Is It Bad to Wear Makeup When You Exercise?

Did you know that when a lot of women are asked why they avoid going out to exercise, it's because they are concerned about their appearance?

On one hand, we know that it's good for us to sweat and that trying to look pretty while we're working out should definitely not be a major focal point. On the other hand, a lot of us grew up hearing, "You never know who you might see" and so that forewarning is something that has become a part of us; so much in fact that even if we do make our way to a gym or exercise class, we're still tempted to do our hair and makeup like we're going out on a first date, instead. And while that may cause us to look good, that doesn't necessary mean that it is a good thing for us to do.

If you're someone who has been wearing makeup while exercising, but you've been wondering if it's actually working for or against you to do so, check out these three reasons why you might want to consider going without makeup, or at least wearing a lot less of it.

Makeup tends to clog your pores.

One of the best things that come from exercising is sweat. Why? Well because sweat is what carries the toxins in our bodies out of our pores. This is really beneficial if you are someone who already has skin ailments like acne. But if your pores are already covered up with makeup, it can actually cause a blockage that leads to the toxins being trapped within the skin. This can later result in inflammation, whiteheads and blackheads. So, this is a huge reason why it really is best to go without makeup. However, if you really feel like you need to wear it, make sure it's hypoallergenic and that you wash it off immediately following your exercise regimen.

It is a waste of money.

Suppose you put on your full face in preparation for your series of dance classes. Then, in between your ballet and hip-hop classes, you look into the mirror and see that most of your "face" is now on your leotard. Not only was that a waste of value time, but (relatively) expensive product as well. No one purchases makeup for it to evaporate in a matter of minutes, but when you put makeup on and then exercise, that's basically what's happening. Save your makeup for when you can get more use out of it and that's definitely not in a workout class or gym setting.

Makeup can distract you from your workout.

Another challenge with having makeup on while you're working out is that you can end up being so focused on how you look that you're not thinking about what should really hold your attention and that's your exercise regimen. A couple of coats of waterproof mascara and some of your favorite sheer lip gloss should be all that you need. Besides, you're making the time to do something to better your mind, body and spirit and actually, that's far more beautiful than anything that you can find in a compact or tube, anyway.

(Guest Post by Carol)

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