Buyer Beware: Makeup Brands That Are Bad for Your Skin ...

Buyer Beware: Makeup Brands That Are Bad for Your Skin ...
By Eliza • Apr 5, 2024

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

  • Megan

    2015-07-01T08:14:49.363Z

    So I guess L'Oreal is good then?
  • 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
  • Eeaster

    2021-09-03T00:02:28.607Z

    #1 I loooove Maybelline and I don't agree with this at all. (PERIOD)
  • Gaby

    2015-08-05T01:46:44.140Z

    Them*
  • Aiko

    2015-05-18T08:30:19.200Z

    This is so true. Neutrogena breaks me out so bad!
  • 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

    2022-06-20T09:20:24.521Z

    #4 Revlon is one of the those hit or miss brands. Foundation? Worth it. Mascara? Not so much. Lipstick? Yes. Eyeliner? Depends but usually nah. Blush? Yes. Eyeshadow? Sure. They're not my ultimate favorite, but do carry many products worth a try. I've never found an eyeliner or mascara I cared for by Revlon though.
  • Fay

    2015-05-17T19:18:05.878Z

    I've been using Rimmel's concealer for two years now. It stays all day and covers perfectly. Besides after years of searching it I found THE perfect shade for my skintone. I guess we can't generalize because one product in one brand can be the most amazing product for one person and be a disaster for another. Judging a brand by the efficiency of its products is one thing but we should mainly judge according to their level of toxicity...
  • Sairzie

    2015-05-17T17:02:21.443Z

    I have a friend who can literally put anything on her skin and it won't cause her to breakout and another who can't tolerate even some high end brands. Everyone's skin is different and to rule out brands based on other people's skin is a little short sighted.
  • Blaire

    2015-05-18T03:12:25.293Z

    This title is so misleading and needs to be change. This really has nothing do with the skin, but makeup that doesn't work like it is suppose. There's no scientific evidence, but what people say. Make up is not one size fits all.
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