Exercise & Skin Health: Your Workout, Your Glow

Most people are aware that exercise is great for the cardiovascular system and bones, but many may not know how powerful it is for the skin. Keeping skin vibrant and healthy relies on a strong foundation of healthy blood circulation. Your skin's working cells receive vital nutrients and oxygen through the bloodstream, and every time you increase blood flow through exercise, you're essentially giving your skin a nourishing internal facial. For this reason, regular physical activity should be a non-negotiable part of your natural skincare routine.

Here are some suggestions on how to get the most benefits for your skin naturally while exercising.

Work Up a Sweat: Your Body's Natural Purifier

Sweating is one of the body's most effective natural ways to detoxify itself. As you work out, the increased circulation helps to flush out waste products, including the damaging free radicals that can contribute to premature aging and dullness. This natural release process brings toxins to the surface, where they can be cleansed away. This is your body's way of naturally purifying itself, helping to reveal a clearer, brighter complexion.

Natural Skincare Tips for Your Workout

Breathe:  Let your skin breathe while exercising. Wearing heavy makeup during a workout can trap sweat and bacteria in your pores, leading to breakouts and irritation. Go natural and leave the makeup at home to allow your skin to fully release impurities and breathe freely.

Cleanse:  It's crucial to wash your skin as soon as possible after exercising. This is what prevents the sweat, dirt, and bacteria that were flushed out of your pores from settling back in and causing clogged pores, which can lead to bacterial or fungal infections. A gentle cleanser will do the trick and help your skin feel fresh and clean.

Hydrate:  Dehydration is one of the quickest ways to make your skin look dull and tired. It can lead to dead skin cells, clogged pores, and even the appearance of fine lines. Drinking water before, during, and after a workout is essential for providing your skin with the internal moisture it needs to stay plump, supple, and radiant. This deep hydration from within is a key component of healthy skin.

Moisturize:  Even if you've hydrated with water, your skin still loses moisture through perspiration. After cleansing, it’s important to apply a moisturizer to lock in the hydration and create a barrier that protects your skin from environmental stressors. A good moisturizer helps to retain your skin's water content, giving it a healthy and dewy feel.

Relax:  Exercise is a powerful stress reliever, and this has a direct, positive effect on your skin. Stress causes your body to produce cortisol, which can lead to a breakdown of collagen and elastin, the proteins that keep your skin firm and elastic. By reducing stress, you help manage these hormonal fluctuations, which can prevent flare-ups and contribute to a calmer, clearer complexion.

Avoid the Sun:  The sun is a major contributor to skin aging. UV radiation affects the distribution of elastin and collagen in the skin, leading to wrinkles and sunspots. Always exercise indoors or, if you're outdoors, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect your skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays.

Exercise Tones Muscles:  Beyond the cellular level, exercise physically tones your muscles. Firm muscles provide a supportive foundation for the skin, which can make it appear firmer and more flexible, especially on the face and neck. This also supports a healthy body image. When you love your body, you are more likely to take good care of it, and that care will naturally reflect in the health and vibrancy of your skin.

Incorporate exercise into your routine, stay hydrated, protect yourself from the sun, and apply a natural, organic moisturizer to keep your skin healthy and vibrant for years to come. Your workout is more than just a physical activity; it's a dedicated part of your holistic anti-aging and wellness journey.