Ageless Beauty: Celebrity Secrets You Can Actually Afford
It’s no secret that celebrities have access to the best dermatologists, estheticians, and high-end beauty treatments. But guess what? Many of them also swear by affordable beauty products that you can grab at your local drugstore or online.
From skincare to makeup to hair care, these Hollywood-approved products prove that looking fabulous doesn’t have to break the bank.
Let’s take a look at some of the best budget-friendly beauty tips from stars like Drew Barrymore, Jennifer Aniston, and Helen Mirren so you can glow like a celebrity without the celebrity price tag.
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1. Drew Barrymore’s Drugstore Skincare Must-Have (Starting at $9)
Drew Barrymore of The Drew Barrymore Show, 49, is known for her fresh, radiant skin, and she’s not afraid to share her beauty secrets. As the founder of FLOWER Beauty, she’s all about accessible, effective products. One of her go-to skincare staples? CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser (around $14).
She swears by this dermatologist-approved formula to keep her skin hydrated and balanced. Plus, she’s a fan of Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water (starting at $9) for gentle makeup removal.
Her tip: “Keep it simple. Hydration is key, and you don’t have to spend a fortune to get glowing skin.”
2. Jennifer Aniston’s Affordable Haircare Secret
Jennifer Aniston’s glossy, healthy hair is iconic, and her secret isn’t a pricey salon treatment. While she can be seen on Apple TV+ The Morning Show, she’s a longtime fan of LolaVie Glossing Detangler (about $28), which smooths, protects, and adds shine.
But if you want a budget-friendly dupe, Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine Leave-In Conditioner (under $6) is a great alternative. It helps tame frizz, just like the luxe products used by A-list stylists.
Her tip: Use a detangling spray or leave-in conditioner daily to prevent breakage and keep your hair looking shiny and youthful.
3. Helen Mirren’s Drugstore Makeup Hack
Helen Mirren, 78, is proof that confidence and a great beauty routine can keep you looking fabulous at any age. You’ve probably seen her in her recent hit series 1923 alongside Harrison Ford. Her go-to makeup trick? Use a cream or lightweight blush instead of powder for a more youthful, natural flush.
Her makeup artist, Jo Strettell, has used L’Oréal Paris Infallible Up to 24H Fresh Wear Soft Matte Blush in the shade #15 Legendary Berry to give her a long-lasting, natural glow. Helen also loves L’Oréal Paris’ Age Perfect Rosy Tone Moisturizer, which enhances the skin’s natural radiance with a subtle pink tint—making it a great alternative to traditional blush.
Her tip: “Powder can be too heavy as we age. A cream or lightweight blush blends seamlessly and gives you that healthy glow.”
4. Salma Hayek’s Ageless Skincare Ritual
Salma Hayek, 57, seen in Magic Mike’s Last Dance, has flawless skin, and surprisingly, she skips expensive night creams. Instead, she relies on natural oils like rosehip and coconut oil to nourish her skin overnight.
For an affordable option, try The Ordinary 100% Organic Cold-Pressed Rose Hip Seed Oil (under $11), which is packed with vitamins and antioxidants to boost radiance.
Her tip: Apply a few drops of oil to your skin before bed for deep hydration—no need for overpriced serums.
5. Viola Davis’ Secret to Soft, Hydrated Skin
A busy actress known for her work in The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes, Viola Davis, 58, prioritizes skincare hydration, and one of her favorite products is Vaseline! She’s been known to use Vaseline Petroleum Jelly (around $5) on dry areas like elbows, knees, and lips for deep moisture.
She also loves using Aquaphor Healing Ointment (under $10) as an overnight treatment for cracked skin.
Her tip: Apply a thin layer of Vaseline or Aquaphor on your lips and under-eye area before bed for a soft, plump look in the morning.
6. Cindy Crawford’s DIY Face Mask
If you’re as obsessed with the documentary The Super Models as I am, you’ll love getting the inside beauty secrets from an iconic supermodel. Cindy Crawford, 58, has glowing skin, and one of her favorite beauty hacks is a DIY honey and yogurt mask. Honey is naturally antibacterial and hydrating, while yogurt gently exfoliates.
To recreate her go-to mask at home, mix:
1 tablespoon Greek yogurt
1 teaspoon raw honey
Leave it on for 10-15 minutes before rinsing for soft, radiant skin.
Her tip: “Sometimes the best skincare ingredients are already in your kitchen.”
7. Halle Berry’s Ice Facial Trick
Halle Berry, 57, a multi-talented actress known for the recent thriller Never Let Go, swears by an easy, no-cost beauty trick: ice facials! She splashes her face with ice-cold water in the morning to reduce puffiness and tighten her skin.
For an extra boost, try The Vintage Cosmetic Company Ice Roller (under $13), a budget-friendly tool designed to reduce puffiness, brighten under-eye circles, and calm irritated skin.
Her tip: If you wake up with tired or puffy skin, a few seconds of ice therapy can instantly wake up your face.
Final Thoughts: Celebrity Beauty on a Budget
Looking youthful and radiant doesn’t mean spending a fortune. As these celebrities prove, some of the best beauty products are affordable and accessible. From drugstore skincare to DIY masks, these tips help keep your routine budget-friendly while still feeling luxurious.
Which celebrity beauty hack are you excited to try? Let me know in the comments below.
Stay gorgeous!