Happy Movement, Happy Skin.

Understanding the Link Between Physical Activity and Skin Health

Exercise does more than tone muscles and boost energy - it’s observed to be a powerful way to improve your skin. Movement increases blood flow, delivering oxygen and nutrients to skin cells while aiding detoxification. Regular physical activity also reduces stress, balances hormones, and promotes a natural glow.

How This Can Present on Skin

Enhancing Circulation: Improved blood flow nourishes skin cells, supports healing, and enhances the skin’s appearance.

Detoxifying: Sweating helps purge toxins from the skin, reducing clogged pores and preventing acne.

Balancing Hormones: Exercise regulates stress hormones like cortisol, reducing inflammation and skin flare-ups.

(Explore more in [Happy Hormones, Happy Skin].)

Boosting Collagen: Regular physical activity stimulates collagen production, maintaining skin elasticity and firmness.

Improving Sleep: Better sleep after exercise supports overnight skin repair, leading to a healthier complexion.

(Explore more in [Happy Sleep, Happy Skin].)

However, poor exercise habits - like wearing makeup while sweating or skipping post-workout skincare, can sometimes trigger breakouts or irritation.

Tips for Skin-Friendly Exercise

Go Bare-Faced: Cleanse your face before exercising to prevent clogged pores from sweat and makeup.

Protect with SPF: If exercising outdoors, apply broad spectrum UV protection to shield against UV damage.

(Explore more in [Happy Sun, Happy Skin].)

Hydrate: Drink water before, during, and after your workout to support your skin and body.

(Explore more in [Happy Hydration, Happy Skin].)

Shower Soon After: Sweat can mix with bacteria, so cleanse your skin and change clothes soon after exercising.

Wear Breathable Fabrics: Choose moisture-wicking materials to reduce irritation and chafing.

(Explore more in [Happy Home, Happy Skin].)

Stay Consistent: Enjoy regular, moderate movement to boost circulation, glowing skin, and overall well-being.

Need Extra Support?

Try free online workout videos, local walking or fitness groups, or beginner-friendly fitness apps to get moving in a way that suits you. For more tailored support, a personal trainer, physiotherapist, or movement coach can help. And if you have any health concerns or existing conditions, your GP can guide you on how to get started safely.

Is There Public National Guidance on the Effect of Exercise on Skin Health?

Not really. While many health professionals recognise the connection between exercise and skin health, this link is not prominently featured in national public health guidance. For instance, the NHS provides comprehensive advice on the benefits of physical activity for overall health, including reducing the risk of chronic diseases and improving mental wellbeing. However, it does not explicitly discuss the impact of exercise on skin health.

Emerging research suggests that regular exercise can have positive effects on certain skin conditions. For example, studies have indicated that exercise may help reduce inflammation and improve symptoms in individuals with psoriasis . Despite this, such findings have yet to be translated into widespread public health messaging or everyday advice.

The Skin Well™ believes this matters. Because when skin is left out of the exercise conversation, the public is left without the full picture.

Trusted Sources (Not a Complete Catalogue)

Here are some UK-based resources that provide insights into the relationship between exercise and skin health:

• NHS – Get Active
  Offers guidance on incorporating physical activity into daily life to improve overall health and wellbeing.
  https://www.nhs.uk/better-health/get-active/

• NHS – Strength Exercises
  Provides instructions for strength exercises that can be done at home to enhance health and mobility.
  https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/exercise/strength-exercises/nhs.uk

• Kingston Hospital – Psoriasis and Healthy Lifestyle Choices
  Discusses how lifestyle changes, including regular exercise, can help reduce skin inflammation in individuals with psoriasis.
  https://www.kingstonandrichmond.nhs.uk/patients-and-families/patient-leaflets/psoriasis-and-healthy-lifestyle-choicesKingston and Richmond NHS Trust

• Health Research Authority – Investigating the Benefits of Exercise in Patients with Psoriasis
  Summarises a study exploring how a structured exercise programme may reduce the severity of psoriasis and improve cardiovascular health.
  https://www.hra.nhs.uk/planning-and-improving-research/application-summaries/research-summaries/investigating-the-benefits-of-exercise-in-patients-with-psoriasis/Health Research Authority+1Kingston and Richmond NHS Trust+1

• Sport England
  Encourages people of all ages to engage in physical activity, offering tips and resources to get moving.
  https://www.sportengland.org/

Endorsements

This guide has been reviewed and verified by:

Name: Rachel Greenley

Title: Sports Specialist Physiotherapist

Registration Number: PH60858 (Health and Care Professions Council -  HCPC)

Position: Medical Liaison Officer

Organisation: The FA Premier League Ltd