Working hard at training has many benefits – physical as well as mental – but one unwelcome sideeffect may be unwanted skin conditions. Looking after your skin while you run is crucial: it’s your largest organ. “Exercise, especially cardiovascular exercise, has a multitude of skin benefits. Increased heart rate which occurs during exercise increases blood flow to skin,” says London GP Dr Jane Leonard, who specialises in problematic skin concerns. “This provides the skin with oxygen and nutrients, which fuels skin cells at a cellular level. This indirectly helps your skin cells grow and regenerate. It gives you that ‘glow’ post-cardio.” So, how can you achieve the glow?
Acne and eczema
Acne, which can affect your self-confidence and self-esteem, is a very common and treatable skin condition. Increased levels of hormones stimulate the sebaceous glands to produce excess oil, and although acne typically occurs during puberty, it can develop in adulthood.