There are so many brands of makeup on beauty store shelves. That can make it hard for a girl to know whether she should buy Maybelline or CoverGirl. Both of those brands are some of my go-tos. What about you? You’d think that big name brands like these would be the ones you should gravitate toward, but they aren’t the best in many cases. That being said, anytime a brand of makeup causes a reaction on your skin, you should quit using it. Here are some to be especially aware of.

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1. Maybelline

Many reviewers have condemned Maybelline for their mascaras. It’s usually because they don’t stay put and end up under their eyes. When this happens, not only does it mess with your look, but it also leaves that residue on your skin, which can result in breakouts for some people. If it works for you, go for it! If not, Maybelline is probably a brand you can skip.

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Despite the brand's popularity and affordable prices, Maybelline's foundation range has also come under scrutiny. Some users report experiencing porer clogging and breakouts, especially with the heavier formulas intended for full coverage. Moreover, if you are someone with sensitive skin, you might want to steer clear as their products might contain fragrances or other irritants. Always patch-test before committing to a full face application and consider exploring other brands that prioritize non-comedogenic ingredients if Maybelline's offerings don't mesh well with your skin.

2. Milani

I don’t have a ton of experience with this brand, but it doesn’t get very high ratings from reviewers. Many say that the cover-up products don’t work well and leave skin patchy and blotchy looking. You don’t want that, do you? Having to reapply all the time is a total bummer and some users say the product leaves their skin itchy.

3. CoverGirl

This one totally surprises me! I’ve used a variety of CoverGirl products my whole life and have only ever had problems with the purple and pink ones because the dye causes my skin to react in a big way. Other users say that the TruBlend products don’t work as well as they are supposed to, they are disappointing, and they make skin feel weird and itchy.

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While some faithful aficionados swear by CoverGirl for their budget-friendly cosmetics, those with sensitive skin might want to steer clear. There is chatter about certain foundations causing breakouts, and complaints about the scents being overwhelming and potentially irritating. It's a classic case of your mileage may vary—while one person may bask in the glow of their LashBlast mascara, another might be nursing red, watery eyes. Always patch test if you're diving into new territory, because even old favorites can sometimes turn on you.

4. Revlon

Testers of Revlon lip products say that they don’t come close to living up to their reputation. Apparently, they are supposed to taste good, go on smooth and provide long lasting coverage. Many users say this isn’t the case and that the products aren’t worth the money they cost. When a lip product leaves you uncomfortable and dried out, you should probably make a switch.

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5. Sally Hansen

This is a pretty affordable brand, but many customers are horrified at the results. According to those who tried the primer, it doesn’t do anything to help keep make-up in place and makes skin feel oily and gross. Many of the Sally Hansen products are said to wear off too soon. You definitely don’t need that!

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Sally Hansen is a popular drugstore brand, but it has been getting negative reviews from customers. Many have complained that the primer does not help keep makeup in place, and makes the skin feel oily and gross. Additionally, the products are said to wear off quickly, so customers don't get their money's worth. It is important to be aware of the potential risks of using makeup brands that are not good for your skin. Researching customer reviews and ingredients can help you make an informed decision when it comes to choosing the right makeup for your skin.

6. Neutrogena

According to users, many of the Neutrogena skin products are not effective and don’t provide the coverage they are supposed to. Others say that they have to use a large amount of the product for it to work like it should. That means you run out faster and have to spend more to purchase another tube.

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Despite Neutrogena’s reputation for mild and nonirritating products, some customers have experienced adverse reactions such as breakouts and redness, suspecting that the formulas are not as gentle as marketed. It’s also concerning that certain reviews have highlighted the inclusion of potentially harsh ingredients that could strip the skin of its natural oils. Users with sensitive skin, in particular, should approach these products with caution and perhaps seek out alternatives that are better tailored to their specific skin needs.

7. Rimmel London

One of the products from Rimmel London that gets the worst reviews is the concealer. Users say that it won’t stay where it’s supposed to and slides right off your blemishes. Other products wear off too quickly and need reapplication several times each day. That sounds like reason enough to put them down, doesn’t it?

Do you love any of these brands? If they work for you, don’t worry about what reviewers say. Use them whenever you want. Do you have any other brands to add to the list?

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Feedback Junction

Where Thoughts and Opinions Converge

Ilonka
2015-05-17T18:18:05.513Z
If you compere drugstore products with other high top brand, of course they aren't very good... But I used maybeline a lot and I've never had a problem with it, and lately I've been using rimmel too and I really like the results :) And I think you are wrong about Neutrogena!! It's an amazing brand for skincare and I always get really good results, their hand and foot creams actually save my skin!! My hands and foots were so dry that they would get really bad cracks, and the only cream that help me with it was a neutrogena one
vomalley
2015-05-17T14:36:20.775Z
I feel like this article is just targeting all the major drugstore brands as being bad. I love majority of these brands. You're not always going to find a line where all their products are perfect. Also what doesn't work for one person may work for you.
Heather
2022-06-20T09:20:54.817Z
#5 haven't used enough to know, but I do like this brand's nail polish!
Megan
2015-07-01T08:14:49.363Z
So I guess L'Oreal is good then?
Gaby
2015-08-05T01:46:20.767Z
Makeup doesn't really cause breakouts, if you have a good skin care routine. Yes it doesn't help but it doesn't really cause then
Ftsafml
2015-05-17T19:59:23.734Z
Im not trying to be rude, but this is disappointing, these products aren't bad for ur skin. I feel like u were just looking for a reason to post an article.
Samantha
2015-05-17T23:27:19.506Z
.....this literally just bashed all drugstore makeup. I bet those who were reviewing were people who use expensive "high quality" makeup on a daily basis
Jennette
2015-05-17T16:37:00.835Z
This is a disappointing article. It only faults drugstore brands, and doesn't present any actual research that these brands use bad ingredients for skin. I have used high-end products that were terrible. It just depends. There will be bad apples in every brand, whether drugstore or department store. For the record, I love all these brands and have continued to use them for years.
Tink68
2015-05-17T12:41:03.306Z
They all have harmful chemicals in them! I use Honeybee Gardens, and Pacifica which have natural ingredients in them.
Bree
2015-05-18T13:24:49.681Z
So I assume writer works for wet n wild, Nyc or NYx since those brand are not listed 😜. Sounds like opinion post.