Sport and skin: how exercise helps acne

The secret of sport for healthier skin

According to Rachel Keys, dermo-aesthetic nurse and dermocosmetic expert, "exercise improves circulation, which allows us to effectively eliminate toxins that accumulate in the skin as a result of, for example, skin infections". Stimulating microcirculation in the dermal layer of the skin is one of its main and most important benefits. Vilavella explains why: "It facilitates a greater supply of oxygen and nutrients to the skin cells, which is crucial for their regeneration and repair. In addition, efficient circulation helps to speed up the removal of cellular waste products and free radicals, thereby reducing oxidative damage. What you might call a full-on facial (and body) detox. Other key benefits include "stress reduction, hormone control, improved sleep, prevention of premature ageing and increased hydration," Keys adds.

And what about acne?

Although it's not a panacea, exercise can help manage acne, "although it's not a one-size-fits-all solution and may not be effective for everyone," says the dermo-aesthetic nurse. Running or spinning - to name just a few examples – they have been shown to boost endorphin production and reduce stress and anxiety levels. But what does this have to do with acne? A lot because "it reduces the cortisol hormone and can help reduce the acne it causes," says the founder of the Idermic Holistic Dermatology Centre. However, she also warns that "it should be borne in mind that in patients prone to acne, excessive sweating and friction over a long period can cause a blockage in the hair follicle and lead to so-called athlete's acne".

Hygiene and hydration are the skincare maxim to remember when exercising.

According to experts, swimming, yoga, Pilates, resistance training, and outdoor activities such as walking, cycling, or hiking are the best sports for glowing skin. However, their benefits can easily turn into disadvantages if you do not follow the right hygiene habits, especially when sweating comes into play.

Tips to keep in mind before and after exercising

Perspiration, friction from clothing, overexposure to the sun without sunscreen or dehydration are some of the things to consider when doing any activity. If you don't pay enough attention, this can lead to irritation, chafing, burns and other skin damage. That is why following these tips before, during and after is important. Tips that will undoubtedly benefit the health of your skin:

• Cleanse your face before exercise with a gentle cleanser to remove excess oils, dirt and make-up. "Look for products without strong, mild fragrances to avoid irritating the skin," suggests Rachel Keys.

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• Be sure to drink water and maintain good internal hydration to keep skin elastic and healthy.
• Wear sunscreen when exercising outdoors in exposed areas to protect against damage from ultraviolet radiation.
• Wear clean, breathable sports clothing to reduce friction and allow the skin to breathe. Avoid tight-fitting clothing that can cause irritation.
• Wash your hands before activity to prevent infection," advises Ximena Pérez Hilera, beauty expert at Carche Beauty Palace (Boadilla del Monte, Madrid). And don't touch your face during exercise to reduce the transfer of bacteria and avoid clogging your pores.
• Pay particular attention to sensitive areas such as the lips and use lip balm, if necessary," adds Keys.

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• Shower with lukewarm water to avoid clogged pores and dry thoroughly.
• Use soft, clean towels, preferably separate ones for your body and face, and wash them regularly to avoid bacterial build-up," specialist advice from Pérez Hilera.