We all know that exercise is good for us – hitting the gym, yoga classes, pilates, brisk walks, swimming – whatever your preference, the benefits that come of toned muscles and higher levels of fitness are always a plus.

But did you know that your skin is also getting an amazing workout simultaneously? That “post-gym glow” that is often spoken about is no myth and is the result of increased blood circulation in the skin and endorphins released while we exercise, evening skin tone, flushing toxins and calming puffiness.

The skin is the largest organ in the body and is therefore affected by many lifestyle habits and choices. Aside from the liver, it is also the biggest detox agent in the body. When your heart rate goes up, blood vessels begin to expand to pump more blood around the body. As blood flow is increased and the skin is sent more essential nutrients, hormones and oxygen, essentially cleansing your skin from the inside out.

Whether resistance training or cardio, exercise helps to neutralise whole-body inflammation. This is done by releasing anti-inflammatory proteins and reducing cortisol, the bodies stress hormone. These two factors – stress and inflammation – are major contributors to skin concerns and known to exacerbate problems like blemishes and acne and compromise the skins barrier leaving it dry and sensitive. A study done by Ohio State University showed that skin wounds healed on average of 9 days faster in those who exercise regularly compared to those who do not. This indicates how exercise can play a major part in your skin’s recovery, repair and rejuvenation.

Sweating is usually an area of concern for people as it may seem that it is the cause for breakouts, however sweat is actually toxin secretion and does not clog your pores. The reason for breakouts and unwanted blemishes is if the skin is not properly clean before exercising. Makeup, dirt and pollution all have the potential to go into the pores and cause a disruption to the balance of the skin and should be removed prior to any exercise. It is also very important to wash your face as soon as possible after a workout, any sweat or dirt collected during can also be harmful to the skin.

Post-workout we think it is important to use gentle yet effective products to remove unwanted nasties from the skin and to keep it moisturised. Whether you workout in the morning or later in the day, we love to use Cleanse Face Oil Cleanser, Advance-C Face Oil Serum (morning), Intense-A Face Oil Serum (evening) as well as one of our Body Oils for an all-over glow.