As it’s January, you’re likely setting out to become healthier this year. Don’t worry, we all do it. But, while we all know exercise is great for us, one thing you may not have thought of is whether it’s good for your skin. Well, we have some good news, it is. However, there are a couple of things to watch out for.
The good bit.
Firstly, exercising will increase blood flow around the body, which can help to nourish the skin cells. Blood carries nutrients and oxygen to all cells of the body, including your skin, and helps carry away waste products from cells. So, by participating in exercise, you are effectively helping cleanse your skin from the inside. It’s this blood flow that creates that post-exercise glow you hear about.
Regular exercise is also a stress reliever and positively impacts your mental health. Working out releases endorphins around our body, which make us feel happier. If you find exercise to be a form of stress relief, it’s likely to affect your skin positively. Research shows that stress can lead to irritation, breakouts, eczema, rosacea and other flare-ups on your skin.
The not so good bit.
Although it’s hard to see exercise as anything but a positive, it’s worth being careful if you have sensitive skin. Overheating and sweating can exacerbate some skin conditions. Rosacea and eczema can be triggered by body temperature, so if you suffer from either, it’s worth trying to stay cool. Time your workouts for cooler periods in the day, make sure you’re near a fan and keep a cool towel nearby.
If you suffer from acne, breakouts or dandruff, there are a few things to consider. Wearing make-up can begin to clog up pores, so do your exercise make-up free if possible. Be sure to shower and change your clothes as soon as you’re finished, so the sweat doesn’t have time to clog or irritate. Washing your hair thoroughly and frequently should help prevent dandruff, but hair masks can do wonders if you’re still struggling.
To sum up, exercise is excellent for both body, mind and yes, your skin. However, if you have sensitive skin, making sure you’re aware of what sets off your issues can prevent anything flaring up. A bit of planning can mean you reap the rewards without any problems.
