Skin health while playing sports is just as important as staying fit. We all know that keeping active is important for our overall health, but it can take a toll on the skin. Sun exposure, sweat, friction or even the wrong skincare products can lead to acne, irritation and dehydration if not properly cared for. That’s why skincare for athletes is so important - here’s how to care for your skin health while playing sports. 

Cleanse before and after exercise

It might seem unusual to wash your face before you exercise but it’s an important step for skin health while playing sports. Removing makeup, leftover sunscreen or dirt is important in preventing clogged pores and breakouts pre and post-exercise. If these build up and mix together with sweat and sebum, they create the perfect environment for bacteria and irritation. 

Using a pH-balanced cleanser such as Sebamed Clear Face Antibacterial Cleansing Foam removes dirt, sweat and grime without stripping away its natural protective barrier. This is not only an important step in skincare for athletes but is essential for anyone serious about exercise and skincare. 

Dry your skin gently

After a workout or shower, it’s tempting to scrub your skin dry, but doing so can cause more harm than good. Harshly rubbing your skin can irritate the skin, strip away natural oils and worsen sensitivity or dryness. 

Instead, gently pat your skin dry with a soft, clean towel. This helps maintain the skin’s moisture barrier and prevent unnecessary friction which may have led to redness or chafing. Being gentle with your skin is an important part of exercise and skincare, as it plays an important role in maintaining good skin health, especially when playing sports.

Protect against the sun 

If you exercise or play sports outside, sun protection is vital. UV rays are the number one cause of premature aging, uneven skin tones or in some cases, cancer. 

Use a UVA/UVB sunscreen with at least an SPF of 30. Reapply often, especially if you're sweating heavily or swimming. Consistent sun protection is an important step for maintaining skin health while playing sports, no matter the season. 

Keep your skin moisturised

Hydration is important, both inside and out. Applying a moisturiser helps protect the skin from wind, sun and other elements. A good moisturiser is an important part of skincare for athletes as it helps reduce irritation caused by sweat or friction from clothing - common challenges when it comes to skin health while playing sports. 

Choose a nourishing moisturiser such as Sebamed Clear Face Mattifying Cream. This cream  hydrates the skin without clogging pores. A good moisturiser is an important part of skincare for athletes as it helps prevent dehydration, reduces irritation and restores the skin’s balance. 

Keep your equipment bacteria free

Workout equipment can be a breeding ground for bacteria, especially when shared or used repeatedly without cleaning as bacteria can easily transfer to your skin and cause breakouts. 

To reduce the risk of breakouts, ensure that you regularly disinfect your equipment - both personal items like yoga mats or dumbbells and shared equipment at the gym. Keeping your equipment clean is a good hygiene practice to maintain healthy skincare for athletes, helping you avoid skincare issues caused by dirt, grime or sweat.

Stay hydrated

During exercise, your body loses water through sweat - not just from within, but also at the skin’s surface. This fluid loss can lead to dehydrated skin, making it feel tight, flaky, or sensitive, so staying hydrated is important for skin health while playing sports.

Drinking enough water, before, during and after your workout is vital, not just for performance but to keep your skin hydrated and elastic. Therefore, make sure you drink plenty of water throughout the day, to replace what you might have lost. It’s one of the simplest, yet most effective skincare routines for athletes.

Choose suitable clothes

What you wear when you exercise can impact your skin. Tight or synthetic fabrics can trap sweat, leading to clogged pores and breakouts, especially around the back, chest and thighs. 

Wear breathable workout clothes that can absorb sweat and dry quickly, so the sweat doesn’t stick to your skin and clog the pores. This can reduce the risk of skin irritation, chafing or build up of bacteria. For athletes, clothing is part of your extended skincare routine - helping to protect the skin during every movement.