5 Tips to Prevent Post-Ercise Acne
Working up a sweat is great when you're at the gym, but not so great when you're worrying about a breakout. Though physical activity is beneficial for every part of your body, your pores will get clogged if you don't take proper skincare steps. Jessica Clark, lead aesthetician at EQUINOX in New York City, shares her expert tips to keep your skin healthy and flawless. After all, who should be punished for working out?
1/6Annoying breakouts are the last thing you want at the gym. Follow these steps to prevent blemishes while you sweat.
Photo: Skinceuticals2/6How should teens clean or prepare their skin before a workout?
"If you're working out in the morning, a quick cleansing will suffice. If you're working out in the evening, it is very important to cleanse thoroughly, removing all traces of dirt and makeup. For best results, when cleansing, use warm water (not hot) and move in circular motions to open pores. Rinse with warm water to remove debris from pores and then follow with a few splashes of cold water to close pores. Then, sweep your face with a cotton round soaked with toner. You can apply a preventive serum to keep bacteria from invading pores during your workout."
Photo: Lather3/6How about after your workout?
"Thoroughly clean hands before washing your face by using a lot of friction for at least twenty seconds with anti-bacterial soap. Cleanse your skin the same way you did before your workout. If you have an issue with your back, shoulders, or chest breaking out, put some Witch Hazel product in a spray bottle and spritz areas after shower."
Photo: Arcona4/6Should people work out in—eek—makeup?
"Absolutely not. When you work out, your body temperature goes up. When your body temperature goes up, your pores open up and start releasing oil. Then you start to sweat out toxins. If you have makeup on, the toxins will mix with the oil and get stuck in your pores. That is how you get breakouts."
Photo: Luzern5/6What products can you use to clear blemishes quickly?
"Luzern Control Serum clears up blemishes really quickly. Also, Skinceuticals Clarifying Clay Mask dries up blemishes fast, plus it can be used as preventive care on a weekly basis."
Photo: Skinceuticals6/6What is your #1 tip to prevent breakouts?
"Always wash your face thoroughly before bed. No exceptions."
