For some of us, applying make-up is a daily ritual. While this allows us to look our best every time we leave the house, it can have various negative effects on our skin. Below are just some of the negative implications of wearing makeup every day.
Clogged pores
Makeup can contribute to blackheads and pimples by clogging up pores. This is particularly the case if you have oily skin. It’s not always the make-up itself that blocks pores – makeup may simply be trapping sweat and bacteria in your pores. When you go makeup-free, this sweat and bacteria can more easily escape, plus you have the option to clean your face throughout the day.
Premature wrinkles
Wearing makeup every day can prevent your skin from being able to breathe, trapping pollutants in your skin. These pollutants can break down collagen and elastin within the skin, leading to premature wrinkles. Sleeping with makeup on is particularly bad for your skin as your skin then never has a chance to breathe. If you want to keep your skin looking youthful longer, consider taking a break from make-up.
Skin allergies
Some people can develop allergies to certain ingredients within makeup. This can lead to dryness, rashes or even hives. Recurring use of makeup that causes allergies may lead to permanent scarring of the skin. If you’ve noticed any of these symptoms, taking a break from makeup could be necessary for protecting your skin. There are hypoallergenic make-ups that you can use and anti-allergy medication that you can take, but wearing makeup less could be the simpler solution.
Cancer?
Studies show an increased risk of getting skin cancer in those that regularly wear makeup compared to those that don’t. This could be due to various toxic heavy metals found in many cosmetics. There’s no hard evidence to show that makeup is definitely a cause of cancer, but the link is still something to be wary of.
How to start wearing less makeup
By wearing makeup less, you can help to maintain healthier skin. Of course, wearing less makeup isn’t an easy step to take – at first, you may want to do it gradually such as exploring nude tones or skipping foundation. This may help you to become comfortable with less makeup.
It’s then worth looking into natural beauty techniques. Instead of focusing on make-up, focus on skincare – this includes using moisturizers, exfoliators, and skin serums. There are many blogs such as The Just Living Blog that offer natural beauty tips. Learn to accentuate your best natural features instead of concealing features.
Taking up healthy habits like consuming a good diet, getting a good amount of sleep, exercising regularly, and quitting smoking can also do wonders for your skin. Even taking the effort to hydrate yourself can help your skin to glow and reduce dryness and spots.
You can still wear makeup occasionally. Just try to make it a treat rather than something you do every day.
