We get it—after a long day of conquering the world (or just surviving it), the idea of scrubbing off your makeup feels like climbing Mt Everest in fuzzy socks.
Your bed is calling, your mascara is hanging on by a thread, and your foundation has already declared a truce with your pillowcase. What's the worst that could happen if you skip cleansing... just this once?
Dr Gacheri Kathiri, a dermatologist at Meru Teaching and Referral Hospital, says failing to remove makeup at night can interfere with your skin's natural repair and regeneration process.
And the effects of that seemingly small decision? They could last a lifetime. Makeup can clog hair follicles and pores, with persistent particles irritating the skin as the body tries to eliminate them, leading to inflammation.
"This might present as sensitive or dull skin and pimples. These particles can also increase free radicals in the skin and damage collagen and elastin fibres, which—when combined with disrupted skin cell turnover—contribute to premature ageing," she says.
Eye products like mascara can also block eye pores, potentially causing fluid buildup and conditions such as cysts along the eyelid margins.
The effects of makeup ingredients
Dr Kathiri adds that people with acne-prone skin may experience worsened breakouts if they don’t cleanse off their makeup—especially before bed.
"Apart from the ingredients, makeup also traps dirt, oil, and dead skin—factors that should be avoided for acne-prone skin. For such skin types, it's important to choose non-comedogenic formulas and ensure thorough cleansing both before and after makeup use," she says.
Some makeup products can also cause irritation and allergic reactions due to certain ingredients commonly found in products like foundation. Fragrances, preservatives, specific pigments, and certain chemicals are often to blame.
"Irritation may include redness, itching, swelling, or a rash. These can worsen pre-existing skin conditions such as eczema and rosacea (a condition that causes facial flushing or long-term redness)," she says.
Frequent use of foundation may also lead to dehydration, especially those with alcohol or matte-finish powders. While these are preferred by people with oily skin, they can cause dryness and dullness over time.
To reduce the risk of irritation, Dr Kathiri suggests using hypoallergenic or sensitive skin formulations and conducting a patch test (apply to a small area of skin) before full application.
"For those with dry skin, it's best to use hydrating foundations enriched with moisturising ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerine. Even better, apply a moisturiser before foundation to help maintain your skin's natural moisture balance," she adds.
Washing off makeup the right way
So, how should you properly wash off makeup? Dr Kathiri says one should use mild cleansers to remove all dirt, including makeup and moisturiser.
Afterwards, depending on your skin type, use products containing beneficial active ingredients—such as hyaluronic acid for dry skin, retinoids (a few nights a week) to promote cell turnover for ageing skin, peptides, topical vitamins, or simple moisturisers.
"These ingredients are absorbed best at night due to the rich blood supply to the skin," she says.
She also advises delaying or avoiding makeup use in children. "Children generally have thinner skin and underdeveloped glands. They also tend to lose moisture more easily and are prone to skin barrier damage," Dr Kathiri warns.
The don'ts of makeup removal
When removing makeup, avoid being too vigorous. Gently cleanse using a mild cleanser or soap, ideally using a double cleansing method—such as an oil cleanser followed by a water-based cleanser—and a soft cloth.
This is especially important for people with acne or skin inflammation. Micellar water is effective, but so are other gentle cleansing methods in the evening.
"Avoid hot water, harsh cleansers, and rough washcloths. Also, steer clear of exfoliators with rough particles, as they can worsen inflammation," she advises.
Makeup wipes alone aren't sufficient, particularly if used as the only cleansing method. Alcohol-based wipes should also be avoided. Cotton pads are ideal for removing eye makeup, but a full cleanse should always follow.
When selecting a makeup remover—or any product, really—know your skin type and choose accordingly. "If you have sensitive skin, opt for fragrance-free options," she says.
If you forget to remove your makeup at night, cleanse thoroughly the next morning. Dr Kathiri suggests even setting a reminder to prevent forming the habit.
After cleansing, moisturising is the most important skincare step—no matter your skin type. You may also choose to layer in minimal active ingredients, such as a serum suited to your skin concerns, followed by a moisturiser.
One last tip: if your foundation doesn't contain a sun protection factor (SPF), apply a separate SPF before makeup.
"Use a tapping method rather than circular motions to apply foundation over sunscreen. The correct order is: cleanse, moisturise, sunscreen, then makeup—leaving at least 15 minutes between layers," she says.
