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So...it happened. You slept in your makeup. You've broken the cardinal rule of beauty editors and skin experts, and you did the one thing you've been told you should NEVER to do in the name of skincare. (Oops.) But is it that bad? "Sleeping in your makeup traps dirt, oil, and even bacteria underneath your skin," says Joshua Zeichner, MD and director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. "Not only does sleeping in your makeup promote irritation (which can mean red, blotchy, itchy, or peeling skin) but it causes eczema and breakouts as well." But why, exactly? According to Dr. Zeichner, "When it's not fully cleansed, your skin isn't able to adjust to the overnight renewal process and maintain healthy hydration levels. It won't be able to function properly with a heavy makeup layer sitting on top all night long."
Maybe you got home late from girls' night and were too exhausted, or maybe you pulled an all-nighter studying and just didn't have the time. Whatever the reason, it happened — and as long as you don't make it a nightly habit, we're here to tell you it's actually not the end of the world. That is, if you follow these steps. And stressing about it will just exacerbate any impending breakouts, so chill out and let yourself off the hook (it happens to literally all of us!). Just vow to try your hardest not to make the mistake again.
Here’s EXACTLY what to do after sleeping in your makeup.
Step 1. Remove it immediately.
This should be a no-brainer, but take off your makeup as soon as you wake up. First, use a makeup wipe or cleansing oil, then double-cleanse with your go-to face wash. "In some cases, a double cleanse is necessary," says Dr. Zeichner. If you're not sure which cleanser to use, make sure you follow these guidelines:
For oily/acne-prone skin: "Use a salicylic acid cleanser to remove excess oil," says Dr. Zeichner. "It will also help exfoliate dead cells to unblock pores and keep them open." His pick: Aveeno Clear Complexion Foaming Cleanser, $7.99.
For dry skin: "If you have dry skin, make sure to use a hydrating cleanser," he says. A solid option: CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser, $7.99.
For sensitive skin: "A gentle milk, cream, or micellar water cleanser is best." Dr. Zeichner recommends La Roche-Posay Micellar Water Cleanser, $7.99.
Step 2. Use a skin-balancing toner.
This step is crucial in balancing out your now-out-of-whack skin. Choose one like SkinCeuticals Equalizing Toner, $34, that has aloe vera to reduce redness, AHAs to help exfoliate dead skin cells, and chamomile extract to accelerate healing and minimize scarring from breakouts.
Step 3. Treat with acne-killing ingredients.
Ever hear of benzoyl peroxide? It's a must. "Benzoyl peroxide kills acne-causing bacteria, in turn opening up blocked pores and reducing skin inflammation," says Dr. Zeichner. A BP cream we love: Paula's Choice Clear Regular Strength Daily Skin Clearing Treatment, $18. But be careful: This stuff is no joke, and will seriously dry you out if used too often or incorrectly. "In order to avoid skin irritation and dryness, look for a lower concentration (around 2.5%) of the ingredient. And if you've got extremely sensitive skin and cannot tolerate a leave-on treatment, try a BP cleanser to start."
Step 4. Let your skin breathe.
AKA don't put any more makeup on for at least 12 hours. But if you must — pick a medicated formula. "If you are oily or have acne-prone skin, makeup, especially liquid foundations may cause breakouts," says Dr. Zeichner. "Look for powder or mineral foundations, or if you want a liquid, choose one formulated for acne that contains acne-preventing salicylic acid." Neutrogena Skin Clearing Makeup comes in both liquid and powder formulas, and is dermatologist-approved.
Related:
7 Face Washing Mistakes You Never Knew You Were Making
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