The Best Cosmetic Forums

Let me premise this by saying that for years I have been plunging into the depths of forums devoted to a variety of product categories, actively participating in discussions and carefully scrutinizing comments left by other users. 

Theoretically, the amount of information and variety of viewpoints would be an invaluable treasure trove for those in search of a solution to some problem. However, as I navigated these waters, I encountered a stumbling block as insidious as it is widespread: misinformation regarding the health and safety of ingredients. The open nature of the forums, while one of the strengths, unfortunately turns into an Achilles' heel, opening the door to a myriad of theories unsupported by scientific evidence. This flood of misinformation not only sows confusion among users, but also sets the stage for choices that could also have negative repercussions on individual and collective health. 

1 - Misinformation.

Forums are mostly frequented by a young and uninformed audience, or rather, informed by the culture of TikTok and Instagram. Many moderators have the same culture as the users, plus they delete everything they don't know. I gave it a try on Reddit server Beauty and posted some scientific studies from PubMed that warned of the danger of some chemical components. Deleted "for scaremongering."

So the first problem lies not only in the presence of this information rarely supported by scientific evidence, but also in the difficulty of countering it with solid factual data in an age when sensationalism often trumps substance. The imperative to write a lot in order to get more points in the forum or to create an image for oneself induces users to tedious and pointless sequels of trivial questions and answers that serve no one.

2 - The Forum as Nirvana.

In the Forum everyone must feel secure and reassured. Despite reading trivial, uninformed advice, everyone should be happy and flatter each other. Sequels of useless questions and answers even on topics that would deserve the intervention of a medical specialist. 

Basically, the forums represent a kind of spiritual comfort for those who are lonely and want to chat with someone, for those who persist in thinking (even if they are not really convinced) that they will find a solution to their problem. However, all these people, usually in good faith, have to deal with: those who want to teach others things they know nothing about, those who are fond of controversy, those who just want to pass the time, or those who purposely enjoy providing wrong answers.

3 - Advertising.

This applies to only some Forums, not all.

Another and not insignificant problem is the phobia of not creating information that can be interpreted as advertising. You are not allowed to mention the name, the company of any commercial product, so someone who is looking for a solution to a practical problem of his own will never get a clear answer that solves his problem. Woe betide if you write that, you will be banned for advertising. 

So don't expect much from forums in general and cosmetic forums are no exception. If you have an average or high cultural background, I do not recommend the forums.

4 - Who is behind the username?

Another problem. In many years of dating I have come across a 14 year old boy giving dermatological advice, men instead of women, invitations to give my address and other confidential information, etc. One can never be sure of the identity of those hiding behind an Avatar!

If you have an average or high cultural background, I do not recommend Forums, they are just a waste of time. Better to find the answers in professional sites.

Well, after this dutiful introduction, let us examine the most popular forums.

Discord Is slightly better than Reddit: 

• The Make Up Den, 
• Cosmetic Hub, 
• Dermatology Official Server
• Makeuptalk 
• Pursueblog  

Reddit   

•  f/beauty   
•  r/Makeup  have been very disappointing to me.

Others

• Beautyheaven
• The Essential Day Spa
• Among the least frequented cosmetic forums Skincaretalk the one I did not like at all: few users and poorly informed, trivial topics. A waste of time, in my opinion.