This is only getting worse. Not only do things not work, they don't last long either. So everything is continually being replaced by an even more inferior product, that does not work. Or, at least, it does not work as well as the original product, years ago (if it ever worked).

Petrovic: Yeah, because when you feel good about yourself, you don't buy stuff. Paranoia, fear, inadequacy---that all sells products. It's also a part of the ad's job to create and continually foster an environment where you're perpetually terrified into purchasing things that don't work.

via Selling Shame: 40 Outrageous Vintage Ads Any Woman Would Find Offensive | Mental Floss.