Exercise and Your Skin

Let’s talk about exercise and the skin! We all know exercise is good for overall physical and mental health, but there is evidence it can also benefit the skin.  As you begin to break a sweat and your heart ️ is pumping, the increased blood flow delivers nutrients and oxygen to the skin. This keeps skin healthy and promotes collagen, which can help prevent wrinkles! A study at McMaster University also showed that a protein (IL-15) that powers skin cells’ mitochondria is increased when exercising, and over time can help slow the skin’s aging at the microscopic level. Further, exercise has been shown to reduce stress and stress can lead to breakouts and can exacerbate other skin conditions. So, when you reduce stress by exercising, you can improve overall skin clarity!

While regular exercise is good for you and your skin, there are a few  things to keep in mind:

• It is a good idea to cleanse after a workout. Sweat does not cause breakouts but if you leave it on your skin it can contribute to clogged pores

• Avoid exercising with makeup on, as this is something else that can clog pores.

• Overheating and sweating can exacerbate certain skin conditions such as rosacea and eczema. The benefits of exercise tend to outweigh any temporary exacerbation. Strategies to minimize this can be helpful ie. working out in cooler environments or in the evening. ️

• If you are exercising outside don’t forget hats and sunscreen. ️

• Chafing and skin rashes can occur with perspiration and tight-fitting workout clothes. Moisture-wicking clothing, loose-fitting workout clothes, and showering right after along with a good moisturizer can help prevent this.