How to Protect your Skin After Hot Yoga
By McLean & Potomac Dermatology | Skin Tips 2024
Hot yoga has gained popularity for its numerous health benefits, from improved flexibility to stress relief. However, dermatologists have seen an uptick of reported acne breakouts in patients after participating in hot yoga sessions. In this blog post, we’ll explore the potential link between hot yoga and acne and provide tips on how to maintain clear skin.
While there is no direct evidence proving that hot yoga causes acne, there are factors associated with this practice that may contribute to skin issues. The intense heat and humidity in hot yoga studios can lead to increased sweat production, which, when mixed with bacteria on the skin, may contribute to clogged pores and breakouts.
01 / Cleanse Your Skin ASAP
After a hot yoga session, it’s crucial to cleanse your skin as soon as possible. Use a gentle, hydrating cleanser to remove sweat, bacteria, and impurities from your skin. Avoid harsh cleansers that may strip your skin of essential oils.
TIP: If you’re far from home, it’s always a good idea to keep cleansing wipes in your gym bag!
A gentle, self-foaming gel cleanser specifically designed to remove impurities without drying or irritating the skin.
02 / Stay Hydrated
Proper hydration is key to maintaining healthy skin. Drinking enough water throughout the day helps flush toxins from your body and keeps your skin hydrated. This can be especially important after a sweaty session.
03 / Choose the Right Products
Opt for skincare products that are non-comedogenic and suitable for your skin type. Look for ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, which can help prevent acne breakouts. However, it’s essential to patch-test new products to avoid potential irritation.
This first-of-its-kind acne spot treatment is clear and non-irritating to the skin and utilizes a unique formulation of alpha and beta hydroxy acids to exfoliate pesky, clogged pores.
04 / Wear Breathable Clothing
Choose breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics for your yoga attire. This can help minimize sweat retention on your skin, reducing the likelihood of clogged pores. Speaking of yoga attire, change out of those spanx ASAP. No lounging around in sweaty clothes- trust us.
05 / Avoid Touching Your Face
Refrain from touching your face during and after your session. Touching your skin with sweaty hands can transfer bacteria and oil from your yoga mat, potentially leading to breakouts.
06 / Shower After Each Session
Take a shower as soon as possible to remove sweat, bacteria, and any potential irritants from your skin. We recommend using a shower oil instead of a body wash to keep your skin hydrated.
While hot yoga offers numerous health benefits, it’s essential to be mindful of your skin and take steps to prevent potential acne breakouts. Remember, individual experiences may vary, and consulting with a dermatologist can provide personalized advice based on your skin type and concerns.
To book an appointment with a skin expert at our McLean or Potomac location, text 703-215-2139!
