Skincare/Makeup flops of the year...

When it comes to skincare and makeup, sometimes even popular products fail to live up to expectations. In my experience this year, several items just didn't work out, which taught me valuable lessons about product selection and skin sensitivity. One major skincare flop was using exfoliants that were too harsh. I decided to stop using anything beyond micro-exfoliants because stronger exfoliants like those from Dermalogica caused irritation and damage to my skin. Gentle exfoliation is crucial; overscrubbing can compromise skin barrier integrity and cause redness and peeling, so it's best to opt for products with milder ingredients like sugar or papaya enzymes that are less likely to irritate. Lip scrubs are another area where I noticed disappointing results. Some brands—such as Bath & Body Works lip scrubs—did not hydrate or smooth my lips as promised. Instead, they made my lips flaky and drier. This reminds us that not all lip exfoliants are compatible with every skin type, and hydrating balms may be a better choice for sensitive lips. Summer Fridays’ Jet Lag Overnight Eye Serum was also a regret as it caused a burning sensation and discomfort immediately upon use. This highlights the importance of patch testing new products, especially around the delicate eye area. In makeup, the e.l.f. H2O Proof Eyeliner Pen failed quickly; the wand quality seemed poor and the product stopped working effectively soon after purchase. Waterproof eyeliners need reliable applicators and long-lasting formulas, so this experience shows that careful research and trial can save frustration. Despite the flops, I’m still a fan of Flower Knows, although their highlighter unfortunately broke and fell apart shortly after purchase, which was disappointing given the investment. Packaging durability is an important factor that brands should consider to maintain customer satisfaction. Overall, these experiences underline the importance of reading ingredient labels, researching product reviews, and recognizing one’s own skin sensitivities. Sharing honest flops can help fellow beauty enthusiasts avoid similar mistakes and find products that truly work for them. Remember to always patch test and approach new skincare and makeup items with caution to maintain healthy, happy skin.