8 Smelly Beauty Products That Actually Work

Many of us buy beauty products based solely on how good they smell. So the idea that we would buy something that smells downright awful can be difficult to fathom. Then again, if you were old enough to remove body hair in the 90s, you’ve probably used Nair and have experience dealing with its strong, rather unpleasant scent. With countless products lining Sephora aisles, you’re probably averse to trying something new if it boasts a noxious odor. And we don’t blame you. But we went ahead and rounded up eight cult products that work so well, despite smelling like everything from hot dog water to salad dressing, they’re worth adding to your beauty arsenal. Just don’t take any deep breaths when you lather them on.

These Smelly Beauty Products Are Actually Worth Using

Kate Somerville

EradiKate Acne Treatment, $26 at Kate Somerville

This sulfur spot treatment smells horrible — the smell is often compared to a rotten egg. But if you have a large, stubborn blemish to banish, this treatment can work wonders overnight.
Biologique Recherche

Lotion P50, $219 at Amazon

The lotion is meant to be applied all over your face, neck and décolletage, which given its smell is no easy feat. But there's a reason countless women swear by (and spend a pretty penny on) this vinegar-scented product that's often compared to salad dressing. It really delivers clear, exfoliated skin.
SkinCeuticals

C E Ferulic, $141.10 at DermStore

This product has a serious cult following and that says a lot given that some devotees think it smells like hot dog water. Guess that's just the price you pay for firmer, brighter skin.
Perricone MD

Cold Plasma Plus Advanced Serum Concentrate, $149 at Perricone MD

While this product will make your skin feel great, it leaves behind a fishy smell. You may even think it's expired when you first open it, but it's just its active ingredients working their magic to smooth out your complexion.
Sunday Riley

U.F.O. Ultra-Clarifying Face Oil, $80 at Sephora

Artificial fragrances are one of the most common irritants so if you have sensitive skin, you'll love this line. Unfortunately, this product smells like pizza spices, but once it's worked into your skin the smell quickly dissipates.
Philosophy

Take a Deep Breath Oil-Free Oxygenating Gel Cream, $37 at Sephora

The grassy, strong fragrance of this intensely moisturizing cream can be migraine-inducing for some people. The lightweight, oil-free formulation makes it a must-buy, especially for anyone cursed with acne-prone skin.
St.Tropez

Gradual Tan Watermelon Infusion Body Lotion, $25 at Sephora

While some may not mind the scent of this self-tanner, others won't even go near someone after they lather it on. But when it comes to a natural and even faux tan, it's hard to beat.
Peter Thomas Roth

Therapeutic Sulfur Acne Masque, $36.40 at Ulta Beauty

If you can stomach the aforementioned rotten egg smell, make a beeline for this product when your skin starts breaking out. It's a great option when you're dealing with a full-blown acne attack. It even helps control oil to prevent future breakouts.