Beauty trends come and go, but some unsung heroes in the skincare and beauty world never fade—often referred to as “unsexy” beauty products. These are not the glamorous, Instagram-worthy serums with luxurious packaging, but rather the under-the-radar essentials that TikTokers swear by for real, lasting results. These products may not get the spotlight, but their affordability and effectiveness have earned them cult status.
Here’s a list of some of these underrated yet powerful beauty staples that TikTok users are raving about.
1. Aquaphor Healing Ointment
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Aquaphor is a simple, multipurpose balm that’s been a skincare savior for years. TikTokers love it for everything from soothing chapped lips to acting as an overnight face mask for intense hydration. It’s especially loved for slugging—a popular skincare trend where you apply a thick layer of the ointment over your moisturizer to lock in moisture overnight.
Why TikTokers Love It:
– Affordable and available at most drugstores
– Excellent for dry, cracked skin and protecting the skin barrier
– Versatile, can be used on lips, face, hands, and more
2. CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser
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Though it lacks the glamour of high-end cleansers, CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser is a staple in the beauty routines of dermatologists and skincare enthusiasts alike. It’s gentle yet effective, making it perfect for people with sensitive or dry skin. TikTok users swear by it for its non-stripping formula, which leaves your skin clean without feeling tight.
Why TikTokers Love It:
– Infused with ceramides and hyaluronic acid to support skin hydration
– Fragrance-free and non-irritating, ideal for sensitive skin
– Drugstore price with dermatologist-approved ingredients
3. Nivea Creme
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Another product making waves on TikTok is Nivea Creme, often dubbed as a dupe for more expensive luxury creams like La Mer. Its thick, moisturizing texture works wonders for dry patches, leaving skin feeling soft and smooth. Many TikTokers use it as a night cream for its intense hydration benefits.
Why TikTokers Love It:
– Extremely budget-friendly
– Works well for dry, rough skin
– Can be used on the face, body, and even cracked heels
4. The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution
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TikTok users are always on the hunt for affordable yet effective exfoliators, and The Ordinary’s Glycolic Acid Toning Solution is one of the favorites. It’s known for its ability to gently exfoliate the skin, improving texture and helping with hyperpigmentation over time. Despite its no-frills packaging, the product delivers powerful results.
Why TikTokers Love It:
– Chemical exfoliation at an affordable price
– Helps with dark spots, uneven skin tone, and dullness
– Simple, clean ingredients without unnecessary frills
5. Vaseline
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Good old petroleum jelly has been making a comeback on TikTok as a beauty staple. Like Aquaphor, Vaseline is being used in slugging routines and to moisturize dry skin, lips, and even eyelashes. Its reputation as an “unsexy” product makes it easy to overlook, but TikTokers have shown that sometimes, simplicity is key.
Why TikTokers Love It:
– Inexpensive and widely available
– Can be used as an all-purpose beauty hack for lips, skin, and even makeup removal
– Non-comedogenic and locks in moisture
6. Epsom Salt
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Who knew Epsom salts would become a TikTok sensation? While primarily used for muscle relaxation in baths, TikTokers have discovered its beauty benefits too. Epsom salts can be used for DIY body scrubs, exfoliation, and even foot soaks to soothe tired feet and soften skin.
Why TikTokers Love It:
– Extremely affordable and easy to find
– Natural exfoliant with calming properties for the body
– Great for DIY beauty treatments
7. Dove Beauty Bar
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It might not seem like much, but the humble Dove Beauty Bar is a TikTok favorite for its gentle cleansing abilities and moisturizing formula. It’s far from the fancy face washes out there, but it gets the job done without stripping your skin of essential oils. Plus, its price tag is hard to beat.
Why TikTokers Love It:
– Gentle enough for the face and body
– Infused with moisturizing cream, making it perfect for dry skin
– Affordable and long-lasting
8. Alba Botanica Hawaiian Sunscreen
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Sunscreen is the most important step in any skincare routine, and TikTokers are loving Alba Botanica’s Hawaiian Sunscreen for its affordable price and clean formula. It’s lightweight, non-greasy, and reef-friendly, which makes it a guilt-free choice for sun protection.
Why TikTokers Love It:
– Budget-friendly and reef-safe
– Broad-spectrum protection with no white cast
– Lightweight and ideal for daily use
9. Cetaphil Moisturizing Lotion
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Cetaphil is another drugstore favorite making waves on TikTok. This lightweight, fragrance-free lotion is perfect for anyone with sensitive skin. It hydrates without clogging pores, making it ideal for both the face and body.
Why TikTokers Love It:
– Non-greasy, lightweight, and perfect for everyday hydration
– Affordable and works well for all skin types
– Dermatologist-recommended for sensitive skin
10. Thayer’s Witch Hazel Toner
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Thayer’s Witch Hazel Toner has long been a beauty secret for those looking to balance their skin. This alcohol-free toner helps to tighten pores and soothe irritated skin. It’s not flashy, but it gets the job done, making it a must-have in many TikTokers’ skincare routines.
Why TikTokers Love It:
– Gentle, alcohol-free formula
– Helps tone and soothe the skin without irritation
– Budget-friendly alternative to higher-end toners
These affordable, “unsexy” beauty products have earned a well-deserved spot in TikTok beauty routines. While they may not have fancy packaging or come from high-end brands, their effectiveness and affordability speak for themselves. TikTokers have proven that sometimes the best beauty solutions come in humble packages, offering accessible and simple solutions for anyone looking to up their skincare game without breaking the bank.
So, next time you’re looking to refresh your routine, consider these TikTok-approved essentials!
