The right skincare for athletes: How to keep your skin healthy despite sweat, sun, and strain

Dr. Falguni Shah emphasizes that athletes often neglect skincare despite its importance. Sweat, sun, and exertion impact skin health, necessitating a consistent routine. Key steps include cleansing before workouts, using mineral sunscreen, and gentle cleansing post-workout. Hydration, UV-protective clothing, and avoiding touching the face are also crucial.

Whether you’re an early bird hitting the pavement, a weekend warrior on the tennis court, or someone who crushes it at the gym five days a week, your skin is working just as hard as you are. Yet, while athletes and fitness lovers dedicate countless hours to training their bodies, skin health often takes a backseat. Factors like sweat, sun exposure, and physical exertion can really impact your skin if you don’t give it the care it deserves.As a dermatologist, I frequently encounter patients who are super committed to their fitness routines but don’t realize how their workouts might be affecting their skin. The silver lining? With just a few consistent, science-backed habits, you can stay active and keep your skin looking healthy and radiant.1. Start with the Basics: Cleanse, Exfoliate, ProtectYour skincare routine doesn’t have to be a complicated affair. What really matters is that you stick to it consistently. The foundation of any athlete’s skincare regimen revolves around three key steps: cleansing, exfoliating, and protecting your skin from the sun.

Before you dive into any workout—be it at the gym, during a yoga class, or while playing outdoor sports like pickleball—make sure to wash your face thoroughly. Keeping your face clean helps reduce the risk of sweat, dirt, and bacteria teaming up to create a perfect storm for clogged pores and breakouts.Don’t forget to apply a mineral sunscreen afterward, even if you’re heading out early in the morning or it’s a cloudy day. This step often gets overlooked, but it’s crucial. Contrary to what some might think, wearing sunscreen won’t stop your body from making vitamin D.2. Post-Workout: Be Gentle but ThoroughAfter you finish your workout, try to resist the urge to kick back until you’ve cleansed your skin again. Opt for a gentle, detergent-free cleanser that won’t strip away your skin’s natural oils.If your skin can handle it, consider adding daily exfoliation to your routine—either in the morning or at night, depending on what works best for you. Exfoliating helps slough off dead skin cells, prevents breakouts, and keeps your complexion looking vibrant.3. Hydration: Inside and OutWe all know that staying hydrated is crucial for top-notch athletic performance, but let’s not forget about our skin—it craves hydration too! Along with guzzling plenty of water, making moisturizing a daily habit is essential.Pick a product that suits your skin type:• Got dry skin? A rich cream or lotion is your best bet.• Dealing with oily skin? A light, gel-based moisturizer will do the trick.It really doesn’t matter if you choose to moisturize in the morning or at night; what’s important is that you make it a part of your daily routine.

4. Gear Up Smartly: Clothing and Hair ProtectionIf you love spending time outdoors, think about investing in UV-protective clothing—long-sleeve tees and breathable track pants that guard against those pesky UVA and UVB rays.And let’s not overlook your hair! Just like your skin, it can suffer from sun damage. A hair mist with SPF can be a lifesaver for your locks during those long runs or hikes. If you tend to sweat a lot, feel free to wash your hair often—just make sure you’re using a gentle shampoo and conditioning 2–3 times a week to keep it soft and healthy.5. The Small Stuff That MattersHere’s a final tip: try to keep your hands away from your face. It may seem like a no-brainer, but it’s a habit that a lot of folks tend to forget. The sweat, dirt, and bacteria from your hands can easily make their way to your face, which can lead to breakouts.

Skincare shouldn’t just be an afterthought once you’re done working out. With a few mindful steps, athletes can keep their skin as healthy and resilient as their bodies. Don’t forget, your skin is your largest organ—and it deserves just as much training, protection, and care as any muscle.Inputs by Dr. Falguni Shah, Founder, Radiance Skin Clinic