When it comes to beauty products, I don’t always like to splurge, given that many of them are used daily, thus, making routines quite pricey. For that reason, I look for affordable, yet high-performing alternatives, and I have to say that I have found one for just about everything.

I thought of sharing a list of new and old to me affordable beauty products that have become indispensable in my routine, and actual favorites based on their results and price (all are well under $30!). Without further ado, here they are:

The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution

I cannot imagine living without this product. Even after one use, this toning solution removes dead skin and leaves me with glowing skin. With regular use, it improves my complexion and texture and keeps my pores clog-free. Shop it here.

Note: I will absolutely caution you to not go overboard with this product, and use it once a day at most, preferably at night as glycolic acid makes your skin sensitive to the sun, thus, increasing chances of sunburn, among other things. Do not use it on broken and/or irritated skin as it will burn and/or make it worse. If you have sensitive skin and have not used this product before, I highly recommend performing a test patch prior to fully using it.

Tip: Notice smelly pits? Wipe them with a cotton pad/ball dipped in this solution for a detox — works like a charm. Do not use it after shaving and/or on broken skin!

Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay Deep Pore Cleansing

I find that a clay mask is an indispensable product in my bathroom, and this one has been my go-to for years. Whenever my skin needs a good detox, aka, it’s acting up being oilier than usual, breaking out, experiencing blackheads, etc., I use this clay mask. Depending on how my skin feels, I either mix the clay with water or apple cider vinegar and apply it for 15 minutes, at most. Make sure to moisturize your skin well once you wash it off. You can follow the same recipe for detoxing your armpits if you find that your [natural] deodorant “stopped working” or whenever you feel too smelly. Shop it here.

Mask remover sponge

This sponge makes mask removal so much easier, quicker, and less messy. I don’t dread clay masking anymore because of it. Shop it here.

RoC Multi Correxion Even Tone & Lift Night Cream

I really like this night cream, and with regular use (as in every night), I have definitely noticed a change in my skin. With a smooth texture, it feels lightweight yet moisturizing, and it improved my overall complexion and even helped light up my hyperpigmentation. It has a light scent which is not my favorite but I found that I can live with it, so just a heads up if you’re also sensitive to smells. RoC has quickly become one of my favorite skincare brands, and I look to incorporate more of their products into my routine. Next on my list are this Multi Correxion Revive and Glow Vitamin C Under Eye Balm, this Retinol Retinol Face Serum Anti-Wrinkle + Firming Treatment, and this Derm Correxion Contour Cream for Face and Neck, among others. Shop my current night cream here.

CARENEL Berry Lip Sleeping Mask

It performs just as well as its famous and fancy competitor Laneige lip sleeping mask but for almost half the price. I keep mine on my nightstand and apply it before sleep or whenever my lips need it. A little goes a long way so this jar will last forever. Shop it here.

essence Lash Princess False Lash Effect Mascara

When I finally tried this mascara, I understood the hype surrounding it. Its brush is made to separate each lash while lengthening them. It did not flake or run/smudge even after full days of wearing it in Florida’s climate. I didn’t particularly find it to volumize my lashes (they’re somewhat thin), but for the price, it’s an absolute must-try. Shop it here.

Coty Airspun Loose Face Powder

I have been looking for an affordable, yet effective setting powder for a while. I have found and liked this e.l.f halo glow setting powder, however, I’ve found that after a while, it tends to “dry” on my skin, plus, it has tiny glittery specks, so I kept looking. Via some random, probably BuzzFeed article, I found this talc-free translucent Coty Airspun loose face powder (here’s the original one) that had rave reviews and decided to give it a try. I have no complaints about it, other than the “vintage” or nostalgia if you like, cosmetic fragrance that thankfully dissipates shortly after applying. It feels and looks like velvet and does the job nicely. For the price, and if you’re not bothered by fragrance, it’s worth buying. I use my Real Techniques expert face professional foundation makeup brush to apply. Shop the original version here, and the talc-free version here.

Hask Argan Oil Repairing Shine Hair Oil

I have literally been touting this product for years now, and I have no plans of stopping using it. I apply it almost every night to detangle my hair as I wash it daily, and prevent split ends. I promise you that I have not had any of those since I started using it I lost count of how many years ago. I only cut my hair about once a year so that should say something… Shop it here.

I also love by this brand…

Seraphic Skincare Korean Exfoliating Mitts

No other exfoliating glove/loofah has worked as well as these ones for me. They are not super abrasive, but they leave my skin baby-smooth after each use (typically once a week). Shop them here.

I hope you find your next go-to and affordable beauty product from this list.

xo,

Em