15 Ways to AVOID Acne From Working Out!

Summary

In this video, Brian Turner shares 15 essential tips for preventing acne while working out at the gym. As an experienced bodybuilder who has overcome severe cystic acne, Brian discusses practical strategies such as wiping down equipment, washing immediately after workouts, drinking more water, avoiding dairy-based protein powders, balancing electrolytes, and taking rest days. He also highlights the importance of sleep, proper skincare, and dietary awareness to maintain clear skin. Brian offers personalized recommendations for skincare products and emphasizes the need for consistent, mindful habits to avoid breakouts.

Takeaways

• 💪 Avoid direct skin contact with gym equipment to prevent bacteria and acne; always use a towel or shirt as a barrier.
• 🧼 Wipe down gym equipment before use to prevent sweat from transferring bacteria to your skin.
• 🚿 Wash your face immediately after a workout with water to remove sweat and bacteria before it dries.
• 🛁 Shower as soon as possible after working out to cleanse your skin and prevent body acne.
• 🧴 Use a body cleanser with exfoliants like glycolic acid to help remove dead skin cells and prevent acne.
• 💧 Hydrate more, especially when working out, as dehydration can lead to more breakouts.
• 🍌 Balance your sodium and potassium intake to help with hydration, which is crucial for preventing acne during intense workouts.
• 🛌 Take rest days to lower cortisol levels (the stress hormone), which can cause breakouts if elevated.
• 🚫 Avoid dairy protein supplements like whey, as they can trigger acne, especially in those sensitive to dairy.
• ⏰ Prioritize quality sleep to aid recovery and reduce breakouts, as lack of sleep can compromise your skin's health.

Q & A

What is the main concern discussed in the video?

The main concern discussed in the video is how to avoid acne breakouts while working out at the gym, especially for those who engage in intense bodybuilding.

Why do people tend to break out more when they start going to the gym?

People tend to break out more when they start going to the gym because of factors like increased calorie intake, higher hormone levels from lifting, exposure to bacteria on gym equipment, and sweating. These factors can aggravate acne.

What is the first tip provided to avoid gym-related acne?

The first tip is to never lay your skin directly against gym equipment like benches. Always use a shirt or towel to protect your skin from bacteria on the equipment.

Why is it important to wipe down gym equipment before using it?

Wiping down gym equipment is important because it removes germs and bacteria that can transfer to your skin through sweat, potentially causing breakouts.

How does sweat contribute to acne after a workout?

Sweat contributes to acne because, if left on the skin, it can trap bacteria and clog pores. It's advised to wash your face and body immediately after working out to prevent this.

What kind of body cleanser is recommended for those prone to body acne?

A body cleanser with exfoliating properties is recommended for those prone to body acne. The video mentions using a product called 'backne blaster,' which combines mechanical exfoliation with alpha hydroxy acids to remove dead skin cells and cleanse the skin.

How does hydration affect acne, especially for gym-goers?

Proper hydration is crucial for gym-goers because working out increases water loss through sweat, and dehydration can lead to more breakouts. Drinking enough water helps maintain skin health and recovery.

What dietary advice is given to help reduce acne while working out?

The advice includes balancing sodium and potassium intake to maintain hydration, avoiding dairy protein supplements like whey, and opting for plant-based protein powders to reduce acne caused by high levels of leucine and dairy allergies.

Why should gym-goers avoid whey protein supplements if they are prone to acne?

Whey protein supplements are derived from dairy, which can trigger acne in many individuals. Dairy contains hormones and amino acids like leucine that can increase the likelihood of breakouts, especially for those allergic to dairy.

How does cortisol affect acne, and what can be done to manage it?

Cortisol, the stress hormone, increases when the body is physically taxed, such as during intense workouts. Elevated cortisol levels can lead to more breakouts. Taking rest days and managing stress can help lower cortisol levels and reduce acne.

What is the role of cardio in preventing gym-related acne?

Cardio helps improve circulation, hormone balance, and overall health, which can reduce acne. It is recommended to include at least 10-20 minutes of cardio daily to maintain healthy skin while working out.

Why is it important to take rest weeks for long-term skin and body health?

Taking rest weeks allows the body to fully recover, including the central nervous and immune systems. Overtraining without rest can compromise these systems and lead to acne and other health issues.