If you’re tired of dealing with frustrating post-workout acne, you’re about to find the answers to all your pimple problems.
Exercise is great for the mind and body, but for some people, it’s not so great for their skin. Sweat, friction, and even bacteria from using public equipment can cause annoying breakouts to occur.
Fortunately, you never have to choose between working out or dealing with zits ever again. Let’s review how to treat and prevent post-workout acne, so you can feel the burn and enjoy having clear skin.
What Causes Post-Workout Acne
You may not be able to see it, but there’s almost always a layer of dirt and bacteria on your face, which is completely natural and normal. When you work out, your pores open, which makes it easy for dirt, bacteria, and sweat to clog them. Plus, your sweat acts like sealant, keeping all of that bacteria right in place. Also, remember that not everyone practices good hand hygiene, so you can guarantee the equipment at your gym has plenty of germs on it.
How To Treat a Breakout
To treat a post-acne breakout, you’re going to need to get deep into those pores. Consider taking a warm bath or steam your face with warm water to open your pores up. Then, wash your face with clean hands and a cleanser—ideally one with salicylic acid.
Next, break out the toner. There are a lot of misconceptions about skin toners, but cosmetic science has gone way beyond drying toners like witch hazel and alcohol. Your toner will do twice the work your cleanser does to ensure your pores are completely clear and cleansed. Look for toners that have glycolic acid, salicylic acid, or hyaluronic acid.
Once you’ve done this, your next job is to moisturize, and which moisturizer you use depends on your skin type. If you have dry skin, you may want to go with a thicker oil-based moisturizer. Conversely, if you have oily skin, a lightweight water-based moisturizer should do the trick. Finally, apply a spot treatment with ingredients like benzoyl peroxide, sulfur, or adapalene.
How To Prevent Post-Workout Acne
Treating acne takes time, and with all that effort, you want to mitigate the risk of future breakouts. First, you should always wash your face before you hit the gym and use a clean towel and clean clothes when you work out. This way, you reduce the chances of sweat trapping in dirt. Dab your face of sweat when you can, and never touch your face with unwashed hands.
You should also wipe down your equipment with a disinfectant wipe before using it. When you’re done, shower, change your clothes, and wash your face as soon as you can. Ultimately, preventing another breakout is all about minimizing contact with dirt, sweat, and bacteria.
Now that you know how to treat and prevent post-workout acne, you can hit the gym with confidence, knowing you can look as good as you feel.