Beauty experts warn that wearing makeup to bed ages skin twice as fast

Makeup experts have warned that wearing makeup to bed can age skin twice as fast.

Experts at online beauty retailer Branded Makeup have suggested that falling asleep without removing cosmetics can trap pollutants against the skin all night, dramatically accelerating the aging process.

The skin's natural renewal cycle occurs mainly during sleep hours, with the face unable to properly repair itself when blocked by makeup residue.

“The skin attempts to regenerate during sleep, but makeup forms a barrier that traps dirt, oil and environmental toxins against your face," says the makeup experts. "This prevents the natural exfoliation process and leads to collagen breakdown at an accelerated rate."

It is suggested that makeup left on overnight continues to oxidise, creating free radicals that damage skin cells much like UV exposure. The damage accumulates silently each night.

Many people can notice breakouts after sleeping in makeup, but the long-term effects are far more concerning. Repeated exposure to these trapped pollutants can age skin twice as fast as it would naturally.

Sleep quality itself plays a crucial role in skin health, according to experts at Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust. Their sleep disorders centre research shows that during quality sleep, the body enters repair mode, with skin cells regenerating fastest between 11pm and midnight.

It is suggested that the first three hours of sleep are particularly crucial for skin, and when makeup blocks this process, you lose the most valuable window for repair.

A recent study reported by The Independent found that two-thirds of Britons admit to neglecting regular skincare routines, frequently skipping their nightly cleanse.

The makeup experts suggest that many people simply don't understand the consequences. "Think of it like going days without brushing your teeth - the damage compounds quickly."

The makeup specialist explained that foundation, concealer and powder trap sebum, dead skin cells and bacteria on the skin surface. This mixture clogs pores and prevents oxygen from reaching skin cells.

Over time, sleeping with makeup and not allowing your skin to properly breathe can lead to dullness, uneven texture, enlarged pores and premature wrinkles.

According to skin experts quoted in The Independent's research, unwashed SPF, makeup, and pollution residue disrupt the skin's microbiome and acid mantle. This leads to increased inflammation, redness and sensitivity that makes skin more reactive over time.

Eye makeup presents particular risks when left on overnight, the makeup experts share.

"Mascara and eyeliner can flake into your eyes during sleep, causing irritation and potentially serious infections. Repeated irritation around the delicate eye area accelerates the formation of crow's feet and fine lines."

For those who regularly skip cleansing due to fatigue, the experts suggest preparing earlier in the evening.

"Remove your makeup as soon as you get home rather than waiting until bedtime when you're exhausted," they suggest, "or keep gentle cleansing wipes by your bed for emergency situations."

The beauty experts emphasised that skin can age fastest around the eyes and mouth, areas where makeup tends to settle into fine lines.

"Lipstick left on overnight dries out the delicate lip area, while eye makeup can cause irritation that leads to rubbing and pulling". These mechanical stresses, combined with chemical exposure, dramatically age these vulnerable areas.

Medical experts at The Independent note that cleansing helps remove external aggressors, allowing skin to repair itself and maintain its youthful appearance. Skipping this step damages the skin's natural collagen and elastin production.

"The skin repairs itself most effectively between 10pm and 2am," says the makeup experts, so going to bed with a clean face maximises this golden window of opportunity.

For those concerned about accelerated aging, it’s recommended to limit yourself to a simple two-step nighttime routine.

Sleep specialists from Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust confirm that quality sleep is essential for overall health, including skin regeneration. Their research shows that poor sleep patterns can impact physical recovery processes that occur during rest.

The makeup experts emphasised that the most significant skin damage often happens without any immediate visible signs. Your skin will tell the story years later through premature wrinkles and age spots.

A consistent cleansing routine is the simplest anti-aging strategy available.