Featured photo by Christopher Campbell, Unsplash
The effects of Exercise extend beyond just giving you a toned body. The physical and mental benefits of exercise are numerous. But many people don’t realize that exercising regularly can give you healthy, glowing skin.
Regular Exercise can give you glowing skin naturally
Exercise can help reduce acne, soften wrinkles and brighten skin. Studies have shown that working out can even help reverse signs of aging. Exercising can revamp the body and mind in subtle ways and has many long term benefits. It can trigger a range of physiological and biochemical processes that produce tangible results right away.
[Tweet “Exercising can revamp the body and mind in subtle ways and has many long term benefits.”]Here are some of the beauty benefits of working out, that will give you the incentive to start exercising today.
1. Radiant Skin
Aerobic exercise can get your heart pumping, which in turn supplies your skin with oxygenated blood. This gives you that great post-workout glow. In fact getting your heartbeat up and working up a good sweat can be equated to getting a mini facial.
Sweat expels trapped dirt and oil from pores which can clarify skin. However, it is important to follow a post workout skincare routine and cleanse your face thoroughly to avoid breakouts.
2. Wrinkle Reduction
Exercise helps regulate and maintain healthy levels of cortisol in the body. Cortisol is a stress-related hormone, and elevated levels of this can lead to increased sebum production. This, in turn, can cause acne breakouts and damage collagen which is necessary to maintain skin elasticity.
A healthy amount of collagen is needed to prevent wrinkles and sagging skin. Working out boosts the production of collagen which keeps you skin supple and bouncy.
3. Less Stress and Anxiety
When you are stressed out or anxious, your skin is the first to suffer. Stress drains your vitality, and this is evident on your face.
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, nearly 20 percent of Americans adults suffer from anxiety disorders. Many people swear by exercise to tackle problems with anxiety as it an excellent mood booster. It has been shown to reduce stress and alleviate anxiety.
Studies have shown that exercising for just 15 minutes a day can have a positive effect on your mental health. Cardio exercises that get your heart thumping like running and cycling are believed to be the most beneficial at beating stress.
4. Acne Relief
Exercise helps draw out toxins from the body by boosting circulation. The increased blood supply nourishes skin by bringing more oxygen to it. Additionally, sweating while working out cleans out pores, which prevents pimples and acne.
Working out also releases endorphins and can correct the hormonal imbalances that can cause acne. However, if you have acne prone skin, it is important to take care of your skin to avoid further breakouts. Wash your face with a gentle cleanser post workout and avoid wearing makeup when exercising.
5. Benefits of being Outdoors
It’s not just a myth that fresh air and sunshine cheer you up. Outdoor activities or just being outside is a natural endorphin booster. Endorphins are natural pain and stress fighters which trigger a positive feeling in the body. This can have a beneficial effect on your skin and your body in general. Additionally, the Vitamin D that your body produces from direct sunlight is required to keep your bones healthy. Take a look at this list of 14 Potent Vitamins for Younger and Healthier Skin to know more about the roles of various Vitamins. So whenever possible, put on some sunscreen and head outside for healthier skin.
6. More Restful Sleep
A lack of sleep can lead to dark circles and several other skin problems. Insomnia is a common problem among American adults. Studies have shown that exercise can improve the quality of your sleep. An intense workout can tire you out which leads to more restful sleep.
It also regulates the production of the stress hormone cortisol and gives it an outlet which helps you get better shut-eye. Your body can then use this time for essential functions like repairing tissues. Exercise acts as a release valve for cortisol and this, in turn, makes your skin look fresh and healthy.
[Tweet “Your body can then use this time for essential functions like repairing tissues. “]Conclusion
Exercise can be one of the best remedies for dull skin, wrinkles, and acne. It nourishes skin cells and keeps them vital by increasing blood flow. Working out not only builds muscle and tones your body, but it can also do wonders for your skin. A regular exercise regimen provides amazing skincare benefits.
But, exercise alone isn’t going to make your skin flawless. You also need to make healthy food choices and drink plenty of water. A nutritious, vitamin-rich diet is essential for healthy, radiant skin.
For more information on the skincare benefits of vitamins take a look at the infographic below:
Identity Magazine is all about empowering women to get all A’s in the game of life — Accept. Appreciate. Achieve.TM Every contributor and expert answer the Identity 5 questions in keeping with our theme. Their answers can be random and in the moment or they can be aligned with the above article. As a team, we hope to inspire and motivate ourselves and inspire you to get all A’s.
1. What have you accepted within your life, physically and/or mentally? What are you still working on accepting?
I’ve accepted that I need to make the most of what I’ve been given and thank my blessings every day. I’m still learning to accept that you cannot change people unless they WANT to change.
2. What have you learn to appreciate about yourself and/or within your life, physically and mentally? What are you still working on to appreciate?
I’ve learned to appreciate the importance of being surrounded by people you can count on.
3. What is one of your most rewarding achievements in life? What makes YOU most proud? What goals and dreams do you still have?
Finding a balance between work, family and other interests has been one of my most rewarding achievements. My goals are to travel and see more of the world.
4. We all have imperfections, so we think. The truth–we are all perfectly imperfect. What are your not-so-perfect ways? What imperfections and quirks create who you are–your Identity?
I clean the house when I’m stressed out. My husband jokes that a messy work area usually means I’m in a good mood.
5. “I Love My…” is an outlet for you to express and appreciate all the positive traits that make you…well… YOU! Sharing what you love about yourself will make you smile, feel empowered, and uplift your spirit and soul. (we assure you!) Identity challenges you to complete the phrase “I Love My…?”
I love my ability to find happiness in the small joys of life.
