We all know how wonderful exercise is for our minds and bodies. More than diet, makeup, or skincare, exercise makes us feel and look younger. When the underlying muscles are well-toned and firm, your skin above also looks firmer. Daily workouts affect the skin in other ways, both positive and negative, and we’ll dive into some of them below.
Sun Exposure
While exercise makes us look younger, overexposure to the sun will make the skin look dull and dry. If you’re an outdoor exerciser, be sure to apply sunscreen generously before going out and every few hours afterward. And, when you’re looking for a good dermatologist norman ok, give our office a call.
Rashes and Chafing
Excessive moisture in skin folds, along with the friction and heat of repetitive movement, can be extremely irritating to sensitive skin. Rashes and chafing can occur anywhere clothing touches skin, but frequent drying, showering immediately afterward, and using a light moisturizer will help.
Aggravating Existing Skin Conditions
Exercise increases blood flow throughout the body and leads to perspiration, which can worsen eczema, psoriasis, rosacea, and other skin conditions. These problems are temporary, however, and they shouldn’t stop you from enjoying the other benefits of exercise. Try working out in a cooler environment, using cool compresses, or swimming. Those remedies may reduce the redness and skin flushing.
Clogged Pores
Although sweat alone rarely causes breakouts, it may mix with cosmetics and comedogenic sunscreens to clog pores and trap bacteria. It’s not just icky; it can also worsen acne. Mitigate the problem by choosing a non-comedogenic, lightweight sunscreen for outdoor workouts.
Reducing Stress
Exercise can do a number on your skin, but it also offers a few benefits. By minimizing stress and releasing endorphins, you’ll find it easier to control breakouts, atopic dermatitis, eczema, acne, and hives.
Improved Circulation
Elevated heart rate and increased blood flow are other big benefits of exercise. When the heart is pumping and blood is flowing, your skin gets more oxygen and nutrients. Therefore, exercise promotes regeneration and keeps skin looking healthy and useful.
Skin Detoxification
Along with delivering oxygen and nutrients to skin cells, better blood flow also flushes toxins from the skin and the body. Exercise increases blood flow, which means waste moves out more quickly. Skin cells get more of the things they need, and they’re less affected by toxins and free radicals.
A Healthy, Glowing Complexion
We’ve all seen it right after a workout, but the effects are typically most evident after a few hours when that nutrient- and oxygen-dense blood has had time to nourish your skin. Exercise and the elevated heart rate it brings, as well as the post-workout rush of endorphins, creates a glowing complexion that makes everyone wonder what you’re doing to look so healthy and youthful.
Book a Dermatological Checkup Today
Our practice is about self-care via proper skincare, and exercise accomplishes both goals. With the tips we’ve given, along with a few vigorous workouts every week, you’ll soon be on your way to healthy, glowing skin and a healthier life overall.
At Integris Health, Dr. Jessica Doty strives to give every patient the customized care and one-on-one attention they deserve. Learn more on Facebook, Pinterest, and Twitter, or call today to schedule an appointment for a checkup.
