Facial First or Fitness First: Can You Workout After a Facial?

AvatarByGenny Wilkinson Priest

Taking care of our skin is essential for maintaining a healthy and radiant appearance. From daily skincare routines to monthly treatments, we all strive to achieve that flawless complexion. However, what happens when our regular routine clashes with other activities, such as working out? Many of us wonder, “Can I workout after a facial?” This question has been a topic of debate among skincare enthusiasts and fitness enthusiasts alike. In this article, we will explore this dilemma and uncover the truth behind working out after a facial. So, let’s dive in and find out if your post-facial glow can withstand your next sweat session.

What Happens to Your Skin During a Workout?

When you exercise, your body goes through various changes, including an increase in blood flow and sweating. These changes can also affect your skin in several ways. For starters, the increased blood flow brings more oxygen and nutrients to the surface of the skin, giving it a healthy glow. It also helps to eliminate toxins from the body, which can contribute to breakouts and dull skin.

Additionally, when you sweat during a workout, it helps to clear out clogged pores and remove excess oil and dirt from the skin’s surface. This can help prevent acne and give your skin a more refreshed appearance.

On the other hand, intense workouts can cause increased production of cortisol, also known as the stress hormone. High levels of cortisol in the body can lead to inflammation, which can result in redness, irritation, and even breakouts on the skin.

Overall, while working out has many positive effects on your body and overall health, it’s essential to understand how it can impact your skin.

The Benefits of Working Out After a Facial

So now that you know what happens to your skin during a workout let’s dive into whether or not it’s safe or beneficial to workout after a facial.

While many people may believe that exercising after a facial is harmful or counterproductive for their newly rejuvenated skin, that isn’t always the case. In fact, there are several benefits that come with working out after a facial:

1. Enhances Blood Flow: As mentioned earlier, exercise increases blood flow throughout the body and to the surface of our skin. When this happens after getting a facial treatment like microdermabrasion or chemical peels that stimulate new cell growth in our dermis layer – exercise could aid in speeding up these results.

2. Flushes Out Toxins: Sweating during a workout helps to flush out toxins and impurities from the body, which can contribute to breakouts and dull skin. This plays nicely with facial treatments that also aid in detoxifying the skin like detox facials or LED light therapy facials.

3. Maintains Results: Many facial treatments have a temporary result, and the results can fade away after a few days or weeks. By exercising after a facial, you can help maintain these results for a longer period since your skin is receiving enough oxygen and nutrients to keep it looking healthy and radiant.

The Risks of Working Out After a Facial

Although there are benefits to working out after a facial, it’s crucial to understand that there are also some risks involved. Depending on the type of facial treatment you received, working out too soon after can be harmful to your skin.

For instance, if you received a chemical peel or microdermabrasion treatment, your skin may be more sensitive and vulnerable to irritation and infection. These treatments remove the top layer of dead skin cells, leaving your skin exposed and susceptible to bacteria and dirt.

Additionally, certain workouts can rub off or wipe away the products used during your facial treatment, decreasing its effectiveness. This is especially true for facials that involve serums or creams being left on the skin for an extended period.

How Long Should You Wait Before Working Out?

The amount of time you should wait before working out after a facial depends on the type of treatment received. For most facials, it’s recommended to wait at least 24 hours before engaging in any vigorous exercise.

However, if you received a more intense treatment like a chemical peel or microdermabrasion, it may be best to wait 48-72 hours before working out. It’s essential to follow your esthetician’s specific recommendations as each person’s skin reacts differently to treatments.

Tips for Exercising After a Facial

If you do decide to workout after a facial, here are some tips to keep in mind:

1. Rinse Your Face Before Working Out: Before hitting the gym, make sure to rinse your face with lukewarm water. This will help remove any excess products left on the skin, allowing it to breathe and sweat more efficiently.

2. Avoid Touching Your Face: During your workout, try to avoid touching your face with your hands or wiping away sweat with a towel. This can cause irritation and spread bacteria onto your freshly-treated skin.

3. Choose Low-Impact Exercises: If you had an intense facial treatment like microdermabrasion or a chemical peel, consider doing low-impact exercises like walking or yoga instead of high-intensity workouts.

4. Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water before and after your workout is essential for maintaining healthy skin. When we sweat during exercise, our bodies are losing water, so it’s crucial to replenish it to keep our skin hydrated.

In summary, working out after a facial can have both positive and negative effects on your skin. It’s crucial to wait at least 24 hours before engaging in any vigorous exercise, and

Facial Etiquette: Can I Workout After A Facial?

Facials are one of the most popular and sought-after beauty treatments out there. They are known for their many benefits, such as improving skin texture, promoting relaxation, and giving your complexion a healthy glow. But what happens when you have a facial scheduled on the same day as your usual workout routine? Many people wonder if it’s okay to break a sweat after a facial or if it can cause any adverse effects. In this article, we will explore the topic of working out after a facial and provide you with all the information you need to know.

Understanding Facials: What Happens During A Treatment?

In order to understand whether or not it’s safe to workout after a facial, it’s essential to know what happens during a typical facial treatment. First and foremost, facials involve deep cleansing of the skin, exfoliation, extraction of impurities, and applying various skincare products. These processes can leave your skin feeling soft, hydrated, and rejuvenated. However, they also make your skin more sensitive than usual.

During a facial, steam and hot towels are often used to open up pores for better extraction of impurities. This process also softens the skin and makes it more susceptible to injury if not handled gently. Additionally, exfoliation removes dead skin cells from the surface of your face leaving behind delicate fresh skin that may be easily irritated.

The Importance Of Post-Facial Care

After having any facial treatment done, whether it’s a basic cleanse or an intensive chemical peel, post-facial care is crucial in maintaining the results of your treatment. Facials are not one-size-fits-all; some treatments require minimal downtime while others may need restorative time in order for your skin to heal properly.

Facial experts recommend avoiding excessive sweating for at least 24-48 hours after a facial. Sweating can irritate your skin and cause acne breakouts, especially if you have sensitive skin. This means that intense workouts like spin classes, long-distance running, or weightlifting may not be suitable for at least a day or two after your facial.

Why Working Out After A Facial May Not Be A Good Idea

As mentioned earlier, facials make your skin more sensitive than usual. This sensitivity can lead to skin irritation and breakouts when exposed to sweat during a workout. Sweat is full of impurities that can clog your newly cleaned pores and cause inflammation and redness. Additionally, sweating heavily or wearing tight-fitting workout clothes can rub against your skin, further irritating it.

Moreover, working out after a facial may also disrupt the natural pH balance of your skin. Facials often use products with active ingredients that help balance the pH of your skin. However, exercise increases blood flow to the surface of the skin, making it more alkaline. This can counteract the effects of your facial treatment and even lead to breakouts.

What Activities Are Safe To Do After A Facial?

If you’re an active person who loves to work out regularly, don’t worry! There are still some activities you can do after a facial without compromising the results of your beauty treatment.

Low-intensity exercises like yoga or light stretching are perfect options for post-facial workouts. These activities help you stay active without causing excessive sweating or rubbing against your face. Swimming in a pool is also safe as long as you make sure to wash off any chlorine residue from your face afterward.

It’s also important to note that not all facials have the same aftercare restrictions. For example, microdermabrasion poses minimal downtime compared to chemical peels or laser treatments, making it safe to work out sooner.

How Long Should You Wait Before Working Out?

The answer to this question varies depending on the type of facial treatment you had, the condition of your skin, and your overall health. In general, it’s best to wait at least 24-48 hours before resuming intense exercise. This time frame gives your skin enough time to recover and avoid any potential irritation from sweat and friction.

If you’re unsure about how long you should wait, it’s always best to consult with your facialist or dermatologist. They can assess your skin and give you personalized recommendations that are suitable for your specific needs and concerns.

Facials are a wonderful way to pamper yourself and take care of your skin. And by understanding the potential effects of working out after a facial, you can ensure that you get the most out of your beauty treatments. Remember to follow proper post-facial care guidelines and listen to your skin’s needs before jumping back into intense workouts. With a little patience and caution, you can enjoy a radiant complexion without sacrificing your fitness routine.

Q: Can I workout immediately after getting a facial?
A: It is generally recommended to avoid working out immediately after receiving a facial treatment. This is because sweating can irritate the skin and cause the products used during the facial to be washed away.

Q: How long should I wait before exercising after a facial?
A: It is recommended to wait at least 24 hours before engaging in any intense physical activity following a facial. This allows for the products used during the facial to fully absorb into the skin and for any redness or irritation to subside.

Q: Can I do low-impact exercises after a facial?
A: Yes, it is safe to engage in low-impact exercises such as walking or light stretching after a facial. Just make sure you avoid sweating too much and keep your skin clean and free from makeup or dirt.

Q: What types of workouts should I avoid after getting a facial?
A: Avoid any activities that can lead to excessive sweating, such as weightlifting, cardio workouts, and hot yoga. These activities can cause pores to open up and lead to breakouts or cause irritation on freshly treated skin.

Q: Are there any precautions I should take if I want to workout after a facial?
A: If you must workout within 24 hours of getting a facial, make sure to cleanse your face thoroughly before exercising. Also, try to minimize contact with your face during the workout and refrain from touching your face with dirty hands.

Q: Can working out help improve my skin after a facial?
A: Exercise can improve blood circulation and give your skin a healthy glow. However, it is important to wait at least 24 hours after getting a facial before engaging in any intense physical activity for optimum results.

In conclusion, the effectiveness of exercising after a facial is a topic that has been heavily debated in the fitness and beauty community. While it is generally agreed upon that mild forms of exercise, such as walking or yoga, can be beneficial for the skin and overall well-being after a facial, more intense workouts may have negative effects.

Facials help to rejuvenate and revitalize the skin by removing impurities and promoting circulation. This means that your pores are open and susceptible to dirt and sweat during a workout, which can lead to breakouts or irritation. Therefore, it is recommended to wait at least 24 hours before engaging in vigorous exercise after a facial.

On the other hand, light exercises can increase blood flow and oxygen to the skin, enhancing the benefits of a facial. It also aids in reducing stress levels, which can cause inflammation in the skin. However, it is important to listen to your body and avoid any activities that may strain or cause discomfort to your facial muscles.

Ultimately, the key factor is understanding your skin’s needs and consulting with your esthetician before incorporating any exercise into your post-facial routine. Every individual’s skin reacts differently and it is essential to prioritize its health over fitness goals. It is also crucial to properly cleanse and moisturize your face

Author Profile

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Genny Wilkinson Priest
Genny Wilkinson Priest began her journey into Ashtanga yoga in 2000 while working as a journalist in her native New York City. Initially drawn to the practice for its physical benefits, Genny soon discovered the profound mental advantages, especially during the challenging period following the 9/11 terror attacks.

Which she covered as a journalist for Reuters. Her professional career took her to Singapore, where she wrote for Time Magazine, and then to Paris, before she finally settled in London.

As her family expanded to include four boys, Genny decided to leave full-time journalism to immerse herself in yoga studies. She achieved certification as a Shri K Pattabhi Jois Ashtanga Yoga Institute Authorised Level 1 teacher, a British Wheel of Yoga teacher, and a Yoga Alliance-certified teacher.Genny’s passion for yoga philosophy led her to pursue a Master’s Degree in the Traditions of Yoga and Meditation at SOAS in London.

From 2024, Genny Wilkinson Priest has started writing an informative blog on the “Niche Name” niche. She writes informative posts and answers queries on topics that people seek in the niche. This transition marks a significant shift from her previous focus on journalism and traditional media to a more interactive and digital form of communication.

Genny’s blog aims to provide valuable information and foster a community of yoga enthusiasts who can learn and grow together. Her extensive background in both journalism and yoga practice ensures that her content is both authoritative and engaging.