Sweat and bacteria can accumulate on your body and face during workouts, so it’s essential to wash off your face both before and after.
Post-workout skin is more delicate and susceptible to breakouts, so using a gentle cleanser that dislodges sweat, oil and debris can help avoid them.
1. Cleanse
Cleaning is an essential step in any skin care regimen, particularly after working out because sweat can contain bacteria and other particles that could clog pores and lead to breakouts, according to Karen Barr, founder of Skin Spa New York. For best results, she suggests using a gentle cleanser tailored specifically for your skin type which effectively eliminates any remaining oil, dirt or makeup from the day.
She also suggests washing the back and chest areas, since these can be prone to clogged pores. To prevent breakouts, thoroughly cleansing both areas with a light moisturizer or face oil afterward is her advice.
If you’re constantly on the go, she suggests carrying a small bottle of face wipes with you to quickly wash away sweat and makeup. Look for makeup wipes with an oil base that are ideal for this purpose or use some cotton balls to get rid of any remaining residue.
Benjamin suggests applying a calming face mask before and after exercising to protect your skin. “Oat extract in Darden’s product helps repair the skin barrier while hyaluronic acid keeps skin hydrated,” she advises.
Finally, she suggests applying a lightweight moisturizer directly onto the face or onto sheet masks for extra hydration. It’s especially essential to use something with SPF since sun exposure can cause irritation and inflammation.
After working out, it’s essential to avoid harsh exfoliating products on your face as these can cause micro-abrasions that make your complexion appear dry and flaky. Instead, use a gentle cleanser with hydrating formula like this one for maximum skin renewal after each workout session.
It’s essential to remember that skin care doesn’t need to be complex or time-consuming. In fact, some experts suggest sticking with a minimal skincare routine in the morning and night when at home. This way, your skin will get all of the essential nutrients it needs and you’ll have plenty of energy for other tasks throughout your day.
2. Moisturize
One of the most essential steps you can take after a good workout is to moisturize your skin. Sweat contains various skin-nourishing nutrients like vitamins, minerals and antioxidants which hydrate and improve circulation in the body.
To achieve optimal skin care after exercising, begin your post workout skin care routine with a shower. Be sure to use only warm water as hot can strip your skin of its essential oils and cause dryness.
Next, apply a moisturizer tailored for your skin type. CLINIQUE Moisture Surge Extended Thirst Relief is an ultralight gel-to-oil formula suitable for all skin types that provides your complexion with essential moisture after strenuous exercise.
Finally, when searching for a moisturizer, be sure to look one that contains humectants–skin-loving substances that attract and hold moisture. They also help minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
If you plan to spend time outdoors, use a lotion with an SPF that will shield your face from UV rays and the sun’s harmful rays.
As a general guideline, the skin on your face is more delicate than other parts of the body and thus requires special attention when taking care of it. This is because facial cells shed faster than most other body regions do, leaving you more vulnerable to blemishes and signs of premature aging.
The ideal post workout skin care routine consists of several products that will keep your skin hydrated, healthy, and looking its best. To find the right combination for your individual skin type as well as maximize efficiency in both time and money, select products according to what works best for you.
3. Hydrate
Hydration is essential for overall wellbeing, but especially after a workout. Not only does it prevent dehydration, joint paint, muscle cramps and exhaustion after working out; but it also enhances performance and leaves you feeling rejuvenated.
Sweating is your body’s way of cooling itself off during exercise, but to replenish lost fluids and electrolytes from sweat, make sure you drink water afterwards. Otherwise, the body could start losing water faster than it can replace it, leading to lightheadedness or other symptoms.
Hydrating properly after a workout requires drinking at the same rate you are losing fluids through sweat. According to the American College of Sports Medicine, you should begin drinking water two hours before your exercise and continue hydrating frequently during and after the activity.
Drinking water on its own may not be enough to rehydrate your body, but adding other fluids and electrolytes makes it easier for the body to adjust. Try adding coconut water, skim milk or broth, coffee or tea – any beverage will do!
Protein smoothies and powders can be an excellent way to rehydrate after a workout, provided you also incorporate other liquids and electrolytes into your meal plan. Just remember that each day’s hydration requirements differ depending on when and how hard you worked out.
For instance, a workout at a studio class may be temperature controlled to an extent, so you won’t need to drink as much water as if you were outside running on hot days. On the other hand, if you are doing high intensity interval training (HIIT) sessions or doing intense squats, then drinking more water than usual during casual walks still applies.
After working out, you can add salt to your hydration mix for added benefits. Salt contains minerals like potassium which helps balance fluid levels in your body as well as anti-inflammatory properties. A sprinkle of salt on top of your post-workout smoothie or snack is an ideal way to up those hydration levels.
4. Protect
Sweat, bacteria and dirt can accumulate on your skin while working out, so it’s essential to take care of it afterward. Washing your face after a workout is the best way to prevent breakouts.
After your workout, it is ideal to wash your face within an hour so any bacteria clinging to your skin can be easily washed away. Delaying too long may cause them to bind more tightly and become difficult to eliminate completely.
Another way to protect your skin is selecting clothing suitable for your activity. Opt for fabrics that are breathable and wick away sweat, keeping your skin dry and comfortable. Sporting a sports bra or hoodie made with anti-microbial materials can further help reduce the risk of bacterial infections or rashes caused by sweat that sits on top during workout sessions.
A healthy post-workout skincare routine should also include sunscreen and moisturizer with an SPF of at least 30. Depending on where you exercise, you may also need to don gloves or a headband that will keep your skin protected from cold temperatures.
If you’re searching for a gentle cleanser to cleanse your skin after working out, The Outset’s Natural Face Cleanser is an acclaimed cult favorite that won’t dry or itchy your skin. Formulated with botanical extracts to leave skin soft and supple without harsh chemicals found in many other cleansers, The Outset recommends this cult favorite. To complete the post-workout skincare regimen, NEOGEN recommends their re:p Nutrinature Ultra Nourishing Cream: an all-in-one moisturizer which nourishes and strengthens skin’s barrier while keeping it moisturized.
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