Published April 15, 2023
Exercising is essential for your overall health, but did you know it can also have an incredible effect on your skin? It's true! Regular exercise can make your skin look brighter, younger, and more vibrant. But before you hit the gym or go for a run, there are a few things you should do to ensure that your skin gets the most out of the experience. Let's take a look at what you need to do to get glowing skin with exercise.
THE BENEFITS OF EXERCISE ON YOUR SKIN
When you engage in physical activity, your heart pumps more blood throughout your body, including your skin. This increased circulation helps deliver vital nutrients and oxygen to your skin cells. This flush of blood also assists in the removal of waste products such as free radicals, which can damage your skin's structure and accelerate the aging process. Moreover, regular exercise helps reduce stress and inflammation, both of which can have adverse effects on your skin.
SWEAT IT OUT
As you work up a sweat, your body also releases toxins through perspiration. These toxins can contribute to skin problems like acne and dullness. Sweat also contains natural antimicrobial peptides that help protect your skin from harmful bacteria. So, while it might not be the most glamorous aspect of exercising, sweating is actually good for your skin.
PRE-WORKOUT SKINCARE
To make the most out of your workout's benefits for your skin, it's important to take some precautionary measures beforehand. Start by removing all makeup, especially if it's heavy or oil-based. Wearing makeup while exercising can lead to clogged pores and, eventually, breakouts. Follow up with a gentle cleanser to ensure your skin is clean, and then apply a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated and protected. Additionally, don't forget to apply sunscreen if you'll be outdoors, as UV radiation can be just as harmful on a cloudy day.
Exercise is great for improving circulation in the body, which means more oxygen-rich blood is being delivered to your cells—including those in your skin! To give yourself an extra boost of nutrients during a workout, consider applying a face mask beforehand or using a facial spray after. These products provide antioxidants and other beneficial ingredients that help nourish and protect the skin while working out.
WHAT TO AVOID DURING EXERCISE
To prevent skin irritation during exercise, avoid wearing tight, non-breathable clothing. Opt for loose-fitting, moisture-wicking fabrics instead to keep your skin comfortable and sweat-free. If possible, avoid touching your face during your workout, as your hands may carry dirt and bacteria that could cause breakouts. Finally, if you suffer from rosacea or are prone to redness, consider lower-intensity workouts to minimize the risk of flare-ups as high-intensity exercises may aggravate these conditions.
POST-WORKOUT SKINCARE
After exercising, it's important to take care of yourself so that your body can recover properly. Make sure to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated; this will help flush out toxins and impurities from your body which can cause breakouts and dullness in the complexion. Additionally, be sure to shower as soon as possible after working out; this helps remove sweat, dirt, oil, makeup residue—anything that could clog pores or irritate the skin if left on too long! Choose a gentle, hydrating cleanser that won't strip your skin of its moisture. Follow up with moisturizer or serums that contain hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerin to soothe any redness or irritation caused by sweat or friction from clothing during exercise.
IN SUMMARY
Exercise offers numerous benefits for your skin, from increased circulation and toxin elimination to stress reduction. By following the proper pre- and post-workout skincare steps, you can maximize the positive impact of exercise on your complexion while minimizing potential issues like irritation or breakouts. So, don't be afraid to work up a sweat – your skin will thank you!