You may already have your morning and evening skin care routine, but what about your pre- and post-workout one? I know, it’s hard enough to double-cleanse twice a day, even harder to squeeze in a workout in your busy schedule, but spending a few extra minutes in that locker room to take care of your skin is key to ensure healthy and good looking skin. Here are 6 quick tips to follow.
1. Wipe That Makeup Off Before Every Workout
Even though you want to look good at the gym (well, we all do), it’s important to remove your makeup —plus dirt and excess sebum—before you start your workout session. That’s because, when combined with sweat, they enhance significantly the risks of clogged pores and acne. Quick solution: Instead of having a bottle of makeup remover sloshing around in your gym bag, carry a package of disposable cleansing wipes. Even better if you opt for oil-based cleansing tissues, since they help you get rid of the makeup, sunscreen, and other impurities laying on your face. Easy peasy!
2. Don’t Forget the Sunscreen
After removing all that makeup and dirt, don’t just go barefaced—especially if you’re working out outside or even by a window at all. A quick layer of SPF will get you ready for the great outdoors. Try using a lightweight formula like Missha Mild Essence Sun Milk, that also nourishes and hydrates your skin at the same time it protects it from sunburn and premature aging.
3. Change Out of Those Sweaty Clothes ASAP
We all know we should. But we’re all so guilty of lingering after an exhausting workout. But that tank top, those tights, that sports bra are now swimming in bacteria and sweat—and that’s all sitting riiight on top of your skin. Experts recommend changing and showering within 30 minutes to avoid any potential breakouts and irritation.
4. Hands Off!
We’ve been through why you should try to keep your hands off your face for the sake (and looks) of your skin. During a workout you should pay twice the usual attention on that! Pores open up even more when we’re releasing any kind of perspiration, making your skin a very welcoming environment for dirt, bacteria, and oil to come in. Bring a (clean) towel to wipe that sweat off your brow and please, pretty please: Wash those hands afterward.
5. Cleanse, Cleanse, Cleanse
This one may seem pretty obvious but, not only is it important to have a clean face before every workout, it’s also recommended to have one afterward as well. Whether you’re heading to dinner or just about to hit another long day at the office, you’ll want to make sure you have a facial cleanser on hand. Or even better, a very good cleansing water that can multitask so you won’t feel bad about skipping your regular dual-cleansing routine.
6. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate
Sweating during a workout is awesome because it helps sending out impurities. But it also makes you get rid of skin’s natural oils and moisture. The result? Dryness, of course. The picture just gets worst if you wash your face in the shower. So make sure you restore your skin balance by adding the hydrating formulas to your regular skin care routine (that you should follow right after showering), like a calming mist, a refreshing toner, and a nourishing moisturizer.