Gym Makeup: Is It That Bad for Your Skin? Gym Makeup Tips

Everyone has their take on wearing makeup when exercising. Maybe you want to look and feel your best even while hitting that 5 km mark, or perhaps you’re heading straight to the gym after work with no time to freshen up. It could even be your pick-me-up ritual that boosts your fitness motivation. Whatever your reason, it’s all about what works for you. But you might wonder: is gym makeup harmful to your skin? Let’s unpack it together.

Gym Makeup: A Skin Sin?

Sorry, but the answer isn’t black and white—it’s both yes and no:

• Yes—most dermatologists recommend working out with a bare face. Why? The mix of sweat and makeup can easily clog your pores and lead to irritation. A recent study attests to this—it shows that wearing a foundation when exercising disrupts your skin’s natural oil production, which can skyrocket the risk of breakouts and dryness.

🔍 Plus, if you have sensitive, acne-prone skin, or conditions like eczema or psoriasis, makeup and sweat can be especially rough on your skin.

• No—if you stick to lightweight makeup that allows your skin to breathe as you’re training.

Gym Makeup Options

Now that you’ve got the green light to have makeup on while sweating it out, how do you make it look fab and stay put even after an intense cardio session? Play around with these products for a gym look that lasts:

• Waterproof, smudge-proof mascara can help to avoid raccoon eyes (no offense to raccoons, though).
• Lightweight concealer can cover that pesky, mood-ruining zit or brighten up your under-eye area.
• If it’s a “Foundation or I’m not going anywhere!” situation, opt for a lightweight product that doesn’t suffocate your skin. To make sure your foundation is a good fit for your skin type and doesn’t have unsafe ingredients, scan it with OnSkin before you buy. The app breaks down the ingredients in a way that’s super easy to understand—no need for a chemistry degree.
• Mineral powder is a great stand-in for foundation and helps you skip the cherry tomato look after hitting the treadmill.
• Lipstick or lip balm helps keep your lips nourished and moisturized.
• A brush of contour or bronzer adds a touch of warmth to your look.
• Brow gel keeps your brows defined.
• Setting spray before your gym session will help to lock in your makeup.

During and After Exercise Skincare

Feeling more confident about your pre-gym makeup choices? We love it! Just remember, what happens during and after your workout is just as important for your skin’s health. Here are some quick, skin-friendly tips for the gym:

During your workout

• Avoid touching your face—instead, use a clean towel or tissue to pat away sweat.
• Wipe down equipment—if possible, clean helmets, pads, mats, or any shared gear before using them. These surfaces can be covered in bacteria, and if those bacteria get on your skin… Well, you get the idea. If anyone at the gym thinks you’re being overly cautious, let them. You’re just taking care of your health.
• Drink water—for obvious reasons, but also to keep your skin happy and hydrated!

After your workout, before the well-deserved rest

• Wash your face with a mild cleanser (pick those with salicylic acid or niacinamide to prevent clogged pores). If you practice double cleansing, follow your usual routine.
• Shower and change out of your workout clothes—you know how tight and irritating gym wear can be and how much sweat it soaks up. By the way, sportswear that rubs against your skin can even promote back acne—more on it here.

Gym Makeup: the Big Picture

Whether you’re rocking no makeup, just a touch of concealer, or going all out with a full-glam look at the gym (or any other workout), do what makes you feel awesome and pumped to stay active. But if skin health is your priority, your best bet is to go makeup-free or keep it super light. Here’s to crushing your workouts, getting those perfect gym selfies, and having happy skin!