Not all skincare is created equal. Some products go viral… and leave your skin wondering, “Was that it?”

Whether it’s due to ineffective formulas, outdated ingredients, or just plain marketing hype, these are 5 skincare products that didn’t deliver for me, plus what I recommend instead. 👇

1. ❌ St. Ives Apricot Scrub

Why it’s overrated: Harsh, outdated, and full of jagged walnut shell pieces that can cause microtears. It may feel satisfying, but it’s doing more harm than good.

Try instead: ✅ Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant. Gentle, effective chemical exfoliation that unclogs pores and smooths skin, no scrubbing required.

2. ❌ Mario Badescu Drying Lotion

Why it’s overrated: A cult classic that often over-dries, irritates, and doesn’t prevent future breakouts. Feels like a quick fix, but rarely solves the root cause.

Try instead: ✅ COSRX Acne Pimple Master Patches. They calm inflammation, protect from picking, and actually help reduce the size of pimples overnight.

3. ❌ Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Mist

Why it’s overrated: Gorgeous packaging, but mostly fragrance and water. The hydration barely lasts, and the glow disappears fast.

Try instead: ✅ Tower 28 SOS Daily Rescue Facial Spray. Calms irritation, refreshes skin, and supports your barrier with hypochlorous acid, great for sensitive skin.

4. ❌ La Mer Moisturizing Cream

Why it’s overrated: Ultra-luxe price, but not ultra-effective. Many find it too rich, heavily fragranced, or just not worth the splurge.

Try instead: ✅ Drunk Elephant Lala Retro Whipped Cream. Rich, buttery moisture with ceramides and no strong fragrance. Same indulgence, smarter ingredients.

5. ❌ Neutrogena Makeup Remover Wipes

Why it’s overrated: Convenient? Yes. Effective and skin-friendly? Not so much. They tug, irritate, and often leave residue behind.

Try instead: ✅ The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser. Melts off makeup, sunscreen, and impurities without irritating your skin barrier.

Final Thoughts

Skincare is personal; what doesn’t work for me might work for you. But these are the products I consistently found to be more hype than help.

And in every case, there’s a better option that’s gentler, smarter, or just more effective. 💡✨

FAQ: Overrated Skincare Products

Q: Are these products “bad”?
A: Not necessarily, some people may still love them! But I’ve found them underwhelming compared to better alternatives.

Q: Should I throw these away if I own them?
A: Not unless they’re irritating your skin. Use them up if they work for you, but now you know what to try next!

Q: What’s the #1 most underrated product?
A: Tower 28’s SOS Spray. It’s unglamorous but powerful, especially if your skin needs soothing and barrier repair.