Fact: a cleverly packed gym bag is the key to combating common beauty issues associated with your favourite form of exercise. So, by arming yourself with the knowledge below, you’ll not only find yourself looking better, but you may even be inclined to exercise more often, too.
Swimming
Chlorine does have its benefits – namely keeping nasty bacteria and debris at bay – but it’s certainly no good for your hair. As soon as your strands become saturated in chlorinated water, your hair follicles begin to absorb the chemical, which strips your locks of its natural lubricant, leading to pesky split ends and all-over hair breakage. Combat this by wetting your hair with shower water before entering a pool, coating your damp locks in a nourishing mask and slipping on a swimming cap. Washing your hair post-swim will also help ensure all traces of this harsh chemical are removed.
Try: Kiehl’s Swimmer’s Rinse and TONI&GUY Nourish Reconstruction Mask.
Running
Do you suffer from muscle pain after running despite being vigilant with stretching? Massage is the key to speeding up your muscle recovery. So, reach for a hydrating body oil after each run, and use your fingers and palms to target those muscles that are likely to be suffering (read: hamstrings, quads and calves). You’ll encourage blood flow to the area, which helps promote healing, while nourishing your skin at the same time. Added bonus: regular massage promotes flexibility, so this healthy habit could also see you gaining more endurance and speed as a runner. Brilliant.
Try:Eminence Apricot Body Oiland Aromatherapy Associates De-Stress Muscle Bath & Shower Oil.
Surfing
Protecting the skin from damaging UVA (ageing) and UVB (burning) rays should top the beauty priority list of all outdoor exercisers, but none more than a surfer. Not only are you susceptible to the beaming rays from above, but those reflecting off the water’s surface, too. Even with a wetsuit, your face, hands, neck, ears and calves (if exposed) are likely to get burnt. Combat this by applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen to your entire body 30 minutes before hitting the surf, and an SPF lip balm to protect your delicate lips as well.
Try:Neutrogena Wet Skin Adult SPF 30+ Spray andBonne Bell Therapy Lip Gel SPF 30+.
Yoga
Most exercising techniques require shoes and socks for protection and support. Yoga does not. To avoid unkempt feet, combat unsightly heels and toes by using an abrasive foot tool once a week to remove calluses and promote softer, smoother skin, before applying a nourishing foot cream. If you insist on keeping colourful lacquer on your toes, always repaint them at the first sign of a chip – you’ll feel a whole lot more groomed if you do.
Try:Scholl Velvet Smooth Express Pedi Electronic Foot File and Pure Fiji Body Butter.
What form of exercise is your favourite? What beauty issues does your sport cause? Do you have any gym bag essentials?
