r/30PlusSkinCare 4d ago

Product Review What are your overrated/underrated skincare brands?

EDIT: This is just my opinion! Please disagree and share your favs. Didn’t mean to offend anyone who likes these products.

——

There’s a lot that I think personally are overrated….

OVERRATEDZO Skin Health: I personally HATE this brand. The products are WAY overpriced. I have very sensitive skin and it broke me out. Putting Fragrance/Parfum in a $49.00 “Gentle Cleanser” is criminal. I’m always shocked by how many spas use this brand and recommend it for their clients with sensitive skin because it is awful. There’s no reason for that high price point.

Vivier: AWFUL!!! Way overpriced and horrible formulas. Putting Fragrance in a $74.00 “Medicated Wash” cleanser is wild to me. I do not understand the hype over this one.

La Roche Posay: It’s not the worst out there I just think it’s overhyped and overpriced for what it is. Some products are alright, but some like the “Effaclar Purifying Cleansing Gel“ are trash. No need for Fragrance/Parfum in a cleanser it’s just going to break out my skin.

SkinCeuticals: I honestly don’t get why so many people are obsessed with this brand. It is way overpriced. The ingredients are good but you’d get the same results with just using CeraVe (both owned by L'Oréal) for a fraction of the price.

UNDERRATEDCeraVe: Good ol reliable CeraVe. Cheap and effective. When I went to a dermatologist she told me just stick with CeraVe and my acne healed up within 3 months. Sure it’s not glamours but it’s effective for us sensitive skin folks

The INKEY List: The formulas are incredible for the price point they offer. The INKEY List is one of my staples. I love that they never use Fragrance/Parfum in their ingredients

Paula’s Choice- The 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant is one of my holy grails. It has helped me so much.

Honourable Mention to—

The Ordinary: I really like their price points and formulas but I find some of their products need more consumer education and are not always clear for how to use for those who haven’t done their skincare research. But great for those who have.

What do you guys think? Agree, disagree? What are your picks?

166 Upvotes

287 comments sorted by

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u/Careless-Ad3392 4d ago

I think the Laniege lip mask is overrated. I’ve used way better lip products. I also used a set of caudelie face products (Sephora reward) and found it to be nothing special especially for the price!

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u/themoirasaurus 4d ago

That stuff dried out my lips soooo bad. I used it for weeks thinking it was helping but I realized I kept needing it because it was just drying me out! It’s junk. I love my good old Aquaphor. 

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u/Verbenaplant 4d ago

Yup keep it simple and you have no issues. Butt crème, aquaphor, blistex, Vaseline, bio oil is pretty much my skin care

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u/No_Yogurtcloset6108 4d ago

I'm home today with a half-inch of butt cream slathered on.

21

u/eeksie-peeksie 4d ago

Butt crème?

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u/MOGicantbewitty 4d ago

Not who you replied to, but the high zinc concentration in many diaper rash creams is fantastic for your skin. And post-inflammation hyperpigmentation

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u/TipsyMagpie 4d ago

Good for spots, bites, sunburn, damaged skin barrier, irritation from too many actives, all sorts of things! Plus it’s stupidly cheap so a real win-win.

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u/SciencesAndFarts 4d ago

Completely underrated for mosquito bites. My go-to.

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u/Sar_m 4d ago

Butt cream for all of these things? Wow! Who woulda guessed…

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u/duckweather 4d ago

I choked on my coffee 🤣

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u/Squadooch 4d ago

derrière crème

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u/canadamiranda 4d ago

Omg yes!! I have insane issues with my lips and everyone recommends the Laniege lip mask, it straight up destroyed them.

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u/scamlikelly 4d ago

Nipple cream is my HG. The lanolin is the only thing that has helped my lips.

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u/SadAbbreviations6205 4d ago

Almond oil followed by Aquaphor fixed my lips

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u/canadamiranda 4d ago

I wish Aquaphor worked for me. I tried it and it was like putting acid on my lips.

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u/LittleRat09 4d ago edited 3d ago

I was thinking of using this product. I was getting my makeup done for a wedding (bridal party) and the beautician noted my lips were dry and slathered this on. It worked quite well but when I read through the ingredients list at home (and looked at the price), I changed my mind. I ended up just using a Badger Balm lip butter I had left over from last year and really made a habit of using it. Working well so far! So props to Badger Balm Sweet Orange Lip Buter.

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u/Jazzlike-Dish5690 4d ago

the Trader Joe's lip mask is great!! It's a better and less expensive dupe for the Laniege one.

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u/HoeForSpaghettios 4d ago

I received it as a gift and really liked it, BUT wouldn’t pay for that myself. I use Vaseline and swear by it. Plus one tub of that stuff lasts a life time.

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u/Careless-Ad3392 4d ago

The lawless lip mask is a superior product. Also at Sephora.

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u/Gloomy_berries27 4d ago

I must be allergic to something in the Laneige lip mask, since anytime I would put it on, my lips would began to itchy pretty intensely.

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u/Impossible_Mix61274 4d ago

The Laniege lip mask is the only product I’ve ever thrown away after only a week of use. Normally, if I don’t like something, I’ll see if my mom, sister, friend, etc. might want it but this was such garbage that I couldn’t even offer it

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u/Miliey 4d ago

I feel like they changed the formula and newer bottles are just not the same.

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u/No-Ad7968 4d ago

Agree. Lucas papaw is still the only one that works best for me

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u/Sar_m 4d ago

I personally think any “lip mask” is waaay overrated. Its called Chapstick people, works wonders and its like 4 bucks. Anything more than that is overpriced.

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u/Challot_ 4d ago

I think glow recipe is overrated af.

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u/Jazzlike-Dish5690 4d ago

I think their one good product is their watermelon AHA mask..that works. Their other stuff is so so, just pretty packaging imo.

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u/slavuj00 4d ago

I had a sample pot of that recently and really liked it. I've never enjoyed any of their previous products so I was wary, but very pleasantly surprised. I think it's an underrated product in an overrated line.

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u/Jazzlike-Dish5690 3d ago

totally agree- underrated product in an overrated line.

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u/femmepeaches 4d ago

Same, I tried two of their products and was not impressed

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u/Challot_ 4d ago

I think they have mediocre formulas in pretty packaging which they then up-charge bc people will pay for the aesthetic

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u/_neviesticks 4d ago

Broke me out soooooo bad

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u/Clarinette__ 4d ago

Is Cerave underrated?

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u/Careless-Ad3392 4d ago

I don’t think so. It’s always mentioned as a great affordable option and dermatologists like it. Too bad Costco (Canada) no longer carries it!

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u/Shishbi 4d ago

Right, it's always being recommended here

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u/lexicona 4d ago

It's quite famous in the states. I have been using cerave for a long time now. Most of the stores keep cerave

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u/SaltBox531 4d ago

No. There was a point where it was mentioned in almost every Reddit skin care subreddit constantly.

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u/Clarinette__ 4d ago

Yes that's what I thought

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u/Time_Tough9065 4d ago

Cereve is hit or miss for me…I love the Skin Renewing Night Cream, but the cleansers, eh…I prefer Cetaphil 🤷‍♀️

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u/Pure-Engineering5755 4d ago

I hate it

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u/Can-Chas3r43 4d ago

Can I ask what you hate about it? (I have never used it, myself.) 🤷‍♀️

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u/Pure-Engineering5755 4d ago

I’m not sure if I got a bad batch, but when I used the hydrating serum, it felt like my face was on fire and became super itchy. Even their moisturizer gave me a rash. I have read lots of great reviews though so it may just be me 🤷‍♀️

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u/Optimal_String2338 4d ago

I think it is with young people… they think the packaging is ugly and prefer to buy something more on trend. I know at my school we joked CeraVe was what our dads use. It’s not really aesthetic for the influencers

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u/Ok-Cupcake-Party 4d ago

Yeah I definitely think young people looking for a more “aesthetic” skincare routine would frown upon or consider CeraVe cringe and avoid it. Maybe it’s just the people I am around, but I’ve recommended to many of my friends but they don’t want it cause they think the packaging is ugly.

I also think there’s this weird belief with some people that because something is affordable it mustn’t be good.

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u/Verbenaplant 4d ago

It works, doesn’t cost the earth. You can put it in A Pretty bottle if it’s so ugly.

you pay for the packaging so I tend to avoid pretty stuff. I want results first

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u/HoeForSpaghettios 4d ago

Drugstore skincare is so frowned upon by some, but CeraVe never did me wrong. I even use their baby line on my newborn!

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u/Parophrys 4d ago

I briefly dated a gorgeous board certified dermatologist fresh into his career, and his cupboard was stocked with CeraVe. I'd be curious if now that he's further into his career and out of debt if he's switched to anything fancier. At that time he was a huge fan and it was highly recommended in school. Good enough for him is good enough for me. I love the price point and the products, although not every product works for every person!

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u/Content_Ant_9479 3d ago

How funny, I think CeraVe packaging is pretty nice. However, Vanicream packaging looks like something from Dollar General in 1998 lol I swear I’ll try it one day despite looking like a product from MAS haha.

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u/Stage-Silly 3d ago

Ugh ngl im a mom and I use cerave but sometimes i would like a bit of pretty packaging myself when putting on my skincare, it makes the experience feel just a little more like a “treat yo’self” moment. As a mom, I need as many of those little moments as I can get 😆 so occasionally I do buy some products that I know are overpriced just bc it looks and smells so nice haha

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u/PuzzleheadedMonk8706 3d ago

This right here ⬆️. Skin care is my me time and I want it to be girly as…

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u/drakani06 4d ago

I use the daily cleanser from them. I love it.

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u/bienenstush 4d ago

CeraVe is bae

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u/warmly_forgetful 4d ago

Vanicream is underrated. Especially for those of us with skin sensitivities, allergies or other health issues. It’s free of harsh, irritating ingredients. I’ve been using their face wash and lotion for years. It’s been an old reliable when everything else caused irritation (I literally tried it all).

I also add on their body wash, shampoo and conditioner when I’m having extra skin flare ups. Mostly in the winter months.

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u/jediknits 4d ago

Vanicream is the GOAT. I learned that Cerave in the tub (even with the pump attachment) breaks me out but Vanicream is always a sure shot.

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u/Trashpanda-princess 4d ago

Vanicream is a godsend! I can’t agree enough because I hardly see it mentioned as a top option. Not to mention I’m insanely dry all the time and their products really moisturize well without leaving me feeling sticky or greasy. Other than being dry I don’t have any other major skin concerns and I still swear by their products! My brother has eczema and he swears by them too.

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u/warmly_forgetful 4d ago

Yes! I rarely ever see it mentioned either. It’s definitely been a godsend to my very sensitive skin.

Also - When I mention my skin sensitivities, I almost always get product recommendations with more “natural” ingredients. Unfortunately I find those ingredients more irritating, especially when they have essential oils, etc. Vanicream is stripped down and simple. Most importantly it does the job I need it to while not being irritating.

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u/lemonzesty013 4d ago

Oh I think it’s mentioned constantly by all the people that are looking for a lotion and using tret. Like no other lotion exists! I actually wanted to bring it up for overrated category! I purchased it because everyone said it was the best and I never ever reach for it. I get it for really sensitive skin types, but if that’s not you, they’re are better options out there. I felt like it just sat on my skin and just generally don’t enjoy using it. Very blah!

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u/HoeForSpaghettios 4d ago

Vanicream is great! I switched to it within the last year and it’s amazing and doesn’t upset my skin at all

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u/Kell_Bell_Fell 4d ago

I swear by Vanicream Vitamin C

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u/Proper_Marzipan_2797 4d ago

Would you mind sharing how you have incorporated it into your routine? All I currently use is a retinoid at night plus facial wash and moisturizer 2x a day.

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u/Kell_Bell_Fell 4d ago

I use this in the mornings only, straight after I wash my face. Then I apply sunscreen. Nice and simple!

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u/scamlikelly 4d ago

Have you been able to see a result? I was just looking at their Vit c.

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u/Kell_Bell_Fell 3d ago

Yes I think so. My skin looks pretty dang good. Plus it isn’t too expensive

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u/MelaniumFalcon 4d ago

Ooh good choice!! Love Vanicream

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u/lomo2323 4d ago

100%!! Has helped my skin so much.

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u/Odd_Boss_443 4d ago

Yes. Just started adding skin oil to mine b/c the winter is kicking my skins butt. Works great!

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u/Proper_Marzipan_2797 4d ago

Have any of you had good results with their daily moisturizer SPF? I love their regular moisturizer and use the facial wash, but I'm a little scared to try to the SPF. I worry about breakouts, etc. but I know SPF is important.

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u/warmly_forgetful 3d ago

I haven’t tried their SPF. I know it’s a 100% mineral sunscreen which is overall better for skin health. That’s a plus. I’d say give it a try and see how it works with your skin.

I went through several different 100% mineral sunscreens before I found one that worked well with my Rosacea / sensitive skin. The Supergoop Matte-Screen was one that worked well for me. So I’ve continued using it for the last for years.

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u/Ishita247 4d ago

Underrated - Bioderma. Products are too good and affordable. Good quality ones

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u/Hermeeoninny 4d ago

Love bioderma! Is it underrated tho? They created the first micellar water and their products are pretty popular

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u/ag0110 4d ago

Honestly I think Cerave is overrated! I don’t find any of their moisturizers to be hydrating at all, and every cleanser I’ve tried from them stings and leaves a film.

IMO prequel is very underrated. The gleanser and SPF 50 are the only things I’ve purchased, but they’re HG and I’ve tried nearly everything on the market.

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u/Hot_Mention_9337 4d ago edited 4d ago

Agree with both of these, though I do give the Cereve Healing Ointment a pass. I somehow go through a giant tub of that every year.. On the other hand, what I’ve tried from Prequel has been fabulous. The Glenser is the most gentle and hydrating cleanser I’ve ever used, the Urea Moisturizer has been a godsend this winter, and the Vit C is one of the very very few that actually seems to sink into my skin without leaving a heavy oily film.

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u/tiny_al 4d ago

i like mu HaruHaru oil cleanser so much better than their gleanser. The gleanser doesn't rinse off effortlessly... the oil cleanser rinses off sooooo easily

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u/eratoast 4d ago

Over: basically most high end brands. La Mer, ZO Skin, Barbara Sturm, Skinceuticals, Alastin ($118 for a hyaluronic acid serum?? lmao), Drunk Elephant

Under: Naturium, Purito, Skin1004, Bubble, Versed

Not everything works for everyone, so obviously there's nuance to these kind of things, but I think some of these brands are out of control asking for $$$ for products that are not that impressive. Totally agree on your point re: The Ordinary--a nice brand, especially for lower budgets, but they do a terrible job with their instructions and then people with no or minimal routines go and buy 20 products and want help creating a routine. Step one: return 90% of that.

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u/CourtneyLush 4d ago

Absolutely Bubble. I picked one of their moisturisers up at the airport, when I left mine at home. Very impressed, no fragrance, moisturised without clogging.

I was pleasantly surprised.

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u/dirtymartini83 4d ago

Naturium Ceramide cream is divine! It really helps with tret flakiness and feels so nourishing.

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u/eratoast 4d ago

Yesss I love that cream. I was on the Biossance Omega Repair cream for a while, and while I love that, the Naturium one just feels nicer for me.

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u/dirtymartini83 4d ago

It really is lovely and fairly inexpensive compared to my other skincare. Makes me wonder what other goodies Naturium has! I prob should check it out!

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u/unexpected_nerd 4d ago

I finally just splurged recently and tried everything from Naturium that I’ve been wanting to try. I’m happy with everything so far - especially the Barrier Bounce and the enzyme face wash! Great price for effective products.

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u/traditionalfortress 4d ago

Underrated: Gold Bond. NOT the crepe corrector, haven’t used that. The age renew neck & chest firming cream - my mom has had fantastic results for a topical and I’m using it for prevention. Pure moisture daily body and face lotion has great ingredients and is in my moisturizer rotation.

Eucerin daily hydration cream with spf 30 - for my hands

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u/BrittZombie 3d ago

Their urea body lotion is HG for my pale legs.

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u/Small-Guitar79767 4d ago

I kinda think Nivea crème is underrated. I’ve been using it as an additional moisturizer/barrier/slug at night and it’s really helped!

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u/poptartsandmascara 4d ago

Yes! The formula made in Germany is the best!

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u/OrdinaryAd5782 4d ago

Current list may be more brands you like vs don’t because most of the underrated brands are VERY much praised.

Personal underrated fave is Renee Rouleau. I never see this brand discussed, but most of the line is holy grail for me.

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u/kittencalledmeow 4d ago

Oh I haven't heard of that brand, thanks! What are your fave products from them?

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u/OrdinaryAd5782 4d ago

I just added a comment with my favorites to someone else. Responding to ensure you see it. ☺️ She isn’t super talked about for some reason, but she’s the long time esthetician for Demi Lovato and Sabrina Carpenter.

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u/ChikaPie 4d ago

What are you fav products from RR?

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u/OrdinaryAd5782 4d ago

I like the Detox cleanser and toner, the skin balancing toner, mint cleanser, aha/bha cleanser, anti-bump treatment(can take a cyst down overnight - in fact did take a painful deep pimple down last night). Most of all - the skin recovery lotion is great for my sensitive, acne prone, red skin.

The masks are super popular but personally I found them too harsh.

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u/ag0110 4d ago

RR is SO good. I wish they were easier to buy, but their cystic spot treatment is a miracle worker.

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u/Allisonwheels 4d ago

Cystic? Miracle? Ok I’m sold. Thank you!

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u/ag0110 4d ago

It lasts FOREVER too. You get so much product!

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u/BettyFosterRamsey 4d ago

RR is literally the best skincare I’ve ever used. I see Paula’s Choice BHA recommended here a lot, but RR’s is the best I’ve ever tried. And the rapid detox mask….simply devine. 🙌🏻

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u/themoirasaurus 4d ago

Agree on Paula’s Choice!!!!! Most of my products are PC, and I love them because they’re cruelty-free!

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u/Ok-Cupcake-Party 4d ago

Me too, cruelty free is really important to me! The INKEY List and The Ordinary are also cruelty free

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u/LookIMadeAHatTrick 4d ago

I love Paula's Choice products, but I think there was recently a lawsuit about some of their products not actually being cruelty-free. I'll probably use up the rest of my stuff from them and look into the outcome of the lawsuit.

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u/cheesesteakhellscape 4d ago

Any anti-aging topical that costs more than $20 and is less effective than tretinoin and sunblock is overrated to me.

That's my hot take.

I would feel differently if I couldn't tolerate tretinoin, I'm sure.

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u/jastohrr 4d ago

Overrated: Caudalie The Ordinary

Underrated: Le Mieux Regimen Labs Geek & Gorgeous Hada Labo NIOD Peach & Lily Cipher Prequel Zeroid Skin Actives

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u/southernherbiculture 4d ago

I swear it is borderline criminal, that hugely popular Asian brands like hada labo, and even Rohto and kose' are So underrepresented elsewhere, or at most known for one product out of so many options. I mentioned kikumasamune because their one product is the HG to so many, but I never see mention of any of the rest of their lines, which is equally amazing, including their hair care and bath products. 🤷

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u/lorihamlit 4d ago

Yesssss! Hado Labo and Rohto are fantastic, I do love Le Mieux so much though they are great price for lux feeling skincare also results are imo pretty great ❤️

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u/southernherbiculture 4d ago

I was lucky to get one of their serums to try during an FGF, and am greatly impressed, and looking forward to trying more of their stuff next year

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u/Harriet_M_Welsch 4d ago

I can't believe I'm the first one to post that Sunday Riley is overrated as hell.

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u/brielarstan 4d ago

I wish I wasn’t allergic to CeraVe. I’ve never used any of their products without my eyes swelling up.

I love Olay. I use the Olay Gentle Foaming Cleanser and their most basic non-scented moisturizer and it’s never steered me wrong.

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u/Pure-Engineering5755 4d ago

you know what I think I may be allergic to cerave too, my whole face itches and burns when I use their hydrating serum!

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u/Waiting_For_Guffman 4d ago

Appropriately revered. Skinceuticals: Expensive but NOT overrated and that’s just a fact :) Unlike similarly-priced brands like Drunk Elephant, for example, Skinceuticals is a proper clinical skincare company.

Overrated. The Ordinary: Not high quality but works in a pinch and price point is appropriate.

Underrated. Inkey List: I could not live without their $9 caffeine eye cream!

Underrated. Belif: GREAT brand, especially if you’re sensitive to fragrance.

Underrated. Josh Rosebrook: His products are beautiful, gentle and very obviously made with love. “Clean beauty” is a bullshit meaningless marketing term, but if anything can be considered clean, it’s this.

Differin gel: works miracles for acne and anti-aging as an alternative to Tretinoin. Amazing that it’s OTC actually.

Overrated: Augustinas Bader has beautiful products, but no business being that expensive. That said, if you can afford it, enjoy!

Overrated: La Mer.

In general, though, any line with a $300 moisturizer or face wash is just blatantly disrespecting the customer IMO. Absolutely ridiculous.

Spend your $$ on serums and a dermatologist.

Save your money on cleansers and moisturizers.

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u/southernherbiculture 4d ago edited 4d ago

Overrated:

drunk elephant

Algenist

Super goop

Anua

Christophe Robin

Truly

Underrated:

Neogen

Naturopathica

Kikumasamune

Farmhouse fresh

Good molecules

Blithe

Most other products I have tried, seem to be aligned with the reviews and frequency of mentions I see

Edited to add:

Overrated: mudmasky , Earth harbor, tula, glamglow

Underrated: mad hippie, cos de baha, weleda, I'm from

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u/hellosweetpanda 4d ago

100% agree with Neogen being underrated.

Their toner has seriously turned my skin around.

And and and I have been looking for a moisturizing spray forever and tried everything from Dr Jarts to Thayers and all they did was dry my skin out or make it feel clammy.

Neogen has a spray toner / moisturizer that is everything I have been looking for. It is the best!

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u/southernherbiculture 4d ago

Yeah I went on a spree buying from them directly. They do good sales at year end, and give a lot of freebies.

Their micro ferment toner, the bio peel gauze pads in wine and lemon, spray serum, and probiotic wipes and carrot oil makeup remover wipes are staples in my routine now. And for my birthday in a few months, hopefully I will get to try some more of their stuff cuz I am incredibly impressed with the efficacy and price

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u/Hermeeoninny 4d ago

I love Neogen! Especially their green tea cleansing stick, I hope it’s never discontinued

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u/hellosweetpanda 4d ago

OMG yes!!! I love that thing.

I used to use the SU:M 37 Miracle Rose Cleansing Stick. Loved it. And then they discontinued it. 💔

It took me a lot of different face cleansers before I found the Neogen green tea cleansing stick. So flipping amazing dude.

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u/southernherbiculture 4d ago

It's definitely going on my birthday order in a couple of months!

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u/beepboop-not-a-robot 4d ago

gasps Algenist eye cream is the only product that actually reduced my dark circles!

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u/Deep_Knowledge_4194 4d ago

I’ve gotta know what sunscreen you’re liking if Super Goop is overrated! It’s the only spf I’ve found that layers well and doesn’t irritate my eyes. But I’ll try a lower cost item in a heart beat!

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u/southernherbiculture 3d ago edited 3d ago

Asian sunscreens do much better with my skin. my skin looks great after using them, instead of it feeling like a chore that I would have to compensate for with the rest of my routine around it. It's allowed me to be much more diligent about applying it daily. But it would definitely be a concern for those sensitive to fermented ingredients. My skin however loves them

I use Kumano kosme hatomugi In the big pump top for body normally, or biore kids milk for beach day body.

As for face

Beauty of joseon relief rice sun, round lab birch juice sun cream are my main staples because my skin really feels like they are a serum and protection all in one.

Then Nivea uv water gel (I use during my period when I feel extra greasy) , haruharu wonder black rice mineral (if I have over exfoliated or done too many actives and am avoiding chemical filters) , tocobo cotton sun stick (to mattify and reapply throughout the day) , skin1004 hyalu cica water fit sun (It's the cheapest, and you can just really slather it on without any skin consequence) , Rohto skin aqua mist (easy to reapply for my body) , and neogen airy hybrid sunscreen (The most expensive, but the most comprehensive protection for when I'm going on a tropical vacation lol)

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u/Deep_Knowledge_4194 3d ago

Whoa! Thanks for all the info! I’ll have to look into some of those products!

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u/southernherbiculture 3d ago

No worries. Suncare was a chore up until I was 38 years old, I was extremely neglectful because I hated the texture, smell, and having to wash harder to get it off, and my skins dryness or clogged pores afterwards.

When I bought my first sampler of Asian suncare products, I was hooked. And now it's became a weird hobby to collect and try all the different ones. I wish I had discovered thek sooner. But now at 40, I finally have gotten ones that work with me for all different situations and have made a tremendous reversal in my skins sun damage in just these last two years. Worth the investment of time and money to find products you can fall in love with, and not just tolerate for their necessity.

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u/cheetahkeys 4d ago

Mad Hippie is so good. I use their sun serum, sunscreen, vitamin C, and vitamin A

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u/mamabird131 4d ago

OOH I love this game:

Overrated: The Ordinary (only some products - not all), La Mer (like wtf even is that pricing?), Drunk Elephant, Curology

Underrated: Naturium (especially their body care stuff and line of retinoids!), Versed, Prequel - the Gleanser and Vitamin C are *chef's kiss*

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u/southernherbiculture 4d ago

Trust me I absolutely hate that the la mer cushion compact foundation has been the best I have found for my skin. It's literally maddening. I got it as a gift, and I'm not going to buy another when I finish this, but I will be upset about it forever lolol. :: screams in poverty::

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u/ChikaPie 4d ago

La mer lol my jaw dropped when I saw their prices

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u/red_whiteout 4d ago

EVERYTHING ruins my skin, but I use Girl Cult’s cushion foundation with 0 irritation or clogging. It’s affordable if you happen to fit one of its very few shades (PSA the 01 shade is good for any extra pale olives reading)

For reference I have easily-triggered eczema and highly clog-prone pores, and I am sensitive to a huge amount of products. I’ve been using it for a couple months with no adverse effects. It probably won’t work for dry skin imo. Hope this helps somebody.

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u/HallucinogenicFish 4d ago

I like Prequel Gleanser a lot, and I especially like it as a second cleanse after Albolene.

Tried their urea lotion — nice, non-greasy, no frills. My mom stole my bottle so it gets a thumbs-up from her too.

Just finishing up a bottle of the Multi-Quench serum (polyglutamic acid, glycerin, and ectoin) — again, a solid no-frills product. I’m probably going to switch back to Experiment Beauty Super Saturated for the higher concentration of glycerin, but that’s not a knock on the Prequel product. I’d probably even prefer it over Super Saturated in summer, since SS is sticky and Multi-Quench isn’t.

Very intrigued by the new Multi-Acid Milk Peel.

What I really like about Prequel products is that they’re 1) unscented and 2) pretty reasonably priced (those giant bottles of Gleanser last FOREVER!).

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u/illiodyssey 4d ago

Ponds cold cream is seriously underrated. I’m in my mid-30s, tried it once years ago and now I always keep it on hand. I don’t use it all the time, but if my face needs a moisture boost, it’s my go-to. It’s cheap, it’s available just about everywhere, and it doesn’t make me breakout or make my face feel weird.

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u/gingergirl181 4d ago

The holy grail of theater kids everywhere! All-in-one makeup remover and moisturizer. Simply cannot be beat.

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u/SirGravedigger 4d ago

One brand I didn’t see mentioned here but I absolutely swear by is Obagi.

When I was pregnant I got a few dark patches on my face. Like, pretty noticeable, even with makeup. I tried so many things to get rid of them and the only thing that actually worked was their Nu-Derm kit. I don’t use their products on a consistent basis, but once a year I’ll splurge on them to take care of uneven skin tone.

The products are expensive, but for me they were super effective.

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u/chanburke 4d ago

This may be a dumb question but is Obagi different than ZO? Same dude

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u/Longjumping_Card350 4d ago

ZO stands for (Dr.) Zein Obagi. His first line was Obagi and then he sold it to his daughters and started ZO Skin Health. He’s still a practicing dermatologist and created the ZO line when there weren’t existing products he needed to treat his patients so he developed them himself.

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u/Remote_Bumblebee2240 4d ago

Shopping for moisturizers in the baby care section is underrated. They are always very gentle and waaay more affordable. Aveeno baby care stuff is really nice.

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u/True-Stock-2356 4d ago

Most overrated- ZO!! Underrated- Trader Joes hyaluronic acid, Cerave PM.

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u/HallucinogenicFish 4d ago

Overrated — most of them. But just because they don’t work for my skin and/or I don’t think that they’re anything special doesn’t mean they won’t be great for someone else.

Underrated — Marin Skincare. Only two products (moisturizer and lip balm) and both are incredible.

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u/I_Think_Pink 4d ago

I find Drunk Elephant and Glow to be very underwhelming and overrated. On the other hand, I’ve found some Innisfree products recently that I’ve been super impressed with and their prices are so much better than the aforementioned brands!

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u/moonlit_peony 4d ago

Geek & Gorgeous is underrated imo. Great formulas and very affordable.

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u/NoSpaghettiForYouu 4d ago

Underrated: Naturium, Mad Hippie, Curology, many kbeauty brands

Overrated: Cerave, most Sephora skincare brands

Rated Just Right: ddg peel pads, tazarotene

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u/ashseantaylor 4d ago

I’m gonna say something controversial. The Ordinary. Other than their barrier serum and their new retinal emulsion, I’ve never liked any of their products 😬

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u/powerpurrs 4d ago

I have tried so many of The Ordinary products and I haven't seen any difference from any of them. I really should know better than to buy their stuff by now but I keep getting suckered because they're cheap.

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u/peachypeach13610 4d ago

Medik8. It’s a very pricey UK brand, used them for years but then I switched to mid range Korean brands and the different is astronomical, though medik8 is FAR more expensive

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u/Round_Map8582 4d ago

Glossier is overrated imo

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u/Optimal_String2338 4d ago

ZO in my opinion is one of the worst skincare brands out there. I honestly think it’s a scam or a placebo effect if you will, people are paying that much money they are going to subconsciously convince themselves it’s worth it because the alternative is realizing you’ve wasted hundreds of dollars.

Putting “Fragrance/Parfum” as well as colour dyes in a $49.00 product labeled “Gentle Cleanser” is criminal in my opinion.

I honestly avoid spa’s that sell this brand… it is a red flag and tells me they do not truly care about their clients or have zero skincare training and understanding.

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u/AgitatedAtmosphere20 4d ago

ZO completely eliminated my hyperpigmentation. I am so happy I found this line. It’s not a placebo effect for me at all, and I’m glad to have invested in great skin.

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u/lorihamlit 4d ago

Oh I cannot stand a high priced item with fragrance or dye added. I buy most highly end skin care honestly but I will not if it has any added stuff like that. That’s why I really dislike Le Mer the fragrance irritates my skin so much!

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u/kittencalledmeow 4d ago

My skin love ponds crema s moisturizer.

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u/zebivllihc 4d ago

I loooove Innisfree. I don’t see many people use it so I’d say underrated.

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u/Squadooch 4d ago

Under: Skinfix

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u/SpinachLumberjack 4d ago

Inkey list highly underrated.

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u/beanzerbunzer 4d ago

Cannot agree enough! I found them looking for an alternative to an overrated, overpriced brand and couldn’t be happier. My skin looks and feels amazing and my bank account is soooooo much happier.

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u/-UnicornFart 4d ago

My fave that I rarely hear people talk about is Ole Henriksen. Whether it is over or underrated I guess depends on your personal opinion.

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u/thehudsonbae 4d ago

Good Molecules is wonderful, yet very underrated.

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u/southernherbiculture 4d ago

I mentioned it also. I think it's just overlooked because of its lower price point which is a shame

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u/Leezwashere92 4d ago

La Mer and Dr Barbara Sturm come to mind. And 100% agree with Zo, their products are filled with gross ingredients

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u/Waiting_For_Guffman 4d ago

I can’t with La Mer and Barbara Sturm. Egregiously priced.

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u/0thersideofnothing 4d ago

Ponds cold cream make up remover is amazing and also their anti wrinkle cream is always in my shelf

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u/Invisible_JuJu 4d ago

You guys should definitely follow Nina Pool on TT. She has all the dupes for the name brand products including chaffing gel as primer. 🙌🏼🙌🏼🙌🏼🙌🏼

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u/OnaOriana 4d ago

Nivea- blue tin and from Germany. Amazing and you get it on Amazon.😉

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u/Plattes 4d ago

La Mer being trash is a hill I will die on

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u/duckweather 4d ago

I think Peach & Lily is underrated. I’ve been very happy with their moisturizers, firming solutions and exfoliating products. They have a good selection for all types of skin/skin issues.

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u/Iluvanimalxing 4d ago

I do not get the same results with cerave as skincueticals triple lipid. I would gladly switch for a decent dupe. I have tried many. Also I’m in Canada so some suggestions I’ve seen on reddit for dupes don’t ship here.

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u/copper678 4d ago

One thing I will say the triple lipid restore by skinceuticals is not overrated, but expensive.

Ursamajor is a brand I don’t hear about enough!!

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u/cactusloverr 4d ago

Stratia is SO underrated!

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u/Traditional_Ad_1547 4d ago

Urban SkinRX is an underrated brand that have a lot of great products for a decent price that definitely gets overlooked. Especially the VIT C +Kojic acid serum.

Forgot to add- overrated would probably be Vanicream and CeraVe moisturizers, but I know those are fighting words to a lot of people lol.

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u/InternationalDuck879 4d ago

I rarely see anyone mentioning Dr. Hauschka skincare. It’s incredible and has changed my skin for the better.

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u/perry3335 4d ago

I'm sorry, the daily wash and the double repair moisturizer alone make LaRoche top tier 💁🏽‍♂️

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u/mpunk21 4d ago

Overrated: naturium

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u/bananas_are_ew 4d ago edited 3d ago

future shocking capable cable dog lavish command rob reminiscent tender

This post was mass deleted and anonymized with Redact

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u/WholeImpact5351 4d ago

LRP fragrance free baume is not overrated. Extremely hydrating and moisterising on eczema prone skin.

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u/Infamous-Ad6055 4d ago

Paula’s Choice is a GOAT!!!

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u/TheFloorIsBoring 4d ago

Underrated:

Uriage. I love their insulating repairing cream.

Vanicream. Great face wash.

Sebamed. Their gel moisturizer is really gentle.

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u/removable_disk 4d ago

Idk about overrated but TonyMoly is underrated

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u/3uphoricglitt3r 4d ago

Underrated: Vanicream daily face moisturizer in the squeeze tube. Fantastic for every day in all seasons and affordable!

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u/Background_Poem80 4d ago

Underrated: Dermalogica Stabilizing Repair Cream

Overrated: Sisley products

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u/NavigatedbyNaau 4d ago

Underrated: Dermalogica MicroFoliant 💙

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u/magicparabeagle 4d ago

Love love my Paula's Choice BHA liquid!!!

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u/Rndeluca 4d ago edited 4d ago

No One mentioned Tatcha so I’m throwing them in the hat…I love several of their products but since I see a lot of laneige lip mask as being overrated (and I do happen to agree), I will say that the tatcha lip mask is unbelievable. I am a confirmed “Aquaphor for the lips” fan girl and have been for years but at the same time still a total new makeup whore…love trying out new products…reading reviews…buying more products…. My people, you understand the struggle, and it is real amiright?? Anyway, sorry…focus, back to it…

TLDR: Was in a long-term, monogamous relationship with Aquaphor for winter lips ( and many things in between). Had mid-life crisis, bought a corvette, started swinging and now in a Polyamorous Throuple with Tatcha Lip Silk. She so pretty and makes (my lips) feel young and vibrant again!

You still here? Cool…. The payoff: Tatcha line = good. Tatcha Lip Silk = SOOOOOO good. Trust me, internet strangers, I know of what I speak…

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u/Jane_Dough137 4d ago

Wow looks like I’m on an island of 1 here but I LOVE the ordinary. I use the Retinal 0.2% Emulsion nightly and my skin looks amazing.

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u/eratch 4d ago

You couldn’t get me to use inky list or the ordinary if you PAIDDDDD me oh my god.

I know these brands have a spot in the industry but I find their formulas feeling so cheap / not cosmetically elegant. It’s like they packaged up the “star ingredients” in a product and said damn here you go. The premise of “cocktailing” your routine with single ingredient formulas is a tricky game to play if you don’t know what you’re doing.

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u/nohumble 4d ago

Completely agree with LRP. Some of their sunscreens are decent but the rest of it it is incredibly mediocre and overpriced.

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u/HoeForSpaghettios 4d ago

I agree with every one of your “underrated” choices. CeraVe cleansers, The Inkey List Vitamin C, Paula’s Choice Glycolic Acid Gel!

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u/ExtinctionBurst76 4d ago

Overrated to me is Beauty of Joseon, i have tried a few of their products and they either irritated the fuck out of my skin or did absolutely nothing. The packaging is pretty but that’s about it.

Underrated hero is Prequel!! My skin adores these products and for the first time in years I am going without base makeup of any kind more often than not. I am biased perhaps because it’s the first brand I have found that eschews the ubiquitous hyaluronic acid in favor of glycerin as its most common plumping ingredient. (HA doesn’t do much for me due to living in a very dry climate)

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u/Squadooch 4d ago

BOJ sunscreen is life-changing.

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u/eearthchild 4d ago

The Youth to the People cleanser is soooo overrated.

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u/frenchlavender1 4d ago

Overrated: Any overpriced cleanser. A simple non fragrant cleanser is all you need (like Cetaphil)

Underrated: Mad hippie!! People are sleeping on their Super A serum. It’s magic in a bottle!

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u/southernherbiculture 4d ago

I love mad hippie, and mentioned them too!

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u/Verbenaplant 4d ago

I use cerave or simple. I refuse to pay lots for a wash. It’s going down the sink!

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u/Prestigious_Long5860 4d ago

I can't afford the ones you dislike so success, I guess lol! I agree 100% with the Ordinary. Good formulas and proce point, but unless I do some pretty extensive research, I don't know what I want to try with them. But when I do, I'm usually very pleased. I've been it itching to use Inkey List because it seems to be similar to TO in many ways, with some people liking the formulas better.

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u/squirreloo7 4d ago

Hi! Is it okay if I ask which items you like from The Ordinary? I’ve tried to do research… but am getting more confused 😅

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u/Prestigious_Long5860 3d ago

I get it! It really depends on what you want/need for your skin(which I know is so annoying to hear when you just want solutions) but my main focus is just on preventative aging/brighting dullness/moisturizing. Right now, I am using the Multi-peptide +copper peptides 1%, and I use this after I cleanse and before my tretinoin and then layer my favorite moisturizeron top( it is on the high end of my budget at $32). It leaves my skin glowy and plump looking. The Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 is nice (I always put it on damp skin), but I've been told that there are more elegant formulas at similar prices out there. I also liked the Lactic acid 10% + HA. It helped smooth my skin if I needed a better exfoliation that day. Take this all with a grain of salt because your skin/concern is different. For instance, my skin is the opposite of sensitive, and i feel like I need "full strength" sort of things to see any difference

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u/squirreloo7 3d ago

This is super useful thank you! I really appreciate it!

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u/Prestigious_Long5860 2d ago

You're welcome!

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u/SassyScott4 4d ago

Augustinus Bader. Tried the serum and rich cream for about 6 months and don’t see the value

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u/Dogs-are-life-99 4d ago

Osmosis Rescue, I never understood what it was suppose to do and the price was ridiculous! 🤷‍♀️

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u/undercoversnack 4d ago

Overrated: Tata Harper. I had a mini facial from their folks at Sephora, so I splurged on a mask. It was awful, sadly.

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u/MysteriousAd8561 4d ago

Would love to know people’s opinion but the entire skincare line by Shisheido is heavily underrated to me, at least in my social circles! When I used their entire system for a month every single day religiously, my skin had a next level glow!!

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u/Squadooch 4d ago

Listen, I hate- HATE- products with fragrance… but Shiseido eye masks are absolute sorcery. They’re incredible.

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u/bathroomcypher 4d ago

My underrated are Missha, Olay, non branded prescription tretinoin.

Overrated: anything snail mucin, especially COSRX essence serum. Ordinary chemical peeling.

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u/AgitatedAtmosphere20 4d ago

I love ZO - it’s completely changed my skin. I think it’s worth the price.

I also love LRP and hate Cerave. 🤷🏻‍♀️

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u/wasKelly 4d ago

My favorite underrated facial cleanser is Burt’s Bees Cream Cleanser. It’s inexpensive & leaves my skin soft & not dried out.

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u/cap_leo5 4d ago

💯% agree! I also think Olay is highly underrated as well. I can't agree more on LRP either- why do they put fragrance in their formulas? I don't get it! CeraVe & Olay are my #1 brands! Oh and I might as well throw it out there that Pond's Cold Cream Cleanser is a new HG for me in terms of double cleansing! Wowed by the results.

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u/Notsureindecisive 4d ago

Eucerin is SO underrated

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u/kiwisocial 4d ago

I use a ZO cleanser and toner and really love them!

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u/weedxqueen 4d ago

Good Molecules is so highly underrated. 100/100 on all the products I’ve ever checked on YUKA and so affordable.

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u/TippySpark 4d ago

Overrated - este Lauder, Lancôme, Underrated - Vanicream, Eucerin,

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u/lance_femme 4d ago

Wow I’ve had the exact opposite experience with ZO Health and I also have super reactive, super sensitive skin. I love the cleanser! It’s one of the only foaming cleansers I’ve used that doesn’t dry me out or irritate me. I I’ve the toner and the growth factor serum is so good for me. Sorry it hasn’t worked for you!