No Sweat: Exercise Your Skin

The skin is the largest organ in the human body, and when it comes to being fit and sexy, although being a key piece, it is often overlooked!  There are many things that can have a detrimental effect on the condition of our skin such as stress, hormones, food, and sunlight; however, exercise may be just the right tool in your quest for beautiful skin.

Let's look to one of the main causes of a poor complexion: STRESS.  Stress causes the body to create and release cortisol, increasing oil production in the skin and resulting in acne.  How can exercise help you ask?  Exercise is a great way to relieve stress and reduce cortisol levels.  

Another cause of skin problems can be inflammation.  Along with acne, this can also cause redness and dull looking skin.  Here the exercise makes you sweat which will actually help to purge toxins, resulting in skin that is smoother and more even.  

Overall, regular physical activity will cause blood flow to regulate the skin and help tighten problem areas all over the body, reducing the appearance of loose skin and cellulite.  The increased flow of oxygen along with the production of good oils brings more nutrients to the skin's surface also creating healthier and more resilient skin which will help you bounce back from breakouts more quickly.

There are a few things to consider when exercising to ensure your best looking skin.

• If exercising outside, always use a sunscreen.  Sunlight exposure may cause wrinkles and other unsightly skin blemishes along with increasing your risk for skin cancer.
• Properly hydrate yourself with water or a low-cal sports drink to ensure better blood flow to the skin.
• Never wear makeup when exercise.  Makeup, along with dead skin cells... which we all have, will cause our pores to clog and may form acne.  
• Always wash your face immediately after exercise.  Studies show that most people do not shower right after exercise.  This leaves us with bacteria sitting all over our bodies during that time.  Along with acne, this is what makes us smell... eww!
• Touching your face can transfer oil and bacteria to the skin (bacteria thrive in moist, humid environments like the gym).  This can lead to acne flare-ups.  If you need to wipe excess sweat, blot your skin with a clean, dry towel and avoid rubbing or wiping with your hands, shirt or towel.
• Finally, if you are playing sports and use any type of gear, clean it as best as you can after each use to prevent build up of sweat, dirt, and bacteria.  This includes helmets, pads, etc.

Exercise promotes positive skin health even though it is not considered part of our workout program.  Being active and fit has many rewards beyond feeling better; it allows our complexion to look and feel fabulous too!