How to Use Up Skincare Products That Didn’t Work for Your Face

Jul 15

We’ve all been there: a new cleanser, moisturizer, or serum promises glowing skin, but instead delivers irritation, breakouts, or just... nothing. Rather than letting those less-than-perfect products collect dust, try repurposing them! Here's how to get the most out of your skincare stash—even if it didn’t love your face.

1. Use Cleansers to Wash Your Makeup Brushes

If a cleanser left your face feeling dry or irritated, it might still be perfect for cleaning your makeup brushes. Gel, foam, or cream cleansers—especially those without heavy oils—can effectively dissolve foundation, powder, and oils that build up in your brushes. Just work a small amount into damp bristles, rinse thoroughly, and air dry.

2. Try Exfoliating Serums on Your Body

A chemical exfoliant (like AHAs or BHAs) that was too strong for your face might work wonders on areas like:

Back and shoulders (great for body acne)
Arms (especially if you have keratosis pilaris or rough patches)
Back of your hands (helps brighten and smooth sun spots or texture)

Just apply a small amount 2–3 times a week and always follow with sunscreen if the area will be exposed to the sun.

3. Repurpose Heavy Moisturizers as Eye Cream or Hand Cream

Thick, rich moisturizers that clog your pores might be perfect in small, targeted areas:

Under your eyes: Many eye creams are simply rich moisturizers in tiny packaging. Dab a small amount around your orbital bone for extra hydration.
On your hands and feet: These areas can tolerate heavier occlusives and benefit from extra nourishment—especially overnight under cotton gloves or socks.

4. Use Toners as Body Mists or Foot Refreshers

Hydrating or balancing toners that didn’t wow your facial routine can still refresh:

Spray on your chest or arms post-shower
Wipe on your feet mid-day for a quick refresh
Use as a shaving prep or post-shave calming mist

5. Turn Oils into Cuticle or Hair Treatments

Facial oils that broke you out can still shine as:

Cuticle oil: Rub into nails and surrounding skin before bed
Hair oil: Smooth a tiny amount over flyaways or into dry ends
Body oil: Mix into lotion or apply directly to damp skin after a shower

6. Use Sunscreen on Neck, Chest, or Hands

A facial SPF that feels greasy or pills under makeup might still be perfect for:

Neck and chest (often-neglected areas that show signs of aging)
Hands (apply before driving or walking outdoors)

Just remember: expired sunscreen should not be used anywhere.

Pro Tips for Repurposing Safely:

Always do a patch test when using a product in a new area.
Check expiration dates—especially for actives like vitamin C or retinoids.
Avoid using anything irritating near mucous membranes or broken skin.

Final Thoughts

Don’t feel guilty for trying something new that didn’t work out. Skincare is a journey, and repurposing is a smart, sustainable way to make the most of your investments. With a little creativity, those shelf misfits can still bring real benefits.

Molly Markland