Yay! You worked out, good for you, now let’s look after your skin. Sweating itself is not bad for the skin, and the physical workout can lead to benefits like improved circulation and a mood boost. However, if you’ve ever left your skin for a while after your workout, sometimes your skin can end up feeling a bit tight, itchy or even a little sensitive. So, let’s get into it so we can make sure you’re doing the best for your skin.
Technically this step should happen before you do your workout, but try to make sure you’re removing your makeup beforehand. This is so your sweat isn’t mixing with your makeup - the combination of these two is an ideal starting point for clogged pores and breakouts. Your GunkOff Melting Balm Cleanser is on hand to quickly remove that makeup quick smart - the new tube packaging is also the perfect size to tuck into your gym bag if that’s your thing (and smaller than a pack of makeup wipes).
If you’re at a gym or regularly using your own equipment at home, it’s really important to focus on hygiene. Most gyms will have strict wipe down and ‘bring your own towel’ rules - which is of course for your benefit generally, but can also reduce the opportunities for breakout-causing bacteria to get in contact with your face. Apply the same rules at home, regularly de-sanitising your workout mat and weights. Also try to avoid touching your face too much during the workout.
Cleansing as soon as you can after working out is a great way to wash away all the gunk and get your skin on its way back to feeling clean and happy. The longer you wait, the longer you’re leaving your skin open to irritation or bacteria working its way into pores. Use lukewarm water to help bring the heat down in your skin, along with a gentle formula like GunkOff Hydrating Gel Cleanser. Bonus points for the cucumber and aloe vera in the formula that have a soothing and cooling effect on the skin. Cleansing your face with this after a big run? Delightful!
Avoid exfoliating as part of your post-workout routine. Like we talked about before, after a workout your skin is more prone to irritation, so the last thing it needs is exfoliation thrown in there as well. Your skin barrier is already working overtime to help keep your skin healthy, so try not to overload it. If post-workout you’re feeling like there’s a bit too much on your skin, go for a gentle double cleanse and use a muslin cloth to remove any residue.
Focus on light hydrating layers. Exercise gets the heart pumping and your circulation up, normally resulting in some heat and redness in your face. After burn is also a real thing, so it can take a little while for your skin temperature to come back down and regulate again. This means that when you’re adding in your skincare goodness, focus on lighter layers that absorb easily and even have soothing ingredients. Hold off on richer creams or occlusive balms that could trap heat in the skin.
Sunscreen! Even if you’ve taken off your makeup. I know this can feel like a bit of a pain, or seem counter-intuitive to reapply before you start your sweat sesh, but if you’re going to be outside, you need to be protected.
