In my last post I revealed a few of my top tips for preventing the telltale signs of "gym (or pool!) hair." This time I'll be going over some of the easiest ways to keep skin stunning, smooth, and clear throughout any workout. Read on, as I meet your most stubborn skin stumpers head on!
Problem: Breakouts- Number one on the list of troubles facing frequent gym-goers has to be breakouts. Sweating, oil, bacteria, and dirt can all lead to clogged pores and pimples on the face and beyond!
Solution: First and foremost, never EVER workout with makeup on! I know it seems like a no brainer, but it must not be, as I see it happen all the time! This applies to any workout that you can think of, regardless of how much you will or won't be sweating. Exercising while wearing makeup clogs and enlarges your pores, causing breakouts and uneven texture. Keep a container of oil and alcohol free face wipes in your gym bag so there are no excuses for working out with your "face on!" The next thing to think about is bacteria, for which the gym is a veritable breeding ground. Whilst in the gym, avoid touching your face at all costs, as you risk introducing breakout-causing bugs to your mug. Also resist the urge to wipe sweat off your face with the same gym towel you use on machines. If you really need to towel off, use a bit of paper towel instead. Wash your face immediately following your workout, but only after you've washed your hands with antibacterial soap and warm water.
For body breakouts, showering right after your cool-down is the remedy. If you really can't squeeze in a full shower immediately after your sweat session, the bare minimum alternative is using one of those aforementioned face wipes on affected areas and changing into dry clothes. If you're showering every time you sweat and still find yourself plagued by pimples, one more option is to pour skin clarifying toner into a spray bottle for use on hard-to-reach areas. Spray on a fine layer just after showering, while your skin is at its most absorptive- but make sure the product you're using doesn't contain benzoyl peroxide or any other ingredients that could bleach clothing.
Problem: Dry, tired looking skin- While exercise is amazing for your body, inside and out, too much sun, wind, or chlorine exposure can leave skin ravaged. Harsh cleansers or improper care at the gym compounds the issue.
Solution: Don't be too hard on yourself- when removing sweat (with a paper towel, not a gym towel, right?) gently dab at your face instead of rubbing, which can stress or damage delicate facial skin. Combat really dull, dry skin by turning the gym into your own personal spa. When you exercise, your body warms up and your pores enlarge, causing your skin act like a sponge. Use this knowledge to your advantage and apply eye and face serum before burning your daily calories. I know I've said to thoroughly cleanse your face prior to exercising, but as long as your serums are oil free, they should be perfectly safe to sweat in! Use an alcohol free, non-drying face wash immediately after working out, and chase it with a high quality moisturizer to look radiant all day long. Last but not least, this probably goes without saying, but ALWAYS wear and reapply sunscreen throughout any outdoor exercise! Sun damage is the most sure-fire way to dry out and prematurely age your skin.
Problem: Blisters- It's not just the face that's affected by our wonderful workout regimens! And when blisters crop up, you're either plagued with pain or pushed to the sidelines.
Solution: Believe it or not, the easiest way to prevent blisters on the hands is actually to forgo the lifting gloves whenever possible. It seems incredibly counterintuitive, but the extra layer of material and ill-placed seams cause friction on your palms during your resistance routine, and can ultimately contribute to the formation of blisters. If you really can't seem to lift without gloves, make sure to choose the smallest size that's comfortable for you; minimizing the excess material will also minimize friction and blistering.
The same theory applies for blisters on feet from running and other exercises. Shoes that fit well will be more likely to stay in place and less likely to rub you the wrong way. When in doubt, visit a full service shoe store like Road Runner that can analyze your stride and secure you the perfect-fitting shoe. Wearing socks with 'tabs' will also work wonders on reducing blister-causing friction on your heels.
I hope you enjoy these tips and have a happy, healthy weekend!
Sarah
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