Exercise is an essential aspect of a healthy lifestyle, but it can also lead to some undesirable consequences, such as breakouts. After a workout session, it is quite common to develop breakouts, especially if you have sensitive skin. This can be discouraging, and many people may give up on exercise as a result. However, it’s important to understand that you don’t have to choose between exercise and having clear skin. In this blog post, we will discuss how exercise routines can exacerbate breakouts and what you can do to prevent it.

1. Sweating: One of the reasons for breakouts after exercise is sweat. During a workout, your body’s temperature rises, and your sweat glands are activated to reduce it. The sweat can then mix with bacteria and dead skin cells on your skin to form a sticky film that clogs pores and causes acne. To prevent this, wipe down your skin with a clean towel or take a shower immediately after exercising to remove any sweat from your skin.

2. Friction: Another reason for acne after exercise is friction. Tight clothing and equipment can rub on your skin during exercise, causing irritation and inflammation that can lead to breakouts. It's important to wear loose-fitting clothes made from cotton or moisture-wicking materials that can allow your skin to breathe while you exercise. Additionally, always make sure to clean your equipment, especially if you share it with others, to help prevent the spread of bacteria.

3. Dehydration: Dehydration can also lead to breakouts after exercise. When you're dehydrated, your skin produces more oil to compensate for the lost moisture, which can clog your pores and lead to acne. Make sure to drink plenty of water before, during, and after your workout to keep your skin hydrated and healthy.

4. Skincare: In addition to the above measures, a good skincare routine is critical to maintain clear skin while exercising. Make sure to cleanse your face before and after exercise to remove any sweat, dirt, or bacteria that can clog your pores. Use a gentle cleanser and avoid harsh scrubs or exfoliants, as these can irritate your skin and cause breakouts. Additionally, use non-comedogenic products that don't clog your pores and cause acne.

5. Diet: Finally, your diet can also play a significant role in preventing breakouts during exercise. Eating a diet full of processed, sugary, and greasy foods can lead to inflammation and increased oil production in your skin, leading to breakouts. On the other hand, eating a healthy diet full of fresh fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats can help keep your skin clear and healthy.

Exercise is an essential part of a healthy lifestyle, but it can be challenging to maintain clear skin while staying active. By following the above tips, you can prevent breakouts while staying fit and healthy. Remember to take care of your skin before, during, and after exercise by keeping it clean, hydrated, and protected. And most importantly, don't let acne discourage you from exercising – with the right precautions, you can have the best of both worlds.

If you have any questions about your skin, skincare regime, acne or any product recommendations please feel free to contact us here and one of our Vasseur team will get right back to you.