High-Value Beauty Essentials at Ulta Beauty: 28 Top-Performing Products Guaranteed to Meet Your Expectations at Reasonable Prices
Rewritten Article:
Hey there! Check out our top product picks handpicked by our editors - yes, even those that might have arrived as samples. Just a heads-up, BuzzFeed and its partners might earn a piece of the pie from the links on this page.
"I'd rate this mascara higher than most luxury brand mascaras I've tried."
By Jasmin Sandal - BuzzFeed Contributor
1. E.l.f.'s Lash Xtndr Tubing Mascara
This mascara wraps around each lash, creating volume and elongating them with a unique technology that our readers and editors can't get enough of. Enriched with jojoba seed oil, it conditions your lashes while the wand separates and lengthens each one. The result? A long-lasting, eye-popping finish. Watch as one user transforms from skeptic to fanatic on TikTok!
BuzzFeed Shopping writer, Emma Lord, is a fan:
"I've dabbled in tubing mascara before, spending $26 on the famous OG blend from Blinc, but I didn't even love it for the length as much as the fact that it never smudged." But let me tell you, this E.l.f. tubing mascara formula eclipses all the others I've tried, providing way more length, volume, and an easy application that stays put all day with no smudging. My favorite part? Its gentle and effortless removal with soap and water. In the past, other mascara removals have felt harsh on my lashes, but this comes off so quickly that I'm like, "Was I even wearing mascara a minute ago?!" I adore the brown shade (wearing it in the above picture!), but it also comes in black and soft black.
Promising review: "This does exactly what it promises - lengthens and separates my lashes. I'd rate this mascara higher than many luxury brand mascaras I've tried." -MonyO77
Price: $7 (available in three shades)
2. Maybelline's Lash Sensational Sky High mascara
This mascara lifts your lashes in one sweep, delivering a phenomenal finish at a price under $13. Infused with bamboo extract and fibers, it provides a magical hold and volume that won't clump or flake.
Promising review: "I've tried numerous mascaras and keep returning to this one. It applies well, lasts all day, and you can't beat the price." -Doelle
Price: $12.99 (available in two shades)
3. E.l.f.'s Poreless Putty Primer

This soft, velvety formula from E.l.f. grips makeup for all-day wear. It smooths out uneven complexions and minimizes the appearance of pores, perfect for anyone seeking a flawless finish.
Check it out on TikTok!
Promising review: "Of all the primers I've tried, cheap to expensive, this one is my favorite! It really does blur pores and fine lines. I use this on its own sometimes without makeup. Excellent product at the perfect price!" -Mandie
Price: $10
4. Good Molecules Yerba Mate Eye Gel
This eye gel refreshes tired under-eyes with caffeine and antioxidants, reducing puffiness while hydrating and firming delicate skin. A pea-sized amount goes a long way, making it an affordable and sustainable choice.
Promising reviews: "This is the only under-eye product I can wear that doesn't make my eyes well up. It does take a bit to set because it's a little thick, but I apply primer and concealer on top of it every day without an issue. It definitely helps with my under-eye circles, and I love that it has sustainable ingredients for a good price!" -Nelly K
Price: $6
5. Living Proof Instant De-Frizzer spray
This lightweight spray reduces up to 92% of frizz (wow!), hydrating your hair between washes and providing UV protection. Use it to tackle bedhead by simply giving your hair a spritz and combing through. It's not just a hero product but also a multitasker, perfect for preventing static and windburn on-the-go.
Promising review: "This is my savior for winter static and flyaways. I have fine, thin hair, which I air dry. I followed the suggested uses by spraying a little in my hand and smoothing it over the flyaways, and voila! Problem solved." -Bex13
Price: $18 (also available in full size for $33)
...and so on. Top picks from BuzzFeed Shopping team include mascara, primer, eye gel, de-frizzer spray, and more, all under $30. Happy shopping! 😊
- The beauty and personal care section of the freelance market is buzzing with excitement over E.l.f.'s Lash Xtndr Tubing Mascara, praised for its unique technology that creates volume and length, while being enriched with jojoba seed oil for lash conditioning.
- Maybelline's Lash Sensational Sky High mascara, available at an affordable price under $13, has gained popularity among health-and-wellness enthusiasts for its ability to lift and volumize lashes without clumping or flaking.
- In the realm of science and skincare, E.l.f.'s Poreless Putty Primer has been receiving rave reviews for its ability to smooth complexions, minimize pores, and grip makeup for all-day wear, making it a popular choice among lifestyle enthusiasts.
- Good Molecules Yerba Mate Eye Gel, priced at just $6, has been hailed as an affordable and sustainable choice for those seeking a refreshing and rejuvenating eye gel rich in caffeine and antioxidants to combat under-eye puffiness and tiredness.
- Living Proof Instant De-Frizzer spray, at a price of $18, has become a hero product for those in the health-and-wellness community, providing lightweight hydration, UV protection, and reducing up to 92% of frizz, making it a must-have for those seeking a multitasking skincare and haircare solution.
