Finding beauty products that actually deliver on their promises can feel like an endless—and expensive—trial and error. That’s why recommendations from reviewers who have loyally repurchased the same items for years are the ultimate holy grail. Here are 17 time-tested beauty favorites that have earned a permanent spot in vanity cabinets and truly live up to the hype.
DealDx and our publishing partners may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page.
Poppy & Pout jumbo lip balm that *psst* has been on Oprah’s favorite list two years in a row! It’s formulated with superstar ingredients like organic coconut oil, beeswax, sunflower oil, and vitamin E, and is flavored with essential oils. Your lips will feel oh-so soft, but you’ll have to fight your childhood urge to eat your lip balm, thanks to yummy flavors like marshmallow creme and pomegranate peach. (I don’t judge.)
www.amazon.com, Amazon
Promising reviews: “The last new lip balm you will ever try. Once you use this, you will only want to use it. Sweet Mint is my absolute favorite. They nailed the formula with Poppy and Pout chapsticks. I used to apply and reapply balms all day long to my dry lips. I’ve tried everything. Always searching for something that truly gave some life to my lips. I’ve been using P&P now for several years and highly recommend it to anyone and everyone I can who needs a good lip balm. And the packaging is just the cutest!” —Christina ~ WA
“Just bought my first lip balm and I am now hooked! The best part is that this lip balm is actually effective for chapped lips!! You really don’t have to reapply constantly. Good variety of flavors. I bought the lemon flavor and love it! The thicker/wider size stick makes this lip balm so easy and convenient to apply!” —Hillary
Get it from Amazon for $9.95 (available in 12 flavors).
A bottle of sulfate-free biotin shampoo that reviewers call a “miracle shampoo” for its help in creating a voluminous appearance, while helping promote hair growth. It’s formulated with rosemary oil, zinc, biotin, and coconut oil to help gently moisturize your locks and your scalp for hair that feels so much fuller.
Read more about how biotin shampoo could help with the fullness of hair at Cleveland Clinic. And read more about how rosemary oil could be helpful for encouraging hair growth at Cleveland Clinic.
Promising reviews: “Have been using this shampoo for two years and loving it. My hair is very fine, and the shampoo adds some volume and texture to it without making it greasy. I’ve tried many fine hair shampoos in the past, and this is my favorite one.” —NYer
“My hair was starting to thin rapidly in my mid-20s. Thankfully, I caught it early. I started using this shampoo regularly, and haven’t done any other treatments. The thinning immediately slowed and eventually stopped. It’s six years later, and I still have a great, full head of hair. Judging by my family history, I should be totally bald by now, and this product is the only thing I’ve used. I credit this stuff with saving my hair! What a miracle!” —Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $24.99.
Schick Dermaplaning razors for quick eyebrow touch ups or for peach fuzz that stops your makeup from laying smoothly. Sometimes you don’t have time for tweezers or threading so this makes it easy for salon level eyebrows with no pain.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
This tool also helps soften skin by gently exfoliating as you use it!
Promising reviews: “I’ve been buying these for a few years now. They’re fantastic to give your skin or eyebrows a quick touch-up. I love that they’re disposable, so it’s a good sanitary option. Definitely one of the better options on the market and I will continue to buy them.” —Paris Alize
“I saw these on TikTok and was skeptical but they work so well. I use them for any facial peach fuzz and to shape my eyebrows and they’re perfect.” —Megan Kopicko
Get a set of three from Amazon for $5.67 (also available in a nine-pack).
Gold Bond’s firming neck and chest cream that reviewers call “absolute sorcery.” It’s formulated to leave your skin feeling hydrated and smooth with ingredients like aloe, salicylic acid, and jojoba oil. It also gently exfoliates, helping tighten your skin to reduce the appearance of fine lines and improve texture. You may notice a difference in just two weeks, that will have your skin thanking whatever magician helped create it.
Promising reviews: “I’ve been using this cream for years, and it works pretty well for me. I use it every morning and night. Makes my neck and chest feel so smooth afterward, it’s a good moisturizer. It also firms my neck well. This will always be my go to moisturizer.” —Teddy’s Angels
“Absolute sorcery. I have sagging skin at the jawline from weight loss. This stuff has absolutely helped! I’m really impressed. Has smoothed out the crepe paper look. Try it!” —S. Livingston
“This cream has tightened the skin around my neck beyond my expectations. I’ve been using it daily (morning and evening) for over two months and still have product left. I’ve even tried it on my face, and it gives me a bit of a ‘facelift.’ I’m officially a Bond girl. A bit sticky to the touch after a few hours of wear, but that doesn’t bother me. Will order again.” —AP Wang
Get it from Amazon for $11.97.
An easy-grip detangling brush that has over 10k positive reviews and *drumroll* works on all hair types to gently brush out those stubborn knots while preventing breakage. It works on both wet and dry hair, and parents love it for a stress-free hair day with no tears.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising reviews: “I use this for myself and my four-year-old. It doesn’t pull or break hair and really feels wonderful on both wet and dry hair. I would recommend giving this a try. It is also very easy to clean. I have had it for a few years already, and it still looks new. Great brush for the money, strong and ergonomic on handling.” —Katrina O.
“Omg!!! This is the best detangling brush ever!! Shampoo bath nights have been restored! I dread every time I have to detangle my daughter’s hair; no matter how much conditioner I use, it ends in tears and frustration! My daughter’s hair has super-tight curls, and I don’t think I have ever really fully detangled it until now! We have used other combs and brushes and this one by far was the holy grail! No more tears, and I feel confident her hair is fully detangled!!” —Ashlee Gordon
Promising review (for natural hair): “I never write reviews, but I had to for this one. This brush cured my cancer, paid my rent and revived Jesus from the dead. This. is. a. holy. grail. I have the tangliest (IDC if that’s not a word) terribly hard to manage curly, natural hair. But this brush gave me shine brighter than a haole baby’s bottom and glided through my hair with ease. 100% RECOMMEND.” —Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $11.88 (available in six colors).
Eight Saints Skincare Cloud Whip because it’s full of vitamin C, MSM, vitamin B5, and borage oil to help lock in moisture, minimize fine lines, dark spots, and wrinkles, and prevent discoloration. Reviewers love how light it feels on the skin and the clean scent.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Eight Saints is a woman-owned small biz using only eight plant-based ingredients in their skincare products.
Promising reviews: “I’ve used this face lotion for a few years now and keep buying it. I’m 36 years old with two young children and work full-time. My skin is a combination of dry and oily, and I break out easily. This lotion goes on smooth, rubs in easily, and doesn’t make me shiny or feel greasy.” —Courtneyrose7
“I’ve been using the Eight Saints Cloud Whip Vitamin C Face Moisturizer for a while now, and it’s quickly become one of my favorite parts of my skincare routine. The whipped texture feels light and airy, and it absorbs almost instantly without leaving any greasy residue. My skin feels soft and hydrated throughout the day, and I’ve noticed a brighter, more even tone after consistent use. The stable form of Vitamin C really does its job — my sun spots and uneven patches have started to fade, and my complexion looks healthier overall. I also appreciate that it’s gentle; even with my somewhat sensitive skin, I haven’t experienced irritation. The fact that it’s cruelty-free and reef-safe makes me feel even better about using it. While the price is on the higher side, I think the results and the formulation make it worth the investment. For me, it’s a reliable daily moisturizer that delivers both hydration and visible improvement in skin tone.” —Doug D
Get it from Amazon for $33.
Sol de Janeiro Brazilian Bum Bum Cream that’s a fan favorite for a reason, with over 4,000 5-star reviews. It is designed to help smooth and firm the skin with ingredients like high-caffeine guarana extract, hydrating plant squalane, and moisturizing cupuacu butter. It’s like giving your skin the yummiest smoothie, while leaving you with an even yummier scent of pistachio, salted caramel, and vanilla. Get ready to feel drenched in compliments when anyone catches a whiff.
Caffeine can brighten skin and temporarily minimize the appearance of cellulite, if that’s something you’re looking for in a product. Read more about the skincare benefits of caffeine at the Cleveland Clinic.
Promising reviews: “I got a sample of this in one of those subscription boxes, and ever since then, I have been buying this for years. It is literally my favorite cream ever. People compliment me on my scent every day. Customer for life.” —Lisa Danger
“Absolute Holy Grail! I am absolutely blown away! From the very first application, I noticed a massive difference. The hydration is unmatched, leaving my skin incredibly soft, smooth, and visibly firmer. What really sets this apart, though, is the scent — it is an absolute dream that lasts all day long and gets me endless compliments. It absorbs super quickly without leaving any greasy residue, which is a huge plus. It has truly worked wonders for my skin’s texture and radiance. It is worth every single penny, and I will definitely be restocking! Highly recommend!” —Wendis
Get it from Amazon for $24 (available in three sizes).
A minty teeth-whitening pen for your pearly whites that were cursed by years of soda and coffee drinking. This immediately helps remove stains without the need of a five hour long dentist visit that just ends with you in pain. People will think you made a deal with Jeff Goldblum (I mean the wizard) when they see you smiling ear to ear.
Promising reviews: “Really works! I’ve been using this product for several years, when my teeth start to look stained, I simply spend a few minutes doing a treatment. It’s unbelievable how well it removes coffee and red wine stains in just a minute or two.” —J Devlin
“I have extremely sensitive teeth from over-whitening in high school but this product has been such a lifesaver! I am a daily black coffee and red wine [drinker] so my teeth have taken a toll as far as staining goes. Seriously, I was very hesitant on getting this because of how sensitive my teeth are but I wish I got it sooner! This is such a great product!” —Mimi Doherty
Get a two-pack from Amazon for $14.95 (also available individually and in a four-pack).
Thank Me Later Eyeshadow primer that my editor has been swearing by for years to give your eyes the proper base for bright shadows without creasing or smudging. This helps mattify your lids and control oil throughout the day to keep your look from going muddy. It’s especially great for fine lines and wrinkles so you can always have a smooth canvas to work with.
BuzzFeed Shopping editor Natalie Brown says: “I’ve used this primer exclusively since about 2018, and it works just as well as the MAC and Urban Decay primers I used before it! Even glittery shadows effortlessly stay on through rain, sweat, or eye-rubbing. I’ve gone through several tubes over the past six or so years, and it never disappoints.”
Promising review: “Saw this used by a makeup artist on TikTok giving a tutorial for women over 40. Totally changed how my eyeshadow works. No clumping or crease lines!” —wo1995
“Love this primer! I will buy it again and again! Just a tiny bit, and my eyeshadow stays all day long and maintains a vibrant color.” —Nicola Nella
Get it from Amazon for $14.10.
La Roche-Posay’s Hydrating Gentle Cleanser — it’s designed for all skin types but especially for those with sensitive skin. It gently removes any dirt, makeup, and impurities without stripping your skin, helping maintain your skin’s natural protective barrier. Some cleansers leave you feeling dry or with a weird layer of residue, but with this, you’ll feel CLEAN and hydrated with no need for a double cleanse.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: “My daily face wash for years! It cleanses well without stripping my face of oils and wrecking my moisture barrier. I first use an oil based balm to remove makeup, then this cleanser to get rid of the rest. Highly recommend for all skin types but especially great for dry and/or maturing skin. Great for using with a dermaplaner too!” —Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $14.99+ (available in four sizes).
L’Oréal Paris Makeup True Match Lumi Glotion for a sun-kissed look that still enhances your skin’s natural glow. You can use it as a foundation, mixed in with lotion, as a contour, or just as a highlighter. Reviewers love how easy it blends in while leaving your skin feeling hydrated. It’s perfect for makeup lovers or beginners who want to show off their natural shine!
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising reviews: “I’ve been using this stuff for several years now. I use it in summer as a tinted moisturizer, the only thing I really wear, or underneath my foundation as an extra priming layer. It always adds to my routine and helps me look a little more glowy. I really like how this adds, or just makes a nice subtle look for summer.” —Ramona
“Love love love this stuff. This is such a stellar product that is so versatile. Can be worn alone to put some glowy life to skin. Add to foundation or layer it. Beautiful. Use it as a base where you put highlighter on top. Mix some with moisturizer. This, in my opinion, is better than so many high-luxury brands that make similar products. And I am pretty sure it can be used by all skin types. It’s not oily feeling at all and it doesn’t dry out skin either. Just a total package. Can’t beat the price either.” —Figgy08
Get it from Amazon for $14.82+ (available in four shades).
The “holy grail,” classic-since-1971(!!!) Clinique Almost Lipstick Tinted Lip Balm in Black Honey that can help keep your lips moisturized, while *also* adding a buildable tint that won’t cake up like other lipsticks. It will leave you with a gorgeous color and glossy shine that can elevate any look. So whether you have a full face on or no makeup at all, it’s the perfect shade for any occasion.
Amazon
Promising reviews: “This has been my ‘go to’ lipstick for years. It provides shine, moisture, and just a hint of color! I have them all over my house, in my office, in my purse, and even one in my travel bag to be sure I am never without one!” —Pam O’Donnell
“This lipstick is a game changer. It goes on and stays on well. It is pretty sheer, but buildable. I have trouble with most red lipsticks turning pink after a bit. So, I will put this over my other colors, and it absolutely makes a difference. It’s a great staple to keep in your cosmetic bag. It is something I will definitely buy again. You should absolutely try it!” —Amy H.
Get it from Amazon for $25 (also available in pink honey!).
A bottle of Olaplex No.7 Bonding oil because it’ll actually leave your hair feeling silky smooth instead of frizzy and greasy. Unlike other oils that just add a heavy layer to your hair, this nourishes every stand for a frizz-free look that lasts up to 72 hours. It’s full of helpful ingredients like vitamin E and sunflower oil to give your hair instant shine, while also adding heat protection, aaannnd breakage prevention. I truly think this was found at the end of the rainbow — pure gold!
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising reviews: “Love this product for my hair and extensions. I’ve been using it for years; will always repurchase! Doesn’t leave a film or weigh down like some products can!” —CC@amazon
“I have fine hair that’s prone to breakage and gets dry easily. This is the best oil I’ve ever used and is well worth the price. I’ve used argan oil, jaboboa etc. This oil is lightweight and not greasy. It makes my hair feel healthy and gets soaked up instantly leaving a long lasting shine. My hair feels very soft afterwards, especially pairing with a boar bristle brush. It also smells GREAT! This will be a forever oil for me and my hair routine. If you have fine hair, I definitely recommend.” —Rowen
Get it from Amazon for $32.
The fan-favorite Maybelline “Fit Me” matte foundation, if you’ve been looking for a base that doesn’t leave you feeling drier than the desert but still helps control a bit of your natural shine (trust me, I’ve been wearing it since high school). It’s lightweight, oil free, and provides medium coverage for a silky matte finish that gives 🎶I woke up like this… FLAWLESS. 🎶 With 40 shades, you are sure to find your winter *and* summer skin tone.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: “I love this stuff! I’ve purchased more expensive foundations, but this is the best. No shine, looks beautiful on my skin. I typically use a lightweight primer underneath, but even without the primer, this foundation glides on beautifully. It doesn’t feel heavy, it looks like my natural skin and it lasts all day. Perfect!” —MP Gallagher
Get it from Amazon for $8.98+ (available in two sizes and various shades).
Lottabody’s Coconut Oil Foaming Curl Mousse that will actually moisturize your natural curls instead of weighing them down. The hydrating oils in the formula will help leave your hair looking shiny, soft, and frizz free, compared to other products that leave your curls crunchy, sticky, and greasy. You can add this to your routine right after washing — or even dry when you just need a little refresh.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
It works for all curl types from 2a–4c.
Promising reviews: “I’ve been using this mousse for years, and it never disappoints! It works really well and keeps my hair looking neat and defined all day. It tames my hair extremely well without making it feel stiff or crunchy, which I love. It also adds a nice shine and helps with frizz, especially on humid days. This is definitely a staple in my hair routine — I highly recommend it!” —Elaina.S
“I have super frizzy, curly hair and live in New England, where we have super humid summers. I have been struggling to find a product that de-frizzes my hair without making it look oiled down, and this is it. I put it in my wet hair after washing, towel-dried, and put my hair in a ponytail to go to work. My hair was frizz-free all night — even working outside in high humidity. People even asked if I did something to my hair! This is an amazing product for the price. Absolutely buying again and would recommend to anyone with a frizz issue.” —Marissa
Get it from Amazon for $4.22.
A “Buf-Puf” gentle facial sponge for my acne-prone peeps that don’t want a harsh chemical exfoliant to shed their skin. This is designed to gently remove dry skin cells, deep-down dirt, excess oil, and makeup, so your skin can finally breathe. It helps with overall skin texture, with many reviewers praising that it helps prep their skin for makeup. Yes, it helps makeup actually look smooth without needing extra layers of product.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Just a little cleanser, buff, and moisturizer for the smoothest skin you’ve been dreaming of.
Promising reviews: “I love these facial sponges! I have used these for years. A very gentle way to clean makeup and other things we all collect on our skin during the day. These sponges last a long time for me and are inexpensive.” —Char
“I used this product years ago and had the most amazing skin, but I assumed it was mostly genetics. Now that my skin is showing signs of aging, I decided to give it another try — and I’m so glad I did. My skin is transforming daily. They say your skin can rebuild itself, and it really does — especially when you remove the buildup of dead skin cells. I’ve been using it morning and night, and I genuinely look younger. My skin feels polished, my pores are noticeably smaller, and I need much less makeup. Such a fantastic product — highly recommend!” —Sweet Caroline
Get it from Amazon for $4.66.
Anua heartleaf pore-clearing cleansing oil, the perfect addition to your routine if you have yet to be introduced to the magic of double cleansing. This dissolves any makeup, blackheads, and excess sebum that might be clogging your pores before you go in with other products. You’ll actually see the gunk on your hands as it melts off your face — I know, sounds gross, but your skin will be thanking you.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Double cleansing is a method of cleansing your face twice: first with an oil-based cleanser to break down oil-based products like makeup and excess sebum that gets trapped in your pores. You then go in with a water-based cleanser to help get all the extra gross stuff off your face, like sweat and dirt.
Promising reviews: “I started using this product four years ago, and I haven’t stopped since! My face feels so smooth and clean every time I use it. I also love using it with a gua sha so it can glide easily.” —Calendula
“This is my first time ordering an oil-based cleanser and I’m so glad I purchased this one. I originally saw this product on TikTok and wanted to see what the hype was all about. After using the cleanser on my dry face for 2–3 minutes, I could visibly see my white- and blackheads on my fingers. I was a little hesitant to try oil cleansing because I have acne-prone skin; however, my face has never looked better. After each use, my face is as soft as a baby’s bottom, and my scarring doesn’t look as deep! The cleanser has a light, clean scent. Not super strong! I am currently pairing this cleanser with the Anua Heartleaf soothing toner to achieve glass skin. #glassskinera” —Myshel Cagle
Get it from Amazon for $17.