Get your skin back to normal after a night of heavy Halloween makeup and sweating with this expert’s tips
From The Bride of Frankenstein to Chappell Roan, your Halloween look may require heavier makeup than your face is used to, causing irritation and flare-ups. To prepare your face for this makeup-heavy holiday, there are some steps you should take before and after applying the look, according to one professional.
“As a beauty professional, I love a good Halloween look, but I’ve also seen what cheap Halloween makeup can do to a person’s face if they don’t prepare for the aftermath,” laments Sara Millecam, a beauty expert and the Director of Education at Beautiful Brows and Lashes. “Heavy makeup can take a toll on your skin, leaving it dull and clogged if not handled with care, both before and after application”.
Beautiful Brows and Lashes is an online beauty retailer and educational centre. Their experts research the best beauty tips and compile them to help future beauty experts learn the best techniques for all skin types.
After a particularly festive Halloween, expert Sara Millecam discovered the hard way what can happen to skin if it isn’t properly cleansed and moisturised after an intricate Halloween makeup look.
Prep Your Skin Before Applying Makeup
Before you reach for the face paint or glitter, make sure your skin is ready for what you’re about to put it through.
According to Sara, “One of the most important steps for Halloween makeup is skin preparation. This involves cleansing, toning, and moisturising your skin to create a smooth canvas. I always recommend using a primer suited to your skin type as it acts as a barrier between your makeup and your skin, protecting it from potential irritants.”
Prepping your skin with the right products not only improves the longevity of your makeup but also minimises the risk of breakouts and irritation. With Halloween being on the last day of October, the weather will be getting cold, so your skin will thank you for the extra moisturiser.
Use Makeup Products Suitable for Your Skin Type
With the vast array of Halloween makeup options available, it’s important to choose products that are suitable for your skin type.
Sara advises, “Not all Halloween makeup is created equal. Some products, particularly those meant for costumes, can be heavy and laden with harsh chemicals. The best rule of thumb is to avoid buying makeup at the costume store and search for products from reputable makeup companies.”
If you have oily or acne-prone skin, avoid heavy creams and opt for water-based or oil-free formulas. For dry skin, seek out products with hydrating ingredients that won’t cause further dryness.
Proper Makeup Removal Is Key
At the end of the night, the temptation to fall asleep with your makeup still on is real, but this can wreak havoc on your skin for days afterward.
Sara stresses the importance of resisting this urge: “I always tell people, no matter how tired you are, don’t go to bed with your Halloween makeup on. Leaving it on overnight can clog your pores, leading to breakouts and skin irritation.”
To properly remove Halloween makeup, start with an oil-based cleanser to break down the makeup, followed by a gentle, water-based cleanser to fully clean your skin. For stubborn glitter or waterproof products, consider using a micellar water or makeup remover specifically designed to dissolve long-wear formulas.
Post-Makeup Skin Treatment
After thoroughly removing your Halloween makeup, treat your skin with nourishing products that help restore its balance.
“Hydration is just as important after a night of wearing heavy makeup as it is before putting it on,” says Sara. “Apply a hydrating serum with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, followed by a thick moisturiser to lock in moisture. If your skin feels irritated, a soothing sheet mask or aloe-based gel can work wonders.”
Consider using serums that include antioxidants to help repair the skin and reduce any inflammation caused by makeup products. Exfoliating gently the next morning can also help remove any leftover debris, but be careful not to overdo it as this could cause overcorrection and make your skin very sensitive. Stick to mild exfoliants to avoid this irritation.
Pay Attention to Sensitive Areas
Certain areas, like around the eyes and lips, can be particularly sensitive to heavy makeup, especially if you aren’t used to wearing lipstick or heavy eye shadow.
Sara recommends using makeup removers specifically formulated for these areas. “For your eyes, opt for a gentle eye makeup remover, and for your lips, a hydrating balm after cleansing is essential. These areas are more delicate and prone to irritation, so treat them with extra care.”
By following these tips, your skin will stay fresh and healthy long after the spooky season ends. Make sure to pamper your skin post-Halloween with the right products and a little extra TLC. Consider having a spooky movie night with your friends following Halloween so you can all sit around with face masks on and heal together.
Sara Millecam, Director of Education at Beautiful Brows and Lashes Professional, comments:
“After a night of wearing heavy Halloween makeup, you must follow a proper routine to protect your skin and wake up fresh the next morning. Always prep with the right products beforehand, like a primer and moisturiser, to create a barrier.”
“Resist the temptation to fall asleep with your makeup on, and instead remove it thoroughly with an oil-based cleanser followed by a gentle wash. Finish with hydrating serums and moisturisers to restore your skin’s balance and prevent irritation. These simple steps will save you days of discomfort in the first cold days of November.”
