Keep it Fresh: Why Going Makeup-Free at the Gym Could Be Best for Your Skin

In the realm of skincare, it's widely known that sleeping with a full face of makeup isn't advisable. But what about hitting the gym? Recent research indicates that wearing makeup during workouts can have adverse effects on skin health, potentially altering pore size and sebum release.

In the research, titled "Influence of cosmetic foundation cream on skin condition during treadmill exercise" published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, the research team emphasizes the importance of exercising without makeup for optimal skin health.

Wearing Makeup During Exercise Reduces Sweat Production

Sukho Lee and his research team at Texas A&M University, San Antonio, have undertaken the study shedding light on the repercussions of wearing makeup during exercise. Their investigation, encompassing 43 college students, sought to delve into the influence of makeup application on skin well-being amidst physical activity.

The participants, consisting of 20 men and 23 women, were instructed to wash their faces using a cleanser before researchers examined various skin variables, including pore size and sebum production. Following this initial assessment, a single layer of foundation was applied to either the cheeks or the forehead of the participants before they engaged in a moderate 20-minute workout.

After the workout session, another skin analysis was conducted. Surprisingly, the researchers discovered a reduction in sebum production in the areas covered by foundation compared to those without makeup. This finding led the researchers to emphasize the adverse effects of makeup use during exercise, attributing pore clogging as a significant factor contributing to decreased sebum production.

Furthermore, the study observed an increase in pore size in areas where no foundation was applied, while no change was observed in areas covered by makeup. These results suggest that makeup may limit pore enlargement and hinder the release of sebum and sweat during physical activity.

While the impact of these findings may not be immediately significant for individuals engaging in short-duration exercise, the researchers underscore the importance of further investigation into the effects of makeup during longer periods of physical activity.

Shari Lipner, a dermatologist from Weill Cornell Medicine in New York, suggests that future research should consider examining all facial areas to fully understand how makeup affects skin health during exercise. Lipner points out that skin characteristics vary across different regions of the face, and thus, a comprehensive analysis is necessary to grasp the complete picture of makeup's impact on skin during physical activity.

Navigating Makeup Choices: Expert Tips for Healthy Skin During Exercise

Deciding whether to wear makeup during exercise involves weighing the pros and cons. While some may tolerate a few blemishes, experts share tips to prevent "gym acne."

Dermatologist Erin Gilbert suggests starting with a gentle cleanser to cleanse the face, thereby reducing the chances of makeup trapping bacteria in pores when they open during exercise. This preemptive measure aims to preemptively counteract breakouts caused by the intermingling of makeup residue, sweat, and sebum.

Moreover, Gilbert warns against certain types of makeup formulations that may exacerbate skin issues during workouts. Thick, oily foundations or solid compacts, she notes, can impede the skin's natural ability to release sweat and sebum, potentially leading to the formation of blackheads and acne.

Instead, she advises opting for lighter makeup options that allow the skin to breathe more freely. While makeup can instill a sense of confidence, individuals may find it beneficial to consider the merits of going makeup-free, especially during exercise, for the sake of healthier skin.