Acne and exercise

The Link between Exercise and Acne

by David Warple

The average person would consider that participating in physical activity would have some benefit to them, and it does - not only in the management of stress and the maintaining of a good, healthy person, but also in maintaining the condition of one's skin. Many people who participate in regular physical activity voice distress that their activity worsens their skin blemishes. In actuality, what many people perceive as exercise-related skin problems are in reality caused by some external thing being applied to the skin. There are certain factors that you can look for if you feel that your skin is worsened by exercise that can help determine what is causing your skin blemishes to worsen.

One factor is make-up. There are oil-free and non-comedogenic (non-pore-clogging) products available, but they will still clog the pores if worn during heavy exercise. Wear as little make-up as possible while exercising. When you are finished, wash it off as soon as possible.

Studies have shown that although acne can improve slightly while briefly exposed to sunlight, it also shows that prolonged exposure promotes comedones (clogged pores) and sun damage. Some types of acne medication even raises the sensitivity to the sun. Using sunscreen is a must if exercising outdoors. Choose a sunscreen that is oil-free and has a protection factor with no less than SPF 15 for both UVA and UVB rays. Make sure to wash your face after exercising, because sunscreen can also clog pores like make-up.

Clothing is another factor. Synthetic fabrics can trap heat and moisture against your skin, creating an ideal breeding ground for bacteria, thus contributing to acne. It is best to avoid clothing made exclusively with lycra or nylon. Loose clothing and natural fibers permit the skin to breathe. Lightweight, loose-fitting cotton is best for moderate exercise. If you follow a vigorous routine, you may consider trying the new fabrics that are designed to draw moisture away from the skin.

Proper fitting clothing and equipment are also crucial to consider, as they can lead to skin irritation as a result of friction. Wearing outfits that are too snug in places like armpits and crotches are prime areas for irritation. Helmets need to fit properly and snugly to the head, and should be lined with a soft fabric that can be removed and washed regularly, such as cotton.

Make sure you take a shower and change your clothes as soon as you can. Whatever your exercise routine entails, sweaty clothes are not good to keep on. If no shower is available, at least wipe off the sweat with a clean towel and change your clothes. Additionally, make sure to blot dry your face rather than wiping it. Attempting to cleanse your face by wiping can actually cause sunscreen, make-up, and oil to get embedded deeper into your skin.

Showering right after a workout is the best possible scenario. You should, however, use a medicated exfoliate cleanser whenever you get the chance to bathe. Just keep in mind that you should treat your skin kindly. Hard scrubbing does not clean your skin any better, and it does not eradicate acne, either. It may actually cause more irritation.

Maintaining a healthy exercise schedule is beneficial for every person, and a healthy body is naturally conducive to healthy skin. You will be more likely to have one if you have the other. Know what causes your skin to become irritated, and take care to avoid those things. Once you have removed those irritants from your exercise routine, your workouts will always be free from breakouts.

Finding the right (http://www.acne--treatment.com/) body acne treatment can be overwhelming. David Warple's articles are full of (http://acne--information.com/) acne tips and other information.
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