If you have skin problems like acne, rosacea, or psoriasis, you may need to take extra steps to protect your skin while working out. But don’t stop being active because of skin problems. Here is why.
By making the blood flow faster, exercise feeds skin cells and keeps them healthy. Blood carries oxygen to all of the body’s working cells, including those in the skin. Not only does blood flow bring oxygen to working cells, but it also helps carry away waste products, such as free radicals, from those cells.
In spite of what some people say, exercise doesn’t detoxify the skin. Most of the work of getting rid of toxins is done by the liver. But because exercise increases blood flow, it helps flush cellular waste out of the body.
Stress has also been shown to go away when you work out. Reducing stress can help some conditions that are made worse by stress. Acne and eczema are two conditions that can get better when stress goes down. Even though scientists are still looking into the link between stress and skin, studies have shown that stress hormones affect the oil-making glands in the skin.
Obviously, regular exercise helps tone muscles. According to experts, this does not directly affect skin. However, tighter muscles help you look younger and better overall.
Physical activities that affect skin
Chafing, which can lead to rashes, is another skin condition that can occur after physical exertion. For acne-prone individuals, the discomfort and increased sweat caused by tight-fitting training clothes may result in acne mechanica. The two components to prevention are wearing moisture-wicking apparel, such as bras and caps, to keep skin cooler and drier, and showering soon after exercise. Additionally, wearing loose-fitting training attire can aid. Before working out, ensure that your skin is clean to prevent clogged pores that can lead to acne. Do not use makeup when exercising. After bathing, use a calming moisturizer or powder to the skin to prevent inflammation.
Several additional skin disorders, including rosacea, eczema, and psoriasis, can be aggravated by physical activity. Dermatologists believe that this is not a valid excuse not to exercise. The advantages of exercise outweigh any momentary difficulties it may produce. And there are simple ways to prevent flare-ups during exercise.
Workout increases in body temperature and flushing of the skin can worsen rosacea symptoms. According to dermatologists, exercising in a cool environment is the best strategy. Swimming is one of the finest options because the water keeps skin cool even when body temperature rises. (However, be sure to moisturize afterwards, as chlorine has a drying impact.) Other possible solutions include fast walking in an air-conditioned mall or waiting until dusk to jog outdoors. If you become flushed and overheated after exercise, apply cool compresses to the affected regions of skin immediately following your workout.
