No matter how elaborate your Halloween costume is, it’s not complete without makeup. And we’re not talking about some foundation and a little eyeshadow. This holiday is all about drama, so people pack on face paint and heavy-duty costume makeup. While it can be fun to transform your face for a night, your skin might be suffering underneath.
Halloween makeup can irritate the skin because it contains more chemicals, fragrances, and artificial dyes than regular makeup. If you don’t want a post-Halloween nightmare on your face, it’s best to take some precautions. Here are some ways to take care of your skin before and after trick or treating.
Can I Use Halloween Makeup From Previous Years?
It might seem like a waste to throw away your Halloween makeup, but it’s not a good idea to reuse the palette from last year. Makeup that has been sitting around untouched may already have bacteria buildup. It’s also likely that its ingredients have already broken down.
Are There Harmful Chemicals in Halloween Makeup?
Check for harmful chemicals before purchasing Halloween makeup. Take it as a warning if you see heavy metals, formaldehyde, artificial dyes, or parabens on the label. Even if a product seems harmless, perform a patch test a few days before Halloween. That way, you can see if your skin will react negatively.
Should I Clean My Skin Before Applying Makeup?
The last thing you want is to trap dirt underneath heavy Halloween makeup. Go in with a mild cleanser to remove excess oils and dead skin cells. Avoid using makeup wipes to cleanse because they can be too stripping.
Once your base is clean, it’s time to prime it. The primer will act as a protective layer over your skin, plus your makeup will go on smoother and stay put longer.
What Types of Skincare Products Should I Use?
Hold off on skincare products that can dry out your skin or irritate it. Harsh soaps, abrasive scrubs, and alcohol-based toners are some examples of items to avoid. Peels aren’t a good idea either because they remove the top layer of your skin and allow other products to penetrate deeper. Using a peel on your face before applying Halloween makeup can lead to clogged pores or a bad breakout.
Does Makeup Provide Sun Protection?
Even if your skin is under layers of makeup, you should still apply sunscreen if the Halloween festivities are during the day. You can use powder sunscreen if you don’t want to feel overly sticky. It’s also much easier to reapply if you have Halloween makeup on and are out and about.
Should I Take Off My Makeup Before Bed?
Avoid wearing your Halloween makeup longer than you have to. Take it all off before sleeping, even if you’re exhausted. You can start with an oil-based cleanser to remove the makeup without stripping your skin dry. You can then go in with a water-based cleanser to get rid of dirt, sweat, and remaining traces of makeup.
Even if the makeup is difficult to remove, don’t use harsh cleansing products and avoid rubbing your face vigorously. Be as gentle as you can to prevent any skin irritation.
The Bottom Line
Halloween is the perfect time to experiment with makeup and try on a different look. But your skin shouldn’t have to suffer for a night of fun. Be careful about what you put on your face, prep your skin beforehand, and give it the care it deserves after the festivities. For more information, contact Complete Family Dermatology at (402) 423-1111.
