Even if you have been as cool as a cucumber and not sweating all day, it’s still wise to reapply fresh makeup over clean skin before you head out for the evening. If you don’t, you will be applying new make-up on top of the old. You will also seal in any dirt or debris that has accumulated on your skin during the day. That debris gets pushed further into the skin where it can lead to breakouts, redness, and skin irritation, and even erythema.
–––––––––––––
Imagine trying to paint the Mona Lisa on a dirty canvas. The colours wouldn't blend correctly. The fine details would be lost. She might still have the Mona Lisa smile, but the overall effect would be less than desirable. The same principle applies to makeup application – a clean canvas, in this case, your freshly washed face, is crucial for achieving a flawless look and maintaining healthy skin.
There are several compelling reasons why washing your face before applying make-up is an absolute must-do. Here's a breakdown of the consequences if you don’t.
Dirt and Oil Will Do Their Worst
As you power through your day, your skin gets covered in dirt, oil, sweat, and dead cells. Make-up is formulated to be applied to clean, dry skin. Without a wash-up before make-up, the dirt and oil create a barrier that prevents your make-up from adhering properly. Make-up applied on an unclean face will look patchy and uneven, with foundation clinging to dry patches and oil causing products to slide around. This means your make-up will likely wear off faster throughout the day.
Clogged Pores Today, Breakouts Tomorrow
Dirt and oil mix with your make-up, forming a thick layer that plugs pores. This disrupts the natural flow of sebum (oil) and can lead to whiteheads, blackheads, and even painful cysts. Make-up applied on top of this build-up further exacerbates the problem, trapping bacteria and hindering the skin's natural ability to breathe.
Excess Irritation and Redness
Skin that is unclean can quickly become red, itchy, and extremely uncomfortable. Bacteria trapped under make-up irritates the skin, causing inflammation and redness. Applying make-up on already irritated skin can worsen these symptoms and potentially trigger allergic reactions. Sensitive skin types and people troubled by acne and rosacea are particularly susceptible to this, experiencing a heightened reaction to the combination of make-up and unwashed skin.
Accelerated Ageing
Free radicals in everyday dirt and pollution can damage skin cells and contribute to premature ageing. Leaving make-up build-up on your face weakens your skin's natural defence mechanisms. If you want to keep your skin looking as youthful as you can, cleanliness is essential.
Make Cleansing a Habit for Flawless Skin
Washing your face with a good cleanser before applying make-up should be a non-negotiable step in your daily routine. Here are some tips to ensure a thorough cleanse:
- Use lukewarm water and a gentle cleanser suitable for your skin type.
- Massage the cleanser gently onto your face for 30 seconds, focusing on areas prone to oiliness.
- Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water and pat your face dry with a clean, soft towel.
Easy peasy! By incorporating this simple step into your routine, you'll be well on your way to achieving a flawlessly made-up face and, more importantly, promoting healthy, radiant skin. Remember, your skin is your canvas – treat it with care and be rewarded with a beautiful work of art: YOU!
