You’ve just finished a workout and feel amazing, so you most likely aren’t thinking about what your skincare routine after should be. Working out can be tough on your skin because when you exercise, sweat and oil mix with dirt and bacteria on your skin which can clog pores and lead to breakouts or irritation. A post-workout skincare routine isn’t just a nice extra you should add into your schedule, but an important part of your routine so you can keep your skin glowing and healthy.
Why You Need To Take Care Of Your Skin Post-Workout
Sweat Can Clog Pores
Sweat itself isn’t bad, but when it sits on your skin for too long, it mixes with oils and bacteria, potentially clogging pores and causing breakouts.
Prevents Irritation
Gym equipment, mats, and even your own sweat towels can harbor bacteria. Frequent skin contact with these surfaces transfers germs to your face and body, leading to irritation or acne. Washing off sweat with a gentle cleanser can prevent any irritation.
Hydrates Your Skin
Exercise can dehydrate your skin, so using a lightweight moisturizer after cleansing helps restore hydration and maintains your skin barrier.
Step-By-Step Post-Workout Skincare Routine
1. Cleanse Your Skin Immediately
Cleansing removes sweat, bacteria, and any makeup that can clog your pores. Our Gel Cleanser and Golden Oil Cleanser are lightweight and will gently remove any post-workout impurities.
2. Cool Down Your Skin
Exercise increases blood flow, so your skin may be flushed post-workout. Cooling it down helps reduce redness and puffiness. Splash your face with cold water right after your workout.
3. Hydrate With A Lightweight Moisturizer
Sweating can cause dehydration, leaving your skin dull. Apply a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer to lock in hydration like our Prep + Illuminate Gel Moisturizer or Restore + Repair Barrier Cream.
4. Use Sunscreen
After working out, your pores can become temporarily dilated, making your skin more vulnerable to sun damage. Be sure to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.
The Best Post-Workout Skincare Products
The secret to healthy, glowing skin comes from our BioBerry Infusion™⎯a blend of berry nutrients to support healthy skin. Our skincare products will help keep your post-workout skin fresh by:
- Offering deep, lasting hydration.
- Protecting against damage from pollution and free radicals.
- Making your skin look plumper and smoother.
- Reducing the look of fine lines and wrinkles.
- Improving skin elasticity.
Post-Workout Skincare FAQs
Can I just use a face wipe after exercising?
Face wipes are okay if you’re in a hurry, but they may not effectively remove all sweat, oil, and buildup, and some contain alcohol that can dry out your skin. Leaving sweat and grime on your skin for too long can trap bacteria and dirt, causing breakouts, redness, itchiness, and even rashes—especially if you have sensitive skin. A gentle cleanser can calm the skin and reduce the risk of irritation and breakouts.
How soon should I wash my face after a workout?
Try to cleanse your skin within 30 minutes after finishing your workout to minimize the risk of clogged pores and irritation.
Can I wear makeup while working out?
It's best to avoid wearing makeup while working out. Makeup plus sweat can equal clogged pores.
Should I reapply sunscreen after a workout?
Yes, you should always reapply sunscreen after working out. Heavy sweating can dilute or remove sunscreen from your skin, so to get the maximum benefits of sunscreen, it will need to be reapplied.
