Beauty Experts Say You Can Save A Sh*T Load Of Money With Any Of These Genius Tricks

"Protecting our skin from sun exposure makes the single most dramatic difference in how our skin ages over time,” wrote board-certified dermatologist Dr. Hadley King. That includes using sunscreen, but it also includes improving sun-damaged skin with the right ingredients. Dr. King recommends this Garnier sunscreen and moisturizer because, in addition to SPF 30 protection, it “contains vitamins C and E for added protection from antioxidants” as well as “lipo-hydroxyl acid to gently exfoliate to help reduce the appearance of sun damage.”

Dr. King also loves this Fig.1 SPF 50 mineral sunscreen as a more affordable alternative to Isdin’s cult-favorite $40-plus product because it protects the skin with a fast-absorbing mineral formula that doesn’t leave a white cast. "Sea algae derivatives offer DNA repair while hyaluronic acid and glycerin hydrate the skin,” Dr. King wrote. It also has “squalane, triglycerides, and meadowfoam seed oil support the skin barrier, and bisabolol soothes the skin.”

Dr. King recommends this three-in-one serum, night cream, and eye cream because “it contains moisturizing ingredients as well as retinol. And acai berry extract and schisandra extract offer potent antioxidant properties.”

Celebrity hairstylist Clyde Haygood uses Dawn Powerwash spray (which just so happens to be my favorite dishwashing soap) for a surprising purpose: “As a professional who needs their brushes cleaned in between clients fast and easy, this cuts through the oil [and] product buildup quickly [and] thoroughly. I keep this with me at all times,” wrote Haygood.

“This miracle worker is under $15 and is my go-to for so many reasons,” Haygood wrote about this thermal hair protector spray. It not only protects hair from heat up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit, but it also detangles, deep-conditions, boosts shine, and tames frizz without weighing hair down. “Plus, it provides a nourishing layer of protection from pollutants and toxins and is a great barrier from summer sun, chlorinated pools, and salty oceans, all of which can strip color from hair,” wrote Haygood.

This scalp therapy shampoo is Haygood’s number-one recommendation for clients with itchy, dry, or flaky scalps. “It has a host of amazing ingredients such as tea tree, peppermint, [and] argan oil to calm, clarify, [and] nourish hair. It also improves hair texture by reducing frizz and static,” Haygood wrote. It’s non-toxic and cruelty-free, plus you can use it as a body wash in a pinch.

“These are amazing to help rejuvenate the under-eye area,” Haygood wrote about these Grace & Stella under-eye masks. “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 — plus they look super cool when they are on, everyone loves them.”

“There are many costly, overhyped hydrating products on the market, but I believe Aquaphor works better than most. It's multipurpose, ultra hydrating and quickly heals/protects the skin,” says Dr. Ellen Marmur, a Board-certified dermatologist and founder of MMSkincare. With more than 30,000 five-star ratings on Amazon, it has lots of other fans, too.

Michele Probst, celebrity makeup artist and founder of WorthBeautyCompany, stresses the importance of skin hydration: “I suggest keeping a vitamin C serum mist in your purse, in your desk drawer, or somewhere handy just to get a quick refresh. It works with existing skincare and makeup and allows for a dewy, youthful glow.” Probst recommends this formula which contains vitamin C, honey, and hyaluronic acid.

Probst recommends skipping the unnecessary hair-care ingredients and going back to basics with hydrating essential oils to prevent breakage and damage. Mielle Organics’ scalp and hair strengthening oil is one of Probst’s favorites, especially since it costs $10. “I love the way it strengthens and protects to create healthy hair with over 30 essential oils and biotin infusion. I also love the fact that I don’t feel like I’m getting ripped off.”

“I’ve always been a drugstore beauty girl,” wrote Probst. “Having high-end and low-end products is essential to every girl’s arsenal. My drugstore pick of choice is Maybelline’s Sky High mascara.” Probst loves it because “it promotes 1.5x the lash length and lash volume,” plus it’s also waterproof, smudge-proof, and lasts all day.”

Rather than spending hundreds on a massage, Probst often opts for this affordable DIY route to ease tension and muscle pain. Infused with lavender oil, Dr. Teal’s lavender Epsom salt “helps recharge the body and revitalizes achy sore muscles,” wrote Probst. “Releasing tension and stress for me is half the battle, and I feel so much better knowing I didn’t spend hundreds of dollars getting there.”

• Available sizes: 48 Ounce — 3 Pound
• Available styles: 4

“One of my favorite at-home treatments to recommend to clients are DIY scrubs,” wrote Probst, and these recipes cost next to nothing. For a sweet scrub that’s ideal for lips, face, and décolleté, Probst recommends mixing honey and brown sugar. For a salty exfoliator that gets your hands and feet extra-soft, mix this sweet almond oil with sea salt.

• Available styles: 3

Manny Sarris, eCosmetics beauty expert and professional makeup artist, recommends the Color Wow brand to fix all types of hair frustrations and keep your salon treatments looking good for longer: “Dream Filter is a pre-shampoo detox for hair that eliminates color-distorting mineral deposits from tap, well, and pool water,” wrote Sarris. It “acts like a magnet to gently remove calcium, magnesium, copper, iron, aluminum, and chlorine while improving hair texture compromised by hard water residue.”

According to Sarris, NYX Professional Makeup is one of “the most underrated makeup brands” because it performs “just as well as well as higher-end luxury lines” for a fraction of the price. This Buttermelt blush blends like powder but soaks into your skin like butter for 12 hours of pigmented, transfer-resistant wear. Reviewers have even compared it favorably to Dior’s blush.

• Available styles: 12

“Drugstore makeup gets a bad rap, but they have had to up their game to compete in recent years and you may be pleasantly surprised if you haven’t tried them in a while,” wrote Sarris, who also loves e.l.f. Cosmetics. This multitasking face primer contains salicylic acid, tea tree, and vitamin E to soothe breakouts while simultaneously delivering a sheer matte finish for all-day wear.

Sarris recommends this ice roller, which Sydney Sweeney purportedly uses every day. When stored in the refrigerator or freezer for 20 minutes before use, it “helps reduce under-eye puffiness, calm inflammation, reduce redness, tighten skin, and soothe headaches and stress. Used regularly over time, skin looks firmer, more even, and brighter,” wrote Sarris.

“Living Libations Best Skin Ever is an all-in-one cleanser, exfoliator, and moisturizer,” wrote Sarris. Derived from natural ingredients, handmade in small batches, and stored in a chic glass bottle that you can recycle, it’s “packed with natural skin clarifying and regenerating botanicals that are suitable for all skin types,” according to Sarris.

• Available sizes: 1 Fl Oz — 3.38 Fl Oz

"The BlondMe All Blondes rich shampoo is nourishing and revitalizing for your hair — it is truly my FAVORITE shampoo,” wrote Patricia Nikole, Schwarzkopf Professional’s artistic brand ambassador. “Not only do I use it on my own hair, but I also use it and recommend it to all of my salon guests! Your hair will look and feel its best and has technology that strengthens the inner hair structure up to 85%!”

According to Valerie Aparovich, certified cosmetologist-aesthetician at OnSkin, the “body’s natural production of hyaluronic acid and collagen decreases” as we age — and since the lips are especially delicate, they’re one of the first areas to lose volume. “Somaluxe Lip Rescue Collagen + Peptide Complex Balm, formulated with natural oils, plant stem extracts, collagen, and peptides, will help maintain the lips’ hydrolipid balance, strengthen their moisture barrier, and contribute to the maintenance of structural support,” wrote Aparovich.

Aparovich recommends plant-derived oils to tone and smooth skin without making a hole in your pocket: “Rosehip oil is rich in vitamins A and E that have been shown to [... promote] cell turnover and skin moisturizing, respectively. The oil can improve the skin’s elasticity,” Aparovich wrote.

• Available sizes: 1 Fl Oz — 16 Fl Oz

Similarly, “argan oil is rich in vitamin E and omega-3 fatty acids, which nourish and soften the skin, strengthen its moisture barrier, and support repair and regeneration processes,” wrote Aparovich. “It is an especially great option for dry skin” — especially since it’s so affordable.

Aparovich calls this gel bead ice mask “an excellent reusable tool to counteract morning puffiness. It works like cold compress therapy, encouraging lymph outflow and diminishing fluid stagnation in the face area.” When stored in the freezer beforehand, “the mask can help depuff your face and around the eye and invigorate tired skin in 10-15 minutes of use,” Aparovich wrote.

• Available styles: 8

“Powered by papaya and pineapple fruit enzymes,” this Alba Botanica Hawaiian facial mask “will gently exfoliate your canvas, helping to deep-clean the pores, reduce blackheads, and brighten and smooth your complexion,” Aparovich wrote. It’s earned an average 4.5-star rating from over 1,800 reviewers because it’s effective, cruelty-free, and gentle on sensitive skin.

This vitamin C face mask “is a speedy solution to refresh and clear your skin,” wrote Aparovich. A “clay base enables the purification of the skin, absorbs excess oil, and refines the pores, while vitamin C and turmeric complement each other in eliminating dullness, brightening your complexion, and leaving your skin rejuvenated and radiant.”

According to Aparovich, this vitamin C cream “is formulated with a high concentration of vitamin C, effectively delivering all of the amazing benefits of this skincare superstar. It helps protect the skin from free radical damage caused by environmental stressors, brightens and evens the complexion, and stimulates collagen synthesis, promoting the skin’s elasticity and radiance.”

When styling your hair with hot tools, Aparovich highly recommends a well-designed heat protectant to prevent dryness, split ends, and thinning. “Enriched with argan oil, PURA D’OR Heat Shield protectant spray offers a [two-in-one] hair nourishment and protection solution,” wrote Aparovich. In addition to shielding strands from high temperatures, it also boosts shine and moisture without a greasy residue.

Brendnetta Ashley, hairstylist and Schwarzkopf professional ambassador, loves using this cream wax to control flyaways and smooth hairlines: “Just take a small amount and rub between your fingertips and place into the hair. It gives a great hold with a natural shine. Best part is it still has some flexibility in it, so your hair is not stiff but controlled."

“Everything you need in a hairspray!” Ashley wrote about OSiS+ elastic light hold hairspray, which adds buildable hold and volume while simultaneously protecting strands from heat and UV damage. “Not only does it add hold but it also gives the hair shine. It’s the perfect final touch to any hairstyle.”

Kate Ross, hair specialist at Irresistible Me, also stresses the importance of shielding hair from high temperatures: “Heat protectants are key to preventing damage from styling tools, which can cause long-term issues if not addressed. Something like the Tresemmé Thermal Creations Heat Tamer is affordable and effective. Regular use can help avoid costly damage down the road."

• Available sizes: Pack of 1 — Pack of 4

"SheaMoisture's Hydration Hair Masque is a great, more affordable option that works just as well as higher-end hair masks for deep conditioning,” wrote Ross. It contains shea butter, honey, and fig extract to nourish and hydrate damaged strands, and over 16,000 Amazon reviewers have awarded it an average 4.6-star rating.

“For at-home care, a DIY scalp massage using a massager like the Maxsoft scalp care brush can really stimulate hair growth and improve scalp health,” wrote Ross. Using silicone bristles and an ergonomic base that fits in the palm of your hand, it works wet or dry to boost circulation, remove build-up during shampooing, or exfoliate the scalp to minimize flakes.

• Available styles: 3

For hair and scalp health, “another great option is using rice water rinses, which are easy to make at home and help strengthen and repair hair,” wrote Ross. If you’d prefer a store-bought option, this rice water spray functions as a scalp treatment and leave-in conditioner that stimulates growth, boosts shine, and hydrates dry hair.

"I always recommend using a good sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner to maintain color or other treatments,” wrote Ross. “Products like Olaplex No. 3 help strengthen the hair and prolong the effects of salon treatments." Using concentrated ingredients, it’s designed to repair damaged hair from the inside out, and it’s earned an average 4.6-star rating from over 126,000 Amazon reviewers.

According to Ross, “hair oils are a good area to save on. Instead of pricey salon brands, something simple like coconut oil works just as well to tame frizz and add shine without breaking the bank." This 100% coconut oil is fractionated to remain in a liquid state, plus it comes in a pump bottle for easy application. You can also use it for massages and as a carrier for essential oils.

"Investing in a high-quality silk or satin pillowcase can make a world of difference in preventing friction and damage to delicate hair and skin,” wrote Danielle Yates, co-founder of Headcovers Unlimited. These satin pillowcases come in four sizes and dozens of color options. “While these materials may seem luxurious, they're actually quite affordable and can save you money in the long run by reducing the need for expensive treatments to address damage,” Yates wrote.

• Available sizes: Standard — King
• Available styles: 39

“When it comes to skin care, I always recommend a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer to keep the skin hydrated and supple,” wrote Yates, who prefers Vanicream over high-end, expensive options. This daily facial moisturizer contains ceramides and hyaluronic acid to repair the skin barrier and lock in moisture, plus it skips common irritants for those with sensitive skin.

“While there are countless expensive options on the market,” Yates has found that “simple, drugstore brands like CeraVe [...] work just as well, if not better, than their pricier counterparts." CeraVe moisturizing cream replenishes ceramides to repair your skin’s natural lipid barrier. It’s gentle enough for use all over the body and face, especially since it’s non-comedogenic to prevent clogged pores. No wonder it has an average 4.7-star rating and more than 140,000 reviews.

"For at-home treatments, I swear by a weekly deep conditioning mask for both the hair and the scalp,” wrote Yates. “Look for masks with ingredients like coconut oil, shea butter, and keratin to nourish and strengthen the hair.” This deep conditioning hair mask fits the bill with its keratin and coconut oil formula, plus it has biotin and castor oil to promote new, stronger growth.

“For those dealing with hair loss, a gentle scalp massage with a few drops of peppermint essential oil can help stimulate blood flow and promote healthy hair growth,” wrote Yates. This peppermint essential oil is undiluted, steam-distilled, and USDA-certified organic. Just be sure to mix it with a carrier oil before applying it to your skin.

“For items used briefly in your routine, such as cleansing wipes or masks, you can find effective options without splurging,” wrote Sam Rock, operations manager at Infinity Laser Spa. Infused with aloe vera, these Burt’s Bees face wipes are designed to remove makeup, oil, and dirt without irritating sensitive skin. They’re fragrance-free and hypoallergenic, plus they’re crafted from upcycled cotton.

• Available sizes: 30 — 70
• Available styles: 4

“Opt for more affordable brands that still offer good results,” wrote Rock. Despite its $15 price tag, this best-selling mud mask still earned a 4.5-star average rating from over 40,000 reviewers. It’s rich in minerals from the Dead Sea and designed to exfoliate skin, clarify pores, and create a softer, clearer complexion.

• Available sizes: 4 ounce — 8.8 ounce
• Available styles: 7

According to Rock, "a quality facial massage tool [...] can help with relaxation and improving circulation.” This quartz roller is a dual-sided tool designed to stimulate circulation and reduce puffiness. It’s made with real rose quartz stones that feel cool to the touch and roll without squeaking. You can also store it in the fridge for a cold facial massage.

"Investing in professional-grade cleansers and conditioners for your equipment is essential,” wrote Rock. “These products are designed to maintain the integrity and effectiveness of your tools, reducing wear and tear." This professional makeup brush cleaner has thousands of five-star ratings because the “makeup literally melts off,” one reviewer wrote. It’s also quick-drying, rinse-free, gentle on your bristles, and safe on your skin.

• Available styles: 2 Fl Oz — 32 Fl Oz

"A good quality, non-alcoholic toner or a basic moisturizer with similar active ingredients can be just as effective as premium brands,” wrote Rock. Using ceramics, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide, this CeraVe hydrating toner is designed to remove impurities, lock in moisture, and leave skin feeling smooth. Dermatologists designed it for dry, sensitive, or acne-prone skin, and it’s alcohol-free.

This Korean snail mucin cream is my go-to moisturizer to soothe my dry, flaky skin. Made from ethically harvested snail mucin extract, it locks in hydration like nothing else I’ve tried — including high-end moisturizers — and it has vitamin E, jojoba oil, and green tea for added nourishment. It also has an uplifting citrus scent that I love.

“I recommend a hydrating face mask with natural ingredients like aloe vera or honey,” Rock wrote, and this Innisfree energy mask fits the bill. Aloe-infused serum saturates the biodegradable face mask, which is designed to quench skin in under 20 minutes to create a radiant glow. “I have sensitive skin and this is perfectly hydrating and even soothing,” one reviewer wrote.

• Available styles: 3

“For brow dyeing, look for reputable at-home kits that are easy to use and provide long-lasting color,” wrote Rock. This instant eyebrow color kit comes with a plant-based cream dye and a gel activator. After washing your brows, apply the cream and then the gel before blotting it dry for four weeks of vibrant coverage. According to reviewers, it’s easy to use and gentle on sensitive skin.

• Available sizes: 3 Applications — 20 Applications
• Available styles: 5

“One of my favorite at-home skincare treatments is a botanical blend that includes castor and coconut oil as a base, and also contains lavender and tea tree for additional benefits for your skin,” wrote Caleb Backe, personal trainer and health and wellness expert for Maple Holistics. Since pure castor oil is hydrating and rich in antioxidants, Backe uses it to create a “nourishing and soothing blend that can be used as a facial oil or added to DIY masks to enhance your skincare routine."

“Lavender has a calming effect on the nervous system, which makes this skincare treatment an aromatherapy treat, not to mention lavender essential oil adds additional hydrating properties to the treatment,” Backe wrote. Cruelty-free, ethically sourced, and therapeutic grade, this lavender essential oil works well with a carrier oil like castor to create relaxing DIY treatments.

• Available styles: 15

According to Backe, “Tea tree essential oil is widely used in DIY beauty for its cleansing and clarifying properties which can help unclog pores and exfoliate your skin.” Designed for aromatherapy, body care, massage oils, and cleaning, this tea tree essential oil is pure and therapeutic grade. Some reviewers even put a drop in their shampoo to invigorate the scalp.

• Available styles: 15