As the end of October approaches and the air begins to chill, spooky sightings start to appear. Jack-o-lanterns, skulls, and tombstones adorn yards filled with fallen leaves and candy flies off of the shelf.
Yes, Halloween is upon us.
Once a time for children to dress up as monsters, fairies, and cartoon characters, Halloween is now just as much fun for adults thanks to the rise of party popularity and YouTube tutorials.
Special effects products like liquid latex, scar wax, and goopy fake blood are all easily attainable, giving us the opportunity to play around with the darker side of the holiday.
Glitter and false lashes make it possible to transform into stunning princesses and majestic mythical creatures. On Halloween, the options are as endless as the steady flow of sugar and scares.
It all seems like good fun until you wake up the morning after to a real fright: bright red, painful pimples. If you have worn thick makeup, you probably know the pain.
Your pores are clogged, your skin is itchy, and there is texture everywhere. It is almost like a werewolf transformation except with less fur and more sore spots.
Seriously, it can put a massive damper on the spooky fun of the evening if you know you are going to break out the next day. Fear not, though! You can still wear Halloween makeup without destroying your skin!
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Halloween MakeUp for Acne Prone Skin
First off, prep your skin properly before you begin applying your skull paint or monster mouth. If your skin is not cleansed, all of that thick makeup will act as cellophane, sealing the germs against your face.
Wash your face thoroughly and use a toner to ensure your pores are as clean as possible then apply a primer or thick moisturizer to help create a protective barrier between your skin and the makeup.
Though it may seem like a layer underneath the makeup may hinder application, many cream paints go on easier with something smooth underneath, allowing you to blend to your heart’s desire.
Once it’s time to start applying, try using higher quality products. It can be tempting to grab a pack of dollar store cream paints and a jug of fake blood and call it a day but you are likely exposing your skin to inferior ingredients.
Brands like Ben Nye, Mehron, and Graftobian are all easily accessible and have amazing products that will not only be kinder to your skin but also look a lot nicer.
These products are less damaging while providing more control over your final look by supplying superior blendability and detailed usage instructions.
It is worth the splurge and leftovers can always be used later if the packaging’s use by date is still usable.
Speaking of those inferior ingredients, several well known low end Halloween makeup brands were tested and generated some shocking results.
Of forty eight palettes tested, high levels of heavy metals were found in over half. In nine of the palettes, lead was discovered. Lead exposure can cause serious health issues including seizures and loss of consciousness.
Though this is not likely from small dosings like that of the palettes, some people are particularly susceptible to lead intoxication and will experience harsh symptoms.
Shockingly, it appears that darker pigments, like black, contain higher levels of the metals. Almost every Halloween look calls for black face paint; using cheaper products could potentially expose you or your children to harmful chemicals.
When the evening is over, take your makeup off immediately. It can be tempting to hop into bed and crash, especially if you have been out partying but you will seriously be doing your skin a disservice.
Your pores will be clogged for longer, creating a higher likelihood of severe breakouts.
Additionally, if you consumed alcohol during the night your skin will already be dehydrated, making it even easier for bacteria to sneak in through micro tears and impacted pores.
Take the extra time to remove your makeup fully before saying goodnight to your fellow ghouls and ghosts.
When taking off your makeup, make sure you do so properly.
Pick up everything you need to remove each product before you need to take it off; do not rely on your trusty micellar water or makeup wipes if you are using silicon gel, third degree, liquid latex, or other special effect style makeup products.
The last thing you want to do is end up scrubbing your face in an attempt to remove stubborn products, as this action creates more openings and irritated spots for bacteria to sneak through.
Glue removers are a must have, too, if you are using spirit gum or lash glue to affix prosthetics or attachments, as regular face wash and water will do little to break down the sticky bond.
If it is meant to stay on all night, expect it to be a pain to remove and have some heavy duty assets on hand to assist in a pinch.
Account for some staining to occur. Your skin is porous and sometimes highly pigmented makeup like cream paints and fake blood will cause a tint to remain after removal.
This is normal and nothing to be concerned with.
Resist the urge to scrub away at the splotches and leave them be.
Coconut oil or almond oil may assist in removing the tint but sometimes you just have to let it fade on its own, especially if you are extremely fair or have skin that is prone to holding pigments.
Be patient and try to remain calm; it is not fun to be tinged pink from fake blood or green from witch paint but it will pass really quickly! Having proper removal equipment will help reduce your risk of staining, as well.
Final Thoughts
Halloween is meant to be fun.
Do not let your fear of a breakout keep you from being creepy with your friends! Take precautions before and after you don your spooktacular costume and you should come out just fine!
Happy Halloween, girls and ghouls!