Affordable Products That’ll Become Nonnegotiables In Your Beauty Routine

This falls into that “unglamorous yet effective” category I was talking about. According to my dermatologist, AmLactin is the very best solution for keratosis pilaris (KP), strawberry skin, or any other form of stubborn skin texture. It doesn’t smell great, and it only costs about $15, but it works better than anything to achieve ridiculously smooth skin. ({{dynamicPrice}}, Amazon) 

In addition to AmLactin, using this body scrub a couple times a week is your ticket to smoother, brighter skin. Unlike most physical exfoliants, this one from Odele has a creamy base that actually feels soothing on skin, not irritating. And since it’s made with naturally hydrating sugar crystals (as opposed to harsher salt), it’s also safe to use as a scalp scrub as it won’t dry out your hair. I’ve found that it makes my blonde hair look brighter when I use it pre-shampoo once a week. ({{dynamicPrice}}, Amazon)

This just might be the easiest upgrade you can make to your hair routine. It’s a full-on hair treatment in the form of a dry spray, so you can just spritz it onto your air-dried or styled hair and move on with your life. You’ll see an immediate difference in how smooth and shiny your hair looks, while vegan silk protein and sea buckthorn work their strengthening and protective magic in the long run. ($32, Sephora)

Yes, this pubic razor is great for your bikini line. But the precise head, five blades, and ergonomic grip are ideal for reaching all the nooks and crannies everywhere else you like to shave on your body. Use it with a shave oil for an even closer shave, and super-plush skin when you step out of the shower. ($10, Flamingo)

Those flimsy little hair ties you’ve been using since middle school? That’s one of those sneaky ways you’re damaging your hair without even knowing it. These satin scrunchies are on the thinner side, so they’re appropriate for all hair types (including fine or shorter hair). More importantly, the smooth satin covering won’t dent, pull, or create friction in your hair. They also look more elevated than your typical rubberband, so it’s an easy way to dress up your bun or ponytail. ({{dynamicPrice}}, Amazon)

I will never stop recommending this classic nail cream. After getting stuck in a cycle of gel manicures, this is what I turn to to rehab my weak, peeling nails. As soon as I massage it into my nails, they look clear and glossy, any white streaks are erased, and feel noticeably stronger to the touch. It works infinitely better than other, more expensive nail-strengthening products I’ve tried. I also love the coconut cream pie-like scent. ({{dynamicPrice}}, Amazon)

I’m a major proponent of any and all sheet masks — they’re pretty much all inexpensive and work equally well for hydrating and brightening skin. But what I particularly like about these BIODANCE masks is the hydrogel material, which doesn’t slip annoyingly down your face. It also comes in two parts, so you can position it comfortably over your face and it’ll lie flat, instead of bunching up in odd places. I like putting mine on before my shower, since the steam helps the serum absorb even better. ({{dynamicPrice}}, Amazon)

Much like sheet masks, eye masks are one of the simplest things you can do to infuse your skin with extra hydration. It also makes your skincare routine feel more elevated and complete. These grace & stella masks are nonnegotiable for me, particularly on mornings after a bad night’s sleep. I pop them on while I drink my coffee and check my email. By the time I peel them off, my under-eyes are noticeably brighter. ({{dynamicPrice}}, Amazon)

If you’re not double cleansing every night, this is your sign to start. All our team members are fans of Prequel for their dermatologist-backed, effective products at drugstore prices, and this oil cleanser is a personal favorite. It massages into skin beautifully, doesn’t strip skin, and thoroughly removes all traces of makeup, including stubborn longwear formulas and mascara. Follow it up with your water- or gel-based cleanser of choice for a thorough cleanse. ({{dynamicPrice}}, Amazon)

Damage, dullness, dryness, itchiness…this hardworking hair oil (from Emma Stone’s go-to brand, no less) targets them all. The vegan formula includes a slew of botanical oils to deeply nourish your scalp and hair, and it works on all hair types. This is one of the pricier products on this list, but you can use it in a multitude of ways: as a pre-shampoo treatment, styling oil, or overnight mask. I like to work it into my scalp and ends then twist my hair into a bun, using a small amount to smooth down flyaways. Then I’ll wash it out at night. ($48, RŌZ)

We’re living in the golden age of makeup/skincare hybrids. This is one I can’t live without. It’s a serum blush that imparts the prettiest, lit-from-within flush with a dewy (but not sparkly) finish for a naturally plumped look. It’s quite pigmented, but blends easily. The formula contains niacinamide, so it can actually help alleviate dryness and pigmentation while you're wearing it. ($25, Sephora)

Because there’s no such thing as too many under-eye-brightening products. This eye balm stick from TULA is an OG in my book — I’ve been using it since it first launched years ago. The balm is made with caffeine, hyaluronic acid, and probiotics for a skincare kick, while light-reflecting pigments brighten. It also has a cooling sensation for an instant wakeup call. Pro tip: Glide it along the high points of your face and use it as a subtle highlighter. ({{dynamicPrice}}, Amazon)

There are lots of expensive brow- and lash-growth serums on the market, but good, old-fashioned castor oil has been used for millennia. This popular $10 option contains just organic cold-pressed castor oil, and it comes fully loaded with mascara wands and teeny-tiny lash brushes for easy application. ({{dynamicPrice}}, Amazon) 

The definition of “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” I’m not a self-tanner person, but when I’m looking a little too pasty for my liking, I reach for this classic Jergens body lotion. It has just enough self-tanner in it to make me look like I’ve actually seen the sun recently, without looking muddy or orange. Beyond that, the collagen- and elastin-infused formula functions as a reliable body lotion. ({{dynamicPrice}}, Amazon)

One of the most meaningful changes I’ve made to my skin and hair-care routines is swapping out my terry cloth towels for microfiber ones. Microfiber is both gentler and more absorbent than terry, so you won’t risk damaging your hair or unnecessarily irritating your skin. Plus, it’s just more hygienic to use a dedicated, oft-washed towel to dry your face. I have the DevaCurl towel, but this affordable six-pack of towels will get the job done. ({{dynamicPrice}}, Amazon)

Unfortunately, you do need to clean your makeup brushes. Not only will a regular cleaning make your tools last longer and work better, but it’ll also help keep your skin clear. If you loathe the task, try this electric brush cleaner. It literally does the job of cleaning and drying for you. ({{dynamicPrice}}, Amazon)