A while back, I wrote an article about how to lose weight. I mentioned how much I dislike the act of jogging. I'm convinced jogging is an evil conspiracy by running shoe companies. Despite my dislike for exercise, I still force myself to do it. It's not easy but it helps me focus and keep my thoughts on track. 

One of the most irritating things about working out is that it causes breakouts on my face, neck, chest and back. All that dirt, sweat and oil mix together to create quite the concoction of acne grossness. Cue the collective, cringing 'Yuck!' right about now. The good news is, there are ways to reduce the amount of skin issues that arise from exercise. If you're anything like me, you'll want to bookmark this page! 

Pre and Post - Work Out Cleansing and Moisturizing


1. OXY Deep Cleaning Daily Cleaning Pads (C$8.29)
2. NARS Makeup Removing Water (C$32.00)
3. Elizabeth Arden Visible Difference Oil Free Lotion (C$48.00)
4. Essentials Soothing Cleansing Water (C$14.50)  
5. Marcelle Hydra-C Ultra-Light Matifying Fluid (C$23.95)   
6. Bliss Steep Clean Mattifying Toner Pads (C$42.00)
7. Lush Grease Lightning Tea Tree Blemish Treatment(C$12.95)  

The acne causer = sweat + dirt + leftover makeup 

Your Pre Workout: Remove all makeup. Truth be told, I kind of hate this part. "I'm sorry, you mean to tell me that not only am I going to be all red and puffy faced and doing embarrassing looking exercises, but that I have to do all that while going bare faced? Mmmm.... yeah, I don't think so." That was pretty much my reaction. However, I really do think it is important to let that skin of yours breathe once in a while. Makeup just clogs up pores and adds dirt. Use your normal cleanser, or if needed, simply bring cleansing water or towelettes with you to the gym. 

Post Workout: It's important to rid your skin of impurities and bacteria post work out. This ensures clear, clean skin. After cleansing, if needed, you can apply a topical acne treatment or a moisturizer. Avoid heavy moisturizers though, instead go with an oil-free or mattifying option. I like to use pads soaked in an anti-bacterial solution and then follow it with a light moisturizer. 

Post - Workout Bare Faced Beauty 


1. Laura Mercier Oil Free Tinted Moisturizer (C$55.00)
2. L'Oreal Colour Riche Balm (C$8.99) 
3. Maybelline Dream Fresh BB Cream (US$7.49) 
4. Burt's Bees Refreshing Lip Balm with Pink Grapefruit (C$4.49)  

The acne causer = oily skin + oil causing makeup + dirt 

After I've washed my face, depending on what I will be doing that day, I may not apply a full face of makeup. I do like to let my skin have a little air time, so I will often just go home bare faced. If I am feeling a bit self conscious that day, I like to have a BB cream or tinted moisturizer with me to give a bit of coverage and colour. Again, I suggest steering clear from anything with oil or oil causing (anything with an SPF). I always feel more glamorous with a swipe of colour on my lips which is why I carry a pigmented, moisture rich lip product with me. 

My Gym Must-Haves 


1. Lululemon Small Manduka Towel (C$28.00) 
2. Burt's Bees Lemon Butter Cuticle Creme (C$6.79)
3. Neutrogena Body Clear Body Wash (C$8.99)
4. Swisspers Organic Essentials Organic Cotton Cosmetic Rounds (C$3.49)  
5. Cake Desserted Island Supremely Rich Bath and Shower Froth (C$20.00) 

The acne causer = sweaty chest and back 

During and after your workout, it is important to keep clean and absorb the sweat. Carry an absorbent towel with you. Cotton rounds are great to have on hand with a micellar or cleansing water (or toner too!). To avoid acne on your body, be sure to shower as soon as possible after you exercise. Use a body wash with salicylic acid to reduce acne. I'm also a fan of natural products on my body so I suggest looking up some enviro-friendly body washes. Also, I find working out tends to make my hands get really dry in generally rough shape. A cuticle or hand salve does wonders for me. 

Work - Out Style 


1. Lululemon Astro Wunder Under Crop (C$78.00)
2. Joe Fresh Mesh Panel Tee (C$29.00)
3. Old Navy Women's Active GoDRY Tanks (C$14.94) 
4. H&M Top (C$19.95)
5. New Balance 3090 (US$89.99)
6. Puma Formation Duffel Bag (US$70.00) 
 
The acne causer = Sweaty clothes 
 
After your workout, whether or not you'll be showering, you'll definitely want to change your top and sports bra; this is usually where you sweat the most. Your body doesn't like to sit in sweaty clothes, it makes it an easy place for bacteria to grow. I like to bring a loose fitting, comfy top with me for afterwards. It feels amazing to slip into some fresh comfy clothes afterwards. 

Do you have any pre or post - workout beauty tips?