Halloween Skin Care Tips
How to Survive Halloween Without Getting a Horrifying Breakout
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Once the fanaticism of Oct. 31 has come and gone, your skin is going to need a major detox. You piled on the paint, doubled up on the fake blood, and layered on the false lashes all in the name of a good scare. Sure you looked absolutely amazing bar hopping on All Hallows' Eve, but all you've got to show for it now is a giant pimple. Your pores are in a cosmetic-induced coma! We talked to dermatologist Dr. Kavita Mariwalla and learned how to get the best of both worlds —over-the-top Halloween makeup and glowing skin on Nov. 1.
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Don't: Do a Peel Before Your Makeup
We know you want the smoothest skin possible for your extreme Halloween makeup application, but don't go overboard. "You don't want to steam or exfoliate because that opens your pores and makes you skin fresh," Dr. Mariwalla explained. "When you know you are applying heavy makeup its best to leave these treatments for after."
Do: Protect Current Acne With Primer
You're just going to cover up your pimples with makeup, but you don't want the oils and sweat to make the situation worse. "Try to put a little antiacne gel on it before you apply the makeup, just so you have some shot at it not being worse the next morning," Dr. Maliwalla said. "Using a primer is also key because it will seal your pores, so they won't get clogged. She recommends OC8 Adult Acne Treatment Gel ($31).
Don't: Use Glue
If you're planning to go to your costume party dressed as a red M&M, get ready for an in-depth makeup removal process. Certain colors of paint can leave a remnant on the skin even after the shower. "The metal paints and red paints are especially tough on the skin. As is glue," Dr. Mariwalla said. "You want to make sure you remove glue carefully because it can really tear the skin." Toothpaste is a gentle scrubbing solution to use if your body paint just won't budge. Baby oil is also a perfect lubricant to loosen resistant cosmetic adhesive.
Do: Remove Makeup With Cold Cream
Getting rid of the false lashes, paint, and mascara from your Halloween costume is really a three-step cleansing process. "Your best bet is some good old cold cream," said Dr. Maliwalla. "After that you can use a regular make up remover for any remaining residue and then wash your face with a pH-balanced soap."
Do: Exfoliate the Next Day
The morning after your trick-or-treating, you'll want to do a total skin detox. "I would exfoliate and do an anti-inflammatory mask like a tea tree oil mask," said Dr. Maliwalla. Try the Body Shop Tea Tree Face Mask ($16) to clear off every remnant of Halloween. You'll always have the memories (and the Instagram evidence).
