Happy Movement, Happy Skin.

Understanding the Link Between Physical Activity and Skin Health

Exercise does more than tone muscles and boost energy - it’s a powerful way to improve your skin. Movement increases blood flow, delivering oxygen and nutrients to skin cells while aiding detoxification. Regular physical activity also reduces stress, balances hormones, and promotes a natural glow.

How This Can Present on Skin

Enhancing Circulation: Improved blood flow nourishes skin cells, supports healing, and enhances the skin’s appearance.

Detoxifying: Sweating helps purge toxins from the skin, reducing clogged pores and preventing acne.

Balancing Hormones: Exercise regulates stress hormones like cortisol, reducing inflammation and skin flare-ups.

Boosting Collagen: Regular physical activity stimulates collagen production, maintaining skin elasticity and firmness.

Improving Sleep: Better sleep after exercise supports overnight skin repair, leading to a healthier complexion.

However, poor exercise habits - like wearing makeup while sweating or skipping post-workout skincare, can sometimes trigger breakouts or irritation.

Tips for Skin-Friendly Exercise

Go Bare-Faced: Cleanse your face before exercising to prevent clogged pores from sweat and makeup.

Protect with SPF: If exercising outdoors, apply broad spectrum UV protection to shield against UV damage.

Hydrate: Drink water before, during, and after your workout to support your skin and body.

Shower Soon After: Sweat can mix with bacteria, so cleanse your skin and change clothes soon after exercising.

Wear Breathable Fabrics: Choose moisture-wicking materials to reduce irritation and chafing.

Stay Consistent: Enjoy regular, moderate movement to boost circulation, glowing skin, and overall well-being.

Need Extra Support?

Try free online workout videos, local walking or fitness groups, or beginner-friendly fitness apps to get moving in a way that suits you. For more tailored support, a personal trainer, physiotherapist, or movement coach can help. And if you have any health concerns or existing conditions, your GP can guide you on how to get started safely. A qualified skin therapist, such as a corneotherapist - trained in skin barrier care, can also offer personalised skincare advice to support your skin barrier as your activity levels or environment change.

Trusted UK Sources:

NHS – Exercise and Physical Activity
https://www.nhs.uk/better-health/get-active/ and https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/exercise/
Simple, evidence-based advice on how regular movement supports your health and wellbeing.

Sport England
https://www.sportengland.org/
Encourages people of all ages to move more and feel better, with plenty of tips and free resources.

British Association of Dermatologists (BAD)
https://www.bad.org.uk/
Shares how lifestyle factors, including exercise, can help manage and support skin health.

Endorsements

This guide has been reviewed and verified by:

Name: Rachel Greenley

Title: Sports Specialist Physiotherapist

Registration Number: PH60858 (Health and Care Professions Council -  HCPC)

Position: Medical Liaison Officer

Organisation: The FA Premier League Ltd

Disclaimer

Whilst every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, the information in this leaflet is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional advice.

Version: [March / 2025]

© 2025 Jacqui de Jager | The Skin Well™ & The Happy Skin Clinic®
All rights reserved. This leaflet is for personal use and education only. It may not be reproduced, distributed, or adapted without written permission.