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

These experts know how to look fabulous on a budget.

by Caroline Reinstadtler
Cheapest, Most Clever Things On Amazon According To Makeup Artists & Hair Stylists
Amazon
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Makeup artists and hair stylists know the tricks of the trade. Luckily, you don’t have to be a celebrity client to learn from the pros. From their favorite shampoos to the mascaras that won’t smudge, you’re about to discover your new Holy Grail products. And even better, they won’t break the budget.

1This Game-Changing Dry Brush Cleaner To Quickly & Easily Remove Colorful Eyeshadow

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!”

2This False Lash Applicator For Both Beginners & Experts That Keeps Lashes Perfectly Curved

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.

3This Handy Mixing Palette To Maximize Your Products

“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.

4These Easily Blendable Mixing Pigments For A Flawless Foundation Match

"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.

5This Cooling Ice Roller & Gua Sha Set To Boost Your Morning Routine

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.

6This Under-$10 Lip Gloss That’s “Perfection”

"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.”

7A Vitamin C Brightening Serum To Hydrate & Protect

“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.

8This Oil-Free Night Cream With Retinol For Less Than $20

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.

9This Organic Cold-Pressed Argan Oil For Holy Grail Level Moisture

"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.

10This Density-Boosting Lash Enhancing Serum That Performs Double Duty

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.”

11This Cushion Foundation That’s Available In A Ton Of Shades

“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).

12This Smudge-Proof Lengthening Mascara That Won’t Budge (Until You Want It To)

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

13This Vegan Eyelash Serum That Starts To Work Within 6 Weeks

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.

14This Lightweight Face Primer Packed With Vitamin E

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.

15This Volume Creme Developer For Salon-Quality Color

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.

16This Leave-In Treatment For Hair That’s Soft & Shiny

"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.

17A Durable Yet Lightweight Round Brush For At-Home Blowouts

“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.

18This 2-In-1 Scalp Scrubber For A Relaxing Massage & Deeper Clean

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.

19This Biotin-Infused Hair Oil Made With Rosemary & Mint

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.

20These & Sweat-Proof Hair Fibers That Make Your Mane Look Fuller

“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.

21This Rubber Handled Detangling Brush With Soft Bristles For Gentler Styling

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.

22This Easy-To-Use Color-Depositing Hair Conditioner For A Subtle Refresh

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.

23These Hot Rollers With Ionic Conditioning For A Smooth Finish

"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.

24This Makeup Brush Set With A Bonus Blending Sponge

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.

25These Tinted Lip Balms For Natural-Looking Color That Lasts

"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.

26This Cult-Favorite Primer That Feels High-End & Creates A Smooth Canvas For Makeup

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.

27This Curl-Friendly Microfiber Hair Towel That Dries Without The Damage

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.

28A Compact Hair Dryer With Titanium Technology That’s Perfect For Travel

"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.

29This Leave-In Spray With A Fantastic Beachy Scent

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.

30A Volumizing Texture Spray With Built-In UV Protection

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.

31This High-Coverage Liquid Concealer Packed With Skin-Friendly Hyaluronic Acid & Resveratrol

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?

32These Brightening Under-Eye Patches With Retinol, Caffeine, & Vitamin C

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.

33This Color-Changing Lip Balm Infused With Flowers

"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?”

34These Easy-To-Clean Reusable Silicone Sponges For A Smooth Makeup Application

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.

35This Buildable Lip Tint Packed With Hawthorn & Goji Berry Extract For A Shimmery Pop Of Color

"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.

36This 6-Pack Of Reusable False Lashes That Give You More Bang For Your Buck

"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.

37This Tubing Mascara That Holds A Curl Without The Clumps

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.

38Some Tanning Drops That Pair Well With Moisturizer

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.

39This Travel-Sized Eye Gel That’s “A Miracle Worker”

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.

40This Argan Oil Heat Shield Spray That Protects & Moisturizes

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.

41This Nourishing & Clarifying Shampoo With Tea Tree & Peppermint

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.

42These Sparkly Under-Eye Restoring Masks With Retinol To Renew & Refresh

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.

43This Repairing Hair Oil For Shiny & Soft Hair Without Any Residue

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.

44This Vegan Pomade Stick Made With Candelilla Wax That’s Easy To Travel With

"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.

45This Popular Rosemary Oil That Works With The Products You Already Use

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.

46A Nourishing Air Dry Cream That’s Designed For Curly Hair

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.

47This Cult-Favorite Blowout Styling Brush With 4 Heat Settings

Celebrity hairstylist and creative director Mark 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.

48This Damage-Reducing Hot Sock Diffuser That Keeps Hair Of All Types At A Healthy Temperature

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.

49These Velcro Rollers For Volume Without The Heat

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.

50A Set Of Durable & Wallet-Friendly No-Crease Hair Clips For Less Than $5

"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.