‘I tried 6 of TikTok’s biggest budget beauty switch-ups – & here’s the winner’
Rachael Martin
Beauty & skincare
Reading time: 4 minutes
I was seriously impressed by the results
A single scroll through my TikTok feed and I’m met with an array of beauty must-haves. And trending at the moment? Buys that provide big results for budget-friendly price tags. From the hair tool that promises the most voluminous locks of my life to the cheapie lippie that perfects pouts with one swipe, there’s no denying I’m intrigued. So, I filled up my Boots.com cart with six of TikTok’s most viral switch-ups to see if they’re truly worth the hype.
Ranging from £7 to £70 (still deemed budget-worthy when placed beside its competitors – you’ll believe us when you read about the results below), each has received online praise for providing results that rival more expensive buys out there. Let’s see if they’re deserving of the buzz. Scroll on for all my thoughts on these bargainous must-tries…
The glow getter: e.l.f Halo Glow Liquid Filter
If you’re not yet on board with e.l.f. Halo Glow Liquid Filter, then consider this your cue. Since its launch, TikTok creators have been praising its abilities to create the type of beautiful, natural looking finish usually expected from more spenny bases out there. I applied across a freshly-cleansed complexion and was immediately impressed at how much better my skin looked. It was much more even in tone, and provided that elusive lit-from-within radiance that my make-up free self sadly lacks. I decided to forgo the concealer and instead, just applied a touch of blush, bronzer and powder.
Cons
I’m quite an oily gal, and I learned the hard way that this is definitely a look that needs to be set. As the day continued, I started to look a bit on the greasy side. Next time, I’ll be topping it up with a swirl of mattifying powder to seal my handiwork.
Pros
As a beauty writer, make-up infused with skincare always earns bonus points for me. Nothing says more bang for your buck just like it. Brimming with skin-loving goodness like hyaluronic acid, this dewy skin tint could also help improve the appearance of my skin in the long run – which I’m all about.
The brow beautifier: NYX Professional Makeup Brow Glue Instant Brow Styler
Eyebrows are something of a beauty minefield, but one thing’s for certain – fluffed up arches are going nowhere. And according to my TikTok, it seems that beauty buffs are reaching for NYX Professional Makeup The Brow Glue Instant Brow Styler, to achieve the look. And the good news is it couldn’t be simpler to use. To achieve those glorious soap brows, I brushed the hairs in an upwards motion using the round bristle applicator. As a victim of the 90s, I have definitely over-plucked, but found that the glue added a much needed oomph to my sad strands.
Cons
The gel dries quite quickly, so you’ll need to decide on your preferred shape, pronto!
Pros
I’ve tried so many brow gels that claim to be transparent, only to find out they actually dry with a tinge of white. NYX’s remains totally transparent, for a truly natural finish.
The hair hero: Revlon One-Step Volumiser Plus
The Revlon One-Step Volumiser Plus is still a pretty penny, however it’s considerably cheaper than some of the other bestselling alternatives. But does it measure up? TikTok certainly seems to think so. I began by detangling towel-dried hair with a wide tooth comb, then split my strands into six chunky sections. I gently placed each section over the heated brush and pulled through in a rounded, sweeping movement. This provided a beautifully bouncy, face-framing effect. We’re talking enviable volume here!
Cons
Not so much a con, but something to be mindful of, this brush takes a little getting used to. I found it tricky and a little clunky initially, but after a bit of trial and error it became second nature. My advice? Practice makes perfect!
Pros
I received so many compliments. One friend even asked me if I’d just had a blowdry! And if I can achieve salon-worthy hair myself at home, then I’m definitely onto a winner.
The pout perfector: L’Oréal Paris Color Riche Shine Lipstick in Only in Paris
L’Oréal Paris Color Riche Shine Lipstick in Only in Paris seems to appear on every feed at the moment. From TikTok to Instagram, there’s always a creator shouting about how good it is. The shade Only in Paris is the perfect blush tone, and is universally flattering. The texture is light and balmy, and the finish is a subtle, holographic sheen – think your lips but better. It’s also oil-infused, making the application feel seriously soft and dreamy.
Cons
Although it really was beautiful, it didn’t last as long as I’d like. Next time, I’ll be using it with Lipcote Original Lipstick Sealer, to see if it stands the test of time a bit better.
Pros
It’s the perfect everyday lippie that adds a touch of glamour to your look without being over the top. I’ll be popping it in my handbag for quick slicks of colour throughout the day.
The mattifying maestro: Revlon Oil-Absorbing Volcanic Roller
When I heard that a volcanic roller was trending on TikTok, I had more than just a few questions. Firstly, what on earth is it? Turns out Revlon’s Oil-Absorbing Volcanic Roller is the go-to for mattifying an oily complexion, without the need for make-up. The secret? A volcanic stone, which sounds like it could be a gimmick, but turns out is an incredibly efficient tool for blotting oily skin. I simply rolled it over my T-zone and watched as my skin became more matte instantly – impressive stuff!
Cons
It’s not exactly the most Instagrammable looking product, is it?
Pros
Unlike blotting papers which aren’t environmentally friendly, this roller is reusable and easy to wash.
The magic moisturiser: The Inkey List Peptide Moisturizer
Moisturising is integral to my beauty routine, so I’ll only be tempted to step away from my trusty favourite for something really special. The Inkey List Peptide Moisturizer has been going viral for having similar ingredients as other more expensive alternatives: namely peptides which can improve the appearance of texture and tone. Just a sweep over a freshly-cleansed complexion left my skin feeling nourished, plumped and calm. Be sure to take down to your neck and décolletage to reap all of the moisturising benefits.
Cons
It’s only available in 50ml. And at the rate I get through my moisturisers, I’d definitely benefit from a bigger size.
Pros
I really do believe I saw a difference in the look of my skin from the first use. It seemed softer and more radiant – definitely one to consider if you’re after quick results.
The takeaway
Who says we can’t look to TikTok for what’s hot in the world of beauty? I was impressed by each and every one of these buys. In particular, I'll be reaching for the The Inkey List Peptide Moisturiser and e.l.f. Halo Glow Liquid Filter – both really had the wow factor, and for that, I’m awarding them joint winners.
