To win the fight against gym-related breakouts, you need a solid game plan. A dermatologist who specializes in sports medicine writes a “prescription” for a simple pre- and post-workout skincare routine that focuses on managing the impact of your sweat-drenched earbuds.
Pre-Workout Rx: Create a Clean Slate. The expert’s first instruction is to start with clean skin and a clean device. Before you head to the gym, wipe your face with a gentle cleansing cloth to remove any makeup or dirt. At the same time, wipe your earbuds with an alcohol-based sanitizer. This ensures you’re not trapping pre-existing grime under them.
During Workout Rx: Minimize Moisture. While you can’t stop sweating, you can manage it. The dermatologist prescribes taking a 30-second “towel break” between sets or intervals. Use a clean towel to pat your face and ears dry, and quickly wipe down your earbuds. This prevents the prolonged marination in sweat that causes issues.
Post-Workout Rx: Cleanse Immediately. This is the most critical step. The expert stresses that you should cleanse your face and ears as soon as your workout is over. If you can’t get to a shower right away, use a pre-soaked cleansing wipe with an ingredient like salicylic acid to remove the sweat, oil, and bacteria before they have a chance to settle into your pores.
Follow-Up Rx: Treat and Hydrate. After cleansing, if you are prone to breakouts, apply a lightweight, targeted treatment. Then, follow up with a non-comedogenic moisturizer to rehydrate your skin and support its protective barrier. Following this simple four-part prescription can dramatically reduce your risk of post-workout pimples.