How to prevent acne after working out?
Exercise has many benefits but it can also create an environment where yeast and acne-causing bacteria can thrive. Keep your skin clean and dry. Exercise with an effective treatment plan can reduce acne in the long term.
Sweat removes bacteria and other debris from the pores, but if you don’t remove the sweat those contaminations will stay on the skin. Dried sweat when comes in contact with makeup and dirt can clog pores and cause inflammation which results in acne.
Due to rubbing or chafing of the skin, heat, and sweat that can result in inflammation of the hair follicles, some areas, such as the buttocks or back, may be more prone to breakouts. These breakouts can be avoided if you take the necessary steps.
Remove makeup prior to workout :- Makeup itself doesn’t cause acne, but when it comes in contact with sweat can make the skin more susceptible to acne. Avoid using anything with a solid, compact, or thick foundation because they tend to prevent sweat and oil from leaving the skin, which can create blackheads and acne. Remove makeup with a gentle cleanser and water. You can use a water-based foundation or mineral foundation.
Protect your skin :- Make sure your skin stays healthy and hydrated. Moisturizing your skin with a non-comedogenic topical before and after a workout can prevent skin irritation. Wear protective clothing and apply a layer of sunscreen if you are going outdoors.
Wear breathable loose-fitting clothes :- Avoid skin-tight clothing as it prevents sweat from escaping the body, and results in clogged pores and acne. Change your clothes after a workout. If you keep your clothing on for too long, the dirt and dried sweat that collects in athletic wear can rub back into your pores, increasing the likelihood of post-workout pimples.
Avoid touching your face and body :- During a workout, your hands are the main point of contact between your body and bacteria-covered surfaces as you touch many pieces of equipment with them. Wash your hands or use hand sanitizer before, during, or after a workout. To prevent acne, avoid touching parts of your body that are more prone to acne breakouts.
Clean exercise equipment :- Bacteria can grow and thrive in shared exercise equipment. When you use the equipment and then touch your face or wipe sweat from your forehead, the same bacteria can enter your pores resulting in acne breakouts. Wipe down regular equipment before use with a disinfectant that contains 70% alcohol.
Clean your body :- After a workout, your skin may be covered with dirt, sweat, or other acne-causing substances. Clean your skin after a workout. Dirt and sweat are the leading cause of post-workout acne. You can clean your face and body with cleansers that contain benzoyl peroxide, as it reduces the number of acne-causing bacteria. You can also use a gentle, oil-free cleanser or micellar water. Take a shower if you can't wash your face following a workout.
Tie your hair :- Keep long hair away from your face by tying it back. Your skin can absorb natural oils from your hair and hair care products. Hair can trap moisture on your skin which can clog pores.
Still, if self-care methods are not working, consult a dermatologist as he may prescribe medicine for the treatment of acne. Contact us as we may customize dermatologic medications based on your specific needs.