How to take care of ‘workout skin’ – VOYA share some tips

Working out is no doubt beneficial for our physical and mental wellbeing. But did you know that we should also be looking after our skin pre- and postworkout? Emma Roberts, skincare expert and Head of Sales at Irish skincare company VOYA, shares some tips on protecting your skin when exercising

HYDRATE, HYDRATE, HYDRATE

We’ve all heard about how important it is to drink eight glasses of water a day. Water helps to transport nutrients to give you energy and keep you healthy, and drinking plenty during exercise replaces the fluids you lose when you sweat.

“It can also help your skin flush out toxins,” says Emma. “This, in turn, will improve your complexion for healthy and glowing skin.”

AVOID TOUCHING YOUR FACE

Gyms tend to be a bit, well, gross! With people actively sweating and using the same equipment, inevitably there is a risk of spreading germs onto your skin.

“We recommend using an anti-bacterial face wash before and after you work out, to wash away bacteria, chemicals, dirt and impurities,” advises Emma.

Try VOYA Cast Away Cleansing Facial Wash. This boasts anti-bacterial properties and certified organic cleansing agents, which gently wash away impurities. After your workout, wash away sweat, oils and bacteria without irritating your skin. Or, men can try VOYA Man Invigorating Facial Wash, which contains Sea Heather and Aloe Leaf Extract, to gently improve the skin’s tone, whilst leaving it deeply cleansed.

“Aloe Vera contains bacteria/fungi fighting compounds (especially good for gym environments!) and is known to reduce pain and inflammation, while also stimulating the skin’s healing process,” says Emma.

DON’T WEAR MAKE-UP

Although some people might feel a bit naked without make-up, Emma advises using a gentle cleanser before working out for a clean, make-up-free face, to allow your skin to breathe. Otherwise, that make-up will end up clogging your pores.

“We suggest trying Porefection VOYA’s Clarifying Gel Toner,” says Emma. “This anti-bacterial formulation helps to reduce the appearance of enlarged pores and balances the PH level of the skin. The organic formula also fights inflammation and reduces excess sebum production, leaving skin fresh, calm and with a matte complexion. Perfect for setting skin before a workout.”

The Clarifying Gel Toner also contains Himanthalia Elongata seaweed extract.

This natural ingredient is rich in minerals and vitamin C, and can help to cool off skin to prevent the breaking of blood vessels, returning skin to a normal temperature.

PROTECT FROM THE ELEMENTS “If you’re exercising outside, we advise protecting your freshly cleansed face with a light moisturiser or serum under your SPF,” says Emma. “This will help to protect against free radicals (unstable atoms that can damage cells, such as air pollutants).”

Even Pure is a light moisturiser bursting with results-driven organic ingredients. It concentrates on minimising the appearance of pores, but is also hydrating and antiinflammatory. RECOVERING YOUR MUSCLES

After exercise, relax and ease your muscle stress with Serenergise Muscle Relaxing Body Oil and Feel the Heat Muscle Warming Gel.

“Including organic ingredients such as Arnica, Comfrey and Ginger, it’s a perfect postworkout combo to deeply soothe the muscles, whilst nourishing and hydrating the skin,” says Emma.

Their new Active Bodycare Kit (€55) has just launched, which includes Serenergise and

Feel the Heat. These come in a perfectly sized grey washbag, so you can keep all your skin products together and keep on top of your skincare regime – as well as your workouts!

VOYA luxury skincare products, offer scientifically proven, results driven, organic and sustainable solutions. ‘There must be a better way’. Visit www.voya.ie