6 make-up artists let us in on the products that aren’t worth the hype

Industry experts spill the info on whether you should spend money on certain hyped make-up products

Thanks to TikTok and Instagram, every other new beauty product launch becomes “viral” even before it hits the shelves. Subsequently, several products are sold out within minutes of their launch—KKW Beauty’s Contour Sticks, Kylie Cosmetics’ Lip Kits (that sold out in under a minute), Colourpop’s highlighters, Rhode’s skincare products, and Rare Beauty’s massive sell-out in India are some recent examples. But do they always feature merit? Maybe not. We reach out to six experts in the field and ask them to share one such product that doesn’t deserve the hype, according to them. Here’s what they have to say.

PS: Most make-up artists on this list are of the opinion that make-up is subjective, and the suitability of a product varies from person to person. However, they name the one product that they think doesn’t work by and large.

“I have always felt that high-end mascaras are overhyped. I have almost always been able to achieve any look from a drugstore/high-street mascara. Especially for a product that expires within three months of opening, most of the time, it is a waste [of money] to invest in something expensive.”

– Kritika Gill

“I genuinely don’t get the hype with highlighters, especially powder highlighters—they are a big no-no for me (I don’t know why). I have only 2-3 powder highlighters in my kit including the ones from Surratt Beauty and Clé de Peau Beauté. I’m happy using creamy and balmy highlighters that are more sheer, and not glittery. Even when blushes are infused with glitter pigments, it just makes the make-up look tacky. According to me, 2024 is going to be the year of matte, understated make-up, which exhibits quiet luxury and not the Y2K type of shimmer or glossy skin. One can, however, use metallics on the eyes and lips. But, I have to say this as a pro artist that while I may not prefer this product, it's probably working for someone, somewhere, which is why the hype.”

– Mitesh Rajani

“For me, it’s reusable make-up removing towels. They remain as dirty as ever after removing one’s make-up; one has to additionally use soap to remove stubborn make-up stains. Dirty and improperly dried towels harbour bacteria which, in turn, causes breakouts. Instead, it is always better to use a good make-up remover with eco-conscious disposable cotton pads, which is simple, effective and hygienic. It is also not advisable to use make-up removal wipes as they are not sustainable; the fibres contaminate the environment, especially when they’re being flushed into our water systems. Plus, such wipes also contain chemicals such as phthalates, triclosan and parabens that are known to be endocrine disruptors.”

– Bianca Louzado

“I know that there’s something called lip primers available at beauty houses like Sephora and M.A.C Cosmetics. I’m not sure if the product is that hyped, but it is definitely not required. While I understand that it intends to offer smoother application and longer stay, a lip balm, plumping lip injection or even a concealer (I’ve not used this, but I know that some people do) can also offer a finish free of lines and cracks, while maintaining the lips’ hydration and softness. You can also go the extra mile and scrub your lips before applying a lip balm for soft and smooth lips.”

– Mehak Oberoi

“I hate lash extensions. A lot of people get it [the permanent/semi-permanent make-up technique] done without realising that it makes your eyes droopy and heavy. This is something I always tell my brides and artists to not use any as we can play around with the lashes while making sure it looks natural.”

– Savleen Manchanda

“I think the one product that is genuinely overhyped is a primer. Some of them might be great, but I really do think that a good skincare routine or a good moisturiser can also provide the same effect. If you are looking to extend the wear of your make-up, you can try spritzing the setting spray from brands like NYX or Urban Decay—it genuinely works wonders.”

– Shraddha Inder Mehta

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