In the dazzling world of Hollywood, where red carpets shimmer with designer gowns and celebrity selfies radiate flawless complexions, it’s easy to assume that achieving that A-list glow demands an endless budget and exclusive, high-end products. We often imagine beauty routines filled with extravagant treatments and formulations that cost more than our monthly rent. However, the truth, as it often is, is far more accessible and, dare we say, empowering.
Turns out, even the most recognizable faces in entertainment, from pop superstars to reality TV moguls and Oscar-winning actresses, can’t resist the allure of a good drugstore find. Their makeup artists, the unsung heroes behind those perfectly sculpted brows and luminous skin, are just as savvy, often reaching for wallet-friendly essentials that deliver undeniable results. These are the products that withstand long days on set, grueling travel schedules, and the unforgiving glare of flash photography.
So, if you’ve ever dreamt of stepping up your beauty game without breaking the bank, you’re in for a treat. We’ve scoured the insights from celebrity interviews and expert recommendations to bring you the best-kept secrets straight from Hollywood’s most discerning beauty aficionados. In this first part of our exclusive exposé, we’re diving deep into the affordable skincare and body care heroes that form the bedrock of many a celebrity’s routine, proving that a luminous complexion is well within reach for everyone.
1. **Cosrx Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence**Stars have truly hopped on the snail mucin skincare trend at anything but a snail’s pace, and this particular essence stands out as a budget-friendly favorite that consistently delivers. Celebrities like Kyle Richards and Emily Ratajkowski have proudly showcased this gem in their Amazon Lives and Instagram Stories, while Alex Cooper even incorporated it into her wedding day prep. It’s a testament to its effectiveness and its growing reputation among those who prioritize skin health.
The appeal lies in its remarkable ability to repair, hydrate, and rejuvenate the skin, offering a multi-faceted approach to complexion perfection. This essence is designed to soothe and restore, making it a go-to for anyone looking to boost their skin’s resilience and achieve a radiant, healthy look. It’s the kind of product that quietly works wonders, earning a devoted following not just from the public, but from discerning A-listers too.
Ariana Madix, for instance, adores the product so much that she admits to stealing it from her boyfriend, a true sign of addiction! She told The Strategist that she’s “addicted to the formula,” raving that “it feels really nice…this stuff really sinks into my skin and keeps me moisturized.” While some shoppers might initially find the texture a little off-putting due to its unique ingredient, the overwhelming consensus, especially from those in the know, is that its profound hydrating and healing benefits far outweigh any initial unfamiliarity.
2. **Aquaphor Healing Ointment**When it comes to multi-tasking, affordable marvels, Aquaphor Healing Ointment often tops the list, and it’s no less cherished by the rich and famous. What do pop sensations Billie Eilish and Beyoncé have in common, beyond their global superstardom? Both swear by Aquaphor’s intensely moisturizing balms, demonstrating its universal appeal and effectiveness across diverse skin types and needs. It’s a true staple, from the backstages of sold-out tours to the intimate moments of daily self-care.
This iconic ointment is celebrated for its incredible versatility. It can be used on dry, cracked skin, acting as a rich lip conditioner, a protective face or body moisturizer, and even for minor wound care. Billie Eilish, known for her candidness, once told Vogue that she keeps a tube “with [her] at all times, 24/7,” underscoring its essential role in her daily life. It’s that dependable product you can always count on, wherever you are.
Beyoncé, the “Renaissance” singer herself, revealed her unique application method to Elle, stating that she “slathers Aquaphor over her face before bed.” This insider tip highlights its capacity for deep, overnight hydration, offering a simple yet profoundly effective way to nourish and protect the skin. While it is made from petrolatum, which some individuals try to avoid, its proven efficacy for extreme dryness and healing continues to make it a beloved product among celebrities and everyday users alike.
3. **Neutrogena Night Calming Makeup Remover Wipes**After a long day of appearances, performances, or simply living life in the public eye, efficiently removing makeup is paramount, and even Kim Kardashian, a beauty icon, turns to an affordable drugstore option. The Neutrogena Night Calming Makeup Remover Wipes have been spotted peeking out of her beauty bag in an Instagram Story in 2022, a clear endorsement of their trusted performance and convenience. It’s a clear indication that practicality often trumps price tag, even for the most pampered.
These wipes are much more than just a quick fix; they boast a thoughtful formulation that caters to delicate skin. The “hypoallergenic, alcohol-free, emollient-rich formula is great for sensitive skin,” ensuring a gentle yet thorough cleanse without irritation. They are adept at removing both eye and face makeup, making them a comprehensive solution for ending the day with a clean slate. Kardashian had previously name-dropped the brand’s original Makeup Remover Wipes in a 2015 Into the Gloss interview, demonstrating her long-standing loyalty.
Jennifer Tilly further solidified the wipes’ reputation when she listed the original Makeup Remover Wipes as a must-have in an interview with The Strategist in November 2024. Tilly enthusiastically raved, “They get everything off — even the eyelash glue,” which is a powerful testimonial for anyone who struggles with stubborn eye makeup. While not everyone loves the fragrance of the night calming version, their undeniable effectiveness at melting away makeup makes them a go-to for stars seeking efficiency and gentleness.
4. **Bioderma Sensibio H20 Micellar Water**Micellar water has revolutionized makeup removal and cleansing, offering a gentle yet potent alternative, and among the myriad options, Bioderma Sensibio H20 Micellar Water stands out as a true celebrity darling. With famous fans like Victoria Beckham, Khloé Kardashian, Tracee Ellis Ross, and Drew Barrymore, this product has clearly earned its stripes in the competitive world of A-list beauty routines. Its widespread adoption speaks volumes about its efficacy and ease of use.
This particular micellar water is celebrated not just for its ability to effortlessly remove makeup, but also for its skin-loving benefits. It “balances skin pH, hydrates and protects against environmental stressors,” which is crucial for maintaining a healthy, resilient complexion. Furthermore, its “fragrance-free and alcohol-free” composition makes it an ideal choice for even the most sensitive skin types, preventing irritation while delivering a fresh, clean feel. It’s a gentle giant in the beauty world.
The product’s consistent praise from such a diverse group of high-profile individuals means it frequently tops roundups of the best skincare products according to celebrities. This solidifies its expert-backed credentials and wide appeal, making it a reliable recommendation for anyone seeking a gentle, effective, and celebrity-approved cleanser. While some users might find it doesn’t completely remove waterproof makeup on its own, its overall performance as a daily cleanser and first-step makeup remover is undeniably stellar.
5. **Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask**In the realm of lip care, one product has risen to cult status with an impressive celebrity following: the Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask. This Korean skincare sensation is beloved by Page Six editors and a constellation of famous folks, including Kendall Jenner, Kate Hudson, Brooke Shields, Kaia Gerber, and the brand’s face, Sydney Sweeney. Its popularity underscores a universal desire for plump, hydrated lips, and this mask delivers exactly that.
The mask’s magic lies in its rich, nourishing formula that softens lips with a powerful blend of “antioxidants, murumuru seed, and shea butter.” These ingredients work synergistically to provide intense hydration and a luscious feel, transforming dry, chapped lips overnight. What makes it even more appealing is its versatility; while it’s called a “sleeping mask,” it “can be used day or night,” offering continuous care and a beautiful sheen whenever needed.
Kendall Jenner, for example, revealed her fondness for the hydrating potion, telling British Vogue, “It’s really shiny and pretty when you put it on.” She further elaborated that she loves “having this on me just to put a little shine on,” highlighting its dual function as both a treatment and a subtle gloss. Although some users have noted that they didn’t find it as hydrating as expected for a sleeping mask, its popularity among A-listers for both deep nourishment and an instant glow speaks volumes about its overall efficacy and charm.
6. **Weleda Skin Food Original Ultra-Rich Cream**When it comes to foundational skincare that truly works without fanfare or a prohibitive price tag, Weleda Skin Food Original Ultra-Rich Cream often comes up as a trusted classic, even among country music superstar Carrie Underwood. She affectionately called Weleda’s popular rich Skin Food Cream a “good moisturizer,” a simple yet powerful endorsement from someone whose skin endures the rigors of touring and constant media scrutiny. It’s the kind of honest recommendation that resonates.
What makes this cream a standout is its accessibility and robust effectiveness. Underwood highlighted that “it’s not even expensive, but it’s easy, you can kind of find it anywhere and it does a good job.” This emphasizes its widespread availability, making it a true everyday luxury that anyone can incorporate into their routine. It delivers intense hydration and nourishment, particularly for dry and rough skin, providing a soothing and protective barrier.
Framing it as a true staple, Weleda Skin Food underscores the empowering idea that powerful, effective hydration and skin protection don’t need to come with a hefty price tag or an exclusive label. It’s a testament to the fact that sometimes, the simplest and most readily available products are the ones that quietly perform the best, earning the loyalty of discerning individuals, whether they are on the red carpet or simply seeking reliable skincare at home.
