Sweat smart! Learn a dermatologist-informed skincare routine to use before, during, and after workouts—including what to pack in your gym bag, how to prevent breakouts, and the best post-workout steps for clear, calm skin
Why sweat can mess with your skin
When you exercise, heat and friction mix with sweat, oil, and bacteria. As a result, pores can clog and irritation (or acne mechanica ) can flare—especially where tight clothing or helmets rub. Dermatologists also note you should wash after sweating to reduce breakouts
Before your workout
Start with a clean slate. If you’re wearing makeup, remove it and do a quick cleanse. This minimizes pore congestion before you start sweating. (Over-cleansing later can backfire—more on that below.)
Use lightweight moisture. Apply a thin gel moisturizer or hydrating serum so the skin stays comfortable without feeling greasy under sweatbands or masks.
Protect with sunscreen (daytime). Choose a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ , water-resistant, and non-comedogenic formula if you’re training outdoors. Apply 15 minutes before sun exposure. aad.org
Tie hair back. Oils and hair products transfer to your face and can trigger forehead acne. Regular shampooing helps, too.
During your workout
Blot—don’t rub. Pat sweat with a clean towel to reduce friction. Rubbing can irritate and spread bacteria.
Hands off. Avoid touching your face between sets (hello, shared equipment).
Mind your gear. If you wear hats, straps, or masks, choose breathable fabrics and wash them after each session to cut down on trapped sweat and oil.
After your workout (the crucial window)
Cleanse—gently. Rinse your face (and body) as soon as you can. Dermatologists recommend washing after sweating using a mild, non-abrasive cleanser.
Target trouble zones. For body acne on the chest/back, a brief contact wash with salicylic acid (BHA) or benzoyl peroxide can help clear pores and reduce acne-causing bacteria. (Bonus: benzoyl peroxide may also curb post-workout body odor caused by bacteria.)
Rehydrate. Follow with a lightweight moisturizer to replenish water loss and support the barrier.
Sunscreen (again, if it’s daytime). Heading back outside? Reapply SPF.
Final take
In short, a smart workout skincare routine is simple: cleanse before if needed, protect if you’re outdoors, blot during, and cleanse + rehydrate immediately after . With these steps—and a clean towel—you can chase endorphins and clear skin.