Work Out, Not Break Out!

Nothing beats a session at the gym to work those muscles, lose weight and feel good at the same time. The benefits of exercise are endless but when you’re working out, sweat mixes with bacteria, oil and dead skin cells that clog pores to cause a break out. So, while you break out in a sweat, be sure to care for your skin with these tips!

Before working out

Remove your makeup

Sweat, when mixed with makeup, causes a build-up of excess oil on the skin. When we sweat, the pores on the skin open so to prevent clogged pores and allow skin to breathe. Acne cosmetic is a type of acne caused by wearing makeup and this can be easily prevented by removing makeup before starting your workout.

Always wear sunscreen

Always have a broad spectrum sunscreen with SPF value higher than 30 on, especially if you’re exercising outdoors. Choose oil free lotions to avoid clogging up your pores

Easy on the hair

Go easy on the hair products. When you sweat, these products can travel down your hair to your neck, back and face and cause a breakout. An alternative is to wear a sweatband to prevent sweat and the products from trickling on to your face.

During the work out

Dirty gym equipment

When skin comes into contact with dirt on gym equipment like yoga mats, weights and machine handles, bacteria can be transferred to your skin. If you can, bring your own yoga mat or clean towel to lay on benches. Swiping down the handles and weights is also a good way to remove the previous user’s sweat and grime.

After the work out

Wash your face

Clean your face immediately to prevent build up of sweat, oil and bacteria in the pores. Clogged pores not only cause the formation of blackheads and white heads, but also pimples.

Shower

Instead of sitting around in your sweaty gym outfit, shower immediately! By doing so, you clean off the dirt and sweat on your skin and prevent the back acne from occurring.