Whether you work out in a gym or prefer outdoor sports and activities; skin needs particular attention before, during and after workouts to stay healthy. Sweat, makeup, and bacteria are common causes of skin issues, and frequent exercise can increase the probability of these complications.

To help resolve your skincare concerns, we’ve created this list of 11 healthy skincare tips

BEFORE:

Go bare. Morning gym people, there’s no need to apply makeup. If you work out after work, consider taking a Cranberry Toner Pad to remove dirt and makeup, which may blend with sweat, triggering breakouts. You want your skin to be able to breathe while you work out.

Wipe down equipment. Disinfect your equipment with a wipe or spray before your workout.

DURING:

Pull hair off your face. Hair should always be pulled back from your face, not only because of sweat, but because of your hair products, too. If you see breakouts on your forehead or hairline, mousses, gels, or other hair products could be to blame.

Hydrate with water. Your skin is the largest organ in your body, and it’s mostly made up of water. Without water, your skin can’t function at its best.

Always carry a towel with you to wipe the excess sweat.

Avoid touching your face with bare hands to keep bacterial infections and acne at bay.

Avoid close contact. Other people’s sweat may also cause skin acne, pimples, and other related problems. That hug to your trainer or gym buddy can end up triggering a breakout.

AFTER:

Use a disposable facial pad right after a workout. Use on your face and even clean around to the back of your neck. This will help cleanse excess oil from your skin and tone and hydrate.  We recommend ARCONA Cranberry Triad Pads for everyone.  They even come in individual packets perfect for throwing into a gym bag.

Change out of your workout gear. Avoid wearing your gym clothes after your workout. Gym clothes will be sweaty and grimy; they may cause acne and other skin-related problems.

Skip the hot water. Sure, your muscles are sore, and you’re in the mood for a hot shower after a workout. Hot water strips skin of vital oils, leaving you with dry, itchy, dull skin.

Rehydrate your skin. After a good workout and cleanse, it’s critical to re-establish the natural moisture and oils that were removed from your skin. When it comes to your face, you should invest in a high-quality, fast-absorbing, nutrient-rich product that includes vitamins A and E and the super-ingredient hyaluronic acid. If you exercise outdoors, a moisturizer with antioxidant ingredients can help repair damage caused by UV exposure and other environmental factors. For your face, we recommend ARCONA Hydrating Serum or Four’O’Clock Flower Hydrator.

Following these tips will help ensure you look as just as great as exercising makes you feel!