Skin and Sport

Basics

Try to avoid shaving before playing sport, or doing exercise, as perspiration on newly shaven skin will cause irritation.

Always wash sweatbands, caps and other material that will come into contact with the skin after exercise. Otherwise they may become breeding grounds for bacteria.

Your body needs to replace moisture it loses through perspiration, remember to drink before and after playing sport and take regular rest breaks.

Before & After

Wash your face and neck before exercise with a mild cleanser, use warm to cool water (not hot). This will ensure that there is no dirt or bacteria that could block pores and prevent perspiration and toxins from leaving your skin.

Remember to shower and wash your face after exercise. Pay attention to areas that may pool sweat, like your back.

Those suffering from dry skin will benefit from a steam room session; try to avoid drying saunas.

Indoor Sports

In air conditioned environments (gyms, squash, and tennis courts), your skin could benefit from applying a light water based moisturiser.

In humid environments, there is no need to use any additional moisturiser. The humidity will help to hold moisture within the skin and reduce the drying effect of perspiration.

Outdoor Sports

Whatever your activity, use an SPF (strength depending on season) to protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays.

In cold, windy conditions, those with dry skin may benefit by applying an SPF moisturiser, waiting five minutes and then re-applying.

Water Sports

Salt and chlorine have a very drying effect on the skin. Before entering the water, apply an all-over water resistant SPF, if indoors, an all over body lotion will help to offset any drying effects.

Those sailing or surfing should remember that the water acts as a reflective surface intensifying the harmful effects of the sun's rays. A higher SPF might be necessary.

Salt and chlorine can also leave you hair dry and brittle, especially when combined with the sun. Apply a conditioning cream before entering the water and always rinse your hair afterwards.

Winter Sports

With winter sports, such as skiing or snowboarding, you are active at a higher altitude. The sun's rays are more intense and there is less atmosphere and pollution to filter the rays. Skiers are therefore more prone to burning, so apply a thicker moisturiser with a higher SPF and re-apply if necessary.

Remember to look after your lips and hands. Use a strong sun block on exposed areas such as the bridge of your nose and you lips.