Whether you’ve just walked through the door after a night at Tempranillo or you’re So Tired after a Netflix binge, taking off your makeup before bed can often fall to the bottom of your pre-bed to-do list.
Sure, we know that not cleansing your face at night is a bad skincare habit, but the effects of not removing your makeup can be much worse than we think.
Stratum Clinics consultant dermatologist Dr. “Removing your makeup every night is an important part of maintaining healthy, clear skin and preventing potential long-term damage,” explains Karishma Hemmady.
What bacteria do we leave on our skin overnight by leaving our makeup on?
Still not convinced you should wash your face before getting into bed? Maybe the thought of the mess you left on your face overnight might change your mind.
“If you don’t remove your make-up before going to bed, various types of bacteria can build up on your skin overnight,” Dr Hemmady explains.
Some of the common bacteria that may remain on your face include:
Staphylococcus aureus: This bacteria is usually found on the skin and can cause infections if it gets into wounds or cracks in the skin. “It can lead to conditions such as acne or folliculitis (inflammation of the hair follicles),” explains Dr Hemmady.
Propionibacterium acnes: Also known as P. acnes, this bacteria is associated with the development of acne. “It thrives in the oily environment of the skin’s pores and can contribute to the formation of acne and blackheads,” adds Dr Hemmady.
Streptococcus species: Various types of Streptococcus bacteria can be found on the skin. “While some are harmless, others can cause infections such as impetigo (a contagious skin infection) or cellulitis (a bacterial skin infection),” says Dr Hemmady.
Escherichia coli (E. coli): Although it is less common in the skin compared to the intestines, Dr. Hemmady says E. coli can potentially be transferred to the skin from contaminated hands or surfaces. “If it gets into cuts or scrapes, it can cause skin infections,” he adds.
Enterococcus species: Enterococcus bacteria are often found in the gastrointestinal tract but can also live on the skin. “Infections caused by Enterococcus species can occur if they enter wounds or mucous membranes,” Dr Hemmady adds.
Risks of sleeping with make-up on throughout the night
Of course, sleeping with a face full of bacteria will not be good for your skin.
“Having bacteria on your skin can lead to a variety of skin problems and health problems, especially if makeup is not removed properly,” explains Dr Hemmady.
Some of the risks associated with bacterial buildup on the skin include:
Acne
When pores become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria, inflammation can lead to acne, blackheads, and whiteheads.
Folliculitis.
This condition occurs when the hair follicles become inflamed due to bacterial or fungal infection. It can result in red, itchy bumps or pustules around the hair follicles, which resemble pimples but are usually more localized.
skin infections
Bacteria remaining on the skin can enter small cuts, scrapes, or cracks in the skin barrier, leading to infections such as cellulitis, impetigo, or abscess. “These infections can cause redness, swelling, pain and may require medical treatment,” Dr Hemmady explains.
eye infections
For example, mascara left on overnight can harbor bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus, which can lead to eye infections such as conjunctivitis (pink eye) or styes (localized infections in the eyelid glands).
contact dermatitis
Some people may develop allergic reactions or irritant dermatitis due to prolonged contact with certain makeup or bacteria found in makeup. “Symptoms can include redness, itching, swelling and blisters,” Dr Hemmady adds.
premature aging
Chronic inflammation caused by bacterial buildup on the skin can contribute to skin aging by breaking down collagen and elastin fibers, which can lead to wrinkles, fine lines, and sagging skin over time.
hyperpigmentation
Inflammatory conditions caused by bacterial infections or irritants can sometimes lead to postinflammatory hyperpigmentation, in which areas of skin become darker than the surrounding skin due to increased melanin production.
Dull, uneven skin color
Makeup can inhibit the skin’s natural renewal process, leading to a dull, uneven complexion over time. “Dead skin cells, trapped makeup and debris can build up on the surface of the skin, leaving it looking rough and lifeless,” adds Dr Hemmady.
Puffiness and dark circles
Leaving eye makeup, such as mascara and eyeliner, on overnight can cause puffiness and dark circles around the eyes. “Makeup residue can irritate the delicate skin around the eyes, causing inflammation and fluid retention, which can manifest as puffiness and dark circles,” Dr Hemmady explains.
The expert-approved way to remove makeup before bed
So even if you are very tired, wash your face before going to bed; Your skin will definitely thank you later.
Use a makeup remover: Choose one that suits your skin type and preferences, such as micellar water, cleansing oil, or makeup remover wipes.
Focus on the eyes: Use a special eye makeup remover or cotton pads soaked in makeup remover to gently remove makeup, being careful not to tug or pull the delicate skin around the eyes.
Clean the skin: Massage the cleanser into damp skin in circular motions, paying attention to areas where makeup tends to accumulate, such as the T-zone and around the hairline.
Rinse thoroughly: After cleansing, rinse your face thoroughly with warm water to remove any remaining makeup residue, dirt, and cleanser from the skin. Dry your skin with a clean towel, being careful not to rub or pull it.
Moisturize: Finish the process by applying a moisturizer suitable for your skin type to help moisturize and nourish the skin throughout the night. Choose a moisturizer that contains gentle, non-comedogenic ingredients that won’t clog pores or cause breakouts.
Protect your lips: Don’t forget to remove lipstick or lip product before going to bed. Use a gentle lip scrub or a damp washcloth to exfoliate your lips, then apply a nourishing lip balm to keep them moisturized overnight..