So You Slept In Your Makeup — Here’s How to Recover

Unless you’re a superhero, you’ve probably fallen asleep in your makeup at least once. Whether you were just too tired to get through your bedtime routine after a late-night Netflx binge or crashed after one too many margaritas, your skin is likely going to be struggling the next day. Depending on your skin type, you might wake up to acne, dryness or a dull complexion. To help you do some damage control, we’re sharing six simple steps to follow if you slept in your makeup. 

STEP 1: Cleanse Twice

The first thing you want to do after waking up in makeup is wash your face. To do a thorough job, try a double cleanse. Dr. Zeichner, a board-certified dermatologist based in NYC, recommends using an oil-based cleanser to break down excess oil and makeup to start, and then following up with a foaming cleanser to get into the pores and remove any leftover dirt and impurities. Try a combo of the Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Botanical Cleansing Oil and CeraVe Hydrating Cream-to-Foam Facial Cleanser.

STEP 2: Exfoliate

To prevent clogged pores, lightly exfoliate your skin with a gentle product like the L'Oréal Paris Pure-Sugar Nourish & Soften Face Scrub. 

STEP 3: Apply a Hydrating Face Mask

After exfoliating, nourish your skin with a hydrating, calming face mask like the Garnier SkinActive The Super Hydrating Sheet Mask. “I typically recommend hydration first and treatment afterwards,” Dr. Zeichner explains. “Acne treatments are notorious for causing skin irritation. By hydrating the skin first, you can help minimize the risk of irritation.”