The Hidden Dangers of Sleeping in Makeup
The Ideal vs. Reality
We’ve all been there – exhausted, lazy, or simply too caught up in our favorite TV show to bother with our nighttime skincare routine. But what seems like a harmless habit can have serious consequences for our skin.
The Consequences of Neglect
According to dermatologists, sleeping in makeup is one of the worst things we can do to our skin. Throughout the day, our makeup accumulates harmful free radicals from the air, which break down collagen and accelerate the aging process. Leaving these toxins on our skin overnight allows them to wreak havoc while we sleep. Dr. Joel Schlessinger, a dermatologist and RealSelf contributor, warns that this can lead to a loss of clear, smooth skin.
The Benefits of a Clean Slate
On the other hand, removing our makeup before bed gives our skin a clean canvas for any nighttime products to absorb. Dr. Whitney Bowe, a dermatologist in New York City, emphasizes the importance of a clean face, saying, “There’s truth to the phrase ‘beauty sleep.’” By washing away makeup and impurities, we allow our skin to breathe and recharge.
The Makeup Culprits
While all makeup can cause damage, some types are worse than others. Oil-based foundations and primers can clog pores, while concealer can exacerbate acne. Leaving lipstick on can lead to dry, chapped lips, and mascara can cause brittle, breaking eyelashes. Eye makeup can even lead to irritation or serious eye infections.
The Morning After
So, what happens if we do fall asleep in our makeup? Don’t panic – our skin has a natural resilience to environmental stress and damage. However, making it a habit can lead to premature aging. To recover, Dr. Bowe recommends washing your face twice and applying a face mask to replenish moisture. Changing your pillowcase can also help remove leftover makeup and bacteria.
Quick Fixes
For those nights when washing our face seems like too much effort, makeup-removing wipes can be a useful quick fix. Dr. Bowe suggests keeping them on your nightstand as a reminder to head to the bathroom for a more thorough cleanse. Alternatively, try a cleansing “water” that removes impurities and makeup without the need for actual water. Our derms recommend Dr. Brandt’s XYY Dual Fusion Water or La Roche-Posay’s Micellar Water.
Make a Change Tonight
By prioritizing our nighttime skincare routine, we can wake up to clearer, smoother skin. So, take the extra few minutes to wash away the day’s impurities and give your skin the TLC it deserves. Your skin will thank you.
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