From stubborn face paint and glitter to the temptation to scrub everything off before bed, Halloween can put our skincare habits to the test.
Laura Porter, founder of fab-skincare and expert facialist, shares the biggest makeup removal mistakes to avoid, how to approach skincare the morning after, and why autumn dryness doesn’t always call for more products. She also explains when flaky skin needs a gentler approach and how to keep children’s post-Halloween routines simple.
What are the biggest Halloween makeup removal mistakes?
“Scrubbing harder! I see people putting so much effort into their Halloween makeup, then trying to get it all off in two minutes. Give your skin a little care at the end of the night too.
“For heavy makeup, I’d start with FAB No.1 Before You Cleanse, our cleansing oil, to help break down makeup before cleansing. Gently massage it in and give it time to work. Follow with No.2 Daily Cleanser if needed. Your skin should feel comfortable afterwards, not tight and squeaky.
“Face paints and cosmetic adhesives can have specific removal instructions, so always follow those. Don’t pick at glitter or pull decorations off your skin and be especially gentle around your eyes. Never reach for household solvents to remove glue.”
How should you care for your skin the morning after?
“This is where I come back to what I always say: less is more. Your skin doesn’t need a punishment routine because you’ve had a night out!
“Keep things simple: gentle cleansing if needed, followed by a moisturiser your skin already knows and tolerates. No scrubbing, no piling on different treatments and no exfoliating acids or retinoids if your skin feels irritated. That includes leaving your FAB No.3 Resurfacing Peel for another night.
“You don’t need to ‘detox’ your face. Give it time to settle. If redness, swelling or a rash persists, speak to a pharmacist or healthcare professional.”
Why might your usual moisturiser feel less effective in autumn?
“It doesn’t necessarily mean your moisturiser has stopped working. The weather has changed, the heating is on and your skin might need a little more support.
“Before buying another three serums, look at the basics. Are you washing with very hot water? Over-cleansing? Exfoliating too often? Sometimes a small adjustment makes more sense than a whole new routine.
“No.8 Moisturise + Protect is our daily FAB moisturiser, but your routine should always respond to how your skin feels. Apply moisturiser while your skin is slightly damp, and if you’re still feeling dry, a richer texture may help. More products aren’t always the answer.”
Does flaky skin need exfoliation or a gentler approach?
“Flaky skin doesn’t automatically mean you need to reach for a peel. I know the temptation is to scrub the flakes away, but if your skin is also tight, red or stinging, that’s the time to be gentle.
“Knowing when to leave a product on the shelf is part of good skincare too. Pause exfoliation, simplify your routine and focus on moisturising until your skin feels comfortable again.
“Skincare is about listening to your skin, not working through every bottle you own. If the flaking keeps returning, or it’s itchy or inflamed, get professional advice.”
Is the advice different for children?
“Absolutely. Children can enjoy dressing up without needing an adult skincare routine afterwards.
“Choose face paint intended for their age group and follow the instructions for testing, application and removal. Keep it away from eyes and lips unless it’s specifically suitable, and don’t apply it to irritated or broken skin.
“The FAB Tweens message is all about keeping things simple. It isn’t about giving children more steps or stronger products. Gentle removal and a familiar moisturiser if needed are enough; leave adult scrubs, peels and actives out of it.
“If something stings or causes discomfort, take it off promptly. Halloween should be fun, and removing the makeup shouldn’t leave their skin sore.”
Discover more at fab-skincare.co.uk.