Friday 1 April 2016

Skin Care and Exercise

Although you may feel great after going for a run or lifting weights, it can wreak havoc on your skin. Having a bad skincare routine when exercising can lead to clogged pores, unwanted spots, blackheads or even dry and itchy skin. Whether you are a regular to the gym or you're a fitness beginner.

Before the Workout
Before you hit the gym, it is important to clean your face so that you get rid of any unwanted oil and dirt. We suggest using warm, but not hot, water and finish with a splash of cold water to leave your face feeling fresh, clean and awake!

If you’re going to be exercising outside it’s really important to protect your skin with SPF to avoid sun damage which will lead to premature skin ageing. We recommend Centella's Classic Moisturiser which is a lightweight daily moisturiser with sunscreen protection properties. The moisturiser has a matte finish so you won’t be left looking shiny before you’ve even started working!

If you’re going to be working with weights or equipment, it is important to protect your hands. They’re fairly important. We suggest Centella's Hand Cream, which forms a protective barrier for your hands, but absorbs quickly so you can get straight into the gym and won’t lose any grip. 

During the Workout
If you have long hair you should tie it up away from your face. Not only so you can avoid the awful hair-stuck-to-face situation, but it will help protect your hair from absorbing frizz-inducing sweat.

Be sure to wipe down surfaces and any equipment before (and after) using it. No one wants to touch someone else's sweaty equipment, and it will help bacteria from spreading. Additionally, try not to wipe sweat from your face with dirty hands as it spreads spot-causing bacteria.

Most importantly, stay hydrated by drinking lots of water throughout the workout. When you sweat, your body loses water quickly. You need to constantly replenish water levels so you can stay on top of your game.

Post Workout
Once you’re done jump straight in the shower, but try not to have the shower too hot as this can strip the skin of its natural oils. Also consider not washing your hair every time, as this actually dries it out.

While you’re in the shower, lightly exfoliate your face using Centella Cleansing Face Polish. Rub gently using small circular motions. This will help remove excess oil, dead skin and sweat and leave you feeling squeaky clean and refreshed! Shower gels and body washes blended from botanical ingredients can provide freshness and boost the senses through floral fragrances and essential oils. See the Centella range here: body wash  and shower gel. 

Once you’re done, finish off your skincare routine by rehydrating your face. Depending on your skin type, moisturisers seal in the moisture and prevent any dryness afterwards. Centella provide a wide range of water-based moisturisers for the face as well as the body so they are ultralight and ultra-hydrating. Check out the complete product range here: http://www.centellaskincare.co.uk/