If you’re a makeup junkie like I am, then you’ve likely come across numerous brands and formulas. All of them advertise what makes them superior, provide the components of their products, and offer a range of options. This can be a bit overwhelming if you’re uncertain of what you need. One of the key questions when evaluating these items is: will these cosmetics make your skin age faster? Is this product actually making my skin look worse over time? It turns out some products can. Here’s the lowdown.

Will Wearing Makeup in General Age my Skin?

In short, the answer is no. However, there are certain products and ingredients that will absolutely make your skin age at an accelerated rate. It’s so important to know what to avoid. We are trying to make things better, not worse after all! Specifically, chemicals, fragrances, and rough elements should be avoided. This article offers useful information regarding what ingredients to stay away from.

In the United States, the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act stipulates that manufacturers have to inform the FDA about the safety of their wares, however, unless it has color additives, cosmetics usually don’t have to go through the same level of premarket testing as drugs. But, there is a positive aspect to this, since cosmetics that contain sunscreen are treated as both a drug and a cosmetic. Here is a shortlist of the major no no’s.

• Dyes derived from coal tar
• Parabens used as preservatives
• Fragrance components
• Petroleum jelly
• BHA or BHT as antioxidants
• Diethanolamine (DEA)
• Formaldehyde and other formaldehyde-releasing substances
• PEGs or polyethylene glycols
• Triclosan as an antimicrobial
• Silicones used as emollients
• Sodium laureth sulfate as a detergent

What Kind of Impact Does Makeup Have on Your Skin?

Without a solid skin care routine and the use of skin-friendly ingredients in makeup, you may be setting your skin up for potential harm. To avoid any damage, it’s essential that your makeup is properly maintained and applied correctly. It’s also imperative that your makeup is completely removed every night before sleeping. You wouldn’t take a shower with your clothes on would you? Of course not! If your makeup isn’t being completely removed before you wash your face each night, then all of your skincare products can’t penetrate the skin to do what they need to. Here are a few things to keep in mind.

• Instead of scrubbing, use circular motions when cleansing your skin.
• Make sure to select a cleanser with no harsh chemicals.
• Opt for lukewarm water when rinsing.

What Are Some Things I Can Do To Preserve My Skin?

Fear not, there are a few things you can do to make sure that makeup isn’t aging your skin and making things worse. Protecting your skin from premature aging is possible with the right techniques. Incorporating these practices into your daily routine can help retain the youthful look of your skin and slow down the effects of aging. Here are some of the most important things you can do..

Don’t Forget to Clean Your Brushes!

When using makeup products, it is important to be aware that bacteria can be hidden in items such as brushes, sponges, and others which are commonly used on the face. Keeping these tools clean when applying makeup is beneficial as it can stop pollutants and bacteria from getting into the pores of the skin and causing irritation.

Pick a non-harmful Foundation

When you apply makeup, select a foundation that is beneficial to your skin. Check that it has no components which may be detrimental. An SPF in your makeup is a great way to safeguard your complexion and add an additional layer of defense.

Wear Sunscreen

As soon as you rush out of your house to take care of tasks, the sun could already be affecting your skin. To shield yourself, it is wise to use sunscreen, sunglasses and any other protective clothing when you’re outside. You may not realize it, but each time you are exposed to the sun (even in the smallest amount), it impacts your skin.

Avoid Smoking

In addition to makeup, smoking has a very negative effect on the skin. Cigarette smoke can cause the development of wrinkles and alter the complexion quickly

Get Enough Sleep

The phrase “beauty sleep” has some truth to it. When you don’t get enough sleep, the skin begins to age prematurely, producing dark circles, a sallow complexion, and acne. Not getting enough rest also causes the body to be under stress, which reflects in one’s physical appearance.

We hope you learned something! While it’s true that poor makeup habits can cause aging, it is possible to slow down the process by having a diligent skin care routine that includes washing your face and completely removing all makeup every day. And don’t forget to use non-harmful products!