Giving the skin a make-up break allows it to breathe, says cosmetic dermatologist Dr Rinky Kapoor. She says, “Any living tissue must have its own space. We tend to put something on the skin all the time – celebs especially – so the skin is always covered and the pores are always blocked. But using those heavy foundations clogs the pores and causes allergies and breakouts. People do so much for the skin like buying costly serums and creams, but they forget what is primary – allowing the skin to breathe, so that it repairs itself and it rejuvenates, naturally. Going make-up free is actually like a skin detox.”

How often should one give the skin a break this way? She advises: “Ideally, every day you should give some time for the skin to recuperate. If you wear a sunscreen in the morning, give the skin a break in the afternoons. Also always remove make-up before you sleep at night without fail. For those under heavy lights and who cannot avoid make-up, give the skin a break at least once a week for a full 24 hours.”