Post-Workout Skincare: What to Do for Your Skin After Exercise

Exercise is great for your whole body, and many people love the healthy flush they get after a workout. But sweat, heat, gym equipment and tight clothing can leave skin feeling grimy or prone to breakouts. A few simple steps before and after exercise keep your skin as happy as the rest of you.

Before your workout

  • Remove makeup or keep it minimal. Heavy makeup and sweat do not mix well.
  • Tie your hair back so oily hair products stay off your face.
  • Outdoors? Wear sunscreen. Choose a sweat-resistant one and reapply on long sessions.
  • Carry a clean towel and a water bottle.

During your workout

  • Pat sweat away with a clean towel. Do not rub.
  • Try not to touch your face after touching gym equipment.
  • Sip water regularly.

The post-workout routine

  1. Cleanse soon after. Within about 30 minutes if you can, use a gentle cleanser to remove sweat and dirt. If you cannot wash, rinse with plain water.
  2. Use lukewarm or cool water, not hot, especially if your face is flushed.
  3. Pat dry with a clean towel.
  4. Light moisturiser. A gel texture feels comfortable on warm skin.
  5. Sunscreen if you are heading back outside during the day.

Do not forget your body

  • Change out of sweaty clothes quickly.
  • Shower when you can, paying attention to the back, chest and hairline.
  • Wash workout clothes and headbands after every use.
  • Wipe down shared equipment before you use it.

Weekly reset

If you work out a lot and have oily or combination skin, a clay mask once or twice a week can help skin feel fresh. The Revive Face Mask uses multani mitti and kaolin to absorb excess oil and help unclog pores, with rose and aloe vera to soothe. Use it on a rest day, for 10 to 15 minutes, and follow with moisturiser.

After a swim

Pool water can leave skin and hair dry. Rinse off well after swimming, then moisturise your face and body.

Food and water after exercise

  • Rehydrate with water. Coconut water or buttermilk are refreshing options after a sweaty session.
  • Eat a balanced meal with protein and vegetables.

Common mistakes

  • Sitting in sweaty clothes for hours.
  • Scrubbing hard after a workout when skin is already warm.
  • Reusing a sweaty towel on your face.
  • Skipping sunscreen on outdoor runs and walks.

Quick questions

Should I wash my face before a workout? If you are wearing makeup or heavy sunscreen indoors, a quick rinse or gentle cleanse first is a good idea.

Why does my face go red when I exercise? A flush is common because blood flow increases. It usually settles within an hour. If it does not, or comes with other symptoms, see a doctor.

Can I work out with a face mask on? No. Keep masks for a rest day.

Plan your skin and fitness together

The Theraglam Glow Scan looks at 3 photos and your quiz answers and gives you a skin routine with helpful ingredients, a diet and water plan, exercises with pictures, face massage moves and a daily to-do list, all in one plan.

Start my Glow Scan: 3 photos and a short quiz become your personal skin, diet and face massage plan, sent to you by email. Rs 599, one time.

Glow Scan and this article give skincare and lifestyle guidance, not medical advice. For a skin or health condition, please see a doctor or dermatologist.

Related reading: for your hair after the gym, see Hair Care for Active People: Sweat, Workouts and Washing Without Drying Your Hair.

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