by Whether you’ve just fallen through the door after a night on the Tempranillo or you’re just too tired after a Netflix binge, it’s often time to take your makeup off before hitting the to-do list. before bed.
Of course, we know that not cleansing your face at night is a bad skincare habit, but the impact of not removing your makeup could be much worse than we realize.
“Removing your makeup every night is an essential part of maintaining healthy, clear skin and preventing potential long-term damage,” explains Dr Karishma Hemmady, consultant dermatologist at Stratum Clinics.
What bacteria are we leaving on our skin overnight as we sleep?
Not sure if you need to wash your face before going to bed? Maybe thinking about the evil you are leaving on your face will change your mind overnight.
“If you don’t remove your makeup before bed, different types of bacteria can accumulate on your skin overnight,” explains Dr. Hemmady.
Some of the common bacteria that may be left on your face include:
Staphylococcus aureus: This bacterium is commonly found on the skin and can cause infections if it gets into a wound or break in the skin. “It can lead to conditions like acne or folliculitis (inflammation of the hair follicles),” explains Dr. Hemmady.
Acnes propionibacterium: Also known as P. acnes, this bacterium 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 pimples and blackheads,” says Dr Hemmady.
Streptococcus species: Different species of Streptococcus bacteria may be present 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 on the skin compared to the gut, Dr. Hemmady says that E. coli can be transferred to the skin from contaminated hands or surfaces. “It could cause skin infections if it gets into cuts or scrapes,” she says.
Enterococcus species: Enterococcus bacteria are often found in the gastrointestinal tract but can also live in the skin. “Infections with Enterococcus species can occur if they enter wounds or mucous membrane,” says Dr. Hemmady.
Risks of sleeping in makeup overnight
Of course, sleeping on a face full of bacteria won’t be great for the skin.
“The presence of bacteria on the skin can lead to various skin issues and health concerns, especially if makeup is not removed properly,” explains Dr. Hemmady.
Risks of bacterial build-up on the skin include:
Acne
When pores are clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria, it can lead to inflammation, pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads.
Folliculitis.
This condition occurs when hair follicles become inflamed due to a bacterial or fungal infection. It can lead to red, itchy bumps or pustules around hair follicles, similar to acne but often more localized.
Skin infections
Bacteria left on the skin can enter small cuts, scrapes, or breaks in the skin barrier, causing infections such as cellulitis, impetigo, or abscesses. “These infections can cause redness, swelling, pain, and may require medical treatment,” explains Dr. Hemmady.
Eye infections
Mascara left on overnight, for example, can harbor bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus, which can lead to eye infections such as conjunctivitis (pink eye) or styes (localized infections of the eyelid glands).
Contact dermatitis
Some people may develop allergic reactions or irritant dermatitis due to prolonged contact with certain makeup ingredients or bacteria present in the makeup. “Symptoms can include redness, itching, swelling, and blistering,” says Dr. Hemmady.
Aging prematurely
Chronic inflammation from bacterial build-up on the skin can contribute to skin aging by breaking down collagen and elastin fibers, leading to wrinkles, fine lines, and sagging skin over time.
Hyperpigmentation
Inflammatory conditions caused by bacterial infections or irritation can sometimes lead to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, where areas of the skin become darker than the surrounding skin due to increased melanin production.
Heavy, uneven complexion
Makeup can inhibit the skin’s natural renewal process, resulting in a smooth, uneven complexion over time. “Dead skin cells, trapped makeup, and debris can accumulate on the skin’s surface, making it rough and patchy,” says Dr. Hemmady.
Puffiness and dark circles
Leaving eye makeup on overnight, such as mascara and eyeliner, can contribute to 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,” explains Dr. Hemmady.
A proprietary method for removing makeup before bed
So, even if you’re really tired, wash your face before you go to bed – your skin will definitely thank you later.
Use makeup remover: Choose one that suits your skin type and preferences, such as micellar water, cleansing oil, or makeup removing wipes.
Focus on the eyes: Use a separate eye makeup remover or a cotton pad soaked in makeup remover to gently wipe the makeup, being careful not to pull or pull on the delicate skin around the eyes.
Clean the skin: Massage the cleanser onto damp skin using a circular motion, paying attention to areas where it seems to accumulate, such as the T-zone and around the hairline.
Rinse well: After cleansing, rinse your face thoroughly with warm water to remove any makeup, dirt and cleanser residue from the skin. Pat your skin dry with a clean towel, being careful not to rub or pull the skin.
Moisture: Finish by applying a moisturizer suitable for your skin type to help hydrate and nourish the skin overnight. Choose a moisturizer with mild, non-comedogenic ingredients that won’t clog pores or cause breakouts.
Protect your lips: Don’t forget to remove any lipstick or lip product before bed. Use a gentle lip scrub or damp washcloth to exfoliate lips, then apply a nourishing lip balm to keep them hydrated overnight.
