Have you ever wondered how going to the gym can affect your skin? Just imagine how many people use the gym every day. When you touch the machines or the weights, you may pick up or transfer bacteria from your hands. Then your hands may touch your face, making it easier for you to breakout.

Here are some skin care tips to help you manage your acne that is potentially caused by working out at the gym.  

Remember to rehydrate

You need to always stay hydrated during your workout. When you exercise, your skin loses water by sweating. This makes your skin dehydrated, causing dead skin cells to accumulate, which then can lead to clogged pores. Bring a water bottle and make sure to remind yourself to rehydrate throughout your workout. 

Pull your hair back

If you have long hair, it is a good idea to pull it back away from your face. You can use a headband or pull your hair into a ponytail. If you use a headband, make sure to pull it further back in your hairline. This will prevent breakouts on your forehead. Your sweat as well as any potential hair products can clog your pores and lead to acne. 

Avoid touching your face

You may not notice it but your hands may be touching your face during your workout. If you have not washed your hands, there is a high chance that you can transfer bacteria from your hands onto your face.

Always have a small towel while you are exercising. You can use your clean towel to absorb the sweat from your face. 

Wash your hands with soap

Bacteria can be found all over the gym. You can’t see it but it’s there. To avoid skin infections and acne, you should wash your hands with soap. Check if your gym has hand sanitizer available. You can also make sure the machine is wiped down before and after you use it. Don’t forget to wash your hands after you use the bathroom and after your workout. 

Clean your face after working out

After your workout, you will need to wash your face with a gentle cleanser. Choose a cleanser that have ingredients such as glycolic acid or tea tree oil. These ingredients can prevent your pores from clogging.

Try not to rub your skin with your towel, instead, gently pat dry. When you’re exercising, your blood circulation increases, making your skin more sensitive. 

Change your clothes immediately

Don’t forget to change out of your sweaty clothes after your workout. When you sweat, all of your toxins come out and gets soaked into your clothes. If you don’t change your clothes, the pores on your body can get clogged, leading to body acne. Make sure to shower and change into clean clothes. 

Wear flip-flops when you shower

If you decide to shower at the gym, you may want to wear rubber flip-flops while showering. Bacteria can circulate on the floors of the showers. Not just bacteria but there can be fungus, mold or algae growing in the corners of the shower. Keep your feet clean by wearing waterproof shoes while you shower.

Avoid taking hot showers

It may feel good to take a hot shower after a hard workout but you may want to reconsider. A hot shower can strip your skin of all the natural oils, leaving your skin dry and itchy. Instead, take a short shower with lukewarm water.

Provide your skin with moisturizer

As you know by now, your skin needs to be hydrated. To make sure it is fully hydrated, moisturize your face and body after washing and showering. Make sure to choose a moisturizer that is right for your skin.

If you have oily skin, it is a good idea to find a moisturizer that is oil-free. This will help prevent your skin from breaking out.

When your skin is sensitive or more acne prone, it is important to take the extra steps to protect your skin, especially after using the gym. Maintaining proper skin care will help you better manage your acne.