Here’s How to Perfect Your Pre- and Post-Workout Skincare Routines
Put your best face forward with the right skincare regimen for before and after a good sweat.
You already know that working out is good for your mind and body, but did you know that it has skincare benefits, too? “It gets the heart pumping and boosts blood circulation, which gives the skin a healthy radiance,” says Dr. Geeta Yadav, founder of Facet Dermatology in Toronto. “Those who exercise regularly even have higher hydration levels in the skin barrier, which helps skin stay balanced and healthy.”
But if you’re not taking care of your complexion before and after that mat sesh or spin class, you could be setting the stage for redness, breakouts and UV damage.
Pre-workout
If you’re exercising midday and you’ve got a full face of makeup on, it’s a good idea to remove it first. “Sweating occurs to regulate our temperature; if our pores are blocked by makeup, this can foster breakouts,” says Dr. Vincent Richer, a cosmetic dermatologist with Pacific Derm in Vancouver. A makeup wipe could do the trick, but a double cleanse, using a makeup remover and then a gentle cleanser or syndet, is best.
Next, you’ll need a light moisturizer — and don’t forget to use SPF year-round. Whether you’re running around your neighbourhood or jogging on a treadmill near a window, you need to protect your skin from UV damage. Use a sunscreen with a minimum of SPF 30, and if your outdoor workout is extra sweaty or involves laps in an outdoor pool, be sure to opt for a waterproof formula. Some brands claim to be “sweatproof,” but “waterproof” is the label to look for since it’s a measured time-based metric you can count on, says Yadav.
Post-sweat
Run, don’t walk, to the nearest sink to wash your face. If things got super sweaty, strip off your gym gear and shower. “Workout clothes are often made of synthetic fabrics that don’t wick moisture away but instead trap it there, which creates the perfect breeding ground for bacteria,” says Yadav. If you’re prone to body breakouts, a wash containing salicylic acid can break down the dead skin cells and excess oil that leads to blemishes.
Got that post-sweat rosiness? “Bringing the body temperature down, by both drinking cold water and using cold water in the shower, is a great start,” says Richer. An anti-redness serum can also help, but keep in mind that products containing a green tint are designed for everyday background rosiness, not the sudden, acute flush that comes with workouts. “If dealing with rosacea is limiting your workouts, consider consulting with a dermatologist for either a prescription or laser treatments,” Richer recommends.
And, once again, don’t skip the SPF as you get ready to go on with the rest of your day. Yadav loves sunscreen mists that you can move from your gym bag to your handbag and spritz on freely throughout the day, even over a full face of makeup.
Stock your gym bag with skincare products that work as hard as you do:
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Make-up Removing Cleansing Wipes With Hyaluronic Acid
So long foundation, mascara, lipstick and more — with a few quick swipes your face will be ready to work!
Sun Bum Original SPF 45 Sunscreen Face Mist
This mist provides sheer, lightweight protection that sprays on easily (even over makeup) anytime you need an SPF touch-up.
Rare Beauty Gentle Exfoliating Body Wash
If you’re not already wide awake after your workout, the uplifting notes of lemon zest will get you going.
Jordan Samuel Skin The Matinee Gel Moisturizer
Looking for some moisture without overdoing it and leaving your skin feeling greasy? The latest moisturizer from Jordan Samuel Skin gives you hydration with a comfortable finish you’ll barely notice.
Dermalogica Clarifying Bacne Spray
This blemish-fighting body spray works on all the hard-to-reach spots, like the backs of your shoulders, to help clear clogged pores and prevent future breakouts.
This article first appeared in FASHION’s October 2024 issue. Find out more here.
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