For many people, leaving the house without makeup is unthinkable, even if it’s just to hit the gym. Makeup can boost confidence, making us feel more put-together and ready to take on the world. However, recent research suggests that wearing makeup during workouts might not be the best choice for your skin’s health. If you're a regular gym-goer who never skips makeup, it may be time to reconsider this habit.
What Science Says About Makeup and Exercise
A study conducted by scientists at the Korea National University of Education in Seoul sheds light on how makeup interacts with your skin during physical activity. The researchers asked 43 healthy male and female college students to perform a 20-minute treadmill workout. Before exercising, each participant applied a cream foundation to one half of their face, leaving the other half bare.
The results were telling. By the end of their workout, the moisture levels on both sides of their faces had increased, which is expected during exercise. However, the area with makeup retained more moisture compared to the makeup-free side. The study, also found that while pores on the makeup-free side expanded and oil levels increased, the side with makeup showed no change in pore size, and oil levels actually decreased.
These findings suggest that wearing makeup during workouts can interfere with your skin’s natural ability to regulate oil production. This disruption could lead to various skin issues, such as dry skin, clogged pores, and acne. This emphasizes the importance of going makeup-free during exercise for the sake of skin health.
The Importance of Proper Oil Balance in Skin Health
Maintaining proper oil levels is crucial for healthy skin. Our skin naturally produces oil, or sebum, which helps keep it hydrated and protected. When makeup is applied before a workout, it can create a barrier that hinders the skin's ability to balance oil production. This can lead to clogged pores, which are a breeding ground for acne, including whiteheads, blackheads, and pimples.
For those with acne-prone skin, this can be particularly problematic. Clogged pores and increased oil production can lead to acne breakouts. Additionally, the excess oil produced during a workout can cause your foundation to break down, leading to a patchy or streaky appearance. This means that not only could your skin suffer, but your makeup might not look as flawless as you’d like by the end of your session.
While the study primarily focused on cream foundation, the implications extend to other types of makeup as well. Powdered makeup could also interfere with your skin’s functions during exercise. Though powder might not clog pores as much as a cream foundation, it can still dry out your skin by absorbing essential oils, leading to similar issues by the end of a workout.
The risks aren’t limited to foundation and powder. Eye makeup, such as mascara and eyeliner, can also cause problems when worn during exercise. Sweating can cause eye makeup to run, potentially leading to irritation, itching, rashes, and even infections. While lipstick might be less likely to cause skin issues at the gym, it’s still worth considering whether it’s necessary during a workout.
Striking a Balance: Wearing Makeup at the Gym
Despite the potential risks, some people feel that wearing makeup is an essential part of their routine, even at the gym. For many, a bit of makeup can provide a confidence boost, making them feel more energetic and motivated to work out. If this sounds like you, it’s possible to strike a balance between looking your best and protecting your skin.
It's best to choose noncomedogenic products, which are specifically formulated to be less likely to clog pores. These products can help minimize the risk of skin problems while still allowing you to wear some makeup during your workout. Additionally, wear as little makeup as possible—just enough to feel comfortable, but not so much that it will interfere with your skin’s natural processes.
After your workout, it’s important to cleanse your skin as soon as possible. Start by using makeup wipes to remove any remaining products, followed by washing your face with a gentle cleanser and water. This will help remove sweat, oil, and any makeup residue that could contribute to clogged pores and breakouts.
The Bottom Line: Is It Worth It?
In an ideal world, you’d skip makeup altogether when heading to the gym. However, it is better to work out with makeup on than to avoid exercise altogether. After all, physical activity is crucial for overall health, and the benefits of exercise far outweigh the risks of wearing a bit of makeup.
Ultimately, the decision to wear makeup during workouts is a personal one. If you’re concerned about your skin, it might be worth experimenting with going makeup-free and seeing how your skin responds. If you find that you can’t part with your makeup, consider taking steps to minimize potential skin issues, such as using noncomedogenic products and establishing a post-workout cleansing routine.
Your skin is your body’s largest organ, and it plays a vital role in protecting you from environmental stressors. By being mindful of how makeup interacts with your skin during exercise, you can take steps to ensure that both your skin and your confidence stay in top shape.
For more information contact us at +62 812 1068 8884 / +62 812 2888 8837/ +62 812-2888-8337 or email [email protected].
Lumina Aesthetics Clinic
Jl. Dewi Sri No. 88E, Legian
+62 812 1068 8884 | +62 812 2888 8837
