How to Care for Skin if You’re a Runner

Marathons, triathlons and the like take a toll on the body, but they can also wreak havoc on the skin. The harsh environments, sweat and sun can deplete the skin of nutrients, damage its structural integrity, and cause breakouts.

So how do you prevent these unwanted effects from occurring without giving up your sport? A simple regimen – protect, cleanse, rebuild, protect (again) – should do the trick.

Protect – Keep in mind the sun (the damaging UVA and UVB rays) causes 90 percent of our skin’s aging. Use a good daytime protection formula with a mineral blocker like zinc to also help protect against toxins and pollutants. Zinc acts as a natural barrier actually blocks the sun’s rays, rather than absorbing them like many chemical-based formulas do. You should apply it everyday, but especially before an outdoor run. The EnviroProtect is particularly nice for runners since it is a light, non-greasy formula that absorbs into the skin.

Cleanse daily– With strenuous workouts or excessive heat the body naturally sweats and oil emerges. Excess oil production is often the culprit behind most skin problems, and is the most common contributor to acne. A good cleanser with salicylic acid will help keep oil in check and keep acne-prone skin clear. It will also rid the skin of any other impurities from the sweat. For quick clean-up jobs after sweating turn to cleansing pads. These are super convenient, and for the guys who wear hats or helmets, they’re great for cleaning up the forehead to prevent breakouts.

Rebuild and hydrate – Use a skin-building toner with peptides, sodium hyaluronate and stone extract to strengthen and hydrate the skin. This will replenish the skin with the necessary antioxidants and proteins it needs for cell regeneration…sort of like fuel for the skin.

Protect again – No, your eyes are not fooling you. You do have to protect again…everyday as a matter of fact!

Just like you take the proper measures to protect your body (the right running gear and shoes) and replenish during and after the run, you also need to do the same for the skin.

For more information on good skin care practices check out our other posts.