Exercise Acne

Episode #198 / Jun 2, 2010
OTHER VERSIONS:
Wiping sweat off of our forehead or brows during exercise can cause acne breakouts. In this episode, Dr. Schultz explains why this occurs and how to prevent exercise acne.
nana on June 5, 2010 at 6:16am

Dr.schultz I usually wear makeup during workouts, I can't stop this because I hate my skin without makeup so I need to wear foundation, how can I avoid breakouts from occuring??

Neal Schultz, M.D. on June 6, 2010 at 8:30pm

@nana: To try to decrease any breakouts from your makeup during your workout, just before your workout, wash (using cleanser and toner) and then apply your make up (make sure it is water-based or oil-free) very lightly. During your workout, if you must remove sweat from your face, pat lightly with a cotton towel, don't rub.

I understand why you wear your make up during workouts, but maybe it's time to see a dermatologist to find out what you should do to change your skin so like so many other women you can "love your skin". I believe everyone can have beautiful skin with as little effort as four minutes of care/day. When I treat patients who tell me they "can't walk out the door without makeup", I know I have succeeded when they tell me they no longer feel the need to wear makeup.