Cheapest, Most Clever Things On Amazon According To Makeup Artists & Hair Stylists

Makeup artist and content creator Bobby Jean Spears calls this dry brush cleaner “a total game-changer... If you hate using a million eyeshadow brushes just to switch between colors, this is it.” With just one swipe, it removes all the product and pigment from your brushes, making it an asset for anyone who loves using multiple beauty products. “I don’t know what type of sorcery it is,” says Spears, “but for five bucks… it couldn’t be more worth it!”

According to Spears, this false lash applicator is “hands down the best way to apply false lashes. I don’t even know why people mess around with those tweezer applicators when this exists! It makes applying glue super easy and keeps the lash perfectly curved to fit your lid.” With a soft silicone tip, eyes will be supported and protected. False lashes can have a learning curve, so if you’re a beginner, this product is a huge help.

“If you’re tired of wasting foundation by guessing how much to use,” says Spears, “this [makeup mixing palette] keeps things super sanitary and lets you skip the whole ‘back of the hand’ mess. Plus, it doesn’t absorb any product, so you’re only using what you actually need, which means no more wasting expensive makeup (or any makeup for that matter).” The palette isn’t just clever — it’s also durable and ergonomically designed. Since it keeps your hands clean, it’s perfect to use before a party or event.

"Every makeup artist needs these in their kit,” says Spears. “Whether you guessed wrong ordering your foundation online (we’ve all been there) or just want to avoid buying new foundation every season, these mixing pigments are a lifesaver. The white lightens, the blue neutralizes, the orange warms up, and the yellow adds a golden undertone — it’s like magic!” They’ll work well with almost any foundation, blend easily, and have a great price point that makes them an accessible staple.

Amanda Gabbard, celebrity makeup artist and licensed esthetician, advises you to “grab your ice roller and gua sha — the perfect pair... go to town with the ice roller while you get your coffee. After you apply skincare - begin the magic with your gua sha!” This adorable set comes with both items, and it costs less than a pricey latte. Plus, their cooling sensation will help you wake up on the right foot.

"My favorite lip gloss is Maybelline Lip Lifter — trust me, I've tried everything,” says Gabbard. “The consistency is perfection... and hyaluronic acid in my gloss? Yes please.” Its glossy finish and gorgeous color match any makeup look, and it’s not sticky. Take it from Gabbard: “You will not catch me without one in my purse and at least five shades in my makeup kit — run, don't walk.”

“Each day,” says Gabbard, “apply [a vitamin C Serum] that has [vitamin E] and hyaluronic acid in it — a trio that our skin desperately needs!” She recommends that users “apply it all over the face, neck and chest. This product tightens, brightens, protects, and hydrates... what more could we ask for in one product?” Plus, this brightening serum, which also contains aloe vera and jojoba oil, also happens to be vegan and cruelty-free.

Gabbard also recommends this night cream for the area around your eyes, which is made with advanced retinol for serious results. It works while you sleep, giving you hydrated skin with minimal effort. How often should you use it? “Four to five nights a week before bed,” she says. “Why not seven nights? Our skin needs a little bit of a break from the intensity." This formula is also oil-free and noncomedogenic.

"On the nights you take a break from the retinol,” says Gabbard, “use my holy grail choice of moisture — cold pressed organic argan oil.” With just one ingredient, you know exactly what you’re getting when you buy. The cold pressing process allows it to retain antioxidants. That nourishment gives dry skin and frizzy hair an extra boost and can help reduce skin and scalp irritation.

This lash-enhancing serum is another one of Gabbard’s favorites. Just apply it to your upper lash line twice a day. With consistent use, you can expect serious volume and density, whether or not you’re wearing mascara. Gabbard praises its versatility: “Best part? You can use eyelash growth serum on your brows too... no need to buy two separate products, the ingredients are the same.”

“I'm living for Tir Tir,” says Gabbard of this cushion foundation. “I saw the hype, was curious... it's like nothing else I've tried! Smooth, malleable and you get to decide the coverage. Fabulous shade ranges.” She’s not kidding — it’s available in 40 different hues. It goes on weightlessly and lasts up to 72 hours at a time (although you should definitely wash your face then).

According to Gabbard, “This [mascara] literally wraps each lash, lengthens, defines, and does not clump like wax or oil-based mascaras. It is smudge proof AND easy to take off; you can slide it off with your fingers if you don't have makeup remover on hand.” Its wand is designed to coat lashes from the root to the tip. Best of all, it’s gentle enough to use every day. You can buy it in one of six shades

For longer, fuller lashes, try this eyelash serum, and you might see results in just six weeks. Gabbard sings its praises, especially that there’s “no prescription needed!” She says it’s “inexpensive and [it] actually [works]. But you must be consistent to see a difference.” Panthenol, biotin, and amino acids provide a powerful boost of hydration. Plus, it’s totally vegan and cruelty-free.

Lightweight and translucent, this face primer has a barely-there feel. “I use it under makeup as a primer,” says Gabbard, “and also on top of makeup if I still see pores after the makeup settles. I also use it as a temporary filler on fine lines. [This] product is magic and lasts forever.” It’s made with vitamin E to keep skin happy, even when you wear makeup all day.

Rachel Voss, owner of three luxury salons, recommends this volume creme developer for a stellar dye job. “For under $10,” she says, “you get a high-quality developer that lifts color evenly without damage. We use it with all permanent hair color services.” It’s especially beneficial for blondes since it evens out brassy hues. Voss isn’t the only fan — this developer currently has an overall Amazon score of 4.7 out of five stars.

"Many clients ask how we get hair so shiny and smooth,” says Voss. “The answer is Biosilk Silk Therapy.” According to Voss, the product “nourishes hair and leaves it feeling like silk. We recommend it to every client to maintain salon results at home." By filling in the cuticle layer, it helps to prevent split ends. Plus, its fresh scent will make people wonder which perfume you use.

“Another staple is the Olivia Garden Ceramic + Ion Xtreme Round Brush,” says Voss. “[...] this durable round brush speeds up blowouts and adds tons of volume. The ceramic and ionic technology helps reduce frizz and static.” Available in an array of different sizes, its large holes allow air to flow through, and its lightweight material makes it easy to hold while you style. Use it on wet or dry hair for runway-ready results.

Ghanima Abdullah, cosmetologist at therighthairstyles.com, recommends this scalp scrubber for a spa-level massage. “The spokes are at just the right distance and length to provide scalp relief for headaches and to exfoliate. Use the many-pronged side for scalp scrubbing and the other for massaging in shampoo,” notes Abdullah. Bonus: it helps to remove oil and buildup for a deeper clean than ever before. You can also buy it in pink.

According to Abdullah, “Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint hair oil is a bestseller for a reason. If you want thicker hair or are trying to grow out bald spots, this is what you need.” Made with rosemary and mint, it stimulates your scalp, promoting healthy growth over time. It’s safe for all hair types and infused with biotin. Apply it to the ends of your hair for a sleek, shiny finish and an intoxicating scent.

“Toppik hair fibers can help your hair look instantly thicker,” says Abdullah. “[They come] in nine colors, too.” They blend with the hair that’s already on your head, giving it a natural boost. Crafted from keratin protein, all you need to do is shake or spray them onto your desired area, and these fibers will cling to hair for a fuller effect. They’re wind, rain, and sweat-proof.

Working through knots and tangles can be a tricky task, but Abdullah recommends this rubber-handled detangling brush from Urtheone to make it easier since it’s “flexible enough for thick, tightly curled hair.” Its soft bristles are gentle on all hair types and textures. “It detangles the hair without breaking it off,” adds Abdullah. When you buy, you’ll also receive a wide tooth comb for extra styling assistance.

If you’re nervous to try out a new hue, says Abdullah, “know that you can also use a color-depositing hair conditioner to just give you highlights. That way your hair will shine pink, purple, or blue in the sunlight along with a very subtle coloring.” With its three-in-one formula, it colors, cleanses, and conditions. Just apply it to your hair, let it sit, and dry off — it’s actually that easy.

"If you’re concerned about damaging your hair with a curling or flat iron, pick up a set of hot rollers,” recommends Abdullah. “These velvet ones from Remington stay in your hair easily for the required 10 minutes, and there are enough to do your whole head.” Their soft fabric gives your hair a smooth finish, which they call ionic conditioning. Use rollers of different sizes to customize your curls.

Naomi Doswell, beauty expert and founder of Beautiful Features, calls this makeup brush set “fantastic for both professionals and beginners. They are high-quality, incredibly soft, and versatile, making them great for various applications, from blending foundation to applying highlighter.” As a bonus, you’ll also receive a blending sponge for face makeup, equalling a set of five that will make your morning application process so much easier.

"A favorite for a pop of color while keeping lips hydrated, this lip balm is a perfect pick-me-up,” says Doswell. “It’s enriched with shea butter and botanical waxes, so it nourishes the lips while adding a natural tint.” With six great color tints to choose from, your lips will stay moisturized and conditioned for up to eight hours with every application.

According to Doswell, "This [poreless putty primer] is an absolute steal! It creates a smooth canvas for makeup, minimizes the appearance of pores, and helps makeup last all day.” She calls it “comparable to high-end primers but at a fraction of the cost,” and cites its success with clients of various skin types. Best of all, it’s cruelty-free, so your purchase is kind to the animal kingdom.

According to Doswell, “This microfiber hair towel is a game-changer for reducing drying time and minimizing damage. It gently absorbs excess water without causing friction, which helps prevent frizz and breakage.” Doswell calls it “especially great for clients with curly or textured hair who want to maintain their natural curl pattern.” Simply flip over your hair, twist it up, and tuck it in to dry your locks faster than ever.

"This compact hair dryer is a staple in my kit for on-the-go styling,” says Doswell. “It delivers powerful airflow while being lightweight and easy to pack, making it perfect for travel or quick touch-ups. The titanium technology helps reduce frizz and adds shine.” It’s just as high-quality as any salon model, but it costs much less. You’ll also be obsessed with its chic blue hue and foldable handle.

According to Kelly DeSerio, "Abba's [Clean Beauty Leave-In Spray] is exactly what [it] says — [a complete] all-in-one leave-in spray.” The bridal expert and beauty entrepreneur obsesses over its “amazing clean moisture & priming” and says it’s “loved by a wide variety of users.” Spritz it on before a blowout for heat protection, and you’ll reduce breakage over time. You’ll also love its beachy coconut scent.

This volumizing texture spray breathes new life into second-day styles. DeSerio calls it “soft with [a] strong impact,” citing its emulsifying oils, which give hair a “weightless bounce.” Plus, it “doesn't have a build-up or residue like so many others.” Its flexible hold is crunch-free and protects from UV rays. Spray it onto roots, lengths, and ends for an instant refresh.

Makeup artist and spray tan expert Sloane Casper calls this soft matte concealer “great for all skin types.” According to Casper, “It packs a punch in concealing blemishes and dark under eyes without calling attention to texture. It blurs the look of fine lines and doesn't crease once it is set, but is super hydrating” — with skin-loving ingredients like hyaluronic acid and resveratrol, how could it not be?

Casper says these under-eye patches “have quickly become one of [her] favorites. The formula is packed with retinol to stimulate new cell production and fade dark spots, while vitamin C boosts elasticity and brightens the skin. Caffeine adds that extra kick by waking up tired eyes.” Whether you partied until sunrise or simply fell asleep at your desk, these patches will prepare you for the day ahead. They also come in three other fun varieties.

"Sabrina Carpenter shook up the beauty world with that designer color-changing [lip balm],” shares Casper, “but this budget-friendly dupe is just as transformative — and it adjusts perfectly to your lips' pH.” Infused with real flowers and miniature gold flakes, it adds a little luxury to your beauty routine while making you feel like you have a personalized product at hand. Plus, as Casper says, “Who can resist affordable clean beauty?”

Casper was “blown away by the difference that using a silicone sponge made” when it came to blending. “I started using silicone sponges on my clients and it has made a huge difference for those suffering from dehydrated skin or a broken skin barrier,” Casper added. They’re also reusable, easy to clean, and great for gels and creams. Since it’s nonporous, makeup and skin care products slide off silicone, so you can use every last drop.

"I’m absolutely in love with the Purlisse Blush Stick 2-in-1 Lip Tint Stick,” says Casper, calling it “a direct ticket to glowing, radiant skin. Each shade offers a natural-looking flush, and the formula is enriched with hawthorn and goji berry extract to brighten your complexion.” Best of all, she says, it’s “buildable” for “a naturally radiant look that’s effortlessly beautiful.” You’ll also adore its subtle shimmer.

"Clients always ask what kind of lashes I recommend,” says Casper. Her top choice? These false lashes from a classic brand. “I use these on even my most picky customers,” she shares. Their undetectable lash band blends in with eyeliner and mascara. Just press them into your lash line and primp as usual. Each pack comes with six pairs of reusable synthetic lashes in staggered lengths that make them look more natural.

According to Casper, this tubing mascara, which arrives in a trial size, “volumizes fine, sparse lashes,” and is “easy to remove but doesn't smudge or run easily.” Because “the formula is lightweight so it holds curl well instead of weighing them down,” it pairs perfectly with your favorite eyelash curler.” With just a swipe or two, you’ll forget you ever wore falsies.

Go with the glow and try these cult-favorite tanning drops. Casper loves that they “come in peach, green, and violet to cater to all undertones,” adding that it “has no bronzer in it so you won’t see a tan until it develops. It’s odorless and the formula feels like water.” It’s also infused with nourishing ingredients like grapefruit and avocado oil. Casper recommends mixing it with moisturizer for custom coverage.

Celebrity hairstylist Clyde Haygood calls this travel-size eye gel “a miracle worker,” in helping reduce puffiness, adding that he loves “keeping this in my pocket for a quick [pick-me-up] either when I’m traveling and/or on set.” Its peptide complex helps with collagen production. Plus, it’s hypoallergenic, quick to absorb, and safe for sensitive skin.

Haygood calls this argan oil heat shield spray his “go-to for so many reasons. It not only boosts shine and protects hair from heat up to 450 degrees [Fahrenheit], but it acts as a leave-in conditioner [by] smoothing, detangling & taming frizz without weighing hair down.” It also protects hair from environmental toxins and pollutants, whether you’re strutting down a city street or sunbathing at the beach.

If you love the heat shield spray, you might also like this scalp therapy shampoo from the same brand. According to Haygood, it “gets to the root of scalp irritation and is my [number one] recommendation for any client with an itchy, dry, or flaky scalp. It has a host of amazing ingredients such as tea tree, peppermint, & argan oil to calm, clarify, and nourish hair. It also improves hair texture by reducing frizz and static." Use it on all hair types for a deep clean that feels incredible.

Haygood calls these under-eye masks “amazing to help rejuvenate the under-eye area. Packed with soothing ingredients, they really help reduce puffiness under the eyes especially when kept cold! I love them because I can keep them in my kit and use them when I travel and on shoots.” You’ll also be obsessed with their sparkly design, which makes your beauty routine more fun than ever. You can even use them overnight.

Rogerio Cavalcante, hair stylist and owner of The Second Floor Salon, is a big fan of HASK products, saying, “This repairing hair oil smells delicious and makes hair super soft. It is a little thick so one pump is enough.” It leaves your hair soft and shiny, minus the residue. Two packs come per purchase. According to Cavalcante, the brand offers plenty of quality oils at really great price points, so the other varieties in the listing are also worth taking a peek at.

"I love this pomade stick because it is practical and works wonders,” says Cavalcante. “It is a vegan option, and I love that they have a mini version that you can easily take on the go. It works great for making hairstyles stay in place and taming stubborn flyaways.” It’s made with candelilla wax to protect against the elements. With its chic packaging, it’s a great beauty essential you can take on the go.

You can switch up your hair routine without starting from scratch — just try this rosemary oil. Cavalcante calls it “a hero for hair growth. This is an easy one to keep in your shower,” he says. “Just add three drops to your shampoo when washing to experience the benefits.” Over time, you’re likely to notice longer, stronger locks. Plus, its soothing scent makes every shower feel like a spa treatment, which is probably why it has over 21,000 five-star reviews from customers.

Says Cavalcante, “This [air dry cream] is my favorite leave-in for curly hair! It gives curls great definition and it takes care of the frizz.” With its weightless formula, it works on fine and thick hair alike. Its ingredient list is long and impressive, nourishing hair with murumuru, hyaluronic acid, and grated ginger. Best of all, it’s vegan and cruelty-free.

Celebrity hairstylist and creative director Marc Ballance calls this blowout brush “the overall best hair tool that my clients love as a styling brush,” since it “gives [lift and] smoothness and is very easy to use.” It can cut dry time in half, making it perfect for mornings when you can’t stop hitting snooze. Choose between four heat settings, based on length, texture, and styling needs.

Ballance says this hot sock diffuser is “ideal for travel or throwing into a bag as the diffuser is soft and flexible.” Slide it over your hair dryer to prevent overheating and reduce damage. It evenly distributes heat for a uniform look all over your head. Plus, it reduces dry time, streamlining your morning routine. Use it with curly, wavy, and straight hair alike.

You heard it here first: according to Ballance, “Velcro rollers are back! Having these handy to use to set styles or create more volume and lift is an easy hack.” Differing from hot rollers, their heatless design promotes healthier hair, and you can use them with almost any length. They also come with 12 duckbill clips to secure them in place.

"No crease hair clips let hair set and cool,” says Ballance. With their smooth plastic surface, they'll hold hair securely in place without bumps or creases. Stash them in your purse to style on the go, or take them to the gym for locker-room luxury. You’ll receive eight clips in three chic colors, and their durable materials will last for years to come. Plus, you can’t beat the price.