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Buzz Feed
17-04-2025
- Health
- Buzz Feed
27 Sephora Skincare Products For Anyone Who Loves When Things Exceed Their Expectations
We hope you love our recommendations! Some may have been sent as samples, but all were independently selected by our editors. Just FYI, BuzzFeed and its publishing partners may collect a share of sales and/or other compensation from the links on this page. "This serum has noticeably faded my hyperpigmentation and evened out my skin tone, giving me a brighter and more radiant complexion." 1. The Ordinary GF 15% Serum regenerates the look of lackluster skin with a powerhouse (and now viral) blend of growth factors that reviewers say they can't believe work so quickly and effectively. Within just two weeks, it can help tighten and reduce the appearance of fine lines, dullness, and uneven texture. Sephora Promising reviews: "Wow. This product has made a very noticeable difference in my skin. I see less wrinkles and it feels tighter and firmer. I love that it's lightweight and doesn't conflict with any other products I'm using. It will be a daily staple in my routine." — Apples12 "The first night I used GF 15%, the next morning I woke up without itching skin. My face was unusually not flaky around my nose, and my forehead wrinkles were less prominent (dryness exaggerates them). Now it's been just a few days and *I'm skipping steps* in my routine because my skin is looking more moisturized with half the work. I don't know that I've ever been so blown away by a skincare product. It makes so many of my products feel pointless." — ElizabestD 2. Youth To The People Superfood Cleanser welcomes your five-a-day into your skincare routine with a kale- and spinach-enriched gel formula that features vitamins C and E. It effectively rids your skin of makeup, SPF, and excess oils to leave combination and acne-prone skin looking brighter and more hydrated. Promising review:"This cleanser is absolutely a life-saving product. Seriously, I can't use any other cleanser since I have very sensitive skin. This makes my skin feel extremely soft and prevents acne and redness. Normally, any other cleansers make my skin burn when I wash my face, but this one doesn't! Plus, you only need a tiny amount." — Patilo 3. Tower 28's SOS Daily Rescue Facial Spray packs a major punch for stressed-out skin with only three ingredients. Think: a gentle hypochlorous acid toner with H2O and sodium chloride that can refresh and rescue irritated skin and prevent flare-ups. Sephora Tower 28 is an Asian woman-owned clean beauty brand designed for sensitive skin. Their products are nontoxic, nonirritating, vegan, and cruelty-free, so you can rest easy when applying. Promising review: "Nothing helps me when I have an outbreak of perioral dermatitis; I usually have to take antibiotics for it to go away. I saw a derm recommend this on TikTok, so I gave it a shot, and it has actually helped so much that it has cleared my breakout up! Please give this a try if you suffer from this as well." — smooly "HOLY GRAIL!! I tried this spray for the first time about a year and a half ago. I had moved from a dry climate to a humid climate, and my acne was out of control! I tried so many products before SOS. When I tell you my acne cleared up within a week….SHEESH! I haven't been without this spray since! I keep a mini with me at all times and for travel and recommend it to all friends with skin concerns. Don't walk, RUN to Sephora to get it!" — KuhKristen 4. Topicals Unscented Brightening Serum targets dark spots, dullness, and hyperpigmentation with tranexamic acid (for post-breakout marks), niacinamide (for uneven skin tones), and azelaic acid (for texture). Sweep this on after cleansing — and make sure to use an SPF if you're opting for daytime application. Sephora Promising review:"This serum has noticeably faded my hyperpigmentation and evened out my skin tone, giving me a brighter and more radiant complexion. I appreciate that it's unscented, making it perfect for my sensitive skin. The texture is lightweight and absorbs quickly, making it easy to incorporate into my daily skincare routine. Overall, I'm thoroughly impressed with this product and would highly recommend it to anyone looking to address hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone!" — beautykait 5. The Inkey List Under-Eye Cream helps to depuff and take down dark circles in one fell swoop. Created with a blend of caffeine and peptides, you can expect a more hydrated, wide-awake look. Sephora Promising review:"Great eye cream, great price! This eye cream is fantastic, really does help with dark circles. You definitely see a difference within 1-2 weeks of use." — Nena08Hrdz 6. And! Summer Fridays Jet Lag Overnight Eye Serum locks in moisture around the under-eye area with a gentle retinoid and glycerin blend. Best applied before bed, this works as you sleep to help minimize the appearance of fine lines and leaves the skin more even and less crepey by the morning. Sephora Promising review:"Best eye cream!!! I just have to share how amazing this eye cream is! It's honestly the best I've ever used. If you're looking for something to keep your under-eye area hydrated and help with wrinkles, I highly recommend giving it a try. You won't be disappointed!" — Ozidag 7. Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Moisturizer hits dry skin with a deluge of hydration in the form of a protein-rich formula that's lightweight and nongreasy. Reviewers with sensitive and combo skin rave about the beautiful dewiness it gives their complexion. Sephora Take a gander at it in this TikTok. Promising review: "This has been the only moisturizer that has worked on my combo, mostly dry skin. My skin is hydrated without my T-zone looking oily. It's pricey but worth it, and I love the light smell it has." — Sephora Customer 8. Sol de Janeiro Delícia Drench™ Moisturizing Shower Oil supports the skin's natural microbiome with a juicy dose of prebiotic hibiscus paired with a Brazilian oil blend and bacuri butter, which lock in moisture and nourish the body. With its unique oil-to-foam solution, reviewers can't get enough of the delicious vanilla orchid, sugared violet, and sandalwood scent. Sephora 9. Ilia's The Base Face Milk preps and sets your skin up for success when used with or without makeup, thanks to its super lightweight yet nourishing formula. It's designed to strengthen the skin's natural barrier and draw hydration deep into the skin (with notable star ingredients like hyaluronic acid and prickly pear flower extract) to support the renewal process for a smoother complexion. See why it's worth the hype in this TikTok! Ilia's Base Milk has become an essential step in my routine. My skin drinks up the lightweight (but moisturizing) formula, and I can tell the difference in my skin's texture when I forget to apply it prior to my Live Tinted tinted moisturizer or Ilia Complexion Stick. With it, my complexion appears more even in tone, and my products go on smoother and seem to last longer. Cakey-ness and dryness are diminished — plus the glow that's achieved when it's first a word? Luminous. Sometimes, I'll apply it just under some sunscreen when I want to give my skin a bit of breathing room from makeup, and I love the added hydrating benefits it offers without leaving any greasy or sticky residue. Needless to say, the Base Face Milk has quickly become one product that my skin can't live without. Promising review:"Improved my skin texture and dryness so much! What people don't realize is this is NOT a heavy moisturizer or face cream. It's a base. You put this on right before you use a heavier moisturizer or face cream. As someone with severe dry and flakey skin. This added into my skincare routine has stopped all of that texture and leaves my skin more glowy." — chrissyqns 10. Dr. Jart+ color-correcting treatment corrects and neutralizes red blotchiness with a green-tinted cream (throwback to the color wheel we learned about in school!). With SPF 30, this all-in-one treatment can help protect from UV damage *and* assist in masking leftover acne scars. The active ingredient, Centella asiatica has been recognized for its medicinal use and helps support wounded skin exhibiting inflammation, redness, or blemishes. Promising reviews: " TikTok don't lie! Wow, the reviews are no joke. My skin in relatively clear, but with rosey undertones that I like to cancel out. With this cream I was able to go without concealer and just add blush?! Will continue to rebuy!" — creneed "This stuff is a life-changer for me. I'm early forties with light skin tone and freckles. I have blotchy redness around the nose and dark eye circles. I applied this after my daily moisturizing routine and I'm speechless. I'm not a heavy makeup wearer to begin with so I will be buying the bigger size and ditching all my concealer. Ten-out-of-ten recommend for a NATURAL buy this thinking you'll come out looking airbrushed though." — SaltyPearl 11. Olehenriksen Pout Preserve Hydrating Peptide Lip Treatment drenches lips with a formula of skin-supporting peptides that hydrate and plump. Fans note how this intensely moisturizes and gives lips a fuller, bouncier look and feel. Sephora Promising review:"Amazing!!!!! I have fuller lips but fine lines, so they can look dull. This almost immediately fills those lines. This is a balm, and that can be a different feeling if you're looking for a gloss with a 'slip' feeling. The gloss effect for me lasts about 2-3 hours, but the benefits, like hydration, last all day. I'm excited to see how continued use of this product works given the peptides." — Sephora Customer 12. Paula's Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant improves the texture of flaky skin with a brightening formula of salicylic acid and soothing green tea, which deep dive into pores to unclog dirt and debris. *Hyperpigmentation, acne scars, and dead skin have all left the chat.* Sephora If you're new to chemical exfoliants, greetings! You'll definitely want to start off by applying this one or two times a week to take note of your skin's response. Beta hydroxy acid (BHA, also known as salicylic acid) mimics the natural exfoliation process of younger skin by shedding extra layers while *also* unclogging and clearing pores. Promising reviews:"I have very sensitive skin and have zero issues with this product. Get the mini and test it out. My pores are smaller; if I have acne, it disappears. This product is hydrating, so I don't feel tight skin after." — NickCole0001 "Must have in nighttime routine! After using this product 1–2x a week, it has helped my skin tremendously! You can actually see all the gunk coming out on the cotton rounds!" — Sephora Customer 13. Laneige Cream Skin Toner & Moisturizer feeds skin with the nourishing ceramides and peptides that beauty enthusiasts wax poetic about when it comes to achieving healthy-looking, glass-like skin. After cleansing, gently pat this into your face before any following steps for an extra boost of hydration and firmness. Sephora Promising review:"This is my desert island skincare product. I've refilled it close to 10 times now and genuinely never want to be without it. It's equally hydrating in Texas summer and the dead of winter and is perfect for my sensitive skin. I've been anle to narrow down my routine into this, a serum, and a moisturizer and my skin has never been happier!" — emborst 14. Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Dew Drops Serum shouts out hyaluronic acid and yummy-scented watermelon as its key players in hydrating and plumping dry, lackluster skin. Apply this after cleansing and toning and before slathering on moisturizer for a naturally highlighted glow that doesn't feel heavy or look greasy. Sephora Promising review:"I love this! It is so moisturizing and makes my skin feel amazing. Doesn't feel greasy or sticky afterward and smells amazing, too! Highly recommend!" — Ranae16 15. Korres Greek Yoghurt Probiotic Superdose Face Mask serves up a delightful dollop of skin-soothing ingredients like Greek yogurt, aloe leaf juice, and lactic acid to diminish dryness and redness. Simply apply the cream mask to stressed-out skin and leave on for 10–15 minutes to reveal a more nourished and smoother-looking complexion. Sephora Promising review:"This is the first and only face mask I've used an entire jar of, and then I bought more! I love this mask so much. I have combination/oily skin, and it didn't cause any breakouts or increased oil production. I have a lot of redness in my nose and cheeks and this instantly makes the redness better. My skin feels incredible after this, so silky soft and moisturized. Even though this is expensive, I think it's worth it. I've never had a mask show immediate results before." — TinaOOO 16. The Ordinary AHA + BHA Peeling Solution reduces the appearance of the oil slick that can show up on your T-zone. With a trio of glycolic, lactic, and salicylic acids, it only needs 10 minutes to rejuvenate, resurface, and decrease congestion caused by the overproduction of sebum. Tired-looking skin, who? Check it out on TikTok! BuzzFeed Shopping editor Daniel Boan (seen using this iconic treatment above) had this to say about his experience: " This is my first ever 'TikTok made me buy it' I've been hooked ever since. I've been hearing about the wonders of alpha- and beta-hydroxy acids for a while now (they're chemical exfoliants, meaning they help dissolve and loosen dead skin cells instead of sloughing them off like a physical exfoliant), but never quite knew where to start. When I saw this taking over TikTok, I decided to give it a try. I started off by applying a thin layer of the blood-red product to my face and braced myself for a slight tingling sensation, though it went away after about 30 seconds. Then I let it sit for eight minutes (Don't go longer than 10 minutes! This is potent stuff!), rinsed it off, and was ah-mazed by how instantly bright and smooth my skin looked afterward. It's now become a weekly treatment for me and will always have a permanent spot in my skincare routine." Promising review: "HOLY GRAIL!! This is one of those affordable purchases that I feel have beat the high-end stuff. This peel is sooooooo amazing for spots and acne, works miracles. If you have sensitive skin, please don't shy away from this peel, as there is a less concentrated version. 1-2 times a week of this peel will give your skin a complete glow-up." — fatooma95 17. Laneige's Lip Sleeping Mask perks up your kisser overnight with an antioxidant-rich formula that intensely hydrates while you sleep. You can thank a berry mix complex featuring vitamin C that slowly releases moisture over eight hours. Sephora Promising review:"I bought this product after seeing it on TikTok, and I can say that it lives up to the hype. I have used it overnight and before my makeup, and it works great either way. It makes my lips feel so soft and hydrated." — annadova 18. Tatcha Rice Wash Skin-Softening Cleanser delivers a face-washing experience that can only be described with one word: blissful. Containing hyaluronic acid, red algae, and a Japanese rice powder, this creamy formula won't strip your skin as it washes away impurities and makeup. What you'll be left with? Clean, soft, luminous skin — and zero irritation. Sephora Promising review:"Every time my friends or family come over, they use this. And every time they are like?? OK, wow that's amazing. It's just the best. I didn't know a cleanser that's on your face for like max 60 seconds could make such a difference, but it does." — KaityLauz 19. Supergoop! SPF 40 Glowscreen grips makeup and actually helps keep it in place — all while shielding you from harmful rays. This comes in a pearlescent lotion that gives light coverage and features a star-studded lineup of skin-loving ingredients like hyaluronic acid, B5 vitamins, and blue-light-protecting peptides that make it *the* morning multitasker. Sephora, Sephora Promising reviews:"I really love this sunscreen. I've tried so many and they usually leave a dry chalky feel. Not this one. I have dry skin and this one feels so smooth and hydrating and I love the glow that it leaves. It will be my new go-to!" — Sephora Customer "Obsessed with this product! I get the perfect no-makeup makeup look. I use it every day and get compliments all the time. It gives you a natural glow while protecting your skin. You don't even need to wear a lot of foundation over it. I use it with the NARS light reflecting foundation, Ilia skin serum, or L'Oreal tinted skin serum. Staple in my skincare routine!" — Sephora Customer 20. Benefit Cosmetics Porefessional Super Setter spray secures makeup with a lightweight, waterproof mist that lasts up to 16 hours *with* the added benefit of helping to blur pores for a satin-soft complexion. Sephora I can attest that Benefit's The Porefessional Setting Spray lives up to the hype. It gently mists a light (but totally effective) airbrush quality over my skin that no other setting spray has ever done for me before. It blurs texture and uneven tone to leave my makeup pretty much looking — if you can believe it — flawless. I am, hands down, a true fan and will definitely be keeping this in my beauty arsenal for all makeup application days from here on out. Promising review:"This is the best setting spray that I've ever used. I've tried different high-end sprays, and they never truly work. My face gets sweaty and this spray has helped me the most as far as keeping my makeup in place. The mist is very fine, and it smells amazing. I'm obsessed with this stuff." — Sephora Customer 21. Dr. Jart+ Cryo Rubber Face Mask cools and reduces the appearance of redness in one convenient two-piece mask. With a highly concentrated ampoule of allantoin (aka supercharged serum that's perfect for sensitive skin) and cryotherapy, your skin's temperature will slowly drop to calm any irritation. The result? Skin that feels soothed and moisturized. Sephora Promising reviews:"Best mask I have used in a long time. I used it on my wedding day and my skin looked flawless. It also stays in place and is more comfortable than any other mask I have ever used. Best results I've seen in a sheet/face mask next to SK-II mask." — MegBecker "I'm absolutely obsessed with these masks! I think they are the only masks I've used that have a very noticeable impact on my skin. I use the collagen mask once a week at night and wake up with visibly plump, silky skin. Can't recommend enough, and yes, it's absolutely worth the price!" — DGrigorievna 22. Peace Out 2% Salicylic Acid Early Stage Acne Dots target pesky, below-the-surface skin bullies before they rear their painful heads. Created with 430 self-dissolving microneedles, each patch features acne-fighting ingredients that help minimize early breakouts overnight. Sephora Participants in a clinical trial agreed that these made their early-stage acne disappear within 72 hours! Promising review: "I tried these on a cystic flare-up, and it worked wonders!! I usually break out around my period, so I put them on a couple of spots I could feel forming. They cleared up areas that would've been around for a week." — Michelina R. 23. Saie Super Glowy Multipurpose Illuminator mixes into your existing skincare products and foundation seamlessly with its lightweight, noncomedogenic formula. It can also be used alone, no matter which option you choose, its liquid formulation will give your complexion a deliciously dewy glow. Sephora And it's fragrance-free! Promising review:"THIS PRODUCT IS MY HOLY GRAIL. It is so amazing and leaves your skin so dewy. I have tried several bronzing drops but have never re-brought them — except for this one. I have bought two of these, which also last so long — one bottle a year with daily use. If you're looking for a nice base and bronzing dewy look, THESE ARE IT!!!!" — Jessslays 24. Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream perks up the skin's moisture barrier with its 4.5% squalene formula. Composed of a rich-yet-lightweight moisturizer, this can provide up to 72 hours of soothing hydration that absorbs into the skin without the greasy finish. Kiehls It's fragrance-free! This is the only moisturizer I trust to take care of dryness and irritation. I have hyper-sensitive, acne-prone skin. Once I apply this, it feels like a breath of fresh air is hitting my face — in that it soothes any redness, delivers instant hydration, and doesn't feel greasy. I opt to use this at night as my final step in my routine, and, without fail, I wake up with my skin looking smooth and (still) feeling moisturized. Promising review:"Instantly made my skin feel hydrated and soft! I usually get super dry skin on my cheeks and I also have sensitivity to fragrances in facial creams but this moisturizer is honestly perfect. Just one use I personally saw a difference!" — raspbear 25. Ilia Super Serum Skin Tint fuses our three main loves in one single product: skincare, makeup, and sun protection. We adore products with magical, good-for-skin ingredients, like hyaluronic acid and niacinamide, known for softening and plumping. Not to mention the weightless feel, sheer coverage, and SPF what? 40! C'est magnifique. Ulta This is silicone free, fragrance free, oil free, noncomedogenic, and safe for sensitive skin. Note that on application, the shade may appear lighter but after 30–60 seconds, it'll adjust to its true color. Because it's silicone-free, natural separation may occur. This is normal and it'll be fixed when applied to skin. Plus, the bottle is recyclable! Learn how to here. 26. Sunday Riley C.E.O. Glow Face Oil serves up a concentrated formula of vitamin C and golden turmeric that you're not gonna want to dillydally on snagging since this illuminates as it evens out your complexion. Dullness, dark spots, and dehydration? We're officially showing you the door. Sunday Riley Promising review:"I have very acne-prone, sensitive skin, with eczema and other allergy issues. This product has changed my skin barrier and has helped my products seep into my skin. I use it after my moisturizer and it really helps everything lock in. This doesn't bother my sensitive skin and the scent doesn't bother me. I've come back to this product time after time for the past two years." — Loughly Price: $40+ (available in two sizes) 27. Biodance Bio-Collagen's sheet mask works the night shift to provide A+ hydration and earns top marks for penetrating deep beneath your skin's layers. Designed to be worn while you (literally) get your beauty rest, this transfer-resistant mask turns transparent once your skin has absorbed all the moisturizing goodness, including hyaluronic acid and elasticity-boosting collagen. Sephora Most reviewers recommend doing this treatment once per week. And, BTW, you don't *have* to sleep with this on if you'd prefer not to, the brand notes that in just a little over three hours this mask will start to turn transparent. Promising review: "Must add to your skincare routine!!!! Loved this product! The mask was so cool and felt good on my skin. I slept with it on. Removed in the morning and my skin felt well hydrated and had a smooth dewy appearance. Skin felt hydrated. Great price point!" — PTYPeaches Price: $5 Reviews have been edited for length and clarity.
NBC News
04-04-2025
- Business
- NBC News
I cover beauty for a living — this is everything worth shopping during Sephora's Savings Event
Sephora's spring sale is finally here, so now is the perfect time to add your favorite products (and products you've been eyeing) to your cart. For the next few days, Sephora Beauty Insiders can save up to 20% across all beauty categories, including skin care, lip care and hair care, using code SAVEMORE. But you'll need to act fast: The sale ends on April 14, and bestselling brands and products tend to sell out quickly. What makes this sale unique is that your window to shop and how much you save is dependent on your Beauty Insider status. Below, I break down everything you need to know about the sale. I'm a beauty reporter who frequently covers sales from Amazon, Sephora and Ulta. Below, I compiled the best items on sale from popular brands like Summer Fridays, Ouai and Dyson. Many of the products experts have previously recommended in my reporting, NBC Select-staff favorites and highly rated items. Best skin care deals Tower 28 SOS Daily Rescue Facial Spray Discount price: Rouge: $22.40 | VIB: $23.80 | Insider: $25.20 This daily facial spray uses hypochlorous acid to support the skin barrier and soothe the skin by reducing irritation and redness, according to the brand. Because hypochlorous acid has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, I love using this in place of my cleanser or as a toner to help clear my skin of any gunk while preventing any eczema flare-ups and breakouts. This spray is suitable for all skin types and has the National Eczema Association's Seal of Acceptance, National Rosacea Society's Seal of Acceptance and the National Psoriasis Foundation's Seal of Recognition. Discount price: Rouge: $15.20 | VIB: $16.15 | Insider: $17.10 Biodance makes some of our favorite overnight sheet masks, which turn opaque after a few hours of wear. The Hydro Cera-nol masks have glycerin, panthenol and glacial water to support the skin barrier, hydrate and soothe it, according to the brand. 'Not only was it instantly calming on my skin, but when I took it off after sleeping in it, the redness and rough texture I was struggling with had improved substantially and I had no irritation,' says NBC Select editorial projects manager Rebecca Rodriguez. Discount price: Rouge: $31.20 | VIB: $33.15 | Insider: $35.10 Remove makeup, dirt and more with this NBC Select staff-favorite and expert-recommended cleansing balm. Suitable for all skin types, this gentle and fragrance-free balm turns into a milky lather that easily and gently removes debris from the surface of your skin without leaving behind a residue, according to the brand. 'I have super sensitive skin and this cleansing balm removes all of my makeup without causing any irritation,' says NBC Select updates editor Mili Godio. 'It also leaves my skin soft and hydrated, which is exactly what my dry skin needs.' Discount price: Rouge: $36.80 | VIB: $39.10 | Insider: $41.40 I apply this eye cream and serum hybrid every two to three nights, and when I wake up, my under eyes look smoother, plumper and way more hydrated than the night before. It has ingredients like glycerin (to lock in moisture and soften the skin), licorice root extract (to soothe irritation and reduce puffiness) and retinol (to improve the appearance of fine lines), according to the brand. You can use this serum nightly, but I use it every two to three days to avoid potential irritation from the retinol. Best hair care deals Discount price: Rouge: $24 | VIB: $25.50 | Insider: $27 I use this styling cream to achieve the perfect slick back buns and ponytails. The cream has enough hold to keep my hair sleek and tame without any hardness or leaving behind white flakes. Once I take down my hair, it still feels soft, so it almost acts like a leave-in treatment instead of a hard gel. Discount price: Rouge: $44 | VIB: $46.75 | Insider: $49.50 Reviewers say they love using this lightweight hair mask because it hydrates, softens, strengthens and adds shine to their hair without weighing it down. The mask also helps repair damage and combat frizz, according to the brand. This mask, which has a 4.6-star average rating from over 1,260 reviews at Sephora, is available in two formulations — one for fine to medium hair and the other for thick hair. Discount price: Rouge: $25.60 | VIB: $27.10 | Insider: $28.80 This hair oil, which you can apply on dry or damp hair, helps strengthen, smooth and reduce hair breakage while also doubling as a heat protectant, according to the brand. 'Every time I style my hair, I apply the oil on the ends and it leaves my hair unbelievably smooth and soft,' says Godio. 'It's lightweight, so it doesn't weigh down my super fine hair. Plus, it smells amazing, and that scent lasts all day.' Discount price: Rouge: $22.40 | VIB: $23.80 | Insider: $25.20 To extend the time between wash days, I've been using this dry shampoo, which uses finely milled powders to mattify my hair and absorb excess oils. I prefer non-aerosol dry shampoo like this one for vacations, but they tend to be messier than sprays. This one has an attached compact puff that allows me to apply the powder to my hair and scalp easily without causing a mess. This dry shampoo is available in a translucent version for all hair colors and a tinted version for darker hair tones. Discount price: Rouge: $22.40 | VIB: $23.80 | Insider: $25.20 This hair gel helps define all curl types and adds shine, humidity protection and control, according to the brand. 'I've tried other hair gels over the past few months, but none have performed better than this one,' says NBC Select SEO editor Nikki Brown, who uses it daily. 'Like other gels, you have to be mindful of how much you use (especially with very short hair), but this one never leaves my hair looking flaky. It also keeps my second and third day hair looking cute as well.' All you have to do is apply and scrunch a small amount into soaking wet hair and let it dry; once it's dry, scrunch it again, according to Curlsmith. Discount price: Rouge: $39.20 | VIB: $41.65 | Insider: $44.10 Kiehl's released this body cream last year, and I simply can't live without it. It's by far one of the most moisturizing lotions I've ever tried and it helps soothe and combat dry, itchy skin. The best part is that it's thick and rich, so a little goes a very long way. L'Occitane Shower Oil Discount price: Rouge: $23.20 | VIB: $24.65 | Insider: $26.10 This multitasking shower oil can act as a shaving cream replacement, bath soak or as a body wash. 'It never feels oily or greasy, and the smell is absolutely incredible — it has a clean scent that's subtle and not too overpowering,' says Godio. 'But my favorite part is how soft and smooth my skin feels after using this product. Simply, no other shower oil does it better.' Discount price: Rouge: $8 | VIB: $8.50 | Insider: $9 'I never leave home without this hand sanitizer spray because it smells amazing, never dries out my hands, and the spray is so much more convenient than a goopy or runny hand sanitizer,' says NBC Select reporter Zoe Malin. Our editors also love the Touchland Power Mist Hydrating Hand Sanitizer because of its small compact size. 'The shape of the container makes it easy to fit in a backpack or shoulder bag because it's flat instead of round,' says NBC Select commerce editor Cory Fernandez. Discount price: Rouge: $28.20 | VIB: $30.60 | Insider: $32.40 After shaving your face or body, you can apply this solid stick serum to combat razor burn, reduce ingrown hairs and brighten dark spots, according to the brand. I use this the day after shaving and love how easy it is to use because it essentially melts into my skin when I roll it on without making a mess or staining my clothes. And although it uses chemical exfoliants to target its three key concerns, it doesn't irritate my sensitive skin. Discount price: Rouge: $17.60 | VIB: $18.70 | Insider: $19.80 Our NBC Select editors love Laneige's lip products, including its lip mask and balm. The brand recently launched this serum that hydrates and protects your lips while leaving a glossy, tinted finish. Reviewers say they love how it leaves their lips looking and feeling, but call out their love for its donut applicator, which makes it easy and comfortable to apply. This lip serum has a 4.5-star average rating from over 560 reviews at Sephora. Discount price: Rouge: $11.20 | VIB: $11.90 | Insider: $12.60 This lip balm combines mango seed butter, avocado seed oil and jojoba seed oil to hydrate, soften and plump your lips while simultaneously reducing any flakiness and discomfort, according to the brand. 'It's not too thick or thin; it feels really nourishing and the texture is smooth,' says Brown. Discount price: Rouge: $11.20 | VIB: $11.90 | Insider: $12.60 When NBC Select commerce editor Lindsay Schneider needs lots of moisture for her lips, she gravitates toward this lip balm — specifically the sheer, citrus version. 'It's thicker than a standard balm or oil but isn't quite as thick as some overnight masks and it's genuinely effective at keeping my lips from cracking or chapping,' she says. 'If I put it on in the morning or even at night, I can still feel it on my lips hours later.' Discount price: Rouge: $22.40 | VIB: $23.80 | Insider: $25.20 Immediately upon applying it, this lip balm quickly became one of my top five lip care products because it's hydrating, non-sticky, thick and leaves my lips feeling and looking luscious. It has an angled applicator that follows the contours of my lips and helps the balm glide across them smoothly. Discount price: Rouge: $239.20 | VIB: $299 | Insider: $269.10 NBC Select social media assistant Caitlin Cusack loves this hair dryer and blow dryer brush because it helps her achieve the perfect salon-like blowout in half the time it normally takes her to do it at home. The multi-styler, suitable for all hair types and textures, comes with two auto-wrap curlers, a styling concentrator, an oval brush and a round brush so you can style your hair however you choose. Discount price: Rouge: $364 | VIB: $386.75 | Insider: $409.50 This Dr. Dennis Gross face mask uses LED light therapy to treat skin care concerns. It has red light to help improve fine lines and boost collagen production, plus blue light to prevent and target acne. Depending on your needs, you can alternate between the two options or use the third setting, which combines both red and blue light. NBC Select Ashley Morris received a mask from the brand and loves how easy it is to use. 'By the end of the testing process, I could also see a noticeable improvement in my skin's texture,' she says. Dyson Airstrait Discount price: Rouge: $399.20 | VIB: $424.15 | Insider: $449.10 Our experts recommend Dyson's Airstrait flat iron because it reduces your risk of heat damage since it uses hot air to dry and straighten your hair instead of traditional hot plates. You can choose from two modes (wet to dry mode and dry mode) and three airflow and speed settings to help achieve a sleek, shiny and smooth style, according to the brand. Why trust NBC Select? I am an associate reporter at NBC Select, who frequently covers beauty and wellness sales at Sephora. I've covered the retailer's fall Savings Event, as well as competitor sales from Ulta, Target and Amazon. I also extensively write about beauty and wellness and have been shopping the Sephora sale for eight years.
Buzz Feed
09-02-2025
- Health
- Buzz Feed
28 Low-Cost, High-Reward Sephora Products To Upgrade Your Routine
We hope you love our recommendations! Some may have been sent as samples, but all were independently selected by our editors. Just FYI, BuzzFeed and its publishing partners may collect a share of sales and/or other compensation from the links on this page. Save your pennies on viral products with results that'll look like you splurged. 1. The Ordinary GF 15% Serum helps reduce visible skin damage with a powerhouse (and now viral) blend of growth factors that reviewers say they can't believe work so quickly and effectively. Within just two weeks, it can help tighten and reduce the appearance of fine lines, dullness, and uneven texture. Sephora Promising reviews: "Wow. This product has made a very noticeable difference in my skin. It feels tighter and firmer. I love that it's lightweight and doesn't conflict with any other products I use. It will be a daily staple in my routine." — Apples12 "The first night I used GF 15%, the next morning I woke up without itching skin. My face was unusually not flaky around my nose, and my forehead wrinkles were less prominent (dryness exaggerates them). Now, it's been just a few days, and *I'm skipping steps* in my routine because my skin is looking more moisturized with half the work. I don't know that a skincare product has so blown me away. It makes so many of my products feel pointless." — ElizabestD 2. Tower 28's SOS Daily Rescue Facial Spray packs a major punch for stressed-out skin with only three ingredients. Think: a gentle hypochlorous acid toner with H2O and sodium chloride that can refresh and rescue irritated skin and prevent flare-ups. Sephora Tower 28 is an Asian woman-owned clean beauty brand designed for sensitive skin. Their products are nontoxic, nonirritating, vegan, and cruelty-free, so you can rest easy when applying. Promising review: "Nothing helps me when I have an outbreak of perioral dermatitis; I usually have to take antibiotics for it to go away. I saw a derm recommend this on TikTok, so I gave it a shot, and it has actually helped so much that it has cleared my outbreak up! Please give this a try if you suffer from this as well." — smooly "HOLY GRAIL!! I tried this spray for the first time about a year and a half ago. I had moved from a dry climate to a humid climate, and my acne was out of control! I tried so many products before SOS. When I tell you my acne cleared up within a week….SHEESH! I haven't been without this spray since! I keep a mini with me at all times and for travel and recommend it to all friends with skin concerns. Don't walk, RUN to Sephora to get it!" — KuhKristen 3. Rare Beauty volumizing mascara lifts, lengthens, and volumizes each and every strand. For that false-lash effect without the fuss, the curvy, multi-length brush, and long-wearing formula, ensures every wisp is curled and remains sky-high throughout the day. Sephora Promising review:"This is the best mascara I have ever used, it makes my eyelashes look longer than they already are and it doesn't flake off or clump and it's really good!" — Kirra12345 4. Bondi Boost Intensive Daily Scalp Spray bulks up the appearance of thinning hair with its blend of rosemary (scalp stimulator), redensyl (targets hair loss), and biotin (hair growth). Easy to use, the leave-in treatment can be spritzed directly onto the scalp and massaged in with fingertips. Plus, it's non-greasy so it won't impact your overall look. 5. The Inkey List Under-Eye Cream helps to depuff and take down dark circles in one fell swoop. Created with a blend of caffeine and peptides, you can expect a more hydrated, wide-awake look. Sephora Promising review:"Great eye cream, great price! This eye cream is fantastic, really does help with dark circles. You definitely see a difference within 1-2 weeks of use." — Nena08Hrdz 6. The Ordinary AHA + BHA Peeling Solution reduces the appearance of the oil slick that can show up on your T-zone. With a trio of glycolic, lactic, and salicylic acids, it only needs 10 minutes to rejuvenate, resurface, and decrease congestion caused by the overproduction of sebum. Daniel Boan/BuzzFeed Check it out on TikTok! BuzzFeed Shopping editor Daniel Boan (seen using this iconic treatment above) had this to say about his experience: " This is my first ever 'TikTok made me buy it' I've been hooked ever since. I've been hearing about the wonders of alpha- and beta-hydroxy acids for a while now (they're chemical exfoliants, meaning they help dissolve and loosen dead skin cells instead of sloughing them off like a physical exfoliant), but never quite knew where to start. When I saw this taking over TikTok, I decided to give it a try. I started off by applying a thin layer of the blood-red product to my face and braced myself for a slight tingling sensation, though it went away after about 30 seconds. Then I let it sit for eight minutes (Don't go longer than 10 minutes! This is potent stuff!), rinsed it off, and was ah-mazed by how instantly bright and smooth my skin looked afterward. It's now become a weekly treatment for me and will always have a permanent spot in my skincare routine." Promising review: "HOLY GRAIL!! This is one of those affordable purchases that I feel have beat the high-end stuff. This peel is sooooooo amazing for spots and acne, works miracles. If you have sensitive skin, please don't shy away from this peel, as there is a less concentrated version. 1-2 times a week of this peel will give your skin a complete glow-up." — fatooma95 7. Bumble and Bumble Invisible Oil Heat and UV Protector primes parched locks for initial post-shower styling *and* day two RE-styling. This frizz-fighting, leave-in formula detangles and shields each strand from sun rays and hot air so roots and tips of different thicknesses and textures can all receive a spritz wherever they require extra moisture. Sephora Oh! This includes six featherlight oils, including coconut, macadamia, and argania kernel, and can be applied to both damp and dry hair for heat-styling protection or just protection from the drying effects of the sun. Promising reviews:"Makes my hair so smooth and soft! In the winter, my hair tends to get very dry and frizzy. This heat protectant completely prevents that from happening." — MarieneJay "This stuff is a lifesaver. I have platinum/silver hair that gets bleached to death every month, and therefore, I was told not to wash it every day. At night, I sleep with a humidifier next to me, and when I wake up, my hair is a total mess. It's frizz city. So I spray this all over my dry hair and comb it through. My hair is instantly back to normal! I also use it on damp hair just before drying. I never get any buildup, and my hair is never weighed down, no matter how many times I use it. I'll be buying this again and again." — Sephora Custome r 8. Nars Creamy Concealer disguises any signs of lack of sleep caused by doom scrolling into the abyss and camouflages hyperpigmentation leftover from acne. Medium-to-buildable, up-to-16-hour coverage paired with a formula that creates radiance? Sounds like a gift from the makeup gods, if you ask me. Sephora Promising review:"I had a lot of issues with major creasing from concealers under my eyes. This concealer has worked its magic and doesn't crease! It leaves a beautiful finish, and it does not look heavy under the eyes." — stephfredricksn 9. Glossier Aluminum-Free Deodorant coats underarms in skin-conditioning ingredients and delightful scents (You, orange blossom neroli, sandstone, and unscented) that'll leave you feeling fresh all day — sans irritation. It comes in a handy refillable case, so you can swap out your fragrance depending on your mood. Sephora Promising review: "Pits genuinely smell like sunshine and rainbows. I've tried everything lately and have had no luck, no matter how much or how expensive it is, even men's deodorant!!! I tried this, and it's a complete 180 — Now I'm not self-conscious if I'm running late and speed walking or doing downward dog in yoga. Tysm Glossier for being my saving grace and never changing the formula <3 Ik it's an investment, but I'm genuinely hooked." — Sephora Customer 10. Sephora Mini Color Shifter Strange Botanicals Eyeshadow Palette delivers four base shades to sweep over your lids and one shimmery topper to elevate the look. Purse-friendly, you can take this with you whenever you want to switch up your glam. Reviewers love the pigment and price — and I think you will, too! Sephora Promising review:"I can't believe this palette is not more expensive. The quality is amazing. I have three of these palettes. The mushroom one is my favorite, although the strange red poppy one comes in second. The color-shifting shadow is beautiful!" — Anonymous 11. Benefit Cosmetics Porefessional Super Setter spray secures makeup with a lightweight, waterproof mist that lasts up to 16 hours *with* the added benefit of helping to blur pores for a satin-soft complexion. Sephora Promising review:"This is the best setting spray that I've ever used. I've tried different high-end sprays, and they never truly work. My face gets sweaty and this spray has helped me the most as far as keeping my makeup in place. The mist is very fine, and it smells amazing. I'm obsessed with this stuff." — Sephora Customer 12. Ceremonia Scalp Massager gently soothes a dry, itchy scalp that's home to pesky dandruff. How? By a) reinvigorating, b) exfoliating, and c) stimulating the roots to really get that deep, deep clean. Plus, it can also be used to gently detangle any knots! Sephora Promising review: "I loved this so much the first time around, that I just bought another one. It truly helps with massaging the scalp in/out of the shower. My scalp feels and looks much cleaner with this around. Highly recommended." — azuraskye 13. Rare Beauty liquid blush flushes skin with either a matte or dewy finish to give it a subtle sun-kissed glow. And it couldn't be easier to achieve a wide-awake look: Just put a dot or two on your cheekbones, and then blend it with a brush (or even your finger), and you'll be set. Sephora Check out this TikToker showing how it works best with only one small dot! Promising review:"I hope this never gets discontinued because it will take me forever to go through the bottle, but I love it. The color LOVE is so perfect, and I imagine will be great on so many skin tones. So pigmented. Honestly really fun to use. It seems overwhelming and like a lot of pigment, but it blends so well. TikTok make me buy it, and I definitely don't regret it and will probably end up buying other colors." — AlexaX 14. Dae 3-in-1 Styling Cream tames flyaways and frizz, and styles edges with a cactus-fruit-infused multitasking finisher that's complete with a built-in wand. Ideal for everyday use when you're setting up your 'do — and even better for a quick, on-the-go fix, you'll be so happy you snagged this. Sephora Psst! Of course you don't HAVE to style your edges because your hair is gorgeous either way, but if you ever want to, this is designed to make sure you do so in a gentle, damage-free fashion. 15. And Fenty Hair The Gelly Type Strong Hold Gel slicks ponytails, updos, and top knots with a high-performance styling sensation that keeps 'dos in place all day free of crunch, frizz, and residue. Unlike alt gels, it adds shine while actually repairing, nourishing, and hydrating the hair. Sephora Promising review:"I used to use eco gel for styling my curly hair, slick backs, etc., but recently I bought this gel, and it is absolutely perfect!! It is so much better: it gives me a perfect cast, keeps my hair slicked back all day, and, most importantly, it keeps my hair healthy and moisturized, unlike some gels! 10/10 definitely recommend." — itgirlval 16. Olehenriksen Pout Preserve Hydrating Peptide Lip Treatment drenches lips with a formula of skin-supporting peptides that hydrate and plump. Fans note how this intensely moisturizes and gives lips a fuller, bouncier look and feel. Sephora Promising review:"Amazing!!!!! I have fuller lips but fine lines, so they can look dull. This almost immediately fills those lines. This is a balm, and that can be a different feeling if you're looking for a gloss with a 'slip' feeling. The gloss effect for me lasts about 2-3 hours, but the benefits, like hydration, last all day. I'm excited to see how continued use of this product works given the peptides." — Sephora Customer 17. LYS Beauty Triple Fix Translucent Setting Powder mattifies with a talc-free product to keep all your hard work in place. Made from a loose, satin powder, this can reduce the appearance of pores and limits shine to leave you with a naturally airbrushed finish. Sephora Promising reviews: "I have extremely dry skin and always have a hard time finding a powder that doesn't make my makeup crack, it's very lightweight, it doesn't make my face feel heavy either." — Michelina R. "I've been using this powder for a little over a week now. It's not my favorite as far as packaging/getting the product out, but I learned to crack the lid, turn it upside down, and shake it without making a complete mess. The product itself is fantastic. It makes my liquid makeup matt, and this does not cake or increase lines like some users have stated. This gives me a solid and perfect finish. I wear a mask all day at my job, and this actually keeps my makeup on my face and not on my mask! Nothing else I've tried has done this. I absolutely love this powder. When in doubt, go with the translucent as you can't tell it's on. A must-try for sure." — Carissa21 18. Dr. Jart+ Cryo Rubber Face Mask cools and reduces the appearance of redness in one convenient two-piece mask. With a highly concentrated ampoule of allantoin (aka supercharged serum that's perfect for sensitive skin) and cryotherapy, your skin's temperature will slowly drop to calm any irritation. The result? Skin that feels soothed and moisturized. Promising reviews:"Best mask I have used in a long time. I used it on my wedding day and my skin looked flawless. It also stays in place and is more comfortable than any other mask I have ever used. Best results I've seen in a sheet/face mask next to SK-II mask." — MegBecker "I'm absolutely obsessed with these masks! I think they are the only masks I've used that have a very noticeable impact on my skin. I use the collagen mask once a week at night and wake up with visibly plump, silky skin. Can't recommend enough, and yes, it's absolutely worth the price!" — DGrigorievna 20. Peace Out 2% Salicylic Acid Early Stage Acne Dots target pesky, below-the-surface skin bullies before they rear their painful heads. Created with 430 self-dissolving microneedles, each patch features acne-fighting ingredients that help minimize early breakouts overnight. Sephora Participants in a clinical trial agreed that these made their early-stage acne disappear within 72 hours! Promising review: "I tried these on a cystic flare-up, and it worked wonders!! I usually break out around my period, so I put them on a couple of spots I could feel forming. They cleared up areas that would've been around for a week." — Michelina R. 21. Freck Beauty Face Hack Cream Bronzing Stick sculpts out immediate definition along your cheekbones, nose, jawline, or anywhere you'd like to add a lil' flush of color. This almond-shaped applicator is perfect for beginners to contouring (me!) and comes in a cute, travel-friendly size. Sephora Remi Brixton is the founder of OG faux freckle cosmetic company, Freck Beauty. Her brand is a clean, vegan makeup line based in Los Angeles. Remi, along with her team behind Freck Beauty, is known for creating an attitude in which she prides herself on creating holy grail products that are made for anyone who: "Cares about ingredients, respects the process, but doesn't care about the rules." Watch one TikToker put it to work! Promising reviews: "I love this tiny little contour product. The packing is so cute and compact, but the product is also great! It's great for sculpting my nose, and I love going over it with a powder to make it last all day. Definitely a product worth trying!" — Sephora Customer "I LOVE THIS CONTOUR STICK! It's the perfect shade, and the formula melts into my skin!! It has such a nice blendability that I really like. I also like the fact I can use it on my nose and actually get a nice straight line. If you're looking for a beautiful bronzy shade that blends easily, this is great! I also like the use of it being a stick. It's a cute packaging component." — Sephora Customer 22. Briogeo Style + Treat™ Air Dry Hair Styling Cream makes heatless styling the preferred method of doing your hair, thanks to its frizz-eliminating formula. Featuring plum oil and yuzu extract, you'll be protecting hair from environmental aggressors and providing lightweight moisture that enhances your hair's natural pattern, for an air-dried finish that won't let (or weigh) you down. Sephora Promising review: "This hair styling cream brings out my hair's natural curl and helps the curl stay! It makes my hair feel soft, not 'crunchy' like other products and makes my hair more manageable." — kateybee Price: $26 23. Laneige's Lip Sleeping Mask perks up your kisser overnight with an antioxidant-rich formula that intensely hydrates while you sleep. You can thank a berry mix complex featuring vitamin C that slowly releases moisture over eight hours ideal for banishing dull, dry winter lips once and for all. Sephora Promising review:"I bought this product after seeing it on TikTok, and I can say that it lives up to the hype. I have used it overnight and before my makeup, and it works great either way. It makes my lips feel so soft and hydrated." — annadova 24. Ilia Multi-Stick streamlines your routine and keeps your wallet fat by taking care of cheeks and lips in one go, using one single product. Favorite this and keep it close by as this creamy formula will leave a natural pinch of color, while nourishing your skin with avocado oil and shea butter. All you'll need is your finger to blend. Sephora Promising review:"This product is AMAZING — it's so easy to blend, has fantastic pigment, and has such cute packaging. I would definitely order again!" — reaganb1234 25. One Size 24-Hour Liquid Eyeliner laughs in the face of other eyeliner equivalents because this baby is waterproof, smudge-proof, and like your ever-reliable BFF, will *never* flake on you. Sephora This is vegan and cruelty-free! Promising review:"This is a great liquid liner! It's super thin so it creates a very sharp line. It's incredibly smooth as well and very easy to use. It stays on all day but still comes off easily once you're done!" — csummerbaker 26. Pattern Beauty Shower Brush detangles and distributes product evenly throughout curls, coils, and tight textures. And essentially, founder Tracee Ellis Ross made this magical wand (that is designed to get wet) because the shower is where curly hair gets its superpowers. Ergo, as one reviewer put it: "This brush is a true American hero!" Sephora Pattern Beauty is a Black woman-owned company that creates haircare products that empower and celebrate every hair pattern and texture. Promising review: "This is my Go-To brush when distributing my conditioner evenly throughout my hair and detangling… I can't live without this brush. I'm going to buy a second one just because I love it." — HelgaPatakie Price: $17 27. Saie Super Glowy Multipurpose Illuminator mixes into your existing skincare products and foundation seamlessly with its lightweight, non-comedogenic formula. It can also be used alone, no matter which option you choose, its liquid formulation will give your complexion a deliciously dewy glow. Sephora And it's fragrance-free! Promising review:"THIS PRODUCT IS MY HOLY GRAIL. It is so amazing and leaves your skin so dewy. I have tried several bronzing drops but have never re-brought them — except for this one. I have bought two of these, which also last so long — one bottle a year with daily use. If you're looking for a nice base and bronzing dewy look, THESE ARE IT!!!!" — Jessslays Price: $16+ (available in two sizes and four shades) 28. Anastasia Eyebrow Highlighter Crayon conceals any makeup mistakes or pesky hairs that are growing back in, plus it defines the ends of your brows for a flawlessly clean look every single time. Pro tip: Apply this as an end-of-the-day touch-up to ensure your brows are always looking sharp. Sephora I personally s-w-e-a-r by this little crayon for applying the finishing touches to my brows. I try not to pluck them very often, but occasionally, I'll have the odd hair growing in that just looks out of place — but is too short to tweeze. This creamy, pigmented crayon disguises any annoying little follicles *and* provides a highlighting effect on my brow bone for a subtle form of contouring that seriously lasts all day. Promising review:"Fabulous tool to carve out eyebrows. Easy to use and blend. Couldn't be happier, highly recommend it. Tons of product, it is quality and lasts all day."— Sephora Customer Price: $18 (available in three shades) Reviews have been edited for length and clarity.
