10 tips to protect your skin from acne after exercise

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Exercise can create the perfect conditions for bacteria and yeast to cause acne to develop on the skin, but following a few simple tips can help stop breakouts before they start. Getty Images

• Exercise has many benefits for the skin, such as: B. Increased blood flow and a reduction in stress-related acne.
• Exercise can also create the perfect conditions for the bacteria and yeast that cause acne.
• Keeping the skin clean and dry can help.
• Over-the-counter medications are also useful.

Exercise can be very good for our skin in many ways. It can increase blood flow to skin cells, provide nutrients and oxygen, and eliminate waste products that can Help with healing ,

It can also help reduce stress .

However, good sweat in the gym can also create the perfect conditions for bacteria and yeast, which lead to acne and lead to more frequent breakouts.

To avoid acne after exercise, dermatologists recommend the following 10 tips.

Dr. Susan Massick , a dermatologist at Ohio State University's Wexner Medical Center, recommended cleaning her face before removing her makeup.

The blood flow to the skin increases during training. This increase in blood flow causes the pores to open. Makeup can cause sweating and bacteria in large pores. Over time, this can lead to clogged pores and acne.

The American Academy of Dermatology also suggests using an oil-free wipe if washing is out of the question.

Massick said you should gather long hair and keep it away from your face.

The natural oils in your hair and hair care products can be transferred to your skin.

The hair can also store moisture in the skin.

This can clog the pores and stimulate fungal growth, leading to rashes.

Clean any devices that touch your face, Massick said.

This also applies to headphones if you want to listen to music or a good podcast during your workout.

You should also clean any exercise equipment that touches your face, such as: B. helmets or glasses.

Cleaning removes oil, dirt and bacteria that can contribute to the outbreak.

Massick recommended that all shared exercise equipment be cleaned before use.

While it would be great if everyone were as considerate as we are and cleaned after each use, we really can't rely on it.

Cleaning the device before use will remove some of the troublesome bacteria, dirt and oils that can get into your skin.

Massick also suggested getting used to not touching his face with his hands during the workout.

Any bacteria, oils or dirt that you have touched can be transferred to your skin and lead to clogged pores and infections.

Wet, sturdy clothing keeps moisture on the skin, creating the perfect conditions for acne breakouts, Massick said.

A type of yeast that is commonly found in the skin Malassezia You can thrive in the hot and humid conditions created by your workout clothes.

When this yeast penetrates your skin, a type of fungal acne can develop.

This type of acne is often misdiagnosed as bacterial acne, which leads to improper treatment.

Eruptions due to yeast growth require oral antifungals.

Dr. Elizabeth M. Damstetter , FAAD, assistant professor of dermatology at Rush University Medical Center, suggested that you change your sweat clothes after training for the same reason as before.

Wash your clothes before reuse, as oils and dirt that clog your pores can collect there and transfer to your skin during your next workout.

If possible, take a bath after your workout to remove accumulated sweat, oil, dirt and bacteria.

Damstetter recommends the use of face and body cleansers containing benzoyl peroxide to clean skin prone to acne.

Benzoyl peroxide can reduce the amount of bacteria that causes acne Cutibacterium acnes.

If benzoyl peroxide is too hard for your skin, you can also use a mild cleanser without oil or micellar water to remove bacteria and oils after your workout, he suggested.

If you can't take a shower after your workout, at least wash your face.

According to UW Health , retinoids are derivatives of vitamin A that are often used to treat acne and wrinkles.

They are usually available as a cream or gel and are available in various strengths.

Over-the-counter retinoids such as adapalene (Differin) can increase cell turnover in the skin and reduce inflammation when used daily, according to Damstetter.

This helps clog pores and eliminate acne.

For stubborn acne, the most effective retinoids such as tazarotene (Tazorac) and tretinoin (Retin-A) require a prescription.

Damstetter recommended that you consult a licensed dermatologist if personal care measures do not control your acne.

A dermatologist can prescribe medication to treat your acne.

You can also treat excessive sweating, which can lead to post-workout acne in some people.

Finally, a dermatologist can help you if your skin is discolored or scarred due to acne breakouts.

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