5 Benefits of Exercise to People with Skin Allergies

For people with skin allergies and skin sensitivities, doing exercises can help boost energy levels and improve the immune system. However, enjoying workouts without preventing flare-ups can sometimes be difficult to achieve and balance. 

While taking part in physical activities, such as quick jogs, yoga classes, or bike rides, gives the body the needed push to perspire, the skin may dry out because of the loss of fluids. Sodium, commonly found in sweat, can also dehydrate the skin, triggering frenzied scratching and discomfort. 

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, an accumulation of sweat and moisture can clog the pores, causing breakouts, chafing, and irritation. Although flare-ups while doing exercises in people with certain skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis may be inevitable, this doesn't necessarily mean you don't need to get moving. 

Don’t let your skin condition stop you from enjoying physical activities with your friends and families. From keeping good mental health to achieving fitness goals, here are the 5 benefits of getting active to people with skin allergies and sensitivities. 

1. EXERCISES ALLEVIATE STRESS 

According to the National Eczema Organization, exercising helps reduce flare-ups by lowering stress, one of the most common eczema triggers. When the body produces too much cortisol, the skin then becomes oily, causing an outbreak to occur.  

To reduce your stress levels, engage in some aerobic exercise as it reduces the levels of the body's stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol. Also, Healthline recommends exercising for at least 30 minutes each day. "This might include jogging, lifting weights, or other light activities,” it said. 

2. EXERCISES ELEVATE MOOD 

When we exercise, the body pumps and releases chemicals called endorphins. This group of "feel-good" hormones, along with serotonin, works as a natural mood lifter to improve your well-being and enhance your skin condition. Those who exercise regularly are found to have a "higher level of vitality, enthusiasm, pleasure, and self-esteem."

"Whether you prefer walking, running, swimming, boxing, or playing tennis, exercise is believed to trigger certain neurotransmitters and hormones that can dramatically improve your mood," the NEA said. 

3. EXERCISES STRENGTHEN BONES AND MUSCLES 

Aside from combatting stress, anxiety,  and other negative emotions, doing physical activities also keeps the muscles and bones strong and healthy. Workouts help the muscles to relax and release the tension in the body. Regular exercises also increase your energy levels, reducing fatigue with your every move. When the body feels better so, too, will your mind.

4. EXERCISES LOWER RISKS OF HEALTH ISSUES 

Aside from maintaining your weight, boosting your mood, and helping your overall physique stay in good physical condition, exercising also lowers your risks of acquiring health issues. The Better Health Channel reported that physical activities reduce the risk of developing several diseases like type 2 diabetes, cancer, and cardiovascular disease. 

Moreover, exercises strengthen the heart, improves blood circulation, and raises oxygen levels. Other benefits include reduced risks of heart attack, low blood cholesterol, triglyceride, and blood pressure levels, and high recovery from periods of hospitalization or illnesses. 

5. EXERCISES PROMOTE A HEALTHIER STATE OF MIND 

Exercises are also vital for maintaining mental fitness. According to the Anxiety & Depression Association of America, taking part in physical activities are "very effective at reducing fatigue, improving alertness and concentration, and at enhancing overall cognitive function."

For people with eczema, controlling flare-ups induced by psychological stress is crucial, so try to relieve and reduce your anxiety and depression by meditating or working out regularly. Once the body feels better, the mind will follow. 

TAKEAWAY: At Cottonique, we believe that people with skin allergies and sensitivities should never give up on the health benefits of exercise just because of their skin conditions. By making smart decisions about your exercise routines and choosing the right hypoallergenic clothing, workouts that are free from irritation and discomfort can be achievable. 

In celebration of Physical Fitness Day, may you find comfort in building a new fitness regime without worrying about the itching. Exercising has positive effects on both the body and the mind. 

One does not need to enroll in a gym class to do intense workouts. Overdoing physical activities could exacerbate skin allergy symptoms, so try to do simple movements instead to get the blood pumping. 

If your preferred choice of exercise brings flare-ups for your skin, then don't be discouraged to try something else. When you release stress and improve your mood, your skin will get better too. To know more about the challenges and positive impacts of exercises on people with eczema, follow this information resource from the NEA. 

And if you're looking for the right clothing that's light, breathable, and allergy-free, look no further than our 100% organic cotton garments from Athleisure Collection, made to be the perfect go-to pieces for people with skin allergies and sensitive skin.

For more tips to better protect your skin during a workout, read our previous blog: 6 Tips to Better Protect Your Skin During A Workout.