BY CYNTHIA WAIRIMU
It being January, a lot of people have taken up the initiative to follow up on the New Year resolutions made. Working out and joining a gym is usually on the itinerary. This is all well and good and a healthy option to start a year. So begs the question, is it healthy to workout in your makeup?
Most times than not, you find influencers, friends and fitness models posting pictures of them working out while wearing makeup. Everyone wants to look good but the gym might not be necessarily the place, ergo, makeup is a no-no while working out and this is why.
“Exercising causes blood vessels to expand, thus increasing blood flow to the skin, which in turn results in open pores. Sweat and bacteria get trapped under layers of makeup, preventing the skin from dissipating heat properly and leaving it prone to pore-occlusion (or becoming majorly clogged)”, explains Rachel Nazarian, MD, a New York-based dermatologist.
“The trapping of bacteria and sweat in the (now dilated) pores can enlarge pores over time and cause blackheads, while the trapping of heat can flare temperature-sensitive conditions such as rosacea, ultimately causing redness and uneven skin tone,” she says.
If wearing make-up before working out, one might be tempted to simply wipe it off using wipes. This is not advisable. The ideal move would be to wash it all off completely leaving no traces of lipstick, mascara or any form of make-up, as it is very easy for them to get smudged all over the skin and clog pores. After washing your face, it is tempting to use moisturizer, don’t. The oils in it will clog your pores
If your workout regime requires you to be out in the open, a sweat resistant sunscreen will do the trick.
So what happens if you are really insecure about being plain faced or showing scars and blemishes? Comedogenic (will not clog pores) make up can be used, if you must. Steer clear of heavy oil based foundations and use light powders. Consult a dermatologist on what best to use as well as treatment for acne and blemishes.
Gyms are also carriers of bacteria and all manner of dirt; do not touch your face unless you have washed your hands first to avoid carrying germs onto it.
Be sure to clean your face well after the workout to wash off all the dirt and sweat.
Bottom line: make up will cause breakouts, blemishes, white heads, black heads and acne if worn while working out. If you must, only use oil-free lightweight make up.
