So the blog is six and a half years old. In that time I've written 1308 posts. Really not very much on the scale of blog post measuring.
Talking to a facial client today reminded me of products that I've reviewed in the past that I either no longer use, have grown out of love for, or simply changed my mind about, which is I think is acceptable and understandable given the large passage of time.
Here's the conundrum. As readers, do you think you'd prefer it if I went back and updated the original blog posts? Or just mention in passing if someone asks me about said products?
As bloggers (across the board) we tend to have a 'leave it and don't change it' policy, but I'm aware that this site is used as a resource and I can see that a lot of older reviews are still read every week, which makes me think I should alter reviews. A happy medium would be using strikethrough and updating next to/under the original review.
I sometimes completely forget about products to find that readers may say 'do you still use XX' and I don't. Sometimes I haven't used that product in a long time.
So lovely readers: Thoughts?

I support updating in a way that shows the original post. It's impressive that you are thinking about this! Who's the best blogger then??
ReplyDeleteI theory like the strikethrough method a lot. Seems like a lot of work though...? Maybe you can at least mark some old and outdated reviews with a marker on top saying that it needs a revision (you probably would come op with a much more funny way to say that :p )? And only really update those reviews which seem most critical for now?
ReplyDeleteXx
I think Myrthe is on to something here. Using strikethrough to update sounds great (for us!) but terribly labor-intensive (for you!). Her suggestion to mark outdated reviews with an indicator or a quick note, and doing true updates as circumstances warrant sounds like a happy medium.
DeleteWe're all very grateful for your expertise - thank you. xo
I totally agree with Myrthe. I think going back and changing over 6 years worth of blogs would be a lot of work on your part. I would just include a note in the blog title so readers would know. xx
Deletewhy not have a chart, excel, Products, first review, status at the time, and current status.
DeleteRe nouf: I think a spreadsheet makes sense, that everyone can have access to. It's time saving for you as it's all in one place. You can have a column for 'still in use/no more' then a column with a few words for if why your opinion has changed. It's also a good place to find other same category products if you no longer recommend it.
DeleteAnd Caroline, I'd happily pay a small amount for access to that file....
DeleteI agree with the spreadsheet idea-quicker and easier to update for you probably. And a column for similar products or if we could adjust the filters to compare say all moisturisers for combo/oily/dry skin etc that would be handy. Nice to see a blogger being upfront, willing to explain you've changed your mind/why etc. Thanks!
DeleteYes to both! Updating all the old reviews would be a lot of work but updating the cheatsheets, and advising that certain reviews have been marked for change is a brilliant option.
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ReplyDeleteI definitely think updating is a good idea as like you say your blog is a resource, I'm currently searching for 'miracle yet affordable eye cream *crosses fingers*. I think the strike through option is a good compromise
ReplyDeleteWould be great to have an update of products you've changed your mind on and why. Maybe just a list and a reason?
ReplyDeleteWe need the 'Lady Hirons Bible of Skincare' in book form a lovely coffee table book that we can not so casually shove in faces of friends who insist on using wipes
I second this!!
DeleteI agree. If you happen to have a list of products that come to mind and need updating, perhaps throw them all into one post. The crossing through and updating on the original posts could work as well. Thanks for all your lovely blogging!
DeleteI need a Caroline Hirons book as well, I make notes of the product recommendations and skincare tips so in book form would be amazing!!!
DeleteDefinitely second this... a handy go to guide as well... a Caroline Hirons beauty guide for dummies?!
DeleteAgree! What you don't use--> now use xx and maybe a why. The it's all in one place and you can update as you see fit version 1.0 upgraded to v2 etc!
DeleteEven an ebook worth a ££ donation to Give and Makeup.....
DeleteLove to know any revised thoughts on the Sunday Riley and kypris range. You're one dedicated lady😇 😘
ReplyDeleteYes! Agreed on Sunday Riley! I still have no idea if I'm meant to be using Good Genes every night
DeleteHi Kira. I use gg once a week x
DeleteIt is probably very time-consuming for you to update, but it would be a gift to those of us who discovered you recently and use your back posts as a resource!
ReplyDeleteWould be great to break it up by category - for example, cleansers that you have changed your mind on, acid toners etc. Doesn't have to include ALL of them but at least some.
ReplyDeleteAgreed. Maybe a page added to the cheat sheets with the changes/updates/revision.
DeleteMaybe alter the reviews that get the most requests? We respect that time is a luxury and that you're super busy being a skincare superwoman. I have definitely used the site as a "historical" resource for older reviews.
ReplyDeleteIf there is something you won't use anymore because it turns out it breaks you out or does more harm than good it would be amazing to have an update on old posts because I constantly use your blog as an encyclopaedia when thinking about new skincare! Sorry for asking the world of you! But I think we all know that wonder woman Hirons can handle any task!
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for all you do for the community. We love the Hirons!!!!!! x
I like the updating with ref back or strike through option
ReplyDeleteI echo the sentiments above that updates would be lovely on the blog. I often wonder if you still use products that you wrote about a few years ago or if your opinion has changed or there is a better option for that particular product. Maybe a blog update on why you may or may not use a certain product anymore??? I do not know anything about blogging so have no idea if editing/strikethrough is an easier option. Either way, updates would be most appreciated any way you can do it.
ReplyDeleteAlso, a special thank you for your blog and your brilliant knowledge. I was introduced to your blog only a short time ago and have read every post and use it as a constant reference for routines, etc. You have no idea how much my face thanks you too!
I vote for Strikethrough - it's a good way to show information has been updated while also showing old and new information. 😃
ReplyDeleteI like the strike through option that others have suggested, and I would like to know the reason for revision, for example, product formulation change means it's not as nice, and so on. Maybe also moving them to their own section if the blog? Although that seems a lot of faff.
ReplyDeleteFirstly, over 1300 posts and raising humans, animals, being a wife and holding down a full time job is amazing, so be proud. As for the question, I don't buy anything skincare without Googling the product, followed by your name so as a reader, I would hugely appreciate it if you did the massively time consuming task of updating old posts with latest thoughts /views/opinions etc. Hope that helps, Gabriella aka Blossom Bride {#hironology}
ReplyDeleteFirstly, over 1300 posts and raising humans, animals, being a wife and holding down a full time job is amazing, so be proud. As for the question, I don't buy anything skincare without Googling the product, followed by your name so as a reader, I would hugely appreciate it if you did the massively time consuming task of updating old posts with latest thoughts /views/opinions etc. Hope that helps, Gabriella aka Blossom Bride {#hironology}
ReplyDeleteThink a lot of your followers will appreciate an update Mrs. Hirons, I reckon it doesn't have to be long or complicated strikethrough with a comment such as "my skin fell out of love" or "it did not give me the umph feeling anymore" for example 🤓 Thanks for being so thoughtful 😘
ReplyDeleteI think that yes that would be good. But can you find the time to review 1300 posts? Perhaps a post with the products you no longer like/ use and why might be more feasible?
ReplyDeleteI too think an occasional update would be grand. As I near retirement age I'm thinking I'll no lotbe able to spend what I do whilst working on face and skin care products. What about a blog on products for the aging poor?
ReplyDeleteDefiantly update ! Life's too short if there are new and better products
ReplyDeleteI also would appreciate updates that preserve the original, either by means of strikethrough editing or by linking to an update on a separate page. That way, I won't conclude that I'm crazy if I'm trying to find something that I'm sure I saw before, but I also won't be using old recommendations.
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for all of the work that you have -- and continue -- to put into this blog. You have been such a blessing. I especially appreciate your willingness to review the inexpensive lines!
I agree with those in support of updating. I only found your blog a couple of months ago so have trawled through loads of old posts and would find it very useful to see an updated opinion added at the bottom or top of the article if you have the time. Lovin' your work xx
ReplyDeleteI agree with those asking for updates to be shown whilst keeping existing post. I only found your blog a couple of months ago and have definitely looked at very old reviews as a resource. Any updating you find time for would be very appreciated. Lovin' your work xx
ReplyDeleteI like having the old reviews there on the basis that if it was good then,it's good now? Obviously if something's been reformulated and you think it's no longer as good, an updated review would be useful. But when I discovered your blog I spent many happy hours going back through all of your posts, right back to the very first one, and I learnt and discovered so much! I would never have found Hydraluron were it not for that and i'm grateful for it still! Thanks for posing the question though, the best thing about this blog is that you are so passionate about giving good advice, and caring about your readers and this just reinforces it. ❤ you!
ReplyDeleteI would love updated reviews - you're one of a couple sites I check before I buy a new product and the update would be so helpful!
ReplyDeleteAdding an update section at the bottom of the review could work, just to add your current opinion on the product instead of having to change the whole review
ReplyDeleteI like the idea of strick through.
ReplyDeleteThe strike through method strikes me (see what I did there?) as the option of choice: keeps the integrity of the original message yet allows us to know your updated thoughts.
ReplyDeleteAs someone else so adroitly pointed out: Who's the best blogger, then?
I personally would LOVE to know your fresh thoughts on old reviews. Whatever for,at is easier for you - a couple of sentences at the top or strike through. I'm one of those who goes back through old posts sometimes!! Thank you so much for everything you do.
ReplyDeleteI think it sounds like a lot of additional work Caroline. You have used and loved the products at some point therefore they are still good products and you do provide regular photos on Instagram of your day to day skin care regime. In addition to that your "top 5" (or 6 or 7) also gives a good overview of what you currently rate. You've got enough work to do and you can't spoon feed everyone. Any new folk finding your website for the first time will probably spend 5 days reading it before buying anything anyway. I've been following you for years and some of those hits will be me trying to remember what you said about a certain product or brand. Give yourself a break, the website info is fab. Do some more top 5 videos instead!
ReplyDeleteFrom a practical standpoint, Sophie is absolutely right. But as a relatively new devotée of your blog, I would find it immensely helpful to know what's fallen out of favor. This is what interns (paid in skincare and knowledge) are for!
Delete100% agree!!
DeleteI agree with Sophie's Mum. Caroline, you are an absolute star, thank you very much for your generosity in sharing your knowledge - I've been fortunate to have met you in the past, at a Body Shop event, and my skincare choices are much better informed.
DeleteAll the best,
Catarina
Yes please! Would love to get an update! Xxxx
ReplyDeleteI like the updating original posts. that way we can see whats changed too.
ReplyDeleteUpdated posts or an update post with all the products, please.
ReplyDeleteHi Caroline.
ReplyDeleteI think that you wouldn't have to do that if - yes I'm also the kind of girl who reads your opinion before buying a new skincare product - you make a catalogue of the ones you have reviewed, by categories and a sorth of rank. The forgot old ones, not used anymore will be in the bottom...
(I'm not sure if my English is ok...)
I reckon do an "update" section above the old section so that you can still read the old stuff clearly but it's easy to see your new opinion. I hate strikethroughs, and it would be interesting to see how your thoughts have changed.
ReplyDeleteYep!
DeleteYep! This is a great solution.
DeleteAbsolutely, yes to this
DeleteRuth's suggestion sounds great!
DeleteAgree! Great idea. Maybe use a different ink colour or italics?
DeleteI totally agree - you can see it at first glance "in the x years since this post they changed the formula and now it smells bad" or whatever, but then can still clearly read the original review.
DeleteWould DEFINITELY love to know when you've moved on from a loved product, yes! Even better would be a bit of information about what's replaced the product in your heart - I love the "Similar products" bit you include in your reviews, and this would be useful in the same way... if you're no longer using something, what have you moved on to? The market is always changing, would be lovely to know if something bigger/better has come along in the meantime.
ReplyDeleteIt would be very helpful to see updates if there is a major change in your opinion (perhaps at the bottom of an old review with a date stamp). I often search your site or go through a tag if I'm looking for a brand, type of product, or a specific product to see if you've reviewed it.
ReplyDeleteI like the strikethrough idea. Alternatively, you could leave a note to say your thoughts have been updated with a link, and create a new post.
ReplyDeleteThat sounds like an awful lot of work Caroline. The products were used and loved at one point, so they are decent products. Anyone can view your top 5 videos or see your regular instagram photos of you regular skin care regime. if you start this process it will never end and many people (myself included) go back and look at old posts for your initial thoughts and I may still buy that product. Give yourself a break.....you can't spoon feed everyone and your content across all communication channels is second to none.
ReplyDeleteSorry I've ranted twice! I never use this option but felt very strongly that you have enough on your plate. Use the time to come to Edinburgh and do facials!!! Our skin is hanging off up here!
ReplyDeleteI too would like an updated version, perhaps as an edit at the end of the original review? I delve into your past posts a fair amount so that would be super useful for me
ReplyDeleteYes! To illustrate the full extent to which you change lives: I was literally a cleansing wipe followed by moisturizer person until the moment you referred to cleansing wipes + moisturizer people who wonder why their skin look so bad. I bowed my head in shame and purchased a whole regimen worth of skin care products based solely on your blog posts (old and new alike). So yes, please, and thank you for thinking of it!
ReplyDeleteI think it would be amazing if you could 'stamp' the top of each review that's older than 18 months with things like: "don't use anymore"/"found better"/"like but dont love"/"still rate this". So nothing too comprehensive, but a guide. I admit I still use old reviews, and any update you can provide would be excellent! Thank you!
ReplyDeleteI think it would be great if you listed the products that you no longer use (or like). I am definitely one of the people that looks for your recommendations when I'm shopping, no matter how long ago it was posted.
ReplyDeleteThank you so much!
Updating would be great, but the amount of work scares me. I agree making a list/catalogue/index of the products would simplify your blogging life and do the job. Thank you for your work, Caroline!
ReplyDeleteI would love it (however is easiest for you) if you would let us know which products you no longer use. I am definitely one of the people that actively looks for your recommendations when out shopping, no matter how long ago you recommended it.)
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ReplyDeleteIf you have the capacity to provide updates to your old posts Caroline, that would be great. When I want to try a different product I always check the blog to see if you have reviewed it in the past and, more often than not, you have. If you've changed your opinion on something it would be really interesting to know why.
ReplyDeleteI think even strike through is going to be a heck of a lot of work and to say you're one busy lady is probably the understatement of they year !
ReplyDeleteIn my very humble opinion I think it depends on why you fell out of love / stopped using a product if it's a case of plain old got bored / found a nicer smelling thing/ I'm being a product tart like the rest of my readers it's not important but if the ingredients have changed or its caused a bad reaction or stopped working then maybe a quick update with a link back to the original post would be helpful.
This blog is such a mine of information I rarely buy anything without consulting it first BUT you have a lot of commitments outside that allow us to get your expert advice for free ,and we don't want you to wear yourself to a frazzle trying to update everything on top of your 101 other jobs , but if something suddenly started to make your face fall apart we'd appreciate the warning :-)
Yes I'd definitely like to see if your opinion of a product changes - like others have said though, in a way where we can still see the original post, then your updated thoughts - maybe crossed through or in a different font or just under an 'Update' heading? :)
ReplyDeleteyeahh, maybe go back to the original posts and add a "*" to the bottom and say "*Revision:/ *Update:" and then the date or something haha. :)
ReplyDeleteI like the strike through update, and mentioning it if it come up in comments somewhere. Don't delete it, I like the see if the reviews hold up months and years down the track.
ReplyDeleteI think strikethrough could be labour intensive, but a sentence or two (or paragraph or two) at the top of the review with your most recent thoughts would be great. Although I can see in some cases strikethrough is more useful. Date of your review is tres important though as you might revisit products again in a year or two with more thoughts, especially if a product has been discontinued and you've reviewed the replacement.
ReplyDeleteI definitely like some sort of updates on products if your opinion has changed,or the product itself has changed formulation.
ReplyDeleteAn "UPDATE:" at the top of the original review post, perhaps?
ReplyDeleteIt's tricky because you kind of have two audiences - those looking for reviews on a specific product and then your long time readers who would be interested to know what products you no longer use/recommend (but this group probably don't want to go through all your posts seeing which ones have been updated!) Is there a widget you can add the right hand side that would show recently updated. Or you could create an 'updated review' tag that would help people search more easily?
ReplyDeleteUpdates to the original would be amazing - after two years of dedicated subscription, I still go back and re-read things. Definitely a fan of the 'strikethrough' option as it would be really interesting to see how your opinions have changed and why. Thank you so much for putting in this extra work, so much appreciated!
ReplyDeleteMy view is probably colored by the fact that I'm in healthcare and once we report a result we do not change it. We add to or turn out a corrected report if needed but the original stays in there.
ReplyDeleteI would love to see you leave the original review but update it in whatever way is the least labor intensive to you - a banner across the top of the review, strike through or other method. Like others, I use your blog as an encyclopedia and would love updates particularly if something no longer works or has proven to be problematic after longer use.
Your body of work is amazing!
As a user of your site--not just a reader--I'd happily revisit your old posts to read your strikethrough, edited information. I would be grateful, however, for a little heads up nudge via your blog or instagram--just to let me know it's there.
ReplyDeleteYour words of wisdom are cross-stitched into a pillow that lives on my couch,
Amanda
I think marking an update on any old post with new thoughts, opinions, comments, or concerns is a lovely idea! :D I definitely use your blog as a resource for when I'm considering buying products so I would personally appreciate it.
ReplyDeleteThanks. :)
I absolutely second everything that Sophie's Mum said in her comments. You are far to busy to be updating old posts. If there's something you really feel you should change, just include a one or two sentence update at the top of the post with the date. Hate strike through and really feel it isn't necessary.
ReplyDeleteThat would be so kind, though it sounds like a ton of work for you. Maybe a more workable solution is to add short updates at the top of posts as they occur to you (you are getting a lot of questions about a product or you toss something because it breaks you out). Sometimes when I've found an old recommendation I've skimmed your Insta routines to see if it's still showing up once in a while :)
ReplyDeleteI actually think we have all been there and have gone thru scores of products ourselves. I think I would only be interested if a product really went wrong or was reformated in such a way that the record needed to be corrected. Thanks for all you do Caroline and I can't wait for your new pixie cleanser!!!
ReplyDeleteMy thoughts are that you definitely should not delete the old reviews but only update them at the end and give the reasoning for why you don't use it anymore/can no longer recommend it. I mean, there's a reason you used it/liked it at one point and you might have left different products behind for different reasons, so I think it's good for reader's to see both your reactions, then and now.
ReplyDeleteI would let it be...after all it stands as a historical documentation of your skin care journey! You continue to provide us with the latest and greatest with your product reviews and empties! Just my 2-cents!
ReplyDeleteHi from Japan! Love your blog. What about throwing all the ones you don't use anymore into a "past loves" folder? or something like that. It would take less time than striking out sentences from every single post... and that way we can see it at a glance, and you can come back to it easily (if necessary) to add comments.
ReplyDeleteWhen I'm looking at a new skincare product I always search your blog to see if you recommended it. Having outdated reviews and recommendations makes that process pointless.
ReplyDeletePerhaps a cheat sheet of sorts, where you have the different product categories serum, eye cream etc and within those categories you have your current recommendations. That way, when new and better products become available you can swap in the new ones and take out the old ones. This would also mean that you would not have to trail back through the blog and update every single review you've ever done!
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ReplyDeleteUpdates are always invaluable, but understand this can take so much time. For those of us that follow what you think about certain products having up to date info would be so appreciated. I really love the info you send out.
ReplyDeleteDo whatever you think best, we can try and figure it all out.
If you are coming from a desire to not leave "erroneous" content out there under your name, I get that. Products change, your knowledge has grown and so has the industries. Do what you have to do to feel settled.
ReplyDeleteI am always going back and searching your reviews, so updates would be wonderful. Something easy, though, because that could end up being a ton of work. Your info is priceless and expensive all at the same time ;)
ReplyDeleteYes please. Great idea.
ReplyDeleteI like the idea of "A happy medium would be using strikethrough and updating next to/under the original review." I must admit I do go back and try to find your opinions on specific types of products, as well as specific products I thought I remember you reviewing. Updates would be much appreciated. I know you're busy, so I am not expecting and overnight update, but as time allows those updates would be appreciated.
ReplyDeleteA strike-through would be fine with me Caroline if you care to go to the trouble. I admit to going back through the posts but do discount most of it because I know new products are coming out all the time. I always look for an update if I'm particularly interested in something. The cheat sheets are the most use to me and the 'best of' in acids or serums and that kind of thing. You have taught me more about skincare than anyone else and I pay close attention. The Hirons way works for me and has given me a result. I've wasted so much money on useless products over the years, can't tell you. And can't thank you enough. xx
ReplyDeleteI vote for updating but leaving the original post entact.
ReplyDeleteI guess it is what works best for you and your busy schedule. I do use your blog as a reference but I suppose an update would be linked in some way to the original post which may work if I remember to check that.
ReplyDeleteAs I am constantly going back through your posts from the very beginning (and videos), I like Ruth's idea of updating without deleting your past content. I really rely on your recommendations. Some workout for me (like May Lindstrom, Vintner's Daughter and Leahlani) and some my skin just doesn't agree with (or doesn't agree with my skin..lol). Anyhow, I vote for doing updates without taking the older posts down! Aloha!
ReplyDeleteit's probably a huge job to go update older posts but if there are any big changes or you changed your mind you could probably pop it as a comment on the top of the page?
ReplyDeleteHappy 6.5 year anniversary. I'm one the latecomers to the phenom that is Caroline Hirons and I binge-read your entire blog one weekend. I'm always referring to your old posts. I vote to updating but leaving the original post. A reason why you have changed your mind might also be helpful. Love your work and my skin thanks you XX PS. Would
ReplyDeleteI agree with this commentor who says, "Hi from Japan! Love your blog. What about throwing all the ones you don't use anymore into a "past loves" folder? or something like that. It would take less time than striking out sentences from every single post... and that way we can see it at a glance, and you can come back to it easily (if necessary) to add comments."
ReplyDeleteA 'Past Loves' blog post would be good. So, if anyone is curious, they can just go to that one post and get all the answers.
Great idea!
DeleteI think update without deleting too, but maybe just link the new post to the old and vice versa? That way we can know how you felt once upon a time.
ReplyDeleteI think if you just don't use it anymore then there's no point giving yourself unnecessary work. But if there's been a drastic change and you would absolutely never recommend that product, then go back and change it!
ReplyDeleteI think leave them. They were accurate at the time. Otherwise you'll be revising all content forever. Instead I'd love to see regular "I'm using now" and an annual version of that list too - including reference to things that have gone by the wayside. xx
ReplyDeleteHi Caroline, I'm still learning and regularly stop by your site, use your tags to look at your opinion on products. So an update would be mucho beneficial to me. I often find your 'Other similar products' verrry useful :)
ReplyDeleteI don't think you should change anything, just because your not using it anymore doesn't mean it doesn't work any more, when I search a product I google "product name Caroline Hirons" even if it's years old as there are always people new to good skincare looking for your thoughts on something, which usually means they already have an interest in said product already. It doesn't matter to me if you still do or don't use it, as I imagine you been at the forefront are always getting new things in, you would be forever updating your posts. I think if you loved it at the time and it did what it was meant to, leave it. Don't create a whole new workload for yourself, it will give you more time for new things and maybe time to grab a cuppa tea. Xx
ReplyDeleteStrikethrougb methods sounds like a good idea!
ReplyDeleteCant you just say "I reviewed it here" insert the link, "but I have now changed my mind because......"
ReplyDeleteI'don't love an update on your original posts please
ReplyDeleteI'don't love an update on your original posts please
ReplyDeleteIm sure there are already many great suggestions and this one might have been already suggested but I also use the older posts as a guide. I would love to see the original posts with an update as to why you no longer use it i.e changed ingredients etc etc. But I do understand that would be a huge undertaking, so even if in the title a little note saying "No Longer in Use" would also be very appreciated. Thank you for all the work you do, its changed my whole skincare regime and I have a better understanding of skincare.
ReplyDeleteHi Caroline - congratulations on how much your "empire" has grown in the last 6.5 years, you really deserve it. I think it would be a whole heap of work for you to update. I think there are a couple of exceptions where you might, however. One is if there is a product which people really associate with you - thinking P50, Emma Hardie, Kate Somerville etc here - and you stop using it because you have found a better version. So like you said the other day that you don’t use Hydraluron so much now. I would update Hydraluron posts to suggest more advanced formulations now available at a similar price point that you now prefer. Similarly Sunday Riley Luna - it sounds as if you would recommend Pestle & Mortar’s retinol oil over this now. The other would be if a company or brand changed so significantly that its ingredients/testing/quality was likely to be impacted - e.g. if May Lindstrom was bought out by a huge Chinese conglomerate (round about the time that hell freezes over?!!). Then people can make their own decision about using those products depending on their values.
ReplyDeleteOtherwise I think we all know that you only have so much time, and so much skin on your face, and a job that involves constantly changing and testing products. Like all of us you will have preferences for texture, fragrance, price, and what your skin can take so I don’t think you need to worry about updating most of your recommendations.
Thanks as ever for a great blog!
I think you should do the "update" underneath the old blogpost, telling us why yu changed your mind. But even with my small amount of blogposts I don't think I could find the time to do it, so I am mot sure where you would fin the extra hours.
ReplyDeleteLinda, Libra, Loca: Beauty, Baby and Backpacking
I read each and every one of your posts. I would LOVE an update. But, a simple: "no longer in use" is appropriate. (Ps: Are you still a fan of Aveda? Have you found any Mario Badescu products to work well for dehydrated skin, or use with perioral dermatitis?)
ReplyDeleteThe key here is the 'why'? It's slightly risky in some respects as without a clear explanation of 'why' views have changed- brings into q. credibility of reviews.
ReplyDeleteI'm team "update"! (as your blogpost come up when I research different products via google, I "need" to know if the points made are still valid :-)
ReplyDeletePlease could a search bar be incorporated into the mobile view of the blog. At the moment I can only search if I select "desktop" I noticed Ruth has a search facility on the mobile version of A Model Recommends. Apologies if an explanation why this isn't possible has already. been proffered. �� It would be most helpful x
ReplyDeleteJust one post: The Thrill is Gone with a list. It's easier for you and all of us are obsessives anyway so we will all eventually find it. And perhaps that post permanently poseted at the top fo the sidebar lists of posts.
ReplyDeleteYES this!!!
DeleteIf you could do a blog post just on the skincare you changed your mind about would be amazing because I read every single post it would be hard to go back and see which post you've updated or not. If you do update posts maybe you can tell us which ones you've updated. Lots of love and happy holidays Melissa
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ReplyDeleteI'm a new reader living just outside of Los Angeles; and I have found your cheat sheets and reviews very helpful, especially during Sephora's Rouge Sale earlier this month. They got LOTS of my money this go. I think it would be helpful to have a new post that updates your thoughts. It could be really brief and titled..."I've fallen out of love with...as of (insert date)."
ReplyDeleteIf possible, I would love to know what made you change your mind. But TIME!
Perhaps you could do a blog posts - "Products I used to love but I don't love anymore"...may be the ones you feel strongly about. I personally have bought products based on your blog posts. :)
ReplyDeleteI like the strikethrough option, along with a mention that a review has been updated somewhere on the blog. Thanks Caroline!
ReplyDeleteYes the strikethrough option is a good idea so we can see what your originally thought compared to what you currently think. Someone else also mentioned "products I used to love but not anymore" style post.
ReplyDeleteA strike through or maybe something written in bold type to say - UPDATE. I too use it for a resource so I would love to know when you have changed your mind on something, etc. Thank you for what you do, I tell everyone I know about you!
ReplyDeleteHi Caroline! I think updating the original post is a good idea. Thank you for your hard work trying to keep everything up-to-date and for even thinking about that. There's a reason why you are such a trusted blogger. Have a goodnight (hopefully with heat and hot water back on!)
ReplyDeleteIf you've changed your mind about something, I would LOVE to know. Perhaps a new post simply mentioning that you've updated your thoughts about a product, with the strike through option used in the original post.
ReplyDeleteid appreciate updating posts, or doing separate post with update I really value your opinion and always check this blog before I order anything (skincare)
ReplyDeletePlease update older posts. I regularly search for articles on the blog and would definitely appreciate an update (if there is any). Thanks! :-)
ReplyDeleteI think updating the original reviews would be great, rather than changing the original. It is always good to be able to see just where your opinions may have changed over time. Thanks for even thinking about doing this!
ReplyDeleteUpdating would be amazing - I'm one of those that read all the old posts :) :)
ReplyDeleteHi!
ReplyDeleteI think the strikedown would work best (more work for you though?), I can tell you that I have been reading and using your blog for research and use the search engine option most of the time... just today I was reading your Pixi Glow review and wondered if it was still accurate, or if the brand may have changed formulas in later released... and voila... you just posted an update on it today, which is awesome BTW. Thanks for all the info, looove the way you write this blog (I can literally hear you in my head as I am reading you) since I've watched your youtube videos I see you approach your writing in the same way, which, again, I love and enjoy very much. Thanks for keeping it real ;-)
I wouldn't mind a "products I have fallen out of love with" post ;)
ReplyDeleteyou could simply talk about a product and if in the past you talked about a similar that you don't love as much anymore, have a link to the old post, and vise versa. This way, they will all be connected.
ReplyDeleteFor what it's worth, I'm an editor/proofreader and a religious follower of your site, and if I ran a blog that was used as a resource/reference, I would do the following:
ReplyDeleteUpdate the original post without strike-throughs, but keep a note at the top of the page telling the reader what date the most recent update was given. At the bottom of the post, I'd add a "Hiron's History" or "Caroline's Commentary" that gives a brief history of your relationship to the product: how you loved it at first, what product has since made it obsolete for you personally--or, on the contrary, how the product didn't shine for you at first but what happened to give you a more positive view of it. But this can be brief, as your more detailed explanation would be in the standardized review framework you already work from. That way, your previous opinions are preserved, but the post maintains a cleaner, sleeker look by avoiding strikethroughs.
And then, once a month or so, you can do a post saying, "These are the pages/sheets that have been updated this month," and list the links so readers can stay current on which reviews have changed.
Thanks for all the work you do for this blog!
I know it would be an incredible amount of work for you, but updates to the blogs would be so helpful! I definitely use your blog as a resource and use it every time I'm shopping for a new product :)
ReplyDeletehello - your site is used as a great source for information and the older sources are used as a good knowledge base, so if the author of knowledge base has a change of thought about the information then updating is great way to keep the trust with your followers and keeps it still relevant regardless of how old the posts are. It still represents you and it that's changed then the source should change.
ReplyDeleteLike the strikethrough option
ReplyDeleteCan you please do a review of Dermaflash and dermaplaning in general? It seems to be the new in-thing but, does it result in stubble? :(
ReplyDeleteHmm .... such a good question. I would opt for an update at top of blog. x
ReplyDeleteThe key thing is that you don't create an industry for yourself here. Your readers need to take a bit of responsibility here too so perhaps a something held as a Cheat Sheet which you provide updates? If I search your site and find that you haven't spoken about a product for a couple of years, I would take that into account. If you feel really strongly, that a product/brand you have recommended (or perhaps not recommended) in the past has materially changed to the extent that you feel you need to provide an up-to-date post, then in those circumstances it might be best to provide an update on the original post in the way you find easiest. Keep it simple Caroline, you are busy enough!
ReplyDeleteAn update will be so helpful! Thanks in advance :)
ReplyDeleteI would prefer an update, really. It makes it easier to search :)
ReplyDeleteHi, I'm a new reader and I've read from the start to present. It's been so informative and encouraged me to try products and techniques I wouldn't have known about or thought to use otherwise (so thanks for your advice!) Lots of things can change in the years you've been writing blogs. I really like your approach of avoiding negativity for the sake of it but perhaps if a former "must-have" has been eclipsed by something else, it would be really valuable to know.
ReplyDeleteThank you once again
As always, thank you (must be said first & foremost). I think a separate update post would be great. I don't like the idea of you "striking" older posts -- they were no doubt exactly right at the time you wrote them and should remain. What I think would be helpful would be, if possible, for you simply to link any older posts to the more current. You can have a banner at the top of the old post & refer people to the more recent, which can also link back in time to the original. History should not be tinkered with, even as we consider and hopefully improve upon it! :) Thank you again for all your loving and excellent work.
ReplyDeleteWould a video with you smashing the products you don't like anymore to heavy metal music be something you would consider? Pleeeease?
ReplyDeleteI would love to know how your opinions changed. I think going back and editing each post would be an insane amount of work. Perhaps consider doing a few new blog posts with the updates and you can use tags so that if someone searches the tag/keyword, both the old and the new review come up.
ReplyDeleteCaroline that would be really helpful since I use your blog as my general skincare bible and wont normally buy any skincare unless it has the Caroline Hirons seal of aproval (please can we make that into a thing as it would make life so much easier!) Updating old posts and strike through updating the comments would be brilliant, however I don't worry that this might be time consuming and take you further away from our YouTube screens since you work do hard already Thank you for all your hard work and flipping amazing advice these past years
ReplyDeleteWould benefit greatly from an update. I use your information regularly. Thank you Caroline
ReplyDeleteWould truly appreciate an update. Use and rely on your post regularly! Thank you Caroline
ReplyDeleteHi Caroline!
ReplyDeleteThank you for asking us. Personally, I would love to be informed of updates to old reviews. I believe that the best way to ensure that new and old readers benefit from updates would be to
1) Publish a new blog post with either your new review or an altered review.
2) Within the new review, publish the hyperlink to the previous review for interested readers
3) Within the old review, publish the hyperlink to the new review for interested readers.
I think this would result in the least amount of confusion for readers of any article, ensuring everyone gets the most up-to-date information for looking after their skin. Also, there would be no reshuffling/reorganising of the blog itself = less work :)
Hi Caroline,
ReplyDeleteThank you for asking us. I believe that the best way to ensure every reader (new and old) receives the most up-to-date info for looking after their skin is:
1) Publish a new post with either a new review or an altered review
2) In the new post, include a hyperlink to previous review
3) In the old post, add a hyperlink the the new review
Cheers!!
I think you should leave the old posts as is. They are dated, so we know that they're older and just update as products come up. Following some of those old posts changed our lives ,well our skin. So the posts aren't harmful. We know that you use many different products and they'll change as you're introduced to new ones. A hyperlink in an old post would be good if you've done a new review/ change of opinion but only if it comes up.
ReplyDeleteI absolutely want to hear your latest and greatest thoughts on products, so please do post new reviews. You can always mention that there's an old review in your archives.
ReplyDeleteI think an update would be great given that we use your site (old posts included) as a guide when buying products. I bought a cleanser following a raving review and if i wasnt lucky to have met you in person recently I would have never known that your opinion on the product changed (I believe due to reformulation of the product). I wouldn't suspect that it was causing the irritation either. I think a review file or updated links would be fantastic and thank you for considering it!
ReplyDeletean update would be great. I do not mind on the format (new blog post, strikethrough...) do whatever is easiest. I am happy with updated information as I use your site as a reference. thanks BTW for a great blog and advice.
ReplyDeleteLove this idea
ReplyDeleteA strike through with your updated thoughts below would be MUCH appreciated Caroline. I'm always reading your posts, old and new! xx
ReplyDelete