6 Tips to Better Protect Your Skin During A Workout

Don’t let your skin allergies stop you from reaping the cardiovascular benefits of exercising. 

Aside from maintaining your weight, boosting your mood, and helping your overall physique stay in good physical condition, exercising is also a good way to keep your skin more healthy. 

Working out, or any type of physical activity that builds endurance, has often been regarded as beneficial for a person's heart, lungs, and overall physique. But while exercising does wonders for the largest organ of our body, ignoring proper skincare tips before doing the routines may do more harm than good to our skin.

When you exercise, the body pumps and releases chemicals called endorphins. This group of hormones works as a natural mood lifter by alleviating anxiety and depression. However, these "feel-good" hormones may not last long especially when the discomfort and irritation kick in. 

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, an accumulation of sweat and moisture can clog the pores, causing breakouts, chaffing, and irritation. Although some skin conditions, such as rosacea, eczema, and psoriasis, can be exacerbated by physical activities, we believe there's no reason for you not to get moving. 

Whether you're at the gym or inside your home, here are 6 simple strategies to prevent breakouts and flare-ups when you work out.

1. SKIP THE MAKEUP

Wearing makeup before working out is a big mistake that some forget.  When you work out, your skin starts to sweat and your pores begin to open up. Having makeup on may draw dirt and bacteria into the skin, causing irritation and breakouts. 

If you're hitting the gym in a hurry, better wash your face with a gentle cleanser before picking up the dumbbells.

2. DRINK WATER

Chugging in enough amounts before, during, and after exercises of water is important to prevent dehydration. 

When you workout, your body sweats to remove heat from the body and to balance your body temperature. Practicing good hydration will allow your body to control your body's optimal temperature, provide more energy, and perform at its highest level.

 3. CLEANSE, MOISTURIZE, AND APPLY SUNBLOCK 

Aside from drinking enough water, cleansing your skin from dirt, dead skin cells, and other bacteria lurking in your pores is also beneficial. Start your workout routines with a freshly, cleansed face by using a gentle cleanser. 

If you're planning to sweat outdoors, it's important as well to put on sunblock to protect your skin from the sun. Dermatologists recommend a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. 

Also, don't forget to apply moisturizer to your skin after all the sweaty activities. Moisturizers help rehydrate your skin and replenish the water that your skin lost during your workout.

4. WEAR THE RIGHT SHOES 

It's hardly news that choosing shoes that fit properly can help protect your feet against injuries. According to an article, a pair of ill-fitting shoes can "derail a workout," but the right shoes can "make all the difference." 

You may also try to reduce blisters by wearing moisture-wicking socks. Our collection, made from GOTS-certified and 100% chemical-free organic cotton material, contains pairs of dependable, comfortable, and hypoallergenic socks that cushion the feet well and reduce the risks of triggering skin allergies. 

5. CHOOSE THE RIGHT FABRICS

Although clothes made from synthetic fabrics do wick sweat away fast and dry quickly, they may not be the best option for people with sensitive skin.

Rather than filling your wardrobe with gym clothes, invest in 100% organic cotton clothing instead. Organic clothes are truly hypoallergenic, comfortable, and breathable. 

Cottonique's picks:

• Our Men's Athletic V-Neck Shirt and Women's Athletic V-Neck Shirt are the next level of t-shirts ideal for those with an active lifestyle and sensitive skin. 
• Our Women's Racer Back Croptop Bra provides style and functionality that keeps women comfy and sweat-free all day. 

Also, you should keep a headband or scrunchies next to you to prevent your hair from touching your face and avoid irritation and breakouts. 

• Keep your hair, especially the stubborn ones, out of your face with our stretchy Cotton Headband. 
• Say goodbye to untidy and unkempt hair with our Cotton Scrunchies.

6. TAKE A SHOWER 

Taking a shower after a workout should always be your post-exercise routine. 

An article wrote that people should start their showers at a lukewarm or moderately warm temperature after cooling down their body with stretches and slow exercise. Doing so would clear their pores and remove sweat, oils, and grime in the skin.

TAKEAWAY

It's no secret. Exercise is not only good for keeping the body in good shape, but also good for helping the skin glow more radiant. With these tips and other dermatologist-backed advice, you can enjoy the benefits of your workout without any unwanted allergic reaction or irritation. 

DISCLAIMER: The information presented on Cottonique is not, and will never be, intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. All content materials found on this site, from text, treatments, outcomes, charts, graphics, photographs, and study findings, are created and published for general informational purposes only. It should not, in any way, be construed as a standard of care to be followed by a user of the website. 

Thus, readers are encouraged to verify any information obtained from this website with other accurate references and review all information regarding any medical condition or treatment with their physician. As Cottonique strives to help those with allergies live with better days, the hypoallergenic apparel brand encourages everyone to always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.