When enduring a vigorous, heart-pumping and muscle-flexing workout, it’s easy to neglect your skin as you punish your body. But why put in all the time and work to ensure every limb is toned and flab free only to feel self-conscious about sunspots and acne?
Whether the plan is an evening at the gym or a morning hike in the sun, following these easy suggestions before, during and after your workout will ensure your skin is pampered while your body is being put through its paces.
You have your morning skin care habits and your before bed skin care regimen, but have you made your after gym skin care routine? If not, you really should you’ve done your body good by working out, so let’s make sure your skin stays happy and healthy at the gym too. Here are 8 tips for after gym skin care.
1.WASH UP
Washing your face and removing all pore-clogging makeup before working up a sweat will reduce breakouts and blackheads. Disposable makeup-remover wipes may do the trick, but oily or acne-prone skin many need something stronger, like a cleansing brush, says Kimberly Smith, clinical aesthetician at Rejuvena Health and Aesthetics in Scottsdale. “People don’t care if they have makeup on when they work out, but then I’m spending hours extracting things out of their skin because it’s so clogged.
2.SUNCREEEN
A moisturizer with sunscreen is essential for outdoor daytime workouts. Rejuvena Health and Aesthetics clinical aesthetician Kimberly Smith recommends using one that contains zinc, which fends off hyperpigmentation and contains anti-inflammatories, which are also anti-aging. “You need more than basic moisturizer with an SPF of 15 or 30. Zinc provides much more protection.
3.Dress the part.
Please do not put your exposed skin on the gym equipment," pleads Dr. Downie. "This means no face should ever touch a yoga mat and no exposed back should hit the weight bench." We recommend long-sleeve shirts and pants but if you prefer something a bit more breathable, Dr. Downie suggests laying a towel on any surfaces your skin might come into contact with. "Many have used the gym equipment before you, which means you could break out badly if you do not follow these rules." And if hair oils, pomades, serums, or greases are your thing, wear a sweatband. The drip-down effect can also trigger breakouts along your hairline.
4. Don't rely on those sanitizing towelettes.
At least not for keeping bumps at bay. "Using disinfectant wipes on equipment does not really help protect from breakouts," says Dr. Downie. The good news: They can, however, cut down on other bacteria that cause viruses and colds. "The only way to keep your skin risk-free is to avoid contact with equipment," she reiterates.
5.SHED THOSE CLOTHES
Refrain from lounging in your sweaty exercise gear and remove clothing as soon as possible and hit the shower, says Skylar Harvey, aesthetician at Mood Swings Salon and Skin Spa in Tempe. “The dirt and sweat from your clothing will sit on your skin, blocking your pores and potentially causing breakouts.
6.WATCH THOSE HANDS
Resist the temptation to wipe sweat from your face with your hands or workout gloves, says Soraya Ali-Hope, member of the Society of Cosmetic Chemists. Instead, soak a few cotton balls with facial toner, tote them with you in a small plastic zipper bag and use those to dry off. And always wash your hands thoroughly before and after exercising. “You may feel like a hypochondriac, but you will have clear skin.
7.DRINK WATER
Getting plenty of liquids before, during and after exercise helps prevent the dehydration that can show up on your skin, especially around the eyes and neck, says Kimberly Smith, clinical aesthetician at Rejuvena Health and Aesthetics. “When you see that creping of the skin, that’s dehydration.
8.Cool down with another cleanse.
Wash your face and body after ercising with a gentle, unscented cleanser to avoid any irritation, especially since skin tends to be sensitive after a workout. "Apply a soothing bath oil after your shower and blot your skin dry with a cool towel," Dr. Downie advises. She also recommends eoliating up to two times a week if you workout often to keep your skin free of impurities.
In the shower, opt for a washcloth, washable mesh sponge or anything that can be regularly cleaned. Although loofahs are popular, Kimberly Smith, clinical aesthetician at Health and Aesthetics, calls them bacteria jungles that can easily cause breakouts. “If you can’t throw it in the washer, don’t use it.
9.FIND WHAT YOUR SKIN NEEDS
For back acne, choose a body wash containing salicylic acid to combat breakouts and help lighten scarring over time. Moisturizers and washes that contain aloe vera or hibiscus calm down redness for anyone with rosacea or who has thin or mature skin, says Kimberly Smith, clinical aesthetician at Rejuvena Health and Aesthetics.
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