How to Care for Skin Pre + Post Workout
Working out is a vital part of a healthy lifestyle and something you should be doing consistently, but skincare routines often suffer because there is confusion as to what to do and when to do it. Below are some helpful tips that should keep your skin in check while exercising.
Pre-Workout
Cleansed skin is imperative before working out.
If you begin your day with a workout and have applied a proper evening routine the night before, using a cleansing wipe or a splash of water is enough to wipe away any product residue. A spritz of balancing toner should always follow a splash of water to keep the skin’s pH balanced. If your skin is dehydrated or very dry, apply a light moisturizer for hydration.
If you have not been diligent and done your evening routine (the most important routine to do), then make sure you thoroughly cleanse your face and remove any traces of makeup. Follow with a balancing toner and light cream and then you can get to your workout.
For midday or evening workouts, the face needs to be thoroughly cleansed so that the makeup, debris, sweat and other pollutants do not clog your pores. A spritz of toner and a swipe of light cream are all you need for clean, hydrated skin.
Augustinus Bader
The Cream
Post-Workout
After the workout, it is also imperative to cleanse skin. If you are on the go, a cleansing wipe will suffice (I always keep a set in my handbag) but try and shower as soon as possible to help keep breakouts on the body at bay.
Protective face masks have become commonplace in gyms, and these can provide unique challenges for the skin. Masks can trap heat, sweat and bacteria from our breath, leading to breakouts. I recommend wearing a fresh cotton mask for each workout. Cotton allows skin to breathe, and is naturally hypoallergenic, biodegradable, and durable.
If you do experience ‘maskne,’ use a cleanser that addresses breakouts. I really like Environ’s Sebu-Wash which can help to freshen and rebalance the skin with Tea Tree Oil which is a gentle and anti-bacterial.
Joanna Czech Skincare
The Essentials Kit
