We already know working out is integral to feeling and looking good. But did you know that there are many ways exercising can have a negative impact on our skin? Jogging outdoors exposes us to environmental pollutants, doing intensive cardio workout can make us more susceptible to sweat-induced acne, and the rush of blood circulation from working out can sometimes worsen skin inflammation – just to name a few instances. Irony, we know.
But these skin-damaging effects can be mitigated if we prepare ourselves well enough for them. Take note of these tips we are about to share and pack the right products in your bag the next time you head out for your workout.
Beauty essentials before working out
1. Remove all traces of makeup
Many of us go for our fitness routines after work when our makeup is still intact. While it feels like a hassle, removing your makeup thoroughly should be the first thing you do before working up a sweat. Makeup, sebum, and dirt can clog our pores as we exercise, particularly when our pores are opened for perspiration and expulsion of heat. Clogged pores eventually lead to breakouts – definitely not what we are hoping to achieve from our workouts.
Try: Biore Oil-Control Micellar Cleansing Water (SGD18.90). This gentle, soothing cleansing water dissolves makeup effortlessly – including stubborn eye makeup – while removing excess sebum without stripping skin of its natural oils. Containing pure mineral water from the Northern Japanese Alps, its formula is suitable for even sensitive skin and leaves skin feeling refreshed after cleansing. We also love that it has anti-bacterial properties to prevent the appearance of pimples.
2. Put on contact lenses
Besides getting in your way, spectacles can also trap grime and sweat between itself and your skin, which can trigger inflammation, especially on acne-prone skin. Even if you’re used to wearing spectacles, consider getting daily disposable contact lenses you can simply put on when you work out, and then dispose of conveniently afterwards.
Try: Alcon Dailies Total1 Water Gradient Contact Lenses (SGD73 for a box of 30 lenses). This innovation by Alcon offers exceptional level of comfort because of the unique water gradient component the lenses carry. The lenses are designed such that more oxygen can flow through them, keeping eyes healthy. At the same time, they have water-loving surfaces that feel soft and reduces friction between the lenses and the tissues of the eyes so that your eyes feel comfortable for the entire duration of wear.
3. Never forget sunscreen
Did you know that fluorescent light emits UV rays, and that UV rays from the sun can permeate through windows? This is why sunscreen is important even if you’re not exercising under the midday sun. Protecting your skin from UV rays ensures that you’re defending your skin from premature ageing.
Try: Bioderma Photoderm MAX Aquafluid SPF50+ PA++++ (SGD44.90). This new product offers high protection, but comes with a surprisingly pleasant and lightweight “water” texture. It also has a dry touch finish, which means that it will not leave an icky, sticky feeling even when it mixes with your perspiration during the workout.
Beauty essentials after working out
4. Cleanse your face well
You’ll definitely remember to shower after your fitness routine because you know that you should get rid of any grime and sweat particles that are friendly with bacteria. Similarly, maintaining hygiene on your facial skin is just as important.
Try: Clarisonic Mia Fit (SGD250). You probably already heard of the great cleansing ability of the Clarisonic hand-held cleansing devices. The brand has recently launched the Mia Fit, which delivers the power of the full-sized device, at only half of its size, which makes it a perfect for fitting into your workout bag. Offering a systematic cleansing process and unique brush head to cleanse your skin more thoroughly than your hands can, the Mia Fit is also sold with the Skin Illuminating Cleanser and Radiance Brush Head, which has soft and smooth bristles. The Mia Fit is available in pink, blue, and white, and retails at Tangs Orchard, Robinsons Raffles City and all Sephora stores.
5. Hydrate your skin
Your body loses water when you exercise, and you know you have to drink up to replenish the water loss. But did you remember to make up for the moisture loss in your skin? Bring along a hydrating mist to easily perk up your skin even while you’re on the go.
Try: Kiehl’s Cactus Flower & Tibetan Ginseng Hydrating Mist (SGD25 for 75ml, SGD40 for 125ml). This fast-absorbing mist can be used after cleansing to soothe skin and boost hydration. Formulated with cactus flower, which is known for its resilience in extreme climate, and Tibetan ginseng root, which helps in improving skin radiance and retaining moisture, this facial mist hydrates and refreshes your skin while purifying it.
6. Don’t forget your hands
Strength training with weights can cause calluses to appear on our palms, or leave our hands feeling dry and rough. If this bothers you, pack along a trusty hand cream, which wouldn’t add much weight to your bag anyway.
Try: Crabtree & Evelyn Hand Therapy (SGD13). There’s a good chance you’ve already tried the Hand Therapy from Crabtree & Evelyn and liked it – after all, one is sold in every two seconds around the world. The brand will be releasing three new limited edition Hand Therapy in September, of scents that are inspired by the English gardens. If you’re looking for something refreshing, consider Fresh Water Garden. Prefer something bright and juicy? Go for Aromatic Orangey. Those who like something elegant will find favour with Orchard in Bloom. These hand creams are formulated with moisturising ingredients like shea butter, hyaluronic acid, ceramides, macadamia nut oil, myrrh extract, and vitamin C and E to nourish skin and leave it feeling soft and supple.