People usually workout with a very specific goal in mind. To chisel their abs, drop 15 pounds by the reunion or just firm up for bikini season, which many of you are doing right now. But, when was the last time you heard someone say they were heading to the gym to clear up their acne or improve their wrinkles?
Most people don’t realize that working out benefits your skin just as much as your body.
As a board-certified dermatologist and the creator of ZO Skin Health, I formulate anti-aging products with potent ingredients that combat wrinkles and fine lines. But, the battle doesn’t stop there.
I tell my patients all the time that products and procedures do most of the work; the rest is up to them.
You’ve probably noticed that many anti-aging products claim to boost collagen, the stuff youthful skin has a lot of and aging skin doesn’t. But, guess what else boosts collagen? Yep, exercise.
A great cardio workout kicks your blood flow into motion. When that happens, your skin cells get a healthy delivery of oxygen and nutrients — the picture-perfect setting for natural collagen production. And how does that benefit your skin? You’ll see fewer dry patches, firm skin and less wrinkles.
For those who are acne-prone, the reasons to workout are even more attractive. Regular exercise improves blood circulation, which makes it easier for your pores to get rid of the toxins in your body that can lead to blemishes.
On top of this, stress levels drop. It’s no coincidence that pimples show up when they’re least welcome: just before the Power Point presentation in front of the bosses at work; the night you flight out for your big vacation; the day of your wedding! You likely had a lot of headache-inducing planning prior to such events, which brought on a mountain of stress.
Exercise balances out the hormones that go into overdrive when stress revs up. It may not produce an immediate difference in skin, but you’ll definitely take note of the absent flare-ups during your next big event.
It doesn’t stop here. Cellulite can improve, the elasticity in your face can bounce back and a nice rosy glow often results from regular workouts, too.
So, the next time someone asks what you’re trying to accomplish at the gym, tell them you’re toning and tightening — your skin.
Hello Dr. Obagi,
I am doing cardio 3 times a week . I do my exercise in the evening my question is that should i wash my face then exercise or wash my face after cardio or before and after.During the day i use Zo daily power defense and then Zo sunscreen i do have acne prone skin and i use exfloiating polish in evening and then follow with exfloating cleanser in my shower.I am too confused if i should wash my face before cardio wouldn’t i get clogged pores if i wash before and after isnt this too much cleansing. I may be overcleansing this way Any suggestion.
Thank you
Hello Simran,
You do want to wash your face before and after you workout to prevent acne breakouts. This is our standard recommendation in Dr. Obagi’s clinics. It is not too much – especially since you only workout 3 days a week. Remember to reapply sunscreen before you get home if you are working out in the middle of the day – when the sun is still out. Thanks
Best,
Sandra Obagi, MBA
Medical Esthetician
Hi Dr. Obagi,
I’m 34 years old and Asian. I’m using your ZO Skin Health products. Does it also whiten your skin with continous use?
Obagi Nu-Derm gave my friends flawless white skin. Will ZO do the same for me?
Stella Ruiz
Entrepreneur
Hi, Stella:
ZO is great at brightening the skin–reducing lines and wrinkles, making skin more radiant and even-toned. But if you’re looking for skin whitening, you may prefer Obagi® Nu-Derm products, which contain a bleaching agent called hydroquinone. It’s the most popular (and effective) bleaching agent–if it’s in a sufficiently high concentration. Be sure to look for at least 4% concentration. And always use a sunscreen!!
Thanks.