Is exercising giving you acne?

Daily exercise is recommended by health experts and medical professionals as a key part of a healthy life owing to many physical and physiological benefits. Regular exercise lowers many health risks, though if done overly, it can pose risks for health problems.

Exercise is reason for acne in many people and is apparently, a common health concern associated with activity. The truth is that working out is not the culprit for breakouts post workout. In fact, physical activity is great for your skin; movements charge your internal systems and flush out toxins to make your skin look radiant. The cause for acne, which you think is caused by exercise, could actually be the way you work out.

Here’s how acne is caused by exercises and how to work out in a conscious manner to prevent breakouts.

When using machines

Exercise machines and fitness equipments at the gym can give you acne as they are shared among all gym-goers, and are thus, mostly covered with  skin irritants. Remember that those handles and hand grabs carry bacteria and yeast. You can make use of the wipes to clean the machine’s handles/hand grabs before working out.

Exercise towel

If you wipe your skin often with a towel, you are at an increased risk for breakouts. A dirty, sweaty towel will expose the bacteria and yeast to your face. Used, wet towels are full of bacteria and yeast! Make sure you wash your towels after every use. A better option to dab sweat off your face will be to use facial wipes. Facial wipes give body a cool and refreshing feeling.

Touching your face

Touching your face can transfer oil and bacteria, which leads to possible acne flare-ups. Avoid touching your face to prevent breakouts. To wipe sweat, use a clean, dry towel or facial wipes.

Untied hair

For those with longer hair, wearing hair back and keeping hair or bangs off the face can prevent additional dirt and oil from clogging the pores. Plus, a ponytail can keep you from touching your face and hairline if your hair frequently gets in the way. When it comes to makeup, most makeup products on the market is noncomedogenic—so it shouldn’t clog pores even if you wear it while working out. Keep in mind that over-washing your face can lead to irritation, so a pre- and post-workout wash may be too much for your skin. Your best bet may be to go to the gym sans makeup and wait until after your workout to apply it.


(Images:Getty)

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