How to Avoid Breakouts After Your Workout Sesh

Working out: a neutral good. There are so many benefits to working out across bodily health, boosting mood and improving self-esteem that can be enjoyed. As you exercise and pump blood around the body, that blood circulation delivers nutrients and oxygen to the skin for hormone regulation and a detox effect, which can actually improve how your skin appears.

A potential downside? The effect of sweat, bacteria and impurities. Certain skin types are more prone to accumulating buildup during and after a workout, which can cause clogged pores, breakouts and inflammation. If you can relate and these concerns are preventing you from getting your workout in, we’re here to end your skin woes and help you look and feel your best post-workout–as you should. It only takes a few simple steps to avoid an irritated skin barrier or a flaming breakout, so keep reading on for everything you need to know.

Right after the workout

So you’ve just finished your workout; now what? Whether you’re just warm or dripping in sweat, your skin has accumulated dirt, oil and bacteria that can lead to clogged pores or a breakout if left alone.

medicube - Hypochlorous Acid Daily Facial Spray

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - medicube

The medicube Hypochlorous Acid Daily Facial Spray is *the* ultimate face mist to have on hand, ready to spritz on to clear and clarify your skin the minute you’re done for the day. Hypochlorous Acid is the key ingredient that is clinically tested to reduce acne-causing bacteria, purify troubled skin and soothe redness; joining it are hydrating Allantoin and Panthenol for a refreshing burst of moisture. It’s specifically designed with acne-prone skin in mind, but can be used by all skin types to bust breakouts before they even pop up. Keep this in your gym bag to settle your skin before you reach your sink for further post-workout care.

Clear and cleanse

Round Lab - Birch Juice Moisturizing Cleanser

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - Round Lab

To ensure your skin is actually rid of all impurities, reach for a water-based cleanser like the Round Lab Birch Juice Moisturizing Cleanser. This gentle yet effective cleanser is formulated with Birch Juice to remove all dirt, buildup and sebum for visibly clarified skin, perfect for all skin types including sensitive skin. With Vita Hyaluronic Acid and NMF, it maintains a healthy skin barrier to lock in moisture and prevent transepidermal water loss.

Soothing relaxation

SKIN1004 - Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Hydrating Mask

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - SKIN1004

If you find your skin reddened and irritated after your sweat sesh, the SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Hydrating Mask will help your complexion return to a calmer state and more even tone. The dynamic duo of Centella Asiatica and Hyaluronic Acid provide quenching relief to sensitized skin within 10-20 minutes, its water-jelly texture laying comfortably on the skin to work its magic. It also features Ceramide and Squalane to nourish the skin barrier and make it resilient against irritation in the future.

For a moisture punch

iUNIK - Beta Glucan Power Moisture Serum

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - iUNIK

Replenishing hydration back into the skin post-workout is crucial for ensuring it’s sufficiently hydrated, and doesn’t overproduce sebum to compensate for the loss of moisture. The iUNIK Beta Glucan Power Moisture Serum touts Beta-Glucan as its main ingredients, responsible for supplying moisture and aiding the skin’s moisture retention capabilities (it’s known to retain moisture 20% better than Hyaluronic Acid). The fast-absorbing formula sinks right into the complexion and leaves no residue behind.

UV protection always

haruharu wonder - Black Bamboo Top-to-Toe SPF Veil Sunscreen SPF50+ PA+++

Courtesy of Korean Skincare Brand - haruharu wonder

Working out during the daytime? You’ve likely sweat and cleansed your sunscreen off and require a top-up to keep your skin strong and protected. The brand new haruharu wonder Black Bamboo Top-to-Toe SPF Veil Sunscreen SPF50+ PA+++ is a lightweight lotion supported by hydrating Black Bamboo Leaves and antioxidants Vitamin C and E that glides and blends into the skin with zero effort. As its name suggests, it can be slathered onto the face and body for well-rounded defence against sun damage and acne-causing inflammation.

Add these simple steps to your post-workout routine to see and feel a difference! Make sure you’re following us on Instagram and Facebook, as well as keeping an eye on the VANA Blog, so you receive all the latest news, promos and information!