From the Guidelines
Individuals engaging in physical activities should prioritize skincare by taking steps to avoid dryness, using skin moisturizer, and applying water-soluble sodium cromolyn cream to prevent urticaria, pruritus, vesicles, or bullae, as recommended by the most recent guidelines 1. When it comes to skincare during and after sports, it's essential to consider the potential effects of physical activity on the skin.
- Pre-workout skincare should focus on gentle cleansing and moisturizing to maintain the skin barrier.
- Post-workout skincare should prioritize immediate cleansing with a gentle cleanser, followed by rehydrating with a moisturizer to prevent moisture loss and reduce inflammation. Some key considerations for skincare during and after sports include:
- Using a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with at least SPF 50+ before outdoor activities, reapplying every two hours or immediately after sweating heavily.
- Wearing moisture-wicking, UPF-rated clothing and hats for additional protection.
- Avoiding hot and very cold water, and instead using lukewarm or cool water for cleansing, as recommended by the American Contact Dermatitis Society 2.
- Applying a bland emollient after bathing to improve skin hydration and skin barrier function, as suggested by the Pediatrics journal 3. The most critical aspect of skincare during and after sports is to maintain the skin barrier, prevent moisture loss, and reduce inflammation and bacterial growth that can lead to breakouts after intense physical activity, and this can be achieved by following the guidelines outlined above 1.
From the Research
Skincare Recommendations for Individuals Engaging in Physical Activities
- To maintain healthy skin during and after physical activities, it is essential to consider skincare recommendations that cater to the specific needs of athletes 4.
- After engaging in sports, individuals should avoid sweating and sports to support post-interventional wound healing, and use light moisturizers and broad-spectrum UV protection 5.
- There is no specific study that provides a comprehensive skincare routine for individuals engaging in physical activities, but general skincare principles can be applied.
- Skincare products recommended by dermatologists are critical to the management of compromised and healthy skin, and professionals must consider not only the safety and efficacy but also the aesthetics of products 6.
- Topical corticosteroids can be used to treat inflammatory skin conditions, but their use should be carefully considered, especially in children and pregnant or lactating women, and correct patient application is critical to successful use 7.
- Some skincare ingredients that may be beneficial for athletes include beta-hydroxy acids, alpha-hydroxy acids, vitamin C, niacinamide, and sunscreen, which can help to prevent and treat acne and other skin conditions 8.