Worried about your skin when you are living an active lifestyle/crushing reps in the gym or taking a mile on the field? Then this article is for you. We have got you covered. In this post, we will discuss a few ways to protect your skin from sun damage while you dominate the field.
Why Is Skincare Important for Athletes?
Skincare is not just for looking beautiful. It is also to protect the largest organ of the body, i.e., SKIN. Constant sun exposure for extreme sports athletes can lead to sun damage, excessive sweat/friction burns, acne, pigmentation, fine lines, fungal infection, premature aging, etc.
Looking to build a skincare routine for a sports person that works best for both men & women effectively? Then keep reading.
What is the Best Skincare for Athletes?
Prepare your skin before heading out:
Cleansers:
Gently steam your face or soak a hot towel and gently pat your face. This will help in opening up your pores. Then gently cleanse your skin with a mild cleanser that does not irritate your skin yet effectively removes the gunk.
Here are a few cleansers to consider that are gentle yet sulfate & paraben free (I’ve tried and tested them personally).
Cleanser: Dermaworkout face Cleanser
Skin Type: Works for all skin type
Sulfate-free: Yes
Paraben-free: No
Cleanser: Minimalist 6% oat extract gentle cleanser
Skin Type: Sensitive and Dry skin
Sulfate-free: Yes
Paraben-free: Yes
Fragrance-free: Yes
Cleanser: Cetaphil gentle skin cleanser
Skin type: Sensitive
Sulfate-free: Yes
Paraben-free: Yes
Fragrance-free: Yes
Cleanser: Bioderma Sensibio Gentle Soothing Micellar Cleansing Foaming Gel
Skin type: Sensitive skin
Sulfate-free: Sodium lauroyl sarcosinate is a gentler, amino-acid-derived surfactant
Paraben-free: Not known
Fragrance-free: Yes
Sunscreen: Using sunscreen is very important to protect your skin from getting damaged. Too much sun exposure can lead to pigmentation, aging, fine lines, and dark spots, and in extreme cases can lead to skin cancer. There are many sunscreens on the market; which sunscreen to consider becomes a question. It is recommended to choose sunscreen with a broad spectrum, with a sun protection factor (SPF) above 30 and with PA+++ (PA indicates the UV rays protection level).
Before we head to that discussion, we need to understand the sunscreen spectrum. There are two main broad spectrums, i.e., UVA, UVB, and PA+.
UVA rays: it penetrates into the skin, and it is responsible for premature aging.
UVB rays: It penetrates deeper into the skin, and it is responsible for sunburn.
PA+: little protection
PA++: Moderate protection
PA+++: More protection
PA++++: Extreme protection
Here are a few considerations on sunscreen with broad spectrum level that leaves no white cast
Sunscreen: The Derma Co 1% Hyaluronic Sunscreen Aqua Gel
Skin type: Oily and sensitive skin
Fragrance-free: Yes
White cast: No
UVA: Yes
UVB: Yes
SPF: 50
PA Ratings: PA++++
Sunscreen: Minimalist Multi-Vitamin Sunscreen
Skin type: Sensitive Skin
Fragrance-free: Yes
White cast: No
UVA: Yes
UVB: Yes
SPF: 50+ and Pregnancy Safe
PA Ratings: PA++++
Sunscreen: Dot & Key Vitamin C + E Super Bright Sunscreen
Skin type: All skin type
Fragrance-free: very mild
White cast: No
UVA: Yes
UVB: Yes
SPF: 50
PA Ratings: PA++++
Sunscreen: Aqualogica Glow+ Dewy Sunscreen
Skin type: Combination, normal, and dry skin
Fragrance-free: Mild
White cast: No
UVA: Yes
UVB: Yes
SPF: 50+
PA Ratings: PA++++
Anti-tan: Staying outdoors for too long can lead to skin tan. To protect yourself from getting tanned in the future, start applying sunscreen. But if your skin has already gotten tanned, you need to de-tan your face by using de-tan soap/face pack.
During Workout Session Prep:
Skin barrier protection: Apply petroleum jelly or any thick moisturizer cream to protect your skin from friction.
Avoid touching your face: During workout sessions, avoid touching your face with dirty hands or wiping your face with a dirty towel.
Use antiseptic spray: In tropical regions/humid regions, due to excessive sweating and friction, you will see redness, itching, etc. This can lead to irritation on the skin; to avoid this, it is recommended to use any antiseptic spray like Suthol (antiseptic) before hitting the gym.
Post-Workout Prep:
Taking a Shower: Post-workout, immediately take a shower to clean off any sweat. Use a gentle pH-balanced body wash.
Exfoliate: Try exfoliating your body and face gently to wash off any dirt trapped in your pores.
Moisturize: Use gentle and hydrating moisturizing cream, which nourishes the body and protects it from friction burns.
Acne: Use glycolic acid-based serums or salicylic acid-based serums for any back acne or for back acne scars. Using niacinamide serums for the face to get rid off any face acne scars.
Additional Tips for Glowing Skin for Athletes:
⦁ Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated in and out.
⦁ Try eating healthy vegetables, nuts, seeds, and fruits that are rich in omega-3 and antioxidants.
⦁ Use a clean towel to wipe your face.
⦁ Properly wash your gym clothes regularly and dry them properly.
⦁ Get proper sleep for a healthy body and mind. Sleep is very important for the skin too, as your skin repairs itself.
Final Words:
As a sports athlete, you are constantly exposed to sun damage and pollution. Keeping yourself protected from these external factors becomes important. Treat your skincare religiously like you are focused and disciplined towards your training. Follow a skincare routine as mentioned in the article to keep your skin healthy and glowing. A smart skincare routine can boost your confidence.
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