Kayla Young
Not only can your makeup make you look sleepy, but it could also make you feel sleepy, tired, or even ill!
Many people experience this, and wonder why does makeup make me sleepy?
This reaction is usually due to allergies and other issues you may not be aware of. Let’s discover the reasons for adverse makeup reactions and results and how to avoid them:Â
Can your makeup make you sick and tired? Yes!
Contents
Why Does Makeup Make Me Sleepy?
You apply your finishing powder, and you’re done with your makeup routine for the morning. But now you feel sleepy! What’s up with that?
There are several factors that can make you look and feel tired after applying makeup. Let’s look into these issues.
1. AllergiesÂ
You could experience a range of side effects from allergies. Feeling tired or sleepy could very well be caused by one of your makeup products, whether eye shadow, mascara and liner, foundation and blush or lipstick.
If you’re prone to allergies, it’s important that you choose hypoallergenic products that are less likely to make your allergies flare up.
If you’re prone to allergies, it’s important that you choose hypoallergenic products that are less likely to make your allergies flare up.
There are lots of weird ingredients in makeup, so it’s super common to find out that your body reacts poorly to something.
2. BacteriaÂ
Old products can be a problem!
If your makeup has gone beyond its use-by date or the containers don’t seal properly, you could unknowingly expose yourself to bacteria that thrive under such conditions. You could spread that bacteria to your eyelids, eyes and skin, which could make you ill or cause an infection. Conjunctivitis pink eye, and styes are common infections from mascara, leading to feeling tired and looking run down.
Don’t use powder for more than two years, and throw out liquids every six months.
3. Sharing
Bacterial contamination is also very likely when you share makeup with someone else, especially eye makeup like mascara and eyeliner.
For the same reason, you should not test makeup in retail stores unless you receive a disposable applicator.
4. Glitter
Wearing shimmery shades is a temptation since it makes the eyes pop. However, beware of some cheap, powdery brands where the glitter particles could get into your eye, causing irritation and sometimes even infections that will make you feel tired.Â
5. Knock-Offs
It’s best to avoid knock-offs and sketchy imported makeup as much as possible. There’s no telling what’s in it.
It’s best to avoid knock-offs and sketchy imported makeup as much as possible. There’s no telling what’s in it.
Bacteria from shipping, packaging or any part of the manufacturing process could cause diseases, and the makeup may not even work!Â
6. Dry Eye
Under normal circumstances, tear film production helps you see clearly and keeps your eyes feeling comfortable.
However, the loose particles of powdery eye makeup could break down your tear film too quickly, causing it to evaporate and cause you to crave closed eyes due to the irritation.
7. Makeup Ingredients
You could also experience mood swings and other hormonal effects due to some makeup ingredients. Mercury is a dangerous ingredient in some products that can cause a range of bizarre symptoms that leave you feeling tired and emotional.
Mercury poisoning can also lead to memory loss and is very dangerous. Think Alice in Wonderland for a minute; the Mad Hatter’s weird behavior could be referring to mercury poisoning, which often afflicted hat makers in the past.
Heavy metals are still present in makeup, at least somewhat. This could also lead to feelings of depression and lethargy. So, doing your research before you purchase any product is essential.
8. Hygiene and Technique
Tools and applicators
The importance of keeping your brushes and applicators clean and hygienic cannot be overstated. We all forget it, but strictly speaking, you should clean your makeup tools at least once a week if you wear makeup every day.
Wash your hands
It’s easy to forget to wash your hands before applying makeup. Using your fingers to smudge eye makeup can transfer bacteria, germs, and dirt from your nails or hands to your face.
This can lead to symptoms such as you’d expect with any infection or allergy.
It’s easy to forget to wash your hands before applying makeup. Using your fingers to smudge eye makeup can transfer bacteria, germs, and dirt from your nails or hands to your face.
Makeup bag
Your favorite makeup bag could also harbor bacteria if you don’t remove the dirt and dust regularly. Take time regularly to gently wipe down the inside of the bag.
Or if the material allows, you can toss it in the washing machine or even the dishwasher.Â
Lash extensions
If you suddenly start feeling tired or sleepy after having lash extensions for the first time, it is possible that the aesthetician who applied them passed an infection due to less than hygienic tools.
Always research a salon before allowing anyone near your eyes with sharp tools and glue.Â
The salon staff must have experience in maintaining their product and equipment to avoid transferring diseases to their clients. They should also be experienced and adept at working with glue in the eye area.
Some glues could cause severe reactions due to being too old or containing allergens.Â
How to Look Less Tired With Makeup
If your tired look is not related to allergies or bacteria, you could apply some tricks and tips to look younger and more energetic.
Eyeliner Technique
Instead of using a typical liner pencil or applicator, gently apply a sweep of light brown eye makeup to the edges of your lashes.
The powder will reflect light, and your eyes will appear more prominent.Â
Avoid Black Eyeliner
You’d also be wise to avoid pitch-black eyeliner. Brown liner with a hint of shimmer reflects the color of your eyes much better, and you’ll look wide-eyed and alert as a result.
For naturally smaller eyes lining only the outer corner, instead of the entire eye, makes you look much younger and more awake.
Go Nude!
A nude or pale pink eyeliner will instantly highlight the whites of your eyes, giving your entire face a lift.
Eyebrow Thickness
A thin, artificial-looking, or drawn-in eyebrow is sure to make you look older and more tired than you are.
As the years progress, let your brows become slightly thicker and ‘bushier’ to create a softer look.
Primer
Many believe primer is only for professional makeup models and special occasions. However, applying a good primer before your concealer will avoid the powdery, aged and tired look.Â
Concealer
As with primer, concealers are there for everyone and daily use. Always opt for a product with a hint of color correction for perfect results. You could also set your concealer with a good-quality brightening powder to avoid creasing and allow the light to bounce off shadows for a younger and more professional look.
Conclusion
If you feel tired after applying your makeup, you’d be wise to investigate your makeup, step by step. Ensure it doesn’t contain any allergens or harmful bacteria, and see a medical practitioner if you have severe symptoms.
If none of your makeup is bad, it may be that you are allergic to something in your routine.
If you look tired, try some of our tips to disappear age and fatigue quickly.
