Beauty trends come and go faster than you can say “contouring,” but some products have stood the test of time, building a loyal following that’s downright cult-like. Remember the days of flipping through magazines and seeing those ads that made you feel like you just had to have that one product? Let’s take a stroll down memory lane and talk about five old-school beauty products that won the hearts of many—and may still hold a special place in the hearts of beauty enthusiasts today.
1. Bonne Bell Lip Smackers
If you were a kid in the ’80s or ’90s, chances are you had a Bonne Bell Lip Smacker (or ten) stashed in your backpack. These little tubes of flavored lip gloss were basically the holy grail for pre-teens everywhere. From the classic Dr. Pepper flavor to the more adventurous Cotton Candy, they made your lips feel soft while giving you that all-important pop of flavor. You could even share them with your best friends, or maybe not—who could resist a flavor showdown?
These days, brands have certainly upped their game in terms of lip products, but there’s something undeniably nostalgic about swiping on a Lip Smacker. It was all about the fun of flavor and the sweet memories of carefree childhood days. Plus, how many products can claim to bring back that kind of joy? Not many!
2. Noxzema Cleansing Cream
Noxzema has been a staple in bathroom cabinets since the 1950s, and it’s not hard to see why. This thick, cooling cleansing cream was often the go-to for anyone dealing with breakouts or just wanting a fresh face. The smell alone—part medicinal, part minty—takes you back, doesn’t it? It was like a mini spa day in a jar!
While it’s marketed as a deep cleanser, many swore by it as a makeup remover too. There’s something so satisfying about slathering on that thick cream and feeling it melt away the day’s grime. And let’s be honest, it always felt like a bit of a treat to have that cooling sensation on your skin. Talk about a beauty product that’s stood the test of time!
3. Maybelline Great Lash Mascara
Ah, the iconic pink-and-green tube of Maybelline Great Lash Mascara. This classic has been around since 1971 and somehow manages to maintain its status as a makeup bag essential. It’s like the little black dress of mascara—simple, dependable, and it never goes out of style. The formula is lightweight, making it perfect for everyday wear without clumping into spider legs.
Plus, it’s super affordable, which means you can stock up without breaking the bank. And let’s be real: who hasn’t loved that nostalgic moment of opening a fresh tube and getting that new-mascara smell? It’s like a rite of passage for beauty lovers. Even if you’ve moved on to fancier brands, it’s hard not to appreciate the magic of Great Lash.
4. Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion
If you’ve ever stepped into a department store’s beauty section, chances are you’ve encountered Clinique’s Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion. This yellow-tinted moisturizer has been a staple for many since the late ’60s, and it’s earned a reputation for delivering hydration without feeling greasy. It’s that perfect balance of lightweight yet effective—you know, like your favorite pair of jeans!
Clinique fans rave about its ability to leave skin feeling soft and smooth, and it’s suitable for pretty much any skin type. Plus, the packaging is so simple and clean, it looks great on any bathroom shelf. It’s a product that has transcended generations, and you can bet your grandmother probably swore by it just as much as your best friend does now!
5. St. Ives Apricot Scrub
Last but certainly not least, let’s talk about the beloved St. Ives Apricot Scrub. This exfoliating scrub has been a go-to for many since the ’80s, and it’s not just for nostalgia’s sake—it actually works. The gritty texture is like a mini workout for your face, giving your skin that polished glow we all crave. Who doesn’t love that fresh, scrubbed feeling?
Of course, it has its critics, especially with the rise of gentler exfoliating products. But for those who swear by its scrub-tastic properties.
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