua Ross, says these Wrinkles Schminkles patches are, “the best silicone patches I’ve ever tried. They’re the only ones that truly fit all shapes and sizes and come with different patches to treat different areas of the face and neck.”

Although they come in a pack of one, the sheet can be reused when handled delicately. They also provide stellar benefits by relieving the side effects of staring down at your screen.

This Hydrating Water-Based Lotion That’s Made With Seaweed

Seaweed Bath Co. Melt-In Water Lotion


“I’m obsessed with the Seaweed Bath Co Melt-In Water Lotion,” Ross says. Ideal for use after sweaty workouts or during the summer heat, this lotion practically melts into your skin (hence the name) and leaves it feeling supple and hydrated. “It’s a great body lotion for a hack to avoid the sticky lotion feeling under your clothes. I also love that the formula is clean and sustainable so I don’t have to worry about harmful ingredients,” Ross adds.


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