Do I need to take my makeup off before exercising?

Published

1 year ago

April 12, 2024

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By Marzia Khan Reviewed by Lily Ramsey, LLM

Introduction
The impact of makeup on skin during exercise
Benefits of removing makeup before exercising
Tips and best practices for skin care and exercise expert opinions
Conclusion
Resources

While working out is known for its beneficial effects on the skin, exercising while wearing makeup may be detrimental for the wearer, with significant impact on their skin.[1]

Image Credit: Ground Picture /Shutterstock.com Introduction

The debate among fitness enthusiasts and beauty experts on wearing makeup during exercise has been discussed at length, with the science siding with having a bare face, which will be further explored in this article.[1]

There is a growing trend of wearing makeup while exercising, which may be due to the increase in fitness influencers, with millions of followers that look to them for fitness recommendations, or advice.[1,2]

This means that the priority of fitness influencers would be on being camera-ready rather than following best skin-related practices whilst in the gym or during exercise.[2]

Grace Day, an esthetician and skincare expert at the makeup and beauty company, Beauty Bay, disclosed her own thoughts on this debate, that refraining from wearing makeup during exercise may not be feasible for many people.[3]

This may be due to individuals potentially wanting to conceal breakouts out of feeling self-conscious or wanting to look nice when around others during a fitness class or at the gym.[4] The impact of makeup on skin during exercise

Wearing makeup during exercise can have detrimental effects on the skin because makeup clogs pores and causes increased skin dryness. This is also why it is recommended to remove makeup before going to sleep, as the makeup can combine with oil and dead skin cells, blocking pores and promoting acne formation.[1]

Being the largest organ in the body, the skin functions to protect against the entry of environmental microbes, which can be detrimental to the person. Various factors, such as moisture, oil levels, elasticity, number of pores, and the distribution of sebum can characterize healthy skin.

Insufficient moisture and oil can have a detrimental effect on skin health, resulting in acne.[5]

Exercise can stimulate many physiological and thermal changes that can lead to thermal homeostasis changes in the body, metabolic rate, and a higher internal temperature, which can cause variations in skin conditions.

With the skin being an internal temperature regulator through the process of perspiration, the pores can expand to release waste and sebum, and if left untreated on the skin surface, it can proliferate and potentially cause acute and chronic skin issues.[5] Related StoriesNovel scoring system can distinguish between two serious skin diseasesReversing time: Hyaluronic acid injections offer lasting improvement in aging skinCan synthetic data boost fairness in medical imaging AI?

A private sector survey of 2,201 people in the UK has found that up to 60% of people reported wearing makeup while in the gym. The application of makeup may block pores with a negative impact on the skin during exercise, affecting skin health.[5]

However, a 2024 study has reaffirmed the lack of scientific knowledge on the effect of makeup on the epidermis during exercise. As a result of this premise, the researchers aimed to investigate the influence of cosmetic oil-free foundation cream on skin conditions during treadmill exercise.

The findings of using foundation cream during aerobic exercise reduced skin oil, which can cause dryness. Additionally, it was also confirmed to clog pores and increase the production of sebum.[5]

The study concluded that wearing makeup during aerobic exercise may not be recommended for those with dry skin conditions, with further studies being required to test different foundation creams, such as oil-based, water-based, and water-free.

This is due to these variations comprising different primary and secondary emulsifiers, which may affect skin conditions.[5]

Dr. Brendan Camp, a dermatologist based in New York, commented on this widely discussed issue, stating that wearing makeup while exercising can lead to clogged pores and the development of acne due to makeup trapping sweat and bacteria in pores.[1,3]

These health concerns are mainly focused on the use of foundation while exercising, however, Camp explained that other types of makeup may not be regarded in the same light, “Mascara, eyeliner, and lipstick may present less of an issue during exercise because they are not applied to the entire face.” However, more research is required to understand how specific types of makeup can impact the skin during exercise.[1] Benefits of removing makeup before exercising

An esthetic doctor and educator in cosmetic dermatology, Dr. Amie Vyas, recommended to remove and cleanse your face before exercising, this is because makeup that is worn all day can collect pollution and microbes.[4]

The aforementioned 2024 study investigating the impact of foundation on aerobic exercise recommended against wearing makeup for those with dry skin conditions in order to ensure that waste and sebum is removed from the skin.[5]

This is especially significant as previously mentioned, with the skin regulating temperature through perspiration, and exercise changing thermal homeostasis in the body. If waste and sebum is left untreated on the skin, it can lead to acute and chronic skin issues.[5]

Cleansing the skin and removing makeup can also enable the skin to breathe, without being clogged by thick foundations that are comedogenic, whilst also ensuring excess sebum, sweat, bacteria and product residue are removed.[1] Tips and best practices for skin care and exercise expert opinions

Some people decide to wear makeup while in the gym or during exercise in general due to several reasons, such as feeling self-conscious about their skin when in a public area. However, with thicker foundations being more comedogenic, causing negative impact on the user’s skin, many will be happy to know that experts have provided foundation alternatives to use while exercising.[1]

Foundation alternatives can include using a BB cream or beauty balm, with BB creams falling between a foundation and skincare product. Camp commented, “[BB creams] are often formulated to be non-comedogenic and are intended to improve skin tone and the overall appearance of skin. CC or color-correcting creams are intended to reduce redness and uneven skin tone. They may have a lighter consistency than BB creams.”[1]

Avoiding heavy makeup such as full coverage foundations can help to reduce post-workout breakouts.[3] Additionally, after exercising, it is important to cleanse the skin, including both the face and body, in order to remove excess oil, sweat, bacteria and product residue, which may otherwise work to contribute towards the formation of acne or folliculitis.[1] Conclusion

While wearing makeup during exercise can be the difference between going to the gym or fitness class and staying at home, informed choices of what type of makeup you wear can be of utmost importance to ensure the skin condition stays healthy.[1,5]

As makeup causes clogged pores, it is recommended to wear lighter products on the skin, such as oil-free skin tints or BB creams. However, this may not be without its own effects, with a recent study investigating the impact of using oil-free foundation cream during aerobic exercise demonstrating a higher level of skin dryness.

Due to this, the use of oil-free foundation creams may not even be a recommendation for those with dry skin conditions during exercise, as they would be at a higher risk for further dryness. [1,5]

With a lack of information on how the epidermis responds to makeup during exercise, additional studies are required to understand how other foundation products impact the skin when exercising.[5] References Vogel K. Why you should avoid wearing make-up when working out. Healthline. March 8, 2024. Accessed March 28, 2024. https://www.healthline.com/health-news/what-happens-when-you-wear-make-up-while-exercising#How-to-help-your-skin-post-workout. The rise of fitness influencers. Action Group. October 16, 2023. Accessed March 28, 2024. https://action-group.co.uk/the-rise-of-fitness-influencers/. Is it ok to wear make-up during exercise? The Independent. March 6, 2024. Accessed March 28, 2024. https://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/fashion/is-it-ok-to-wear-makeup-during-exercise-b2507732.html. 10 gym-proof make-up products that won’t slip, slide or Break you out. Accessed March 28, 2024. https://www.elle.com/uk/beauty/make-up/articles/g32531/makeup-you-can-wear-to-exercise/. Yoon E, Kwon EH, Kim JH, et al. Influence of cosmetic foundation cream on skin condition during treadmill exercise. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology. Published online March 6, 2024. doi:10.1111/jocd.16205

Last Updated: Apr 3, 2024

Sports

Hard-throwing rookie Misiorowski going to ASG

Published

3 hours ago

July 12, 2025

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Hard-throwing rookie Misiorowski going to ASG

Associated Press

Jul 11, 2025, 11:17 PM ET

Hard-throwing rookie Jacob Misiorowski is a National League All-Star replacement, giving the Milwaukee Brewers right-hander a chance to break Paul Skenes‘ record for the fewest big league appearances before playing in the Midsummer Classic.

Misiorowski was named Friday night to replace Chicago Cubs lefty Matthew Boyd, who will be unavailable for the All-Star Game on Tuesday night in Atlanta because he is scheduled to start Saturday at the New York Yankees.

The 23-year-old Misiorowski has made just five starts for the Brewers, going 4-1 with a 2.81 ERA while averaging 99.3 mph on his fastball, with 89 pitches that have reached 100 mph.

If he pitches at Truist Park, Misiorowski will make it consecutive years for a player to set the mark for fewest big league games before an All-Star showing.

Skenes, the Pittsburgh Pirates right-hander getting ready for his second All-Star appearance, had made 11 starts in the majors when he was chosen as the NL starter for last year’s All-Star Game at Texas. He pitched a scoreless inning.

“I’m speechless,” said a teary-eyed Misiorowski, who said he was given the news a few minutes before the Brewers’ 8-3 victory over Washington. “It’s awesome. It’s very unexpected and it’s an honor.”

Misiorowski is the 30th first-time All-Star and 16th replacement this year. There are now 80 total All-Stars.

“He’s impressive. He’s got some of the best stuff in the game right now, even though he’s a young pitcher,” said Yankees slugger Aaron Judge, who is a starting AL outfielder for his seventh All-Star nod. “He’s going to be a special pitcher in this game for a long time so I think he deserved it and it’s going be pretty cool for him and his family.”

Carlos Rodón, Carlos Estévez and Casey Mize were named replacement pitchers on the AL roster.

The New York Yankees‘ Rodón, an All-Star for the third time in five seasons, will replace teammate Max Fried for Tuesday’s game in Atlanta. Fried will be unavailable because he is scheduled to start Saturday against the Chicago Cubs.

In his final start before the All-Star game, Rodón allowed four hits and struck out eight in eight innings in an 11-0 victory over the Cubs.

“This one’s a little special for me,” said Rodón, an All-Star in 2021 and ’22 who was 3-8 in his first season with the Yankees two years ago before rebounding. “I wasn’t good when I first got here, and I just wanted to prove that I wasn’t to going to give up and just put my best foot forward and try to win as many games as I can.”

The Kansas City Royals‘ Estévez replaces Texas’ Jacob deGrom, who is scheduled to start at Houston on Saturday night. Estévez was a 2023 All-Star when he was with the Los Angeles Angels.

Mize takes the spot held by Boston‘s Garrett Crochet, who is scheduled to start Saturday against Tampa Bay. Mize gives the Tigers six All-Stars, most of any team and tied for the franchise record.

Royals third baseman Maikel Garcia will replace Tampa Bay‘s Brandon Lowe, who went on the injured list with left oblique tightness. The additions of Estévez and Garcia give the Royals four All-Stars, matching their 2024 total.

The Seattle Mariners announced center fielder Julio Rodríguez will not participate, and he was replaced by teammate Randy Arozarena. Rodríguez had been voted onto the AL roster via the players’ ballot. The Mariners, who have five All-Stars, said Rodríguez will use the break to “recuperate, rest and prepare for the second half.”

Arozarena is an All-Star for the second time. He started in left field for the AL two years ago, when he was with Tampa Bay. Arozarena was the runner-up to Vladimir Guerrero Jr. in the 2023 Home Run Derby.

Rays right-hander Drew Rasmussen, a first-time All-Star, is replacing Angels left-hander Yusei Kikuchi, who is scheduled to start Saturday night at Arizona. Rasmussen is 7-5 with a 2.82 ERA in 18 starts.

San Diego added a third NL All-Star reliever in lefty Adrián Morejón, who replaces Philadelphia starter Zack Wheeler. The Phillies’ right-hander is scheduled to start at San Diego on Saturday night. Morejón entered the weekend with a 1.71 ERA in 45 appearances.

Sports

M’s Raleigh hits 2 more HRs, brings total to 38

Published

3 hours ago

July 12, 2025

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M's Raleigh hits 2 more HRs, brings total to 38

ESPN News Services

Jul 11, 2025, 10:40 PM ET

DETROIT — Cal Raleigh hit his 37th and 38th home runs in Seattle‘s 12-3 victory over Detroit on Friday night to move within one of Barry Bonds’ 2001 major league record for homers before the All-Star break.

Raleigh hit a solo homer off former teammate Tyler Holton in the eighth to tie the American League record of 37 before the All-Star break set by Reggie Jackson in 1969 and matched by Chris Davis in 2013.

“[Holton] and I are really good friends, and I’ve caught a lot of his pitches,” said Raleigh, who was in the lineup as the designated hitter instead of at catcher. “I don’t think that helped much, but I’m sure he’s not very happy with me.”

Raleigh hit a grand slam off Brant Hurter in the ninth.

“I didn’t even know it was a record until just now,” Raleigh said. “I don’t have words for it, I guess. I’m just very grateful and thankful.”

It was Raleigh’s eighth multihomer game this season, tying Jackson (also in 1969) for the most such games before the All-Star break in MLB history, according to ESPN Research. He also tied Ken Griffey Jr. for the most multihomer games in Mariners franchise history.

Seattle has two games left in Detroit before the break.

“Cal Raleigh … this is just unbelievable,” Mariners manager Dan Wilson said. “He’s already set the AL record and now he’s only one short of Barry. There are two games, so who knows?”

Raleigh hit 10 homers in March and April, 12 in May, 11 in June and has five in July.

“This is a very boring comment, but baseball is all about consistency,” Wilson said. “This hasn’t been one hot streak, he’s doing this month after month. That says everything.”

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Sports

Bellinger goes deep for 3rd time after Cubs rob HR

Published

3 hours ago

July 12, 2025

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Bellinger goes deep for 3rd time after Cubs rob HR

Associated Press

Jul 11, 2025, 10:11 PM ET

NEW YORK — Robbed an inning earlier, Cody Bellinger wasn’t sure his first three-homer game had been swiped away again.

“I didn’t know at first,” he said. “For that third one to finally get over feels pretty good.”

Bellinger hit three two-run homers against his former team and was denied a fourth by a spectacular catch, leading the Yankees to an 11-0 rout of the Chicago Cubs on Friday night.

Aaron Judge made a trio of outstanding grabs in right field for the Yankees, who have won five straight games following a a six-game losing streak.

Bellinger, whose dad Clay played for the Yankees from 1999 to 2001, is a two-time All-Star and 2019 NL MVP.

He spent 2023 and 2024 with the Cubs, hitting .266 with 18 homers and 78 RBIs in 130 games last year while missing time because of a broken right rib. The Cubs traded him to New York in December with $52.5 million remaining on his contract and agreed to pay the Yankees $5 million.

He homered in a three-run third off Chris Flexen and in the fifth against Caleb Thielbar for this 18th multihomer game. Bellinger nearly went deep in the seventh but was robbed by Kyle Tucker on a drive above the right-field wall.

“I was watching it. He timed it up perfect, so I was a little sick about it, honestly,” Bellinger said. “But it was a good catch.”

“Boys were giving me a hard time after he robbed it. Boonie was giving me hard time,” Bellinger added.

A four-time All-Star and a Gold Glove winner, Tucker snatched the ball as a fan tried for it, the spectator clasping both sides of the outfielder’s glove.

“I caught the ball and he caught my glove, so I figured even if I dropped it they’d probably look at it and get it overturned,” Tucker said. “I’ve probably had some encounters with me trying to go into the stands and catching a ball and me hitting someone’s hand or whatever but I don’t know if anyone’s ever actually kind of caught my glove while doing it.”

Bellinger homered in the eighth off Jordan Wicks, just above the red glove of leaping center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong and into the dark glove of a kid in the front row.

“The fan just beat to the spot,” Crow-Armstrong said. “He just had a better chance of catching it higher than I did.”

Bellinger, who had rounded first, watched and then smiled when he saw he had hit No. 3.

“Glad the fan caught it before PCA could grab it,” said Bellinger, who met the boy after and got the ball back. “I’ve seen PCA rob so many homers. He’s a freak athlete out there.”

Bellinger is batting .406 over a career-high 16-game hitting streak, raising his average to .285 with 16 homers and 54 RBIs.

He had spoken with his Cubs ex-teammates during batting practice.

“No, no, no revenge,” he said. “Honestly, ultimately it was just fun to be out there. I saw a bunch of guys I hadn’t seen in a while and I shared a bunch of good memories with them for these past two years.”

Jazz Chisholm Jr. and manager Aaron Boone encouraged Bellinger to emerge from the dugout for a curtain call.

“He was a little reluctant, but then the Bell-lin-ger” over the dugout got pretty loud. So I think he succumbed to it,” Boone said. “Belly’s loved being here and loved playing here in a meaningful place to him, going back to his childhood.”

Bellinger turns 30 on Sunday and can opt out of the final season of his contract this fall. With long balls and wide smiles, he seems to have found a home in the Yankees clubhouse.

He tried not to make much of getting the three homers against the Cubs, but Bellinger’s teammates could sense the significance.

“It’s always good to go against your old teammates that you spend a lot of time with, you know, you respect,” Boone said. “To perform right away against them I’m sure probably is a little cherry on top for him.”