Makeup is fun, albeit transforming! There is no question that a perfectly concocted palette of skillfully chosen shades can mimic a full night’s sleep when one has not seen one in a while, or lend a daring, new, wear-and-wash identity.

At the risk of imploring a host of deafening sighs, the fact remains, wearing makeup regularly can cause a host of skin problems that cumulatively age skin faster than what is considered ideal. However, as with any act that is prone to overindulgence, a happy medium can be achieved through moderation and education. Learning what is in makeup, proper application techniques, and the implementation of a consistent skin care regimen will ensure that skin ages gracefully, all the while with a smoky eye in tow.

APPLICATION

First things first, using effectual products formulated for one’s skin type will bring out the best that one’s skin has to offer. Adhering to a daily skin care routine will serve as a solid foundation for a smooth, polished canvas. Always put the finishing touch on a morning regimen by applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen. The right formulation serves as an excellent primer for makeup application. Using a light hand when applying makeup products, resist the tendency to rub products into the skin and avoid excessive pulling and tugging. Doing so, especially around the thin, delicate eye area, can damage collagen and break capillaries, leading to a loss of elasticity and an increase in fine lines and wrinkles.

REMOVAL

Always remove makeup completely before bedtime. During the sleep cycle, skin falls into an intensive process of DNA repair and skin rejuvenation. When left on the skin, makeup tends to form an occlusive barrier, impeding the restorative process by which dead skin cells are replaced with new ones. Sleeping in makeup will leave skin with clogged pores, breakouts, irritation, and premature signs of aging.

INGREDIENTS

In recent years, there has been a surge in organic cosmetics and clarity in product labeling induced by consumer demand for transparency. Better, cleaner ingredients are replacing outdated formulations with safer, non-toxic options. Regardless, it is important to practice due diligence by learning to read labels and recognize common skin irritants, in order to make a more informed purchase. These irritants may cause excessive dryness of the skin by removing its natural oils, leading to premature lines and wrinkles.

The following ingredients are common irritants found in cosmetic products:

• sodium lauryl sulfate
• sodium laureth sulfate
• parabens
• fragrance
• silicones (dimethicone or cyclomethicone)
• phenoxyethanol
• talc
• bismuth oxychloride

Makeup is a spectrum of expression. It is an outlet of individuality, allowing one to shift one’s image from day to day and morning to night. By practicing a diligent skin cleansing routine, utilizing proper application techniques, and obtaining a working knowledge of product irritants and ingredients, one can maintain a healthy, youthful complexion with all the perks that come with that mood-altering swipe of rouge.