Exercise tips: Post-workout sweat ruining your skin and hair? Here's how to fix it

Sweat mixed with oils and bacteria on your skin can clog pores and cause acne. It's vital to wash your face and body right after exercising using a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser (Image: Canva)

Sweating is a natural way for your body to cool down, but it can wreck havoc on your skin, scalp and hair. If you are a regular at the gym and perform intense workouts everyday, sweat can lead to clogged pores, oily and itchy scalp, and acne.

Keeping your skin and hair healthy when you sweat a lot due to regular workouts or a busy lifestyle can be challenging, says Sherin Bhan, Co-Founder & Cosmetologist at Studio 1915 Luxury Aesthetic Clinic. “If proper care is not taken, sweating, a natural phenomenon for regulating internal temperature, can damage the skin and hair,” she adds.

Bhan shares some insightful guidelines to help you maintain your skin and hair despite excessive sweating:

Cleansing is vital: Sweat mixed with oils and bacteria on your skin can clog pores and cause acne. It's vital to wash your face and body right after exercising using a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser.

Prevent clogging of pores: Regular exfoliation prevents dead skin cells from accumulating and clogging pores. Use mild exfoliators 2-3 times per week to keep your skin smooth.

Use moisturiser regularly: Sweating can dehydrate your skin, making it look dull and lifeless. Use a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturiser to lock in moisture without blocking pores.

Choose fabric with care: Wear breathable, moisture-wicking materials like cotton and technical fabrics designed for exercise to reduce excessive sweating and irritation.

Keep your hair clean: Sweat can make your scalp oily and lead to dandruff and other scalp problems. Wash your hair regularly with mild shampoos, especially after intense workouts. On non-wash days, use dry shampoo to maintain scalp freshness.

Tie up your hair: During workouts, keep your hair tied up in a ponytail or bun to prevent sweat from accumulating on your forehead and scalp, which can cause pimples and oily hair.

Avoid heavy makeup: Wearing heavy makeup while exercising can block pores and cause breakouts. Opt for a tinted moisturiser or go makeup-free to allow your skin to breathe.

Stay hydrated: Drinking enough water ensures healthy skin and hair by helping to remove toxins and maintain hydration. This keeps your skin plump and hydrated throughout the day.

Use anti-fungal products: Excessive sweating can cause fungal infections in areas like the armpits or groin. Apply antifungal powders or sprays if you are prone to such infections.

Consult a dermatologist: If you have chronic skin or scalp conditions, seek professional help for treatment tailored to your specific needs.