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Anyone who practices hot yoga is familiar with sticky, sweaty skin. Humidity borne of heated temperatures (anywhere from 85 to 105 degrees Fahrenheit) and bodies moving in a small space makes the sweat factor all the more intense. And that can have adverse effects on your complexion. Hot yoga skin care, anyone?
Yes, please. Relying on a few simple steps before and after hot yoga class can help keep your skin clear, hydrated, and radiant.
Hot Yoga Skin Benefits
Hot yoga may cause certain skin issues, but it can also make you glow in more ways than one. In addition to the lit-from-within luminosity that comes with the strengthening practice, hot yoga’s moderate humidity can actually boost your skin’s hydration and overall appearance. “The improved circulation from hot yoga can give the skin a healthy glow, promoting the delivery of nutrients and oxygen to skin cells,” says dermatologist Nicole Ruth, DO, Fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology (FAAD).
How to Care for Your Skin in Hot Yoga
Your skin experiences various changes when exposed to heat and humidity. “Increased sweating is a natural response, but in a humid or hot yoga environment, the moisture can stay on the skin longer, leading to clogged pores, irritation, or even breakouts,” says Ruth. This makes hygiene the most essential aspect of hot yoga skin care.
In general, it’s worth noting that the warm, moist conditions found in a hot yoga room create an ideal environment for bacterial or fungal growth, which can lead to infection (particularly in areas like the feel or underarms). Cleanliness is your skin care BFF pre- and post-yoga.
Pre-Class Skin Prep
Ahead of class, Ruth recommends washing your face with a gentle cleanser such as KORA Organics Mini Turmeric Glow Foaming Cleanser to get rid of any dirt debris or makeup that can mingle with your sweat and clog open pores. This is especially important if you’re prone to acne.
Your yoga wardrobe matters, too. “Choose breathable, moisture-wicking clothing to avoid trapping sweat on your skin,” says Ruth. And finally, hydrate. “Drink plenty of water before class to support skin health from within.”
Post-Class Skin Care
It may be tempting to run errands or lounge around in your sweaty yoga pants, but trust us—don’t.
“It’s important to shower right after class to remove sweat, bacteria, and any buildup from your mat,” says Ruth. Next, tend to your clean skin with a moisturizer containing hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid or ceramides, like ILIA Barrier Build Skin Protectant Cream or Ursa Major Alpine Rich Cream. Ruth suggests applying a favorite face mask for extra nourishment along with continuing your commitment to drinking water.
For those prone to breakouts, Ruth recommends a gentle exfoliation a day or two after class to help clear clogged pores. “Be sure not to overdo it,” she says. “Your skin may still be sensitive from the heat.”
Finally, Ruth recommends cleaning your yoga mat regularly and washing any clothing or towels post-practice, as they can harbor bacteria and fungi that can aggravate skin issues.
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