The beauty industry is no stranger to trends. New “miracle” ingredients pop up every year, promising everything from eternal youth to the perfect glow. But not every hyped-up ingredient delivers on its claims. Some are more about marketing than science and others have alternatives that work just as well, without any gimmicks. Here are six overhyped skin-care ingredients that experts say you can skip.
Featured Experts
- Ginger King is a cosmetic chemist
- Valerie Callender, MD is a board-certified dermatologist in Glenn Dale, MD
- Jordan Samuel Pacitti is the CEO of Jordan Samuel Skin
- Joel Schlessinger, MD is a board-certified dermatologist in Omaha, NE
1. Apple Stem Cells
Touted as a revolutionary ingredient that mimics human stem cells to rejuvenate the skin, apple-derived stem cells sound cutting-edge. However, experts say it’s mostly marketing hype. “Apple stem cells have nothing to do with human skin cells and hydration benefits can be achieved with other ingredients,” notes cosmetic chemist Ginger King. In short: You’re better off reaching for proven hydrators like hyaluronic acid or ceramides.
2. 24K Gold
For years, gold-infused skin care has been marketed as the ultimate luxury, with claims of anti-aging and brightening benefits. But while it may feel indulgent, experts say the science doesn’t support the hype. “All that glitters does not equal beautiful skin,” says Glenn Dale, MD dermatologist Valerie Callender, MD adding that there’s no real data backing its anti-aging claims. Instead of investing in gold, look for ingredients like vitamin C or niacinamide for real brightening effects.
3. Snail Mucin
A Korean beauty must-have, snail mucin is praised for its hydration and skin-repairing properties. But is it truly better than other moisturizers? King isn’t convinced. “Snail mucin does hydrate, but you can achieve the same effect with other ingredients minus the ‘ick’ factor.” For those hesitant about snail-derived products, humectants like glycerin and hyaluronic acid offer similar hydration benefits.
4. CBD in Skin Care
CBD exploded onto the skin-care scene with claims of being a powerful anti-inflammatory and soothing ingredient. However, the data supporting these claims is still murky. Omaha, NE dermatologist Joel Schlessinger, MD remains skeptical. “So far, I’m unimpressed with the data and definitive results.” While CBD may have some potential, dermatologists suggest looking for proven anti-inflammatory ingredients like colloidal oatmeal, centella asiatica or green tea extract instead.
5. Magnetic Masks
Magnetic masks were once all the rage, promising to detoxify and firm the skin with the power of magnets. But, according to aesthetician Jordan Samuel Pacitti and CEO of Jordan Samuel Skin, this trend didn’t live up to the hype. “They didn’t deliver the lasting results consumers were looking for,” he says.
6. Bee Venom
Often marketed as a natural alternative to Botox, bee venom has been promoted for its anti-aging effects. However, this ingredient comes with risks and the hype doesn’t add up. “Bee venom is risky due to allergic reactions,” warns King. Instead of taking a chance, opt for ingredients with real anti-aging benefits, such as peptides, retinol or growth factors.
