If you’d told me not long ago that I would soon derive immense pleasure from completing a 1000-piece jigsaw puzzle, I would have laughed in your face. Then everything changed. Isolation is testing (at the best of times) so learning to find joy in small things can be helpful for your mental health. Take not wearing makeup every day, for example – it’s basically a financial savings scheme and your skin loves it. Here’s what happens to our skin when we stop wearing makeup.
By Beth Ludolf
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1 Your skin can breathe
We hear it all the time but what does it actually mean? Generally, it's whether the skin is occluded or not. Makeup occludes (blocks) the skin and can cause breakouts, blackheads and dullness – especially if it’s not properly removed (double-cleansing, am I right?). Letting skin breathe allows it to expel any leftover makeup residue and replenish its natural moisture level.
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2 Pores shrink
There’s no way to actually change the size of your pores – that’s determined by genetics – but you can make them look smaller. Wearing makeup can stop the skin recalibrating its natural moisture level, which can lead it to overcompensate by producing excess sebum (oil). More oil means more chance of pores getting clogged, which makes them appear larger.
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3 Cells regenerate
Makeup can interfere with the skin’s natural regeneration cycle. Yep, that’s the cycle that keeps skin looking young and healthy. When you’re makeup-free, your skin can regulate its natural exfoliation cycle (as well as hydration, oil production and temperature) much more effectively meaning the skin looks and is, healthier.
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4 Skin looks brighter
This is actually one of the first things you’ll notice. Makeup is full of chemicals – fragrances, allergens and preservatives – that irritate your skin and directly cause dryness and uneven skin tone (things we use makeup to cover up, go figure). Taking a makeup break improves the tone of your skin and boosts the natural radiance of your complexion.
During this uncertain time, we’ll be continuing to create the content you love – whether for distraction, inspiration or to give guidance on wellbeing. If there’s anything you’d like to see (or not see) please contact us on Instagram @treatwell_uk. We hope you keep safe and healthy.
FAQs
What happens to your skin when you stop wearing makeup?
Your skin starts to breathe better and can expel leftover makeup residue. Without makeup, your skin can restore its natural moisture and look healthier overall.
Why do your pores look smaller when you stop wearing makeup?
Pores may look smaller because makeup can trap oil and block the skin. Without makeup, your skin regulates oil better, so pores are less likely to get clogged and appear larger.
How does not wearing makeup affect your skin’s regeneration?
Skipping makeup lets your skin follow its natural regeneration cycle, keeping it young and healthy. This means more effective self-exfoliation, hydration, oil production, and temperature control.
Will your skin look brighter if you stop using makeup?
Yes, your skin typically looks brighter when you stop using makeup. Makeup can contain chemicals and preservatives that irritate the skin and cause dryness or uneven tone, so a break can boost your skin’s natural radiance.
Can your skin save money and stay healthier by skipping makeup?
Not wearing makeup helps you save money and makes your skin healthier. Your skincare costs can decrease, and your skin can avoid irritation from chemicals often found in cosmetic products.