Besides helping you stay toned, fit, and energized, regular exercise offers multiple benefits for your skin. Exercise increases circulation and delivery of oxygen and nutrients to your skin cells. It also helps increase the natural production of collagen, the connective tissue that supports your skin to prevent sagging and wrinkles.
Even sweat itself can be beneficial-especially for those with acne. When you perspire, dirt and oil are pushed up and out of the pores, eliminating the substances that acne-causing bacteria feed on. Of course, it's important to shower away perspiration as soon as possible after exercising, to avoid trapping oils and dirt underneath the dried sweat.
What's more, while exercise can't eliminate cellulite, it can help reduce its appearance. Keeping your body trim and toned reduces the underlying body fat that pushes out cellulite, making it more visible. Regular physical activity also enhances the antioxidant defense system. Antioxidants help protect the skin from the damaging effects of free radicals, such as fine lines, wrinkles, and other premature signs of aging.A recent study in older adults found that regular exercise may speed up the wound-healing process by as much as 25%. Researchers believe the stress of exercise produces higher levels of cortisol, a hormone associated with skin healing.
And finally, nothing beats the healthy, rosy glow of your skin after a great workout. Just think of it as Mother Nature's complimentary "makeover!"
References:
- Nieman, DC. You Asked For It: Question Authority. ACSM'S Health & Fitness Journal. 2006;10:5-6.
- Emery C, et al. Exercise accelerates wound healing among healthy older adults: a preliminary investigation. J. Gerontol. A Biol. Sci. Med. Sci. 2005; 60:1432-1436.
