Skin Care Tips Before and After Workouts

04.06.2022

Regular activity improves physical and mental health. Workout helps control emotions, maintain weight, improve well-being, and build self-discipline. During active training, the body warms up, and the process of thermoregulation starts. The pores open, blood circulation improves and sweat is released. The skin becomes more receptive to external factors, so it is important to take care of it properly. In this article, we'll discuss how to take care of your skin before, during, and after workouts.

Facial skin structure

The skin consists of three layers: epidermis, dermis, and subcutaneous layer.

Epidermis

The epidermis, the top layer of the skin, is made up of keratinocytes, which contain the protein keratin, collagen, and elastin. These microelements make the skin supple and strong. The stratum corneum is located in the upper part of the epidermis. It consists of dead, nuclear-free cells that are constantly being renewed.

Dermis

The next layer is the dermis. It is located between the epidermis and the fat layer. It contains arteries, connective tissue, hair follicles, lymphatic vessels, and sweat glands. At the cellular level, the dermis contains moisture-resistant glycoproteins and hyaluronic acid, which attract and retain water. With age, the moisture in the skin decreases, and wrinkles appear.

The dermis also contains fibroblasts, which are responsible for the production of collagen, elastin, and skin elasticity. Scientists have found that until the age of 30, the skin produces six kilograms of collagen per year, after 35 years the figure decreases to three kilograms, and then decreases every year. This is the second reason for the appearance of wrinkles.

Subcutaneous layer

The subcutaneous layer consists of a loose network of fat and collagen cells. It acts as a protective cushion and helps control heat loss. The thickness of this layer varies in different areas of the face. The skin is a protective barrier against harmful environmental influences, regulates temperature, reflects the state of internal organs, and protects the body from dehydration.

Facial cleansing steps before a workout

Makeup removal

Maintaining the beauty and health of the skin and preventing the appearance of acne helps proper care.

1) Makeup removal

During exercise, the skin activates the secretion functions, and makeup creates a greenhouse effect and prevents the release of sweat. As a result, toxins and dust remain in the pores and cause blackheads, inflammation, and skin sensitivity.

2) Moisturizing

After cleansing, apply a light moisturizer and lip balm. This will prevent dry and cracked lips. Also, don't forget sunscreen if you're exercising outdoors. SPF protection should be at least 30. This prevents the formation of pathogenic microflora and improves facial skin health.

3) Gathered and secured hair

During a workout, the hair should not touch the face. Loose hair clogs the pores with oils and provokes the appearance of acne. Also, do not use headbands twice without washing. They keep oil and sweat out of your eyes, but they keep dirt out, which can cause forehead breakouts.

Facial cleansing steps during the workout

Facial cleansing steps during the workout

While exercising, it is important to stick to the rules to prevent acne.

1) Don't touch your face with your hands

Bacteria and germs from the hands can get on the skin of the face and cause acne and bacterial infection.

2) Wipe off the sweat with a special towel

Wipe sweat with a separate towel, as contact with dirty and sweaty clothing can cause rashes and irritation. Use soft towels that absorb moisture well.

3) Drink more water

During workouts, the body actively loses moisture, so it is necessary to regularly replenish the fluid balance. Scientists recommend drinking 100 ml 10 minutes before starting, 100-150 ml every 15 minutes during training, and 150 ml every 15 minutes after training for an hour.

Post-workout cleansing steps

Cleanse your face

1) Cleanse your face

Clean the skin to remove bacteria and sweat. You can also use a contrast shower and an ice cube to lower your body temperature and reduce redness more quickly.

2) Moisturize your skin

After cleansing, wipe your face with a rebalancing toner and apply a light moisturizer to soothe your skin. Give preference to creams with a light texture. Do not apply foundation and powder after the workout. Let the skin calm down and return to its normal state. In the first hours after a workout, the pores open up, and the skin of the face is most receptive to various products.

Follow proper facial skin care before, during, and after a workout. This will help prevent skin problems and improve the appearance of the face.