20+ Best Beauty Products Our Hip2Save Team Can’t Live Without!

3 months ago 27

We’re sharing our tried and true list of the best beauty products!

woman putting kosas concealer on undereye with white beauty sponge

Want the secret to a flawless routine? Our team is sharing the best beauty products that we order time and time again and can’t live without.

These are the best beauty products our team can’t live without!


1. Madison says she remembers her Summer Fridays tube more than her wallet when on the go.

hand holding end of summer fridays tube

Madison says this is basically her do-it-all moisturizer, primer, hydrating mask, etc. You can leave it on for 10 min and wipe it off (no water necessary) or use it as a moisturizer before bed or before putting on makeup. It’s perfect for dry, dull, and uneven skin.

She said it’s completely next level and you shouldn’t even second guess buying it. Madison keeps it in her purse and loves it so much that she jokingly admitted to remembering it more frequently than her wallet. It really works too thanks to the effective Niacinamide and Hyaluronic Acid formula. She said her skin has legitimately never looked or felt better.


2. Madison also loves anything and everything from Lano. 

lano lips tubes on table with checked cosmetic bag

Lanolips Golden Dry Skin Salve – $17.95
Use code 993664 for $3.50 OFF $15 purchase
Opt for ULTA FREE in-store pick-up
Final cost just $14.45 to pick up Madison’s favorite skin salve in-store at ULTA!

Madison is obsessed with anything made by Lanolips, but if she had to choose just two products, she said she can’t live without the All Over Dry Skin Salve and the 101 Ointment. She said the salve is great for cracked hands, dry elbows, blisters, and everything in between!

As for the lip ointments, she said truly, all the lip flavors are SO GOOD and you really can’t go wrong with any of them. Lanolips is known to be the “world’s best lip balm” and boasts a Cruelty-Free International badge along with being 100% natural. It’s also travel-friendly with its luxe, thick consistency, and minimalist tubes.


3. I love to detox my skin with an Aztec Healing Clay mask.

Woman applying Aztec healing clay on face

Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay – $10.29

  • Plus, spend $30 on select personal care items & get a $5 Target GiftCard!

Deep pore cleansing for the world’s greatest facial all at an incredible price?! Yes, please! Aztec Healing Clay is 100% natural and undeniably effective! Plus, it’s full of magnesium, calcium, and iron which helps release toxins and eliminate excess oil if that’s something you struggle with.

Along with myself, there are thousands of people (including my Hip team member Emily) who love doing an occasional Indian Healing Clay mask to keep our skin in check! Mix with some apple cider vinegar and you’ve got a match made in heaven!

You can read our full review of this Aztec Indian Healing Clay.


4. Chelsey and Emily love the results of the gentle, yet effective, Lumineux Whitening Strips.

Woman pointing to the results of her Lumineux Teeth Whitening Strips, one of the top best beauty products.

Lumineux White Strips $22.76 (regularly $22.99)
Clip the $4 OFF digital coupon
Final cost just $18.76 SHIPPED! 

Looking for a gentle teeth whitening treatment that works? Both Chelsey and Emily consider Lumineux White Strips a must-have beauty product! These powerful strips won’t damage your enamel or leave you with that uncomfortable sensitivity that has become synonymous with whitening treatments.

Chelsey previously used another brand, but now she’s sold on Lumineux. She says they work faster and there’s more product on the strip for an all-over white, specifically in the grooves of the teeth. Plus, she loves their mission to support a “healthier oral biome” with all their products and that they help keep the good germs!

Woman pointing to the results of her Lumineux Whitening Strips, one of the top best beauty products of 2023.

“I’ve tried many whitening products, but what makes Lumineux stand out is the gentle effectiveness. You get whiter teeth that look natural and without any of the harmful enamel damage that comes with other whitening products. I didn’t realize how drastic that damage could be until I used another popular brand of white strips but found I had a hard time drinking ice cold drinks afterward…and not just immediately after, the sensitivity lasted for months!

I’ve done 8 treatments with Lumineux strips, some even doubled up on the same day, and I’m still blown away that not only are my teeth whiter, but they feel healthy too. No sensitivity in the slightest, which I’m thankful for because if I couldn’t have iced coffee all summer while maintaining a white (and non-sensitive) smile, I would cry lol!” – Emily, Hip Sidekick


5. Angela’s beauty tool works 7 times better than her fingers (& she can’t stop using it).

various beauty products sitting on countertop

Spa Sciences AERO Advanced Mint Skincare Delivery System – $29.99

If you love taking the best care of your skin possible, this dermatologist-approved tool is a great way to apply any product to your face! It’s proven to make products work seven times better – as opposed to application with your fingertips. Plus, it works for all skin types, so you can’t go wrong!

“A friend recommended this tool to me, and I can’t stop touching my face because it’s so soft when I use it. It can be used with any creams, lotions, or serums you currently use in your skincare routine, and it works so great!” – Angela, Hip sidekick


6. Emily’s favorite beauty product is her go-to foundation for acne-prone skin & includes SPF too! 

hand holding a tube of elf cosmetics cc cream foundation

e.l.f. Camo CC Cream Foundation – $12.50
Opt to Subscribe & Save (5-15% off + free shipping)
Final cost $11.87 shipped (5% off) or $10.62 shipped (15% off)!

Emily previously used the CC+ Cream Foundation but after finding a much more affordable alternative that gave her the same results, she didn’t hesitate to switch up her routine! She loves the full-coverage this affordable foundation gives her and it has 30 SPF.

The consistency is lightweight in texture and can be buildable so whether you want a light or a fuller coverage look, this can work for both. e.l.f.’s Camo CC Cream is a true powerhouse and is infused with collagen, peptides, and niacinamide to help you plump, hydrate, and improve your skin. If you’re looking for one of the best beauty products of 2024, this is it!


7. Madison loves these affordable and travel-friendly eyeshadows by e.l.f.

three sets of elf eyeshadow palettes on countertop

Madison especially loves these mini eyeshadow palettes for traveling and says they’re equally as easy to use! Plus, hello, the $3 price is unbeatable! There are tons of neutral sets to choose from and plenty of adventurous colors too. She said she prefers these eyeshadows to some of her other more expensive eyeshadows and loves the quality overall.

Hip Tip: According to our Hip team, these are the 7 other e.l.f. cosmetics you should be using.


8. Monica can’t live without this Good Molecules serum and says it makes her skin look so glowy. 

hand holding bottle of Good Molecules Discoloration Correcting Serum

Monica said she has re-purchased this serum more times than she can count and will ALWAYS keep it in stock. She said it makes her skin so glowy and gets rid of ANY hyperpigmentation or discoloration. In fact, she claims that it even makes scars from pimples diminish in just a couple of weeks!


9. Monica and I both love the Kosas concealer which is 100% free of chemicals and toxins. 

hand holding kosas concealer with box in front of monstera plant

Kosas Revealer Concealer$30 shipped

As a previous avid user of the Tarte Shape Tape, I cannot rave about Kosas Revealer Concealer enough! 🤩 Just like ILIA, Kosas also packs their formulas with skin-loving ingredients. It’s also a Credo-approved product so you can be sure the ingredients and manufacturing are of the highest standard.

Some of the highlight ingredients in this clean makeup concealer are Caffeine and Pink Algae Extract (fights dark circles, puffiness, and dullness), Hyaluronic Acid & Peptides (hydrates and visibly plumps skin), and Arnica and Panthenol (calms blemishes and redness). This concealer is easy to blend and it melts into your skin. And since the formula is fragrance-free and non-comedogenic it doesn’t clog pores, is suitable for spot treatment on acne, and overall the ideal choice for even those with sensitive skin. To top it off, it’s easily the most natural-looking concealer on the market.

Hip Tip: These are the clean makeup products every makeup bag should have if you’re toxin-free, sustainably conscious, and want an easy, 5-minute face.


10. Monica can’t get over the difference this $4 pressed powder makes. 

hand holding essense all about matt pressed powder

Essence All About Matt! Fixing Compact Powder – $3.99

*Plus, Buy 2 Get 1 FREE on Essence lip & face products!

Monica said she just uses a small powder puff and presses this affordable beauty product under her eyes and onto her nose. She said it’s game-changing, especially for the price! It’s formulated without fragrances, is cruelty-free, vegan, and suitable for all skin types. There’s zero question you should be using this over all the other pricier options on the market.


11. Emily says she couldn’t live without these chin masks.

Collagen chin masks displayed on womans face

Stylia Double Chin Mask $21.99
Clip the 15% OFF digital coupon
Final cost $18.69!

These chin-lifting masks use ingredients like collagen, hyaluronic acid, and aloe vera to lift, firm, and hydrate your skin.

The masks are easy to use: simply unfold them, wrap them around your ears, and leave them on for 30-60 minutes. They are dermatologically tested and safe for sensitive skin, as well as cruelty-free and vegan. Head over to our collagen chin lifting mask post to see her before and afters after just a few days!

“I did not expect these to work as well and as quickly as they did! It’s a subtle slimming effect, and it’s not permanent, but for the price and fast result, I feel a tinge more confident in my jawline after using these!” – Emily, Hip Sidekick


12. Emily has also used this foaming cleanser for over a decade and prefers it over every other brand she’s tried.

aveeno foaming face wash in shower

Aveeno Clear Complexion Foaming Cleanser – $6.91
Opt to Subscribe & Save (5-15% off + free shipping)
Final cost $6.56 shipped (5% off) or $5.87 shipped (15% off)!

When you find a great face wash, you just stick with it! This has been Emily’s go-to for perfect skin and easily removing her waterproof makeup. She said she’s basically been using it every day for the past 12 years and it’s the ONLY cleanser that she’s always gone back to, even after trying pricier options.

“Aveeno Clear Complexion foaming face wash is the best cleanser I’ve ever used. Without it, my skin will develop tiny bumps and an uneven tone. It also removes all my waterproof makeup without having to scrub it! I’ve switched it out to other face washes in a pinch but I ALWAYS go back to this one. About twice a week I will also use the Acure Facial Scrub and together they make a great duo for me.” – Emily, Hip Sidekick


13. Emily also shared bonus products for saving money on doing her own gel nails:

gellen gel polish and suv uv led lamp

SUNUV SUN4 48W UV LED Nail Lamp$48.99 shipped (regularly $64.99)

Ever wish you knew how to do salon nails right at home? Emily says she saves tons of money by doing her own gel nails at home with an LED lamp and Gellen polishes, both from Amazon! People will be constantly asking who did your perfect nails!

Hip Tip: Check out this other way to do a manicure at home in just one simple step!


14. Cass has been using COSRX snail mucin since 2017 and she has no plans to stop. 

hand holding a bottle of Snail Mucin Essence by COSRX

COSRX Advanced Snail Mucin Power Essence $14.50 (regularly $25)
Opt to Subscribe & Save (10-15% off + free shipping)
Final cost $13.05 shipped (10% off) or $12.32 shipped (15% off)!

COSRX snail mucin products are the holy grail according to Hip2Save’s Cass. She isn’t the only one with that opinion either! Jenna and Chelsey also agree that these Korean skincare products deserve a spot in your beauty lineup! Chelsey loves that it doesn’t clog her pores or feel heavy, even when layering on multiple products.

Snail mucin may be just what you need if you’re looking to repair your skin, clear your acne, and keep the wrinkles at bay.

“This, of course, is the OG. The one that started it all. You have to get over the texture of it, and give it time to do its job but with regular use, it can help to repair, stimulate collagen, get rid of acne and acne scarring, keep wrinkles away… all kinds of good stuff! It’s basically magic.

And it works with whatever other skincare you’re using so you can just add it to your routine. I pair with VIT C, retinoids, peptides, etc. with no issues. And I love using it just after exfoliating with glycolic or lactic acid. It’s also less comedogenic than other brands thanks to their finer filtration process, so it’s great for people who deal with acne or clogged pores.

If you’re just starting out, or turned off by the idea of snail mucin, I recommend you start with their other essence, called the COSRX Advanced Snail Radiance Dual Essence.

Sidenote: Ever wondered why the IT Cosmetics CC cream Emily mentioned above is loved by SO many women? Snail Secretion Filtrate. Seriously. It’s full of snail mucin which is why your face always looks so good after application.” – Cass, Hip Sidekick

COSRX All in one snail cream in a 200mg tube

COSRX Advanced 92 All-in-One Snail Cream – $26.99 (regularly $29.99)
Opt to Subscribe & Save (10-15% off + free shipping)
Final cost $24.29 shipped (10% off) or $20.24 shipped (15% off)!

Jenna attests that this is the best moisturizer EVER! It’s also the last step of Cass’s skincare routine. She loves that it is hydrating without feeling heavy and she has no problems applying foundation or sunscreen right over it. If you love the dewy, glass-skin look, this is the product for you!


15. Cass also loves everything from The Ordinary line.

row of clear and brown amber dropper bottle beauty products with the ordinary labels on front

When The Ordinary hit the market, beauty lovers everywhere were going wild due to the minimal ingredients, safe options for skincare, and all at a totally affordable price – it’s no wonder it’s Cass’s favorite product line when you follow a ten-step skincare routine!

There’s more you need to know about The Ordinary like how they’re able to offer such incredible prices, what Cass uses, and much more, so make sure to read her full review!

The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing

“I have tried all of their products and absolutely love this affordable line, however, my heart really belongs to all their skincare products! I follow a daily 10-step routine (extreme, I know) and I just love everything I’ve used.

I’ve even tried multiple versions of Vitamin C and Retinols/Retinoids from this brand, and I experienced no irritation at all which is such a big deal. I cannot say enough about these products and the prices are even better!” – Cass, Hip Sidekick


16. Paige keeps her skin ultra-clear with her favorite Kiehl’s Facial Cleanser.

kiehls ultra facial cleanser

Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cleanser – $25 shipped

*Or grab a mini size for just $15!

Kiehl’s is probably the most underrated beauty product line ever! I may be biased since it’s also my go-to line for face wash! This classic face wash is perfect for all skin types, so you really can’t go wrong!

“I have tried a million different facial cleansers, but I always come back to Kiehl’s! It is awesome and a brand I trust for quality skincare!” – Paige, Hip Sidekick


17. Jessica has used this NIVEA face cream for over 15 years.

woman holding jar of nivea creme in front of yellow bathroom shower curtain

NIVEA Creme – $9.96

NIVEA has a reputation for being one of the best beauty products on the market. This rich, moisturizing creme is great for all skin types! Another bonus is that it can be multi-purpose and used all over your body, making this a total budget-friendly and versatile beauty product to have on hand!

“I’ve used this for over half my life, and I cannot go a day without it! I put it on my face right after I get out of the shower, and it instantly makes my skin feel smooth and hydrated.

I’ve tried other face creams (they are either too thin and watery, or they burn my sensitive skin). Nivea is absolutely perfect! One of these jars lasts a really long time, too. Plus, it’s not expensive which is always a bonus!” – Jessica, Hip Sidekick


18. Amber loves the affordability and effectiveness of this skincare routine. 

3 artnaturals serums on a bathroom counter

artnaturals Anti-Aging-Set with Vitamin-C Retinol $28.95 (regularly $30.95)
Clip the 25% OFF digital coupon
Opt to Subscribe & Save (10-15% off + free shipping)
Final cost $16.21 shipped (35% off) or $15.40 shipped (40% off) as low as $5.13 each!

*Considering Target sells these same serums for $12.99 EACH, this seems like a steal! 🔥

Amber said she buys this set regularly and loves how each serum makes her skin feel! This trio includes 1oz bottles of Vitamin C, Retinol, and Hyaluronic Acid serums which work together or individually to hydrate and rejuvenate your skin and reduce fine lines, wrinkles, and crow’s feet. Artnaturals products are never tested on animals and are BPA-free, fragrance-free, and eco-friendly. She said it’s such a great and affordable skincare routine to have if you’re looking to mix it up!

Bookmark our artnaturals serums post to know when they go on deep discount again!


19. Amber uses these products to cleanse and moisturize her face.

resurfacing pads in tub and loreal moisturizer in containers on white towel

L’Oréal Paris Collagen Daily Face Moisturizer – $8.98 (regularly $11.49)
Clip the 10% OFF digital coupon
Opt to Subscribe & Save (additional 5-15% off + free shipping)
Final cost $7.63 shipped (15% off) or $6.87 shipped (25% off)!

QRxLabs Glycolic Acid 20% Resurfacing Pads – $25.95
Clip the 5% OFF digital coupon
Opt to Subscribe & Save (10-15% off + free shipping)
Final cost $22.05 shipped (15% off) or $20.95 shipped (20% off)!

Amber said she loves using her favorite resurfacing pads in the evening after washing her face for the day. They leave her skin feeling smooth and clean and she notices if she doesn’t use them for a few days because her skin feels “grimy” without them.

On the flip side, she said the moisturizer she uses is a must for her too! She uses it just before applying any makeup products. Without it, she said her skin feels too dry. Both of her favorite beauty products are reasonably priced and perfect for her minimalist routine.


20. Lina’s got a few favorite beauty products from Revlon and MAC that have been her go-to for years.

woman holding up sticks of revlon eyeliner

Revlon ColorStay Eyeliner – $6.24 (regularly $10.29)
Opt to Subscribe & Save (additional 5-15% off + free shipping)
Final cost $5.93 shipped (5% off) or $5.30 shipped (15% off)!

Lina has been using this eyeliner for years and years, but what you may not know is that even Joanna Gaines uses this tried and true liner! We’re already sold! 😍 It’s a staple in celebrity and Hip makeup bags so what’s not to love about this simple beauty product that works?!

Here are some of Lina’s other favorite beauty products:

woman holding mac cosmetics in mirror

MAC makeup almost always ends up on a list of the best beauty products around and we think that still rings true for 2024. One of the greatest perks of shopping with MAC Cosmetics is not just the free shipping, but their Back-to-MAC program which can score you some pretty sweet freebies.

How does it work? All you do is shop at MAC online (their stores will be open again soon!), return empty, qualifying products, and once you reach six total returns, you can receive free lipstick! That’s an almost $20 value, just by returning trash! 😱

“I’ve been using Revlon ColorStay liner for over a decade and it’s the only thing I use! It stays on until you take it off and looks great all day long! I also love my tried and true MAC products – I’m a huge fan of their eyeshadows and lipstick. They also stay on all day and have amazing pigment!” – Lina, Hip Sidekick


*Note that no one on our team is a beauty expert or dermatologist. It’s recommended to consult with your doctor first before using new skincare products. 


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