8 Post-Halloween Makeup Skincare Tips

Halloween is a fabulous excuse to delve into the depths of your makeup bag and really get crafty with your look — whether you're going as a zombie, a doll, or just a classic kitty cat, there's serious beauty potential for any getup. However, all that heavy makeup can wreak havoc on your skin long after the costume comes off. Here are eight post-holiday skincare tips to deal with Halloween makeup without a blemish in sight.

As fun as it is to incorporate elaborate makeup into your costume, you're also risking a few breakouts or super-dull skin come November 1. And although holiday-themed store shelves are stocked with costume makeup, that doesn't mean it's the healthiest stuff for your skin."Halloween makeup is notorious for containing irritating dyes and chemicals," says Dr. Elizabeth Tanzi, a D.C.-based dermatologist. Sensitive-skinned ladies, you know just how disastrous new or over-applied products can be for your face.

But have no fear — at least, not about your makeup (it is Halloween, after all). Armed with a little bit of knowledge and planning, you can make sure your skin makes it out of the year's spookiest holiday alive. Here's what you should keep in mind:

Do A Skin-Test The Day Before

Custom Body Art Face Paint, $4, Amazon

Using a new product for the first time the night of Halloween? Girl, you are living life on the edge. To avoid any unexpected reactions, "Do a 'skin test' on your neck or forearm to see if you are allergic to the product before putting it all over your face," says Tanzi.

Avoid Red Dyes

You're especially playing with fire if your product includes red dyes, so use caution if you absolutely must. According to Tanzi, "Red dye is the main culprit for skin irritation."

Spot-Treat Existing Breakouts

Glytone Acne Gel, $32, Dermstore

Already got a blemish or two? (Ugh, talk about bad timing.) To avoid making them worse, cover them with anti-acne gel before applying makeup, dermatologist Dr. Kavita Mariwalla told Byrdie.

Prep Your Face Before Applying Makeup

Too Faced Primed and Poreless, $30, Sephora

If primer isn't already a part of your daily routine, consider using it on Halloween. Not only does it prep your skin for a smooth makeup application, Byrdie reports it also helps seal pores off, according to Mariwalla.

Take It All Off

MAC Cleanse Off Oil, $32, Mac Cosmetics

Even if you take nothing else away from this, remember to remove your makeup after the festivities are over — all of it. Tanzi recommends an oil-based cleanser or remover, because they help break up waxy residue.

Use Your Go-To Acne Cleanser

Murad Acne Complex Clarifying Cleanser, $30, Ulta

If you usually use an acne cleanser, such as one with salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, or tea tree oil, give your skin a quick rinse with that, too. To avoid over-doing it, make sure it's your normal stuff (and don't go crazy.)

Try A Mask

Origins Clear Improvement Activated Charcoal Mask, $27, Sephora

You don't want to overload your skin, so choose a mask that targets your biggest concern. Worried about clogged pores? Go for an activated charcoal mask.

Nügg Soothing Face Mask, $3, Target

If your skin is irritated, pick one with calming products, like chamomile, aloe, honey, or cucumber.

Clinique Even Better Brightening Moisture Mask, $36, Macys

If dullness is the enemy, opt for a brightening formula.

Moisturize

Kiehls Ultra Facial Cream, $28, Barneys

Before your bed, slather on your trustiest face moisturizer to restore your skin overnight. Heavy products can be drying, and so can hardcore cleansing, so your face will need the love.

Happy haunting, beauty lovers!

Images: Fotolia; Courtesy of brands