It's true: Sometimes your best workouts can lead to your biggest breakouts. No good deed goes unpunished, right? But we've got good news. With the help of dermatologist Jeanine B. Downie, M.D., we put together a list of guidelines for you to follow to prevent your skin from rebelling against your fitness plan.
1. Hit the shower before hitting the gym.
Contrary to popular belief, it's best to give your skin a good cleanse before ercising so the sweat that builds up during your workout is clean. Otherwise, you risk developing acne (and even worse, body fungus—yeesh). But don't eoliate! "Eoliating before workouts can irritate your skin, causing redness," warns Dr. Downie. And no one wants that.
2. Be smart about SPF.
If you're heading to the gym or a workout class during the day, you're of course slathering on the sunscreen, right? Dr. Downie recommends applying a lightweight SPF 30 to avoid clogging your pores. Heavy formulas plus sweat equals the perfect equation for a bad breakout.
**3. Dress the part. **
"Please do not put your exposed skin on the gym equipment," pleads Dr. Downie. "This means no face should ever touch a yoga mat and no exposed back should hit the weight bench." We recommend long-sleeve shirts and pants but if you prefer something a bit more breathable, Dr. Downie suggests laying a towel on any surfaces your skin might come into contact with. "Many have used the gym equipment before you, which means you could break out badly if you do not follow these rules." And if hair oils, pomades, serums, or greases are your thing, wear a sweatband. The drip-down effect can also trigger breakouts along your hairline.
**4. Don't rely on those sanitizing towelettes. **
At least not for keeping bumps at bay. "Using disinfectant wipes on equipment does not really help protect from breakouts," says Dr. Downie. The good news: They can, however, cut down on other bacteria that cause viruses and colds. "The only way to keep your skin risk-free is to avoid contact with equipment," she reiterates.
**5. Cool down with another cleanse. **
Wash your face and body after ercising with a gentle, unscented cleanser to avoid any irritation, especially since skin tends to be sensitive after a workout. "Apply a soothing bath oil after your shower and blot your skin dry with a cool towel," Dr. Downie advises. She also recommends eoliating up to two times a week if you workout often to keep your skin free of impurities.
So, feel like you're all set for a blemish-free gym trip? These products will help:
