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If Nobody Has Told You About These 35 Cheap Swaps For More Expensive Items Yet, Please Allow Me
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BuzzFeed and our publishing partners may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page. Read More No offense to the $90 Le Labo candle, but this reviewer-beloved $20 version is pulling its weight and then some. As a Senior Shopping Writer at BuzzFeed, I specialize in a broad range of topics, including beauty, cleaning, fashion, personal care, home, fitness, and my beloved “TikTok made me buy it.” My work has been featured across lifestyle and writing publications during my ten years in the digital media space, including Bustle, HuffPost, HelloGiggles, and The Washington Post. Promising review: "I have not tried the name-brand brush, but grabbed this one to see if the design worked for my hair. Holy defined curls, Batman! I styled pretty much as usual, but used the brush to distribute the product (I use Innersense gel), lifting at the roots and letting the curls bounce after I released. This photo is after breaking the cast with some hair oil. My curls are never this defined and healthy-looking. Don’t think twice about it: your curls need this brush." —Natalie Gonzalez Get it from Amazon for $8.49 (available in three colors). Check out a TikTok of the Slipsticks in action. I *jumped* on this because I'm a huge fan of Clinique's Black Honey line — I'm wearing the Mauve Mentality shade that's meant to be an alternative to the $25 Nude Honey above! I love the consistency of this and the lightweight, buildable color. It's the perfect "keep this by the door/in a purse" lip tint that goes well with pretty much any outfit, since it's in that genre of "no makeup makeup." My only complaint is that you have to be careful not to twist it too high up, since the formula is kind of melty and makes it hard to twist back down. But otherwise this is an EXCELLENT everyday lippie to have in your arsenal!! Promising review: "Love these. Sheer, pigmented, but buildable, and don't feel heavy or thick or sticky like Wet 'N Wild lip oils do. I love that it's available in a stick option." —catina m. claytor Get it from Amazon for $10 (available in 11 shades). Note that the AAD recommends using at least SPF 30 and reapplying as needed for skin protection. You can read about sunscreen myths and facts from dermatologists for more information! Check out a TikTok of the collagen sunscreen in action. Promising review: "I am a skincare snob. I spend way too much money on products. But over the last couple of years, I’ve been trying to find a new moisturizer with SPF that doesn’t bankrupt me. I need something that can help my dry skin, protect from the sun, and not irritate my sensitive skin. I was skeptical about this product, never having heard of the brand, but I gave it a try. I am SO thrilled with the results. This moisturizer is BETTER than the $55 alternative I have been using. It moisturizes like a dream. It doesn’t pill. And my sensitive skin loves it. I am THRILLED with my purchase and will definitely be back for more!" —R. Berry Kuumba Made is a small business that specializes in luxury scents at affordable price points. Promising review: "This has become my favorite scent! It goes on with a coconut/vanilla scent that turns into a soft musky sweet sandalwood/amber scent. It’s a thicker oil consistency that lasts. I got the small roller bottle that is perfect to keep in my purse and for traveling. I’ll definitely buy again!" —Roberts0816 Get it from Amazon for $12.49+ (available in two sizes — check out other scents on Kuumba Made's landing page!). You can check out Vaseline's radiant body oils and lotions for more options! Promising review: "Omg! It’s better than I thought. I am a Black woman that suffers from dry skin in the winter season, but this oil is amazing, smooth, light, and smells good. This oil is great for helping skin glow with a light glimmer of glitter. I would say this is a must-buy for women of color. Yeah thank me later sis." —Amazon Customer Check out a TikTok of the Aussie multi-use spray in action. Promising review: "This is an amazing product! It’s like that other '10' product, but MUCH more affordable! You only need to spritz some on your hand, rub palms together, and then apply. I have yet to try it on dry hair, but as a leave-in applied on wet hair, it is amazing! My hair is dry, medium to thick, and its texture changes due to hormonal fluctuations and certain medications. My hair feels wonderful with this (and it smells great, not overpowering at all). Best leave-in I’ve used in quite a long time that doesn’t leave my hair feeling weighed down or dirty. Highly recommend if you like “10” products. Can’t go wrong with this stuff!" —Shayne Promising review: "So comfy and they look just like the photo! The quality is great, they aren't see-through, and I love the bright color! They fit true to size. They are definitely a great value for the money." —Hope Get them from Amazon for $14.99 (available in sizes XS–XXL and 20 styles). Promising review: "This smells heavenly!! I wore it today with the Cheirosa 62, and it smells delicious! I already purchased a second bottle for me and one for my daughter because I know it's going viral, and I don't want to run out! It's already hard to find where I am. To me, this is even better than the Vanilla Cashmere, and that's been my absolute favorite so far." —Heather Mg Promising review: "Wish I would have found this sooner! Works great and so far the cheapest option I have found for powder sunscreen. Love that my face isn’t greasy anymore from normal sunscreen!" —Michelle "I have fine hair so anytime I’m in the sun I get burnt on my scalp. Regular sunscreen make my hair super oily and gross and I cannot stand wearing hats. I'm so glad I found this. You do have to apply it more often, and also it doesn’t work if it gets wet. Love this stuff, it's such a lifesaver." —james Promising review: "If you are looking for a truly budget-friendly and exceptionally versatile line of facial and body care, this is it. I have used this on my arms and legs for two weeks, and I see a real game changer. Are my arms and legs devoid of all crepe-iness? NO! Don't let any brand tell you that they can make any natural aging bodily changes disappear. However, this cream, when used consistently, will provide a temporary plumpness to those crinkled areas. I am 65, I am happy and grateful to have reached my mature age; nevertheless, I want and will give my skin all the effective products to keep it as supple as possible." —marihad t arrus Psst — if you're looking for one designed for neck tightening, Gold Bond's Age Renew Neck & Chest Firming Cream is another fan favorite! Check out a TikTok of the Baked Luminous Blush in action! Promising review: "Baked formulas are my absolute favorites when it comes to blushes and bronzers. These CoverGirl ones are magnificent. I knew I would like these just by looking at them, but they are even better than expected. I have seen many videos online comparing this formula to Hourglass. These CoverGirl ones have great quality, and they are worth every penny. The blushes are very pigmented but at the same time easy to build and blend. They are luminous but not shimmery or sparkly, and they don't enhance texture or pores. I got them in the shades Rose Latte and Strawberry Drizzle, and I will probably get the other two as well. The bronzer is also great. The shade I bought, Honey Bun, has a rosy undertone that goes very well with my skin tone. Like the blushes, it is very easy to blend and build." —Yise Get it from Amazon for $9.97 (available in eight blush and bronzer shades). Read more about how biotin shampoo could help with the fullness of hair at Cleveland Clinic. Maple Holistics is a small business that specializes in beauty products with all-natural ingredients. Check out a TikTok of the biotin shampoo in action. Promising review: "My hair was starting to thin rapidly in my mid-20s. Thankfully, I caught it early. I started using this shampoo regularly, and haven’t done any other treatments. The thinning immediately slowed and eventually stopped. It’s six years later, and I still have a great, full head of hair. Judging by my family history, I should be totally bald by now, and this product is the only thing I've used. I credit this stuff with saving my hair! What a miracle!" —Amazon Customer Psst — reviewers mention this is most effective when paired with a scalp massager to work it into their roots! If the name rings a bell, it's likely because you've used or heard of this brand's beloved under-eye masks!! You can check out Grace & Stella's Amazon page to find those and more high-quality, affordable versions of beauty products. Promising review: "This is a must! Feels like a cloud and way better than a hand towel to dry your face, the perfect self-care product." —Jennifer Get a pack of 60 from Amazon for $9.95. Promising review: "I've seen these leggings all over TikTok and finally decided to give them a chance. I do a lot of HIIT workouts and find that these 'buttery soft' leggings never really hold up well. I don't know what they're doing differently here, but I love it. They are so soft and stretchy, but incredibly smoothing. They've done well in HIIT, low-impact, and weight-lifting workouts. I couldn't recommend these enough." —Ashley "These leggings are incredible! The fabric is so soft and feels just like Lululemon. Lightweight, high-quality, and sweat‑wicking. Even during intense workouts or runs, I don’t feel sweaty at all. They move perfectly with my body and stay in place without riding down. Definitely my new favorite pair!" —Kara Get them from Amazon for $32 (available in sizes XXS–XL and 28 colors) — and check out matching tops and bras at the Amazon CRZ Yoga page! Promising review: "Tired of traditional 'cool' pillows that feel like a brick? Tired of soft pillows that wake you up in sweat? Look no more! I am a very hot-natured, hot-sleeping person. I can not sleep without a fan on high blowing on me. This pillow is legitimately cool and comfortable. Somehow soft but still supportive. Very, very happy with my purchase and the price!" —Robert Get it from Amazon for $32.99+ (available in two styles and Standard, Queen, and King sizes). Here's what BuzzFeeder Elizabeth Lilly has to say about them: "I own several sets of these and even pack them when I travel because I never want to sleep on a cotton pillowcase again after getting used to these beauts." 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 "These are really nice — perfect price point too. There's no difference between these and the same pillowcases from Kitsch at three times the price." —Keri Get a set of two from Amazon for $8.99 (available in 22 colors and four sizes). I bought this after being peer-pressured by all the lovely reviews, and I'm happy to report it lives up to the hype. The scent is lovely — it has depth with a hint of floral, but it's light and not at all overpowering. My favorite thing about it is how easily it pairs other scents, because I am a body mist gremlin who swaps out her scents every day. The lather is also deeply satisfying and I feel quite refreshed and squeaky clean without ever feeling dry. Promising review: "Cremo's body wash is nothing short of exceptional. If you’re a fan of luxurious fragrances, this product will quickly become your new favorite. It boasts an incredible scent that perfectly mimics Baccarat Rouge 540 — a fragrance renowned for its sophisticated and captivating aroma. What sets this body wash apart is not just its stunning scent but also its longevity. The fragrance lingers beautifully throughout the day, ensuring you stay enveloped in that luxurious aroma long after your shower." —Ralph D. Thompson II Promising review: "I get so many compliments! It's so comfy! Perfect for walking and hiking or even running errands! I want to buy it in every color!!!" —Addison Dalton Get it from Amazon for $34.89 (available in sizes S–XL and ten colors). Lulu Candles is a US-based small business that specializes in scented candles and perfumes. Promising review: "This is such a great candle that fills the room quickly with a really nice, strong smell that is soothing and relaxing. I was looking for a less expensive Le Labo Santal 33 scent candle, and this one is very, very close! It's a bit stronger, but I love it! The shipment arrived fast, and I just love how fast it fills up the room without being lit for so long!" —Cristina Bertolotto Get it from Amazon for $19.95+ (available in three sizes, in gift box options, in packs of two, and in a variety of scents). Promising review: "Wow! So much better than I even expected. I am a true WIDE in all shoes, boots, and sneakers, so I was pretty skeptical that they’d actually fit, much less be comfortable. But, to my happy surprise, they fit beautifully and are comfy! Mind you, I own and use Hoka sneakers (in “wide”). I’d heard these were like Hoka but more inexpensive: I certainly agree! These may even be better because you can buy 2–3 of these for the price of the Hokas. If you know and love Hoka, like I do, these are a fantastic option!!!" —Lourdes M. Matos Get it from Amazon for $56.99 (available in sizes 6–11 and five colors). Promising review: "This product actually works! Very affordable, too. There are a lot of expensive teeth whitening products out there, but why spend extra money when you don't have to? Definitely worth trying!" —Mona L Cureton 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 $29.99 (available in women's sizes S–XXL and eight colors). 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 Promising review: "I absolutely love these shoes! I’m a leasing consultant and they were comfortable all day during showings and being on my feet. I love the pointed toe without my toes being pinched like in other shoes. I will be purchasing more." —Stacie Roth Get it from Amazon for $32.99+ (available in sizes 6–10 and 14 styles). Promising review: "Lovely top, the stretch is just right and not super duper spandex like some stretchy things. Getting it on and off was a cinch. The fabric is a nice weight, somewhere between heavy and lightweight. I liked that my bra was hidden by the straps and didn't stick out anywhere, and, it isn't too short — it doesn't show belly. It will be a sweet addition to my summer wardrobe! Highly recommend." —merkie moo Get it from Amazon for $19.99 (available in women's sizes XS–XL and 19 styles). These are ultra-adjustable thanks to a strong Velcro and the ability to add and remove some of the weights to tailor it to your workout! 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 $22.49+ (available in two sizes and 14 colors). I own both versions of these pants — the $118 Anthro ones and the Amazon ones — in different colors. I really only got the Amazon ones because the color I want from Anthro is backordered into oblivion, and I could not wait any longer, but I'm so glad I did! These may not have the lightweight feel of the Anthro ones, but I think the more structured denim will be warmer for fall. More importantly, they are still ridiculously comfortable, and the barrel cut is SO adorable and fun to pair with shirts and sweaters. I found these to be true to size. I highly recommend these to anyone who wants a comfortable, cute, affordable pair of jeans for fall! Get it from Amazon for $39.49+ (available in sizes 2–16 and in three washes). Check out a TikTok of the E.l.f. tubing mascara in action. 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 $8 (available in three shades). Promising review: "I have tried many different drugstore powders and this one is by far the best. Undetectable on skin. Doesn't settle into lines. Lasts all day with some natural fading toward the end of the night. It mattifies without making you too flat. I have repurchased it for about 5-7 years now. The L'Oréal Infallible comes close, but it does settle into lines. This one doesn't! You can wear it alone or over foundation." —Yuliya Get it from Amazon for $8.98 (available in 24 shades). This is 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 that I have curly/wavy hair that’s been colored to a light brown. Buy it!!" —BB Check out BuzzFeed's full review of the Elizavecca hair treatment for more deets! Promising review: "I've been using the Vitamin C Face Serum for a few weeks now, and I’m absolutely in love with it! My skin feels so much smoother and brighter, and I’ve noticed a significant reduction in the dark spots I’ve been struggling with. The serum absorbs quickly, leaving no greasy residue, and it has a lovely, light scent. My complexion is looking more even, and I can see a visible improvement in my skin tone. I also appreciate how gentle it is on my skin, with no irritation at all. This serum has quickly become a must-have in my skincare routine! Highly recommend for anyone looking to tackle dark spots and brighten their skin." —Patricia D. Promising review: "LOVE THEM! I’ve already worn them so many times and always get compliments. They’re a nice true gold color, NOT yellow gold. I purchased others that were too yellow and replaced them with these. They’re on the medium-small side, which I like, but they are still a statement piece. Not too heavy, and the backings that come with them are good. Don’t hurt my ears and go with so much." —Jessica Get it from Amazon for $6.99+ (available in 15 styles). Billion Dollar Brows is a small business that specializes in beauty products. Promising review: "I have found a new eyebrow enhancer powder! I’m blonde, and my eyebrows don’t show up very well. I have tried a lot of colors and products, but the rich, soft color of this one beats them all. Easily glides on, covers my gray brow hairs, and helps my eyebrows frame my face. And this one stays on all day until I wash it off! Well worth the price and the quality surprised me!!" —Pammer Get it from Amazon for $12.99+ (available in four shades and multipacks). Promising review: "This is a quality product in my opinion. Equal to Moleskine sketchbooks at half the price. I don't often write reviews, but I have purchased and used a few of these, filled them up, carried them about, and found them quite durable." —E. D. Scoville Get it from Amazon for $11.99+ (available in 26 colors with blank, lined, dotted, or grid pages). Promising review: "I’ve used this setting spray a few times now and I absolutely love it. It really helps my makeup stay in place all day without needing touch-ups, even in heat or humidity. The mist is super fine and dries quickly without feeling sticky or heavy on the skin. It sets everything beautifully without ruining your makeup or leaving any residue. I also love that it doesn’t have a strong scent. If you want your makeup to last and still feel comfortable, this is a great choice. Definitely a new favorite in my routine!" —YSantiago BuzzFeed Shopping is service journalism first: our writers and editors spend all day shopping so you don’t have to, vetting products, fact-checking brand claims, and surfacing what actually helps in real life. We center readers over revenue, recommend products with authenticity (using real experiences, not ad-speak), and reflect our diverse audience, inclusive of a variety of price points, people, and needs. We cut through fake deals, favor useful info over glossy fluff, and recommend both budget and splurge options with context so you can decide what’s right for you — and still have a little fun along the way. Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.