How to get your skin in good shape!

A youthful, glowing complexion, with toned muscles is what most people would love to see when they stand in front of the mirror. Sagging jowls, dull skin and a grey pallor are all signs of ageing that can make you look old before your time. With today’s technological advances, many women are opting for a whole raft of innovative, non-invasive treatments and surgeries, after all, there’s nothing wrong with a little helping hand now and then. But before you rush off and spend a fortune on expensive potions, lotions, balms and botox, consider trying one of the best beauty routines around – a thoroughly good workout!

The skin is the body’s largest organ and exercise can be of real benefit, just as it is to your very core. Beauty is more than skin deep, and so too are the effects of working out. The result is inner health that shines out and is reflected in the way your skin looks and feels. There are many reasons that staying active is great for your skin. Here are a few of them:

• Lowers ageing stress hormones – Cortisol and other stress-induced hormones, such as androgen can have an ageing effect on the skin. Exercise not only gives you an endorphin buzz but by lowering your stress levels your skin is not affected by overly-eager immune cells stimulated by stress hormones.
• Boosts detox – Sweating through exercise really helps clear your skin of toxins. This cleansing  gives you a fresh look as not only are pollutants dispelled but the risk of these particles causing inflammation as they are attacked by the immune system is also lessened.
• Increases circulation – exercise is good for the heart and really gets your oxygen rich blood moving. An unhealthy person has fewer blood vessels to pump this blood and this results in noticeably duller skin. The healthier you are, the more blood vessels you have and the rosier your complexion.
• Increases cell renewal – Skin cells are regularly renewed and exercise boosts this process, meaning that this natural exfoliation gives you a cleaner, more vibrant countenance.
• Good balance of natural oils – Working out helps increase sebum production and lower stress hormones. So while you are feeling more relaxed your skin is left looking shiny, soft and well moisturized.
• Toned muscles – Muscles that have been exercised are toned and this can help make the skin look smoother. Stretching also releases muscle tension, adding to this less bumpy appearance.

However, while a post-workout glow might make you look and feel great, there are some skin issues you need to be wary of when exercising:

• UV rays – If you exercise outdoors make sure you’re protected against the sun.
• Skin conditions – Sweaty exercises can have a exacerbate certain skin problems such as acne, psoriasis and rosacea. Make sure you exercise in a cool, air-conditioned environment and wear the right workout gear so that your skin stays dry and cool. Don’t forget to keep hydrated too.
• Chafing – Pressure on the skin and friction can cause rashes and irritate existing skin issues. Make sure that skin-to-skin contact is kept to a minimum and that you wear moisture-wicking. Showering after a workout helps too.
• Clogged pores – Dead cells that aren’t removed can clog pores as you sweat, hampering cell renewal. Make sure you wash your makeup off before you workout and moisturize beforehand too.

Does your skin need an exercise boost? Do you look rosy cheeked or does your pallor seem to lack life and vitality? Perhaps it’s time you had a facial fitness plan.