WE all have those days when we’re just too tired to follow our usual skincare routine or we rush out of the gym without thinking twice about cleansing.
But new research from beauty brand Sculpted by Aimee shows that these small habits can have a bigger impact on our skin than we realise.
Almost 40% of women admit to sleeping in their makeup when they’re exhausted, and nearly half skip cleansing after a workout.
A survey of 2,914 women in the UK and Ireland found that 36.8% would go to bed with makeup on when tired, while 47.3% don’t bother to remove their makeup after exercising.
To show the potential damage of these habits, Sculpted by Aimee worked with cosmetic dermatologist Dr. Nora Jaafar used technology to create an image of what Aimee Connolly’s skin could look like in 30 years if she didn’t prioritise cleansing.
The result? More inflammation, uneven texture, blackheads, and accelerated ageing.
Dr. Nora explains: “Cleansing is an essential step in maintaining healthy skin.
“Without it, impurities and toxins build up, clogging pores and disrupting the skin barrier.
“This can lead to long-term problems like uneven skin tone and inflammation.”
Aimee Connolly, the founder of Sculpted by Aimee, has emphasised the importance of skincare.
She says: “Seeing how my skin could look in 30 years if I didn’t prioritise cleansing was a real eye-opener.
“It made me realise that skincare isn’t just about makeup – it’s about long-term health and feeling confident in your own skin.
“That’s why I created DuoCleanse, to make cleansing quick and easy for everyone, even on the busiest days.”
Dr. Nora Jaafar highlights five key skin issues that can arise from not properly removing makeup.
Chronic Inflammation
Without cleansing, irritation and inflammation can build up, weakening the skin barrier and causing redness and long-term damage.
Uneven Skin Texture and Pigmentation
Impurities, dead skin, and pollutants can leave your skin looking dull and rough, and over time, this can lead to dark spots and uneven skin tone, especially with UV exposure.
Blackheads and Enlarged Pores
Dirt and oil can clog pores, resulting in blackheads and larger, more noticeable pores.
Accelerated Ageing
Pollutants and free radicals left on the skin can cause premature ageing, including fine lines, wrinkles, and loss of elasticity.
Increased Risk of Skin Infections
If you’re not cleansing regularly, you’re more likely to develop bacterial or fungal infections, especially in areas where sweat and oil accumulate.
By making cleansing a priority, even on your busiest days, you can help keep your skin healthy, radiant, and avoid these long-term issues.
Biggest skincare trends for 2025
Face The Future’s Head of Clinic, Kimberley Medd, shared the five skincare trends predicted to take off in 2025.
1. Exosomes
Exosomes are the buzzword for 2025, taking advanced skin regeneration to new heights. These micro-messengers signal skin cells to repair damage, boost collagen, and accelerate recovery, and they’re a gamechanger for targeting ageing.
2. Streamlined Skincare
The age of 12-step routines is fading as consumers shift to more intentional, multi-functional products. Streamlining skincare not only saves time but also reduces the risk of overloading your skin. In 2025, we’ll see a rise in hybrid products that combine active ingredients for simplified, effective results.
3. Vegan Collagen
Plant-based collagen will dominate the skincare world this year, providing a sustainable, ethical alternative to traditional animal-derived collagen. Expect vegan collagen in everything from moisturisers to serums.
4. The Rise Of AI
AI is revolutionising the beauty landscape, making it possible for consumers to get truly personalised skincare solutions. In 2025, we predict a dramatic shift towards AI-powered tools that help people understand their skin on a deeper level.
5. Hair Loss Solutions –
Hair loss is an issue that affects more men than we often realise, and it’s no longer just something we’re talking about behind closed doors. This year, expect to see a continued rise in demand for treatments that not only tackle hair loss but also nurture overall scalp health.