Our skin is not only the biggest organ in the body, but it is also interconnected with all of our body’s other systems. Getting an adequate amount of daily exercise has numerous positive effects on the body, including the skin. Exercising regularly has proven to improve cardiovascular, nervous, and mental health. Alongside this, there are benefits like the movement of lymphatic fluid, delivery of nutrients/removal of toxins, stimulation of adenosine triphosphate on a cellular level, and thermoregulation on a superficial level. Overall it’s ideal to get at least 20 minutes of intense cardio (running, swimming) or 60 minutes of light cardio (walking) per day.

On an internal level, we need exercise to carry out a variety of cellular processes. The stimulation of ATP or adenosine triphosphate is needed for cells to undergo metabolism, which is the simultaneous breakdown and creation of energy from carbohydrates in our diet. Exercise also stimulates lactic acid in the body, which is needed to create energy in cells and this is done by breaking down glucose molecules. By exercising we are creating an aerobic environment in our cells, which allows for the delivery of oxygen and the removal of toxins with our cardiovascular system.

Moving our muscles regularly also allows for the movement of lymphatic fluid, as this system does not have a pump the way the cardiovascular system has a heart. This is great for reducing swelling, bruising or puffiness, as well as further removal of toxins, bacteria and viruses. When we are exercising, we allow our blood vessels to dilate, improving microcirculation and further delivering nutrients to our skin. This vasodilation also allows for heat to radiate off the skin, reducing the chance of overheating during strenuous exercise, and is why we see a “glow” after a good workout.

Now we can’t forget about the psychological benefits either. Getting regular exercise not only increases blood flow and oxygen to the brain, but it also reduces adrenal secretions thereby leading to less stress, anxiety and depression. This can improve mood via the limbic system, the amygdala which affects our fear levels, and the hippocampus which improves memory. Increasing oxygen flow to the brain has positive effects on overall cognitive function as a whole, and nothing is more important than your brain. While exercising has so many great benefits for us, it’s also important to take care of our skin before and after working out. Minimal to no makeup should be worn to avoid overwhelming the follicles and leading to acne breakouts. As well as cleansing the skin afterwards to remove sweat or oil, and rehydrating with minerals to replace lost electrolytes.

POST-WORKOUT ROUTINE:

• Vitamin Veil Oil Cleanser

• Lipid Replacing Cleansing Gel

• White Willow & Juniper Clearing Mist

• AquaPorin Hydrating Cream