Doctor issues Halloween warning over very common makeup trend

Halloween is finally here, bringing with it the thrill of fancy dress and elaborate makeup. While many of us relish the fear induced by horror films, themed parties, and 'scream' parks, we certainly don't want our own reflections to startle us with a sudden surge in blemishes and wrinkles.

This is why self-care is vital, but some yearly habits could lead to skin breakouts and premature ageing. Dr Kate Jameson, medical director at Youth Lab, has warned that incorrect use of makeup during the spooky season can cause a range of skin issues, including spots, irritation, and even wrinkles.

This is because some cheaper makeup products often contain harsh chemicals which can dry out your skin, leading to early fine lines and wrinkles. Heavy makeup can also block pores, resulting in unwanted acne and blemishes, especially if left on overnight after a festive night out, as reported by Manchester Evening News.

Low-quality face paints and makeup can cause further irritation, particularly for those with sensitive skin, often leading to redness, rashes, or itching. Dr Jameson advises people looking to go all out with their spooky attire this Halloween to follow several simple steps.

It's crucial to remember that some seasonal products may deplete your skin's moisture. To mitigate this, prime your skin with a reliable moisturiser or primer to form a protective layer between your skin and makeup.

Consider using a hydrating mist or a light moisturiser to keep your skin balanced and radiant. When choosing Halloween-themed cosmetics, opt for high-quality, non-comedogenic, and hypoallergenic items to minimise pore blockages and irritation. Keeping your makeup brushes and tools clean is vital to avoid bacterial transfer that can lead to acne.

Always do a patch test with new products to prevent allergic reactions. It's also crucial to remove makeup completely using an oil-based cleanser followed by a hydrating wash; sleeping with makeup on is a definite mistake that can clog pores and exacerbate issues like acne and blackheads.

Post-Halloween, be cautious not to over-exfoliate as rough scrubs can strip away natural oils and cause dryness and irritation.

Dr Jameson highlighted the importance of skincare during Halloween, stating: "Halloween is fun, but it's important to take care of your skin.

"Poor makeup choices and habits can lead to long-term skin damage, including wrinkles, spots, and breakouts. Prevention and proper care are key to maintaining healthy skin."

TikTok beauty influencer Hannah Murray Makeup posted a video of herself removing a 'Handsome Squidward' Halloween makeup look, emphasising the importance of double cleansing. The post drew numerous comments from fellow social media users.

One individual commented: "I started commenting 'Doesn't your skin get dry?' but then caught the end of the video," while another chimed in: "I'd love to see if this removes red/pink colours that always stains me."

Another follower requested more skincare-focused content, saying: "Do a skin care!!! I love to see how you take care of your skin after all the cool makeup."