Moderate exercise not only helps in maintaining a healthy body and in managing stress levels, it also is beneficial for the skin. If your acne is aggravated by regular exercise, then you may need to examine your exercise routine which includes what you are wearing, where you are going and how hard you are working out. Something you put on the body can cause exercise-related acne rather than something you are doing. By removing these outside factors may eliminate your workout acne breakouts.
Wear as little makeup as possible when exercising. During heavy exercise, even non-comedogenic and oil-free cosmetics can clog up pores. Wash immediately after you are finished working out.
If your exercise regimen is outdoors, always make sure to wear sunscreen. Brief periods in the sun may improve your acne slightly but exposure that is prolonged can cause clogged pores (comedones), as well as sun damage. Sunscreen is even more important when using some acne medications as can make your skin more sensitive to sun. In choosing a sunscreen look for ones which are oil-free and have at least SP 15 protection factor from both UVA and UVB rays. Sunscreen, just like makeup, can move across the surface of the skin and trap in the pores, therefore is recommended to wash immediately after a workout.
As for clothing, avoid garments like nylon or lycra if you are prone to body acne. This is because some synthetic fabrics may trap moisture and heat against your skin which can contribute to your acne by creating a breeding ground for bacteria. Wearing loose fitting cotton or lycra-cotton blend that are lightweight is your best bet for moderate exercise. Loose garments are less likely to cause friction and natural fabrics allow the skin to breathe. If your exercise routine is vigorous you may want to try fabrics designed to take moisture away from skin when working up a good sweat.
Using sports equipment can cause some people to get acne or aggravate their lesions in the areas affected. A good fit is the best defense for friction-related acne breakouts. Make sure your wetsuit isn’t too tight in the underarms or your helmet isn’t sliding around your forehead. By lining your helmet with a soft layer of washable cotton fabric can help to avoid sports equipment-triggered acne breakouts. When not in use, it’s a good idea to keep your sports equipment clean and dry.
After you have finished exercising make sure to get out of your wet clothes. Whether you are exercising using a treadmill, playing tennis or swimming, when done do not stay in sweaty clothes or a wet bathing suit. If you are able to, shower and change in dry clothes before going home. If you cannot shower, then at least wipe down and change into dry clothes. Use a clean towel and gently blot sweat off your face rather than wipe it. Wiping vigorously can cause irritation to the skin and lodge sunscreen and makeup to deep into the pores.
By keeping an eye out for various factors accompanying your exercise regimen, can help to remove acne triggers and provide workouts that are breakout-free. For overall health, it is integral to have a healthy exercise program. A body that is healthy is more likely to have healthy skin.
Posted in 
Tags: 