For many, makeup is a daily routine, for others it is something done for special occasions and nights out. There is no denying the confidence boost makeup can give, not to mention the fun of creating new looks or buying new products. But if you use makeup daily, no matter what your age or lifestyle, it’s good to give your skin a breather and go make-up free for a day or two every now and again.  

If the thought of going completely bare faced fills you with anxiety and has you clutching your makeup brushes in fear, we have six reasons why going au-naturale could benefit your skin. 

1. Your Skin Can Breathe

As you apply each product to your face, one on top of another, the amount of oxygen getting through to your skin is reduced. Lack of oxygen to the skin can affect the production of sebum (the skins natural oil) and your skin’s ability to naturally hydrate. Oxygen also plays a role in allowing elastin and collagen to regenerate, two components that make skin plumper and more youthful in appearance. 

2. Your Skincare Products Will Work Better

You may have the best skincare routine in the world, but as soon as you apply makeup on top of your serum and moisturiser, the active ingredients, like antioxidants and vitamins, are prevented from working effectively. Your skincare products will absorb into your skin better when it is clean and makeup free. If applying makeup after skincare, try to wait at least 10-20 minutes to let it fully absorb first. 

3. Reduces Skin Irritation

A lot of makeup products can contain parabens and sulfates – these strip the skin of its natural oils can cause dryness, allergies and irritation. Minimise your contact with these harsh ingredients by going makeup-free on a regular basis. With skincare, natural is best! Always look for organic ingredients in your routine. 

4. Reduces Breakouts

Once you have applied all your makeup, your skin barrier then produces excess sebum in response, which can then lead to clogged pores. Going makeup free every now and again will reduce the chance of this happening, lessening the chance of breakouts. 

5. More time!

Applying makeup takes time, and usually for most of us, we are short of this time in the mornings. On the days you go bare faced, you can use that time to do other things like enjoy a slow breakfast, longer shower or sleep in a little longer - bonus! You can also reap the benefits at the end of the day, when you don’t have to spend so much time removing your makeup before going to bed, but remember to still do a thorough cleanse, tone and moisturise. 

6. A New Appreciation for Natural Beauty

It can be hard to step out of your comfort zone and ditch the makeup for a day or two if you have been used to wearing makeup every day for years. However, once you go makeup free and you are not having to reapply product or constantly doing checkups in the mirror, you can gain an appreciation for natural beauty and gain more confidence going bare faced. Let your skin glow!