Should you take off your makeup pre-run?

Should you take off your makeup pre-run?

As we all know, being athletic and appreciating makeup are not mutually exclusive categories. And, while I don’t purposefully put on makeup before a early morning run, if I’m heading out in the evening after being out all day, I’m likely to have the basics (foundation, cover up, mascara or eyeliner) on.

To me, the thought of intentionally removing my makeup before working out has never crossed my mind. That’s more of a convenience thing – I can’t be bothered to remove it. In certain situations, like before a big race, I do intentionally put on some makeup as part of a “look good, feel good” mentality that helps me calm my nerves.

Making a habit of wearing makeup while sweating may not be a good idea though. Dermatologists are stating that wearing makeup, particularly facial makeup like foundation, can lead to the clogging of pores when sweating. While working up a sweat once a day can rejuvenate your skin, that only works if your skin can ‘breathe’ during your workout.

As far as eye makeup, sweat can lead to streaking if your mascara isn’t waterproof. This isn’t the end of the world, but you might look like the zombie-runner to passersby. And for blush? Well, that is probably the most unnecessary thing on a run. Ever.

To keep your skin as healthy as possible, make a habit of rinsing your face with a gentle cleanser before going for your run or to the gym. If you’re leaving straight from work or school, tuck a packet of cleansing wipes in your gym bag.

I’m going to start taking off my makeup before I work up a sweat. But on race days, you can bet I’ll still be putting it on. Getting psyched up is worth the possibility of a future pimple. Anyone else have a pre-race cosmetic routine?