Trying new skincare products doesn’t come without risk. From dodgy quality to potential allergic reactions, there are many reasons why a seemingly good product can end up in the graveyard of one-use wonders.
Fortunately, truly nightmarish experiences with a skincare or beauty product tend to be few and far between. Even so, it’s safe to say that nearly everyone has a story to tell. And if you’re a skincare enthusiast like me, you likely have more than just one.
So, grab a snack and gather ‘round as I reveal some of my worst skincare horror stories.
Note: Skincare works differently for everybody. What’s good for some may be not-so-good for others. Always be aware of a product’s ingredients (especially actives), and be sure to perform a patch test before using a new product.
Yes to Carrots Daily Moisturizer with SPF 15: You probably know my thoughts on this product if you read my 5 Biggest Beauty Pet Peeves post. Of all the products on this list, this one gets the blue ribbon for spending the least amount of time on my face.
Neutrogena Oil-Free Pink Grapefruit Scrub: It’s been nearly ten 10 years, but I can still remember almost every detail of the moment I bought this scrub. Many people often experience this phenomenon right before a calamity occurs.
I had been using Neutrogena skincare for years. The brand had just discontinued one of my favorite products, and naturally, I went in search of a suitable substitute. Having spotted their (at the time) new Pink Grapefruit Scrub, I thought I had struck gold.
I was wrong. Very, very wrong.
In just one use, this product managed to leech every drop of moisture from my skin and give me a scorching case of contact dermatitis to boot. After rinsing, my skin was red, bumpy, and incredibly dry. I can’t recall any other time when I’ve had such a strong and sudden reaction to a skincare product.
Sadly, I’m not the only one to report this experience. In researching this post, I came across dozens of accounts from people who reported the same reaction. Whoever said there’s safety in numbers clearly never had to tangle with this stuff.
Given its spotty reputation, I was surprised to find this product still lurks on shelves (and online) today. While it may work for some, I’ll be keeping myself at a safe distance.
L'Occitane Invigorating Face & Eye Mask: Fortified with Provence melon and boasting a smooth “sorbet texture,” this mask sounded like the perfect summertime treat.
In the end, it was more of a chore. While the fresh, melon scent was enjoyable, the gooey texture of the mask made it almost impossible to rinse away. Thick and gummy, with an adhesive quality that can only be described as otherworldly, I thought I might have to use a spatula to get this stuff off my face. After using what seemed like gallons of water, I was disappointed to discover the mask did nothing for my skin. No dewy freshness, no rosy glow. Only frustration and the knowledge that I'd wasted time and money (and water).
Aesop Sublime Replenishing Night Masque: If there’s one product that I can always justify splurging on, it’s a good mask. Unfortunately, the Aesop Sublime Replenishing Night Masque falls quite short of that standard. Described as “an overnight redeemer” (and priced at a scandalous $143), this mask doesn’t stand a chance at redemption with me.
Thick and sticky with a curious “woody and resinous” aroma, this mask is more goblin than forest nymph. The occlusive texture made my skin feel suffocated and uncomfortable. Despite my misgivings, I decided to let the mask work its magic overnight, as recommended on the packaging. As suspected, I awoke to reddish, irritated skin and a new “friend” taking up valuable real estate on my face.
While I can’t say that I wouldn’t buy from Aesop again (their Parsley Seed mask enjoys almost legendary status), this experience has given me reason enough to press pause on future purchases.
Do you have a scary skincare story? Let me know in the comments!