Late-night events often mean layers of long-wear foundation, glitter, waterproof liner, and lipstick that refuses to budge. Crashing into bed with all that on is tempting, but it’s one of the fastest ways to irritate skin and clog pores.
The easiest approach is “double cleansing.” Start with an oil, balm, or dedicated makeup remover. Massage it gently over dry skin, including eyes and lips, to dissolve makeup, sunscreen, and grime. Emulsify with a bit of water, then rinse well. Follow this with a mild face wash suited to your skin type to remove remaining residue.
Avoid scrubbing with rough wipes or towels; the friction can damage your barrier, especially around the delicate eye area. For stubborn eye makeup, soak a cotton pad with remover, press it over the lids for a few seconds, then wipe softly instead of rubbing.
You don’t need a complicated routine at 1 a.m. After cleansing, apply a simple moisturiser to comfort the skin. Leave strong acids or retinoids for another night; your face has already had enough pressure for the day.
Making makeup removal a non-negotiable habit, no matter how tired you are, will keep your skin far happier in the long term than any expensive mask used occasionally.