Gym selfies are taking over social media, with celebrities and influencers posing mid-workout with impeccable looks and
makeup
.
However, to the great dismay of some, it is better to abandon the idea of exercising with too glamorous beauty, at the risk of creating skin problems or aggravating them.
Let the skin breathe...and sweat
“With physical exertion, the pores dilate, and the skin more easily absorbs the chemicals contained in makeup.
This can encourage the appearance of pimples on acne-prone or combination skin,” warns Doctor Élisabeth Berrissoul, dermatologist.
Worse still: by exercising with makeup, you deprive yourself of the good things about sweating.
Indeed, the specialist extols the benefits of sweat for eliminating toxic substances from the body and therefore advises taking advantage of training to take detoxifying “make-up breaks”.
Foundation, concealer, blush, bronzer and other highlighters should therefore be avoided in order to let the epidermis breathe properly.
Suitable makeup
Those who do not want to give up their mascara or still wish to camouflage certain complexes can rest assured: a few exceptions remain.
Dr Berrissoul believes that a waterproof mascara or a tinted lip balm can be applied, for example.
Concerning the complexion, a BB cream or a light tinted cream is preferable.
Finally, whenever possible, it is more appropriate to favor “gym-friendly” formulas specially designed by cosmetic brands to let the skin breathe during exercise and make the pigments last longer.
No miracle though: depending on the intensity of the physical activity, the result may not be the same as at the start of the course.
Also read “Gym lips”: the simplest make-up tip for luscious and hydrated lips in summer
If the skin problems are too serious, the dermatologist reminds above all that it is essential to treat them with the help of a doctor before trying to hide them under layers of make-up.
An essential care routine
On the other hand, there are beauty procedures that should not be skipped when you follow a sports routine regularly, to take good care of your skin.
According to Élisabeth Berrissoul, two steps are necessary.
“First, remove your makeup thoroughly before the session.
Then, after taking a shower, put on moisturizer.
A mist can also do the trick temporarily, to cool overheated skin,” she recommends, before specifying that “very dry or sensitive skin can apply a light cream before exercise, if necessary.”
As for those who are fans of running, hiking or other outdoor activities?
“A serum and moisturizing cream for sensitive skin or with SPF, if you're outdoors.
And sunscreen on exposed areas: neck, shoulders, legs,” adds sports coach Lucile Woodward
.
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This article originally published on April 27, 2017 was updated on March 15, 2024.