The skin problems caused by daily makeup typically develop gradually rather than overnight, says Shuting Hu, PhD, a cofounder and the CEO of Acaderma, where she leads skin biology research and product development.
You Could Break Out More Often
“Makeup is used to conceal imperfections, but it in turn ‘plugs’ pores and hair follicles and contributes to the acne cycle,” says Courtney Gwinn, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Advance Dermatology in Spokane Valley, Washington. This is particularly true when you’re trying to cover active pimples.
You Could Develop Contact Dermatitis
Your Skin Barrier Might Get Stressed
“You might not notice it right away, but months of this can show up as increased dryness, sensitivity, and more frequent breakouts,” Hu says. A stressed skin barrier also becomes more prone to redness or stinging and slower to recover from acne or eczema flares, adds Ahmed.
You Might Get Less Sun Protection Than You Think
Existing Conditions Like Eczema or Psoriasis Could Flare
People with eczema, psoriasis (an autoimmune disease that causes itchy or sore patches on the skin), rosacea, or perioral dermatitis (a facial rash of red, inflamed bumps around the mouth, nose, or eyes) are more likely to react to ingredients in makeup, and daily use can serve as a repeated trigger. “Fragrances, dyes, preservatives, and drying or exfoliating ingredients can worsen redness, itching, scaling, or plaques, especially when applied over already compromised skin,” says Ahmed.
If flares appear primarily where makeup is applied — around the mouth, eyes, or along the hairline — or started after introducing new products, makeup might be the culprit, Dr. Gwinn says.
Your Eyes Could Be More Prone to Irritation or Infection
Even newer products can cause problems if makeup isn’t removed well. “Going to bed with leftover mascara or heavy layers of product can really irritate the skin and make any existing issue — such as eczema, contact dermatitis, or periorificial dermatitis — so much worse,” says Ahmed.