The predictable way to begin this post would be by saying something about not judging a book by its cover. But that’s boring—and honestly, way easier said than done. Many of our favourite hair, skin, and makeup products became our faves because we were drawn to the gorgeous packaging and then, by the good grace of the universe, they happened to be amazing products. For example: Tom Ford lipsticks, Byredo fragrances, Smith & Cult nail polishes. We’ve even dedicated entire posts to products that are known for their packaging, and ones that are almost too pretty to use.
On the other end of the spectrum, there are so many products that we love and will be loyal to until the end of our days, but we still hide them in our bathroom cabinets, away from the counters (those are saved for the aforementioned pretty products).
Below, we’ve rounded up our favourite products that are hidden in ugly packaging.
1/8
beauty products ugly packaging
Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser
With its stark blue and white packaging, this cleanser isn’t exactly a standout on shelves, but it’s a winner when it comes to getting the job done without stripping your skin of oils.
Cetaphil cleanser ($10, at Walmart)
2/8
beauty products ugly packaging
Carmex Lip Balm
The packaging colours may not look as sleek as we’d like, but considering how dry our lips are right now, you can’t deny this trusty squeezable lip balm’s effects.
Carmex lip balm ($3, at Shoppers Drug Mart)
3/8
beauty products ugly packaging
Maybelline Great Lash Mascara
Reminiscent of high school days when you first delved into the world of makeup, this mascara tube is an editor fave, thanks to its foolproof formula.
Maybelline Great Lash mascara ($6, at drugstores)
4/8
beauty products ugly packaging
Kat Von D Everlasting Liquid Lipstick
The packaging may not be the most attractive, but its long-lasting effects and unreal pigmentation are reasons why we’re constantly reaching for it day after day.
Kat Von D Everlasting Liquid Lipstick ($24, at Sephora)
5/8
beauty products ugly packaging
Thayer’s Witch Hazel
This bottle may look better next to your first aid kit rather than your beautifully-packaged skincare products, but its multi-purpose features and amazing floral scent are what really counts.
Physicians Formula Youthful Wear Spotless Foundation
Many may find the bottle too cutesy for a vanity table, but don’t let its purple polka-dotted packaging fool you. The natural and lightweight coverage are why it’s a must-have.
Physicians Formula Youthful Wear Spotless Foundation ($19, at drugstores)
7/8
beauty products ugly packaging
Ombrelle
It may be another throwback product, but hey, we stick to what we know works.
Ombrelle Protection SPF60 Sunscreen ($18, at drugstores)
8/8
beauty products ugly packaging
got2b Glossy Anti-Frizz Shine Serum
The bottle doesn’t look much but it holds the power to fighting and conditioning your frizz. Did we mention it smells like a tropical island?
got2b Glossy Anti-Frizz Shine Serum ($8, at drugstores)
![](http://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https://fashionmagazine.com/beauty-grooming/beauty-products-ugly-packaging/&title=An ode to our favourite beauty products with ugly packaging&picture=https://fashionmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/beauty-products-ugly-packaging-011-800x800.jpg&description=[gallerylink slide="beauty-products-ugly-packaging-01" title="See our fave products with less-than-great packaging"]
The predictable way to begin this post would be by saying something about not judging a book by its cover. But that's boring---and honestly, way easier said than done. Many of our favourite hair, skin, and makeup products became our faves because we were drawn to the gorgeous packaging and then, by the good grace of the universe, they happened to be amazing products. For example: Tom Ford lipsticks, Byredo fragrances, Smith & Cult nail polishes. We've even dedicated entire posts to products that are known for their packaging, and ones that are almost too pretty to use.
On the other end of the spectrum, there are so many products that we love and will be loyal to until the end of our days, but we still hide them in our bathroom cabinets, away from the counters (those are saved for the aforementioned pretty products).
Below, we've rounded up our favourite products that are hidden in ugly packaging.
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