What is pre shower makeup?

"Pre-shower makeup," while not a formally recognized makeup category, generally refers to makeup applied before showering, specifically for the purpose of improving skincare during or after the shower. It's not about creating a flawless face for going out; instead, it's strategically used for skincare benefits. Here's a breakdown:

What it is:

• Not for wear: This isn't makeup intended to be seen. It's designed to be washed away in the shower.
• Targeted skincare benefits: The focus is on ingredients that enhance the effects of your shower routine, such as moisturizing, exfoliating, or treating specific skin concerns.
• Often involves occlusives: Products used frequently contain occlusives (like petrolatum or certain oils) to trap moisture during the shower, leading to better hydration after.
• May include actives: Some people might incorporate gentle actives like AHAs or BHAs (but proceed with caution and patch test!), knowing the shower will help remove them and minimize irritation.

Common products used:

• Heavy moisturizing creams or oils: These create a barrier to prevent water from stripping the skin of its natural oils during showering.
• Sheet masks: The shower's heat and steam can enhance the penetration of the sheet mask's ingredients.
• Hair masks: While not directly on the face, the steam can help these penetrate better.

Potential benefits:

• Enhanced hydration: The occlusive layer helps lock in moisture.
• Improved penetration of actives (used cautiously): Steam can help serums or treatments absorb better.
• Softer skin: The moisturizing effect makes the skin feel smoother after showering.
• Preparation for other skincare: Can make your post-shower routine more effective.

Potential drawbacks:

• Messy: It can be a bit messy if not applied carefully.
• Not suitable for everyone: People with sensitive or acne-prone skin may need to carefully select products to avoid breakouts or irritation.
• Not a substitute for proper skincare: It's a supplemental step, not a replacement for your regular skincare routine.

In short, "pre-shower makeup" is more of a skincare hack than a makeup technique. It utilizes cosmetic products in a non-traditional way to boost the effectiveness of your shower routine and improve skin health. Always do a patch test with any new product, especially if you have sensitive skin.