Any healthy lifestyle plan has to include some exercise, which also happens to be especially good for your skin. It improves blood circulation and helps the body produce collagen which keeps the skin looking firm; this is how you get that healthy glow from within.

Here’s how to take care of your skin when your routine includes a workout.

Pre Workout
If you wear makeup, it is good practice to cleanse your skin before you start a workout because makeup on your skin can interfere with some of the natural ways your skin responds to exertion. For instance, your pores and sweat glands open up in order to cool you down, and wearing makeup can block said pores which can lead to breakouts. If you’re not able to wash your face, using a cleansing facial wipe is the next best option.

During Workout
During your workout, try not to touch your face. The gym is is a playground for bacteria and other peoples sweat and these are left behind on surfaces and exercise equipment. You’ll also need a clean towel to pat down sweat during the workout and a fresh head band if you use them to keep your hair away from your face.

Post Workout
Ideally, you want to shower right after a workout. If that is not an option, we recommend that at a minimum you wash your face- before you leave the gym, spin studio or yoga studio. This is because following a workout, a cocktail of bodily fluids, dirt, and oil clings to your skin, and this needs to be washed off as soon as possible. Again, facial wipes can work if you are unable to wash your face with water.

Follow the cleansing with the next step in your day or evening routine. Reapply sunscreen for daytime, and choose a lightweight sunscreen that will allow your skin some room to breathe. Our Brightening Moisturizer SPF 30 is perfect for this, so keep one in your gym bag so you don’t forget.

Don’t let breakouts sabotage your workout routine. Following a few pre and post workout steps will help your skin flourish with your workout.