Regular exercise is one of the best things you can do for your body. Whether you’re hitting the weights at the gym or just squeezing some home cardio into your busy schedule, working out can definitely work up a sweat. And while sweating is generally good for your skin and serves as a natural moisturizer, it can have an adverse effect on your standard skincare routine.
This begs a few important questions. First and foremost, do you do skincare before or after a workout? What should post workout skincare look like? Should you vary your pre or post workout skincare routine based on the time of day? Finally, where can you find the best men’s skincare products to use before or after a workout?
In today’s guide, we will answer all of these questions and more, so let’s get started!
Should You Do Skincare Before Or After A Workout?
As a general rule, it’s best to do your standard skincare routine after a workout. When you work out, you’re almost guaranteed to sweat. When you sweat, any products or residue of products will be whisked away by the sweat droplets. Not only does this make the products less effective (because they may not have enough time to be absorbed into the skin), but it could also create an unpleasant workout experience for you.
Imagine that you apply a day cream to moisturize your face. You add a little extra to your T Zone (nose and forehead) since this area often needs the most attention, and then 5 minutes later that product is seeping into your eyes and mouth while you work out. This will almost definitely cause a burning sensation in your eyes and a bad taste in your mouth.
For this reason, we generally recommend applying face creams and treatments after a workout. However, it partially depends on what kind of products you use, how long you wait to start working out after using them, and even what time of day you work out (more on that later). For example, if you have the ability to apply products at least 30 minutes prior to your workout, your skin will have more time to absorb them before the sweating starts.
In short, if you want to avoid wasting products and having an uncomfortable workout, you’re better off leaving the majority of your skincare routine for after your workout. However, if you’re willing to space out product application and exercise by at least half an hour, you can still do a pre-workout skincare routine without any issues.
Post Workout Skincare Routine
If you’re like many men, the first thing you want to do after a good workout is hop in the shower. This is a great way to clean off the sweat and grime of working out. You might even take this opportunity to use a two-in-one exfoliating and cleansing product, a facial scrub, or a hair and body wash. These are all great ways to feel fresh after a workout and prepare your skin for moisturizers and other skincare products.
It’s also important to ensure that the sweat and odor produced during your workout don’t follow you for the rest of the day. For this reason, we recommend a no sweat body defense to reduce excess moisture or chafing in problem areas. Additionally, remember to apply a safe and effective deodorant to smell your best and keep sweat at bay throughout the rest of the day and night!
Just keep in mind that the products you use will vary a little based on when you work out. But don’t worry; whether you like to work out in the morning, afternoon, or evening, there are skincare routines and products that will work for you.
Morning Workout Skincare
If you’re working out in the morning, you’re probably trying to squeeze a lot of different activities into a short period of time. You might need to wake up, work out, shower, shave, apply products, and then get started with the rest of your day. Here’s a good morning workout skincare routine for men with varied skin types:
- After your workout, jump in the shower and use a gentle body and face scrub. If you don’t have time for a full shower, consider shower sheets to help you feel fresh until your next shower.
- If you’re shaving, apply a pre-shave oil, followed by a quality shaving cream. Once you’ve finished shaving, apply an after shave balm or ingrown hair treatment (if needed).
- Apply a gentle face cleanser to remove any remaining dirt or oil from your face.
- (Optional) Apply a Vitamin C facial serum to brighten and energize your skin.
- Apply an SPF day cream to your face, particularly if you expect prolonged sun exposure.
- (Optional) For anti-aging effects, consider finishing your morning skincare routine with a hydrating gel.
Afternoon Workout Skincare
If you like to work out somewhere in the middle of your day, your post workout skincare routine may look a little different. Follow these steps to keep your skin looking fresh and revitalized after a mid-day workout:
- After your workout, jump in the shower and use a gentle body and face scrub. Once again, if you don’t have time, shower sheets will work in a pinch.
- Apply a gentle face cleanser to remove any remaining dirt or oil from your face.
- Apply an all purpose facial moisturizer to your face. If you still anticipate sun exposure, consider an SPF day cream.
Evening Workout Skincare
Many men prefer to work out at the end of the day. It can be a great way to destress after a long day at work. You might also find it easier to find time to workout at the end of the day, rather than waking up earlier just to fit a quick workout into your morning schedule. In any case, evening skincare routines often require slightly different processes and products. Here’s a solid post-workout routine for men:
- After your workout, jump in the shower and use a gentle body and face scrub.
- Apply a gentle face cleanser to remove any remaining dirt or oil from your face.
- (Optional) Apply an anti-wrinkle serum for an invigorating effect.
- Apply an all-purpose facial moisturizer.
- (Optional) Consider a moisturizing eye cream that can be applied in the morning or evening to reduce puffiness and fine lines under the eyes.
Find The Best After Workout Skincare Products For Men
Are you looking for a way to look and feel your best after a workout? Do you want to ensure that the skin of your face and body is smooth and free of excess oil? Finally, do you want to use safe, effective products that will also reduce sweating and chafing around the clock? If so, Anthony is the answer.
At Anthony, all of our proprietary formulations are designed for the specific needs of men. Whether you work out every day or just a couple of times per month, we have the products to help you shower, shave, exfoliate, moisturize, and treat your skin with the best possible care. Don’t let exercise get in the way of healthy, happy skin!
Want to learn even more about the best post workout skincare routine for men? If so, be sure to check out the great products and solutions available at Anthony today!
