ASK DR. RENÉE: THE SWEATY TRUTH ABOUT SKINCARE
Dr. Renée reveals some surprising secrets to help you sweat your way to radiant skin.
– KEYS SOULCARE
Whether you adore that dewy glow or dread the soaked and smudged makeup, sweat has impacted your skin — and confidence — at one point or another. (We’ve all been there!) But sweat holds remarkable secrets beyond appearances, and our in-house expert, Dr. Renée Snyder, is unveiling its transformative power on radiant-looking skin. From aiding detoxification, clogged pores, and skin irritation, we’ll explore how sweating can be your ultimate game-changer in the pursuit of skin health and happiness.
You might be thinking, “Sweat? Really?” Oh yes — sweating is the unsung hero of your skincare ritual. But the best part? Sweating goes beyond just skincare. The benefits of perspiration can enhance your mood and better your overall health in five surprising ways:
THE BENEFITS OF SWEAT #1: THERMOREGULATION
When the summer heat is on, your sweat takes the stage as the natural body-cooling superhero. As the water in perspiration evaporates from your skin, it cools you down, keeping you composed and fresh even on the hottest days. Thank your sweat for being your personal AC in those scorching moments!
Dr. Renée explains, “Sweating helps dissipate heat from the skin’s surface, effectively cooling down your body. So, the next time you’re out and about on a hot day, thank your sweat for keeping you cool and composed.”
THE BENEFITS OF SWEAT #2: DETOXIFICATION
Sweating is vital to aiding the detoxification of your body by helping to flush out impurities, excess oils, and harmful toxins through your pores. This cleansing process helps prevent clogged pores, reducing the chances of annoying blackheads and whiteheads.
Dr. Renée adds, “Sweat isn’t just about cooling you off; it also plays a role in detoxifying your body. Small amounts of heavy metals, urea, and other substances can be excreted through sweat, complementing the detoxification processes of your liver and kidneys. It’s teamwork, baby!”
THE BENEFITS OF SWEAT #3: SKIN HEALTH
Embrace sweat’s skincare superpower for a fresh, healthy complexion. Dr. Renée suggests, “As sweat is released, it can do wonders for your skin. By unclogging pores and removing impurities and dead skin cells, sweating reduces the chances of breaking out.”
Unplugging pores and saying goodbye to impurities and dead skin cells? Sweating can be your acne-free journey to clear skin paradise!
THE BENEFITS OF SWEAT #4: IMMUNE SYSTEM SUPPORT
Studies have shown that sweat can be an immunity booster. With skin being our first line of defense against infections and impurities, detoxifying perks of sweat would benefit you from the inside out.
Dr. Renée shared, “There is evidence that sweating supports the immune system by helping the body fight infection. It promotes the release of bacterial peptides that function to prevent the growth of other bacteria and fungi. Sweat it out to boost that immunity!”
THE BENEFITS OF SWEAT #5: MOOD BOOSTER
Say goodbye to stress and hello to happy vibes! Sweat is a synergetic stimulator. It helps reconnect the mind and body — making you feel more like you, but better. This is especially true if you’re participating in a sweat-making activity.
Dr. Renée adds, “Have you ever noticed how you feel so refreshed and happy after a good workout? That’s because sweating during physical exercise releases endorphins — the natural mood lifters.”
THE NOT-SO-GREAT SIDE OF SWEATING
Of course, with the good comes the challenges. The downsides to sweat are also real, and Dr. Renée warns there are several things you should watch out for:
- Clogging of Pores: “If sweat mixes with dead skin cells, bacteria, and makeup and isn’t washed off properly, it can lead to clogged pores. So, make sure to keep your skin clean and fresh!” says Dr. Renée. Soulcare tip? Keep skin clean and hydrated with our Golden Face Cleanser, made to leave you feeling fresh.
- Skin Irritation and Rashes: Excess sweating can sometimes cause skin irritation, rashes, and even infections. Heat rash, chafing, and intertrigo are some unwelcome guests that may show up uninvited.
- Fluid Loss and Dehydration: If you sweat excessively, you might lose too much fluid, leading to dehydration. You even sweat where you least expect and see it — including if you’re cannonballing into your pool. Drink plenty of H2O to stay feeling — and looking — your best.
- Increased Skin Sensitivity: Sweating can increase skin sensitivity for those with underlying skin conditions. Watch out for certain fragrances and preservatives that might trigger discomfort. (Choose something fragrance-free if you’re feeling unsure.)
Now that we know the wonders of sweat, Dr. Renée offers some expert tips to help you embrace it while taking care of your skin:
TIP #1: ANTIPERSPIRANT VS. DEODORANT
Debating how to stay confident and dry? Antiperspirants or deodorants can support you along the way.
Dr. Renée clarifies, “Deodorants are just perfumes. They do not stop you from sweating. They make you smell like a flower, sometimes a super gross one. An antiperspirant is a salt or mineral component that helps prevent or limit the secretion of sweat. Generally, aluminum or zirconium are the best ones to use.”
TIP #2: WEAR BREATHABLE CLOTHING
Dr. Renée advises, “Opt for breathable clothing that allows air circulation and moisture evaporation. This helps reduce skin irritation and rashes.” One of the best fabrics is 100% cotton, and whatever you choose, make sure it’s loose-fitting to allow for more air circulation.
TIP #3: TAKE COOL SHOWERS
Dr. Renée advises, “Avoid hot showers and baths as they can further dehydrate your skin.” Instead, after sweating it out, Dr. Renée suggests, “Take a cool shower to remove sweat and impurities, leaving your skin feeling fresh and clean.” (Psst…Make it a soulcare experience with our Renewing Body + Hand Wash and Mind-Clearing Body Polish.)
Keep sweating and keep shining! What sweat benefit surprised you most? Let us know in the comments!