Without Acne

Exercise and Acne: How are they Related?

While there is evidence to support exercise being beneficial for your skin, it can also contribute to breakouts and problem spots. Sweating can certainly help clear out healthy pores, but it may also exacerbate inflammation of any already blocked pores. Consider the following facts:*

Exercising causes sweat and sebum, acne-causing oil, to be released at a very high frequency. These liquids cover your skin and collect in deep pores.
Washing your face and body soon after exercise, can make all the difference. If you don’t clean your skin within two to three hours, sweat and oil can irritate the skin clog pores.
Infrequently washed sports equipment (pads, helmets, gloves, etc.) is home to a host of bacteria. Keeping your equipment clean and away from dirty surfaces as much as possible is key to being acne free.
To discover more about how to best deal with your acne, read our complete article on preventing acne. Also, read our additional articles on the causes of acne to further your skin education.