By Emma Line
Whilst it’s still unclear when and how we will be able to return to the gym, many of us have been continuing to find new ways to carry on exercising at home. Not only is it keeping us physically fit, it’s providing us with a bit of routine during lockdown. And, let’s be honest, who can resist Joe Wicks’ dazzling smile?
So, we’ve got our sweat on, stretched out our muscles and rewarded ourselves with a protein-packed snack. But there’s one essential thing we might be forgetting post-workout: our skin. Whilst sweating during exercise helps to flush out toxins, you really don’t want it hanging around on your skin’s surface for too long. Leave it there and you’ll likely soon be waking up to some unwelcome spots and blemishes.
One thing that’s great about working out at home, however, is that our skincare products are right on hand. So, no excuses. Here are our top tips for smashing your post workout skincare:
Cleanse
Wipe that sweat away! Be kind to your skin and use a gentle cleanser to remove sweat and any impurities from your skin’s surface. We love this hydrating cleanser from CeraVe. Or try Avène’s formula for extremely sensitive skin.
Toner
After cleansing, it’s time to reach for the toner. Making sure no dirt or impurities are left behind, toner also helps to tighten pores, ensuring skin stays smooth and blemish-free.
Salicylic acid
If you have skin that’s particularly prone to blemishes or breakouts, try adding salicylic acid into the mix. Applying it to the skin reduces the chance of pores becoming clogged, keeping those pesky spots at bay. It’s recommended that you use an SPF of at least 30 after using salicylic acid as it can make skin more vulnerable to sun damage.
Non-comedogenic Moisturiser
Finally, lock in hydration with a moisturiser. Make sure you opt for a non-comedogenic product if you’re prone to breakouts, as these are less likely to clog pores.
If you want a little coverage, but don’t fancy layering on heavy makeup post-workout, then try a tinted moisturiser, like this one from Laura Mercier.
And it’s really that simple. Just as stretching post workout helps keep aches and pains at bay, skincare is essential for stopping sweat from causing unwanted blemishes and spots. Making sure to add this speedy skincare routine to the end of each workout will make a world of difference to your skin.
