Post-workout acne is commonly referred to as ‘gym acne’ or ‘acne mechanica’. Dr. Priyanka Reddy, Founder and Chief Dermatologist, DNA Skin Clinic shares some of the following tips that can be followed to prevent it:
1. Cleanse Your Skin Before and After Workout: Before exercising, clean your face with a gentle cleanser to remove any dirt, oil or makeup. After your workout, clean again to remove sweat and bacteria that may have accumulated during the exercise session. Use a mild cleanser that is suitable for your skin type.
2. Avoid Heavy or Scary Makeup: Heavy makeup can clog pores and contribute to acne breakouts, especially when combined with sweat. If you prefer to wear makeup while you work out, choose oil-free, non-comedogenic products that allow your skin to breathe. Alternatively, consider going makeup-free during your workout to allow your skin to breathe and reduce the chances of clogged pores.
3. Wear Breathable Clothes: Choose workout clothes made from breathable fabrics, such as cotton or moisture-wicking materials. These fabrics help in absorbing sweat and allow your skin to breathe, thereby reducing the chances of sweat and bacteria getting trapped on your skin.
4. Take a shower and change clothes immediately: After exercising, shower as soon as possible to clean your skin and remove sweat, oil, and bacteria. Wear clean, dry clothes to prevent sweat and bacteria from building up on your skin.
5. Avoid touching your face: During your workout, try to avoid touching your face with your hands or wiping your sweat off your hands. Your hands can transfer bacteria and oil to your face, potentially leading to acne. If you must wipe off sweat, use a clean towel that is gentle on your skin.
6. Use Non-Comedogenic Skin Care Products: When choosing skin care products, including moisturizers, sunscreen and any post-workout treatments, opt for non-comedogenic or oil-free formulations. These products are less likely to clog your pores and cause acne.
7. Keep Your Workout Equipment Clean: If you use equipment or machines at the gym, wipe them with antibacterial wipes before use to reduce the transfer of bacteria to your skin. Similarly, if you use any personal fitness equipment, be sure to clean it regularly to reduce the accumulation of bacteria.
8. Maintain Healthy Skin Care Routine: Establish a regular skin care routine that includes cleansing, exfoliating (but not too frequently or aggressively), using retinoids (under your dermatologist’s guidance) light moisturizers and sunscreens that don’t clog your pores. Also, based on your dermatologist’s recommendation, consider adding acne-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid, clindamycin or benzoyl peroxide to your routine to help prevent acne breakouts.
9. Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water before, during and after a workout can help flush toxins from your body and keep your skin hydrated, which can result in a healthier complexion.