The Skip List: I Spent the Money So You Don't Have To
Five products I genuinely wanted to love, tested properly, and still can't recommend — your wallet can thank me later.
Right, settle in. Every so often a product lands on my desk, flutters its lashes and promises me the world — and every so often I end up ringing my mum to admit I've wasted my money again. Consider this my public service: five things I wore properly, wanted desperately to work, and still wouldn't buy twice. Not because they're evil (though one is frankly a bit risky), but because your hard-earned cash deserves better than 'it's fine
Beetles Gel Polish Kit
Budget gel kits that beginners love but carry real allergy and undercuring risks. Fun for casual play — not a salon replacement.
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Supergoop Glowscreen SPF 40
A gorgeous glowy primer that happens to have SPF — but multiple users report it failed UV tests and sunburns within hours. The glow is real; the protection is…
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CeraVe Moisturizing Cream
A dermatologist darling that heals some skin and wrecks others — closed comedones are the real villain here.
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Charlotte Tilbury Magic Cream
A $100 moisturizer that works beautifully under makeup but carries a price tag most people can't justify — heavy fragrance, cheap lid, and drugstore dupes…
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The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
A £5 serum that's either your holy grail or your worst breakout — and nobody can predict which until it's on your face.
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