You can’t beat exercise for general health and wellbeing. It strengthens your heart, improves circulation, and boosts your mood. But while you’re busy crushing your fitness goals, it’s easy to forget about another crucial aspect of your health: your skin. Sweat, friction, and exposure to gym equipment can wreak havoc on your complexion if you’re not practicing proper workout skincare.
The good news is that a few simple tweaks to your pre-workout, during-workout, and post-workout routine can make a big difference. Here are some common workout skincare mistakes you might be making and how to fix them:
Pre-Workout Skincare Blunders
Hitting the Gym with a Full Face of Makeup:
Clogged pores are a recipe for breakouts. While a light layer of sunscreen is recommended, skip the foundation, concealer, and blush. Trapped sweat mixed with makeup can irritate your skin and lead to acne breakouts. Opt for a clean face or use a light, oil-free moisturizer with SPF.
Skipping the Cleanser:
Even if you’re not wearing makeup, cleanse your face before your workout. Daily dirt, oil, and dead skin cells can mix with sweat and clog pores. Use a gentle cleanser to remove any impurities without stripping your skin’s natural oils.
Forgetting to Hydrate:
Drinking plenty of water is essential for overall health, and your skin is no exception. Start hydrating well before your workout and continue to sip water throughout your exercise session. Proper hydration plumps your skin cells, helps regulate your body temperature, and aids in sweat production to keep you cool.
Mid-Workout Mishaps
Ignoring the Sweat:
Sweat is your body’s natural way to cool down, but letting it sit on your face for too long can irritate your skin. Carry a clean microfiber towel to gently pat away sweat throughout your workout. Avoid rubbing, which can cause friction and breakouts.
Becoming a Towel Sharer:
Sharing towels with gym buddies is a no-no. Towels harbour bacteria and sweat, which can easily transfer to your skin and cause irritation or even infections. Please bring your towel and use it only on yourself.
Touching Your Face:
Your hands come into contact with countless surfaces throughout the day, picking up bacteria and germs. Touching your face during your workout can transfer these impurities to your skin and lead to breakouts. Develop the habit of keeping your hands off your face and use a clean tissue if necessary.
Post-Workout Pitfalls
Waiting Too Long to Shower:
The longer sweat stays on your skin, the more likely it is to clog pores and irritate your skin. Make showering a priority after your workout, even if it’s just a quick rinse. Use lukewarm water and a gentle cleanser to remove sweat, dirt, and dead skin cells.
Skipping the Moisturizer:
Sweating might make your skin feel damp, but it can actually be dehydrating. After cleansing, use a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer to replenish lost moisture and keep your skin feeling healthy and supple.
Skipping the Post-Workout Snack:
Your body needs fuel to recover after a workout. Choose a healthy snack containing protein and carbohydrates to help repair muscle tissue and replenish energy stores. Proper nutrition also plays a vital role in maintaining healthy skin.
Bonus Tips for Glowing Skin
Exfoliate Regularly:
Exfoliating your skin a few times a week helps remove dead skin cells that can clog pores and contribute to breakouts. Choose a gentle exfoliator suitable for your skin type.
Wash Your Workout Gear:
Bacteria and sweat can linger on your workout clothes. Wash your gym clothes after each use with hot water and a detergent suitable for activewear. Consider keeping a separate gym bag for sweaty clothes to prevent bacteria from transferring to your everyday clothes.
Listen to Your Skin:
Everyone’s skin is different. Pay attention to how your skin reacts to your workout skincare routine and make adjustments as needed. If you notice increased breakouts or irritation, try switching products or modifying your cleansing routine.
By incorporating these simple workout skincare tips into your routine, you can ensure your skin stays healthy and radiant while you achieve your fitness goals. Remember, a little planning and effort go a long way in keeping your skin happy and glowing, both during and after your workout.
