Halloween is all about having fun by being someone (or something) else for just one day– And it’s finally here!
The transformation generally involves makeup—lots of it—often specialty products that we wouldn’t use at any other time. More than one person has stood in front of the mirror before bedtime wondering how to remove it without inflicting damage that will haunt the face well into the month of November.
The best way to get back to looking like yourself depends upon what types of makeup products were involved in creating your Halloween persona, but no matter what type of makeup you are using, it’s a three-step process: PROTECT, REMOVE, and RESTORE.
PROTECT:
- If you will be using a product you’ve never tried before, think ahead. Before the big day, check to make sure that you aren’t sensitive to its pigments, fragrance, or adhesive by applying a small amount of the product to the back of your hand, the wrist, or the inside bend of your elbow. If you aren’t itching or breaking out after a few hours have passed, it’s probably okay. If you do experience a problem, wash the product off immediately and find something else that will give you the look you want.
- Never EVER fall asleep in your Halloween makeup.
- As always, use a mild cleanser to remove dirt and oil from the face before applying makeup.
- If you are using latex or a Halloween makeup kit, apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly as a protective barrier between your skin and the product.
- Using glitter on your face? Do not apply it anywhere near the eyes—no matter what kind of adhesive you use, some of that glitter is going to fall off.
REMOVE:
- Your latex special effects can be peeled off. Gentle washing with soap and water should take care of any remaining latex, but do not use oily makeup removers.
- Heavier-than-usual regular makeup may require several applications of baby oil, cold cream, or the makeup removal product you typically use. Use a cotton ball to cleanse the delicate skin around the eyes. Rinse, repeat, but DON’T SCRUB! Rubbing can cause more irritation than the makeup.
- Many Halloween makeup kits sold at this time of year include a small supply of cold cream, because that’s what generally works on these products. If the makeup is oily, baby oil will remove it—oil adheres to oil. Again, don’t scrub!
- Most glitter will wash off in the shower (again, protect your eyes!). Any stubborn pieces can be peeled off with scotch tape.
- A thin application of shaving cream will remove fake blood.
RESTORE:
- Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize.
- If your skin needs more than moisturizer to recover, trade in your Halloween makeup “mask” for a professional skin consultation. Call Dr. Shah’s office at (312) 944-0117 and ask us to recommend a product suitable for your skin type!