olive-tatiane-FuKz3TatmMY-unsplash

Have you thought about how much your [hands](https://aedit.com/concern/aging-hands) withstand daily? The skin on the hands is exposed to the damaging effects of the sun, harsh climates, weather changes, and constant washing. But unlike, say, the face, it seldom receives the level of care and attention it deserves. “We have become masters at protecting our faces, but our hands often are forgotten,” says [Joshua Zeichner, MD](http://www.zeichnerdermatology.com/), a board certified dermatologist in New York City. As a result, the hands are one of the first areas of the body to [show signs of aging](https://aedit.com/aedition/what-you-need-to-know-about-hand-rejuvenation) (think: fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots, and dryness).

So, how can you slow down or, better yet, prevent the damage? Much like your facial skin and sun care routine, your hands would benefit from products with protective and corrective ingredients. And, thanks to innovations in [hand creams](https://aedit.com/aedition/dermatologist-approved-hand-creams-for-dry-skin), getting a dose of prevention is easier than you might think. Ahead, everything you need to know about cultivating an anti-aging hand care routine.

## **How the Hands Age**
“The skin on the hands sure takes a beating since we use our hands every day, all day,” says Purvisha Patel, MD, a board certified dermatologist and founder of [Visha Skincare](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.vishaskincare.com%2F). In addition to being put through the very drying rigor of frequent washing and sanitizing, it’s easy to forget that the backs of our hands experience year-round exposure to the sun (you can thank driving, walking, and just about every other daily task for that one). 

Sun damage isn’t reserved for the skin on your face. “Between [typical] collagen breakdown and environmental exposure of the elements to the skin of the hands, collagen can break down and affect the hands’ age,” Dr. Patel explains. And then there is the genetic component of aging. Dr. Patel notes that you should look at the hands of your family members to have an idea of how yours will age.

## **Signs of Aging on the Hands**
[Uneven skin tone](https://aedit.com/concern/uneven-skin-tone) and [uneven skin texture](https://aedit.com/concern/uneven-skin-texture) are the two most common signs of aging on the hands. They manifest as: 

- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Crepey skin 
- Dark spots
- Dullness
- Dryness

While Dr. Zeichner notes that “sun damage and environmental exposure” are behind the skin tone concerns, there is another factor at play when it comes to skin texture. “Just as we lose volume in our faces, we also lose it in our hands,” he explains. “This leads to prominent appearing blood vessels and wrinkly hands.” The culprit? That pesky collagen breakdown we mentioned earlier. “As the collagen thins, the skin thins, making the vessels and tendons of the hands stand out more,” Dr. Patel shares.  

## **How to Prevent Skin Damage on the Hands** 
We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again: Prevention is far easier than correction. The best way to keep your [hands looking youthful](https://aedit.com/aedition/aesthetic-treatments-for-aging-hands) is to care for them the way you care for the skin on your face. A consistent skincare routine for your hands will help to stave off signs of aging and damage, and that means a separate approach for day and night. 

For starters, choose a sunscreen-infused hand cream for daytime. “Wearing [sunscreen](https://aedit.com/aedition/best-sunscreens-of-2021) that has at least SPF 30 whenever outside will help to prevent aging of the hands,” Dr. Patel says. “Photoaging of the hand is preventable — but takes work.” Needless to say, your protective hand cream needs to be reapplied throughout the day. Our tip? Put more on every time you wash your digits.

When it comes to your evening hand care routine, the anti-aging power players our experts recommend are sure to look familiar. "[Retinol](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-vitamin-a-retinol-retinoids-in-skincare) is a wonderful ingredient to help with cell turnover and boost collagen production,” Dr. Patel shares. That means smoother skin. “Stimulating ingredients, like retinol, can help strengthen the skin and improve the appearance of crepiness,” Dr. Zeichner says. Additionally, “antioxidants — such as [vitamin C](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-topical-vitamin-c-in-skincare), [vitamin E](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-topical-vitamin-e-in-skincare), and [ferulic acid](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-ferulic-acid-in-skincare) — and [niacinamide](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-topical-niacinamide-vitamin-b3-in-skincare) help prevent skin damage," Dr. Patel notes.

### **Anti-Aging Hand Cream Ingredients:**
- Antioxidants (think: vitamin C, vitamin E, ferulic acid)
- Niacinamide
- Retinol
- SPF

If there ever was a time to DIY your own skincare, now is it. You can boost any hand cream’s anti-aging benefits simply by mixing in your favorite serum, oil, and/or sunscreen (and don’t forget to always massage any excess product you have from applying your facial skincare routine into the backs of your hands). Dr. Patel recommends her [Visha Skincare Advanced Correcting Serum](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.vishaskincare.com%2Fcollections%2Fadvanced-skin-care%2Fproducts%2Fadvanced-correcting-serum-with-illuminotex) because it contains a host of actives that “help brighten sunspots” and “prevent and reverse signs of aging” — from head to hand.

## **The Best Anti-Aging Hand Creams**
Now that you know what you need to keep your hands in tip-top shape, you may be looking to up your hand care game. Below are some hand creams that fit the bill:

### **Supergoop! Hand Screen SPF 40**
![AEDIT-Supergoop](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/1f7KJMkuypbCDRFcodGn8H/74c73b2378c0dc7c442e2c1bcafd23ca/AEDIT-Supergoop.jpg)
Just as you don't leave the house without your [hand sanitizer](https://aedit.com/aedition/dermatologist-tips-for-using-hand-sanitizer), you shouldn't leave the house without a protective hand cream. Antioxidants complement the broad spectrum SPF 40, while sea buckthorn fruit extract, meadowfoam seed oil, and argan oil leave the skin smooth and supple — but never greasy. $38, [supergoop.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fsupergoop.com%2Fproducts%2Fforever-young-hand-cream-with-sea-buckthorn-sunscreen)   

### **Algenist GENIUS Liquid Collagen Hand Cream**
![AEDIT-Algenist](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/2XFWXcp9WmIhZGQ2dh5xSf/e86e8d7422efa03824f56a589d5e0ac6/AEDIT-Algenist.jpg)
This cushiony cream features the brand's proprietary vegan collagen and alguronic acid to plump the skin, glycerin and shea butter to boost moisture, and antioxidants to improve the appearance of dark spots and dullness. $38, [algenist.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.algenist.com%2Fproducts%2Fgenius-liquid-collagen-hand-cream) 

### **Juice Beauty Green Apple Age Defy Hand Cream**
![AEDIT-JuiceBeauty](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/4dVMPIUjKzV20y1VFAykS/171d69870c26e7b93515966cc9a1a5ff/AEDIT-JuiceBeauty.jpg)
This jack-of-all-trades moisturizes, brightens, and tightens tired mitts thanks to a nourishing blend of jojoba and sunflower oils, vitamin C, fruit acids (i.e. malic acid from, you guessed it, organic green apple), and peptides. $12, [juicebeauty.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fjuicebeauty.com%2Fproducts%2Fgreen-apple-age-defy-hand-cream) 

### **PCA Skin C&E Hand Renewal**
![AEDIT-PCASkin](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/2hi42nAe3e0GqRUFOiCape/77e5e1a8a21d3c67c24fb12fa8e59ba6/AEDIT-PCASkin.jpg)
Let's get this out of the way: This hand cream is a splurge. But, if you are looking for a formula that packs a serious anti-aging punch, this one pairs 10 percent l-ascorbic acid (read: vitamin C) and 5 percent tocopherol (i.e. vitamin E) with [backuciol](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-bakuchiol-in-skincare) (a gentle alternative to retinol) and hexylresorcinol (a brightening compound) to improve tone *and* texture. $80, [dermstore.com](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dermstore.com%2Fpca-skin-c-e-hand-renewal-30-oz%2F12661032.html)   

### **La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Hand Cream**
![AEDIT-LaRochePosay](//images.ctfassets.net/zw35sfestf1t/2dvOC0xli5ImarKkTBX8bk/42de59e4194ab102608eaa232bde8420/AEDIT-LaRochePosay.jpg)
If dryness is the source of your aging hand concerns, look no further than this ultra-soothing balm. Niacinamide reinforces the skin barrier, while shea butter, glycerin, and mineral-rich thermal spring water hydrate for up to 48 hours. The best part? It’s quick-absorbing despite its rich texture. $10, [laroche-posay.us](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.laroche-posay.us%2Fface-and-body-skin-care%2Fbody-care%2Fhand-cream%2Fcicaplast-hand-cream-for-dry-hands-damaged-hands-3337872414145.html) 

*All products featured are independently selected by our editors, however, AEDIT may receive a commission on items purchased through our links.*

Beauty

The short answer is yes. Like your face, the skin on the hands would benefit from products that feature protective and corrective ingredients. Here’s how to curate an age-defying hand care routine.

Best Anti-Aging Hand Creams

Should Your Hand Cream Have Anti-Aging Benefits?

apostolos-vamvouras-N6eI84t9 aY-unsplash

When it comes to our bodies, you’ll be hard pressed to find anyone who is perfectly symmetrical. These asymmetries can be due to genetics, skeletal conditions, or overuse of muscles on one side compared to the other, and, for some patients, the degree of difference is significant enough for them to seek out a way to even things out. Read on to better understand how cosmetic procedures can address asymmetries from both provider and patient perspectives.

## **What Causes Body Asymmetries**
Body asymmetries are the rule, not the exception. “I have yet to meet a patient who is completely symmetric — asymmetry is a fact of life,” says [Gregory Buford, MD](https://aedit.com/provider/gregory-buford-md-1015), a board certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon in Lone Tree, CO. “Complete symmetry actually is often less attractive than a little asymmetry, but, like anything in life, it's all about balance. A little difference can look nice while severe asymmetry does not.” 

While asymmetry can exist anywhere on the body, it is more common in some areas than others. “The majority of women have some degree of breast asymmetry,” says [Umbareen Mahmood, MD](https://aedit.com/provider/umbareen-mahmood-md-23), a board certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon in New York City. “Many people also have asymmetry in their hips and shoulders, buttocks, legs, and hands.” 

People with anatomical or structural asymmetries may experience differences in the appearance of one side of their body compared to the other because of genetics or conditions such as scoliosis. Functional asymmetries can occur for a variety of reasons, though they generally involve muscle imbalances either from overuse or because of the body having to over-compensate (think: due to an injury). 

## **How to Treat Body Asymmetries**
Understanding balance, [proportion](https://aedit.com/aedition/plastic-surgery-results-are-about-proportion-not-perfection), and, yes, symmetry is key to any cosmetic surgery or procedure. “One of the most important components of evaluating any patient is recognizing asymmetries and trying to minimize them,” Dr. Mahmood says. As she explains, “asymmetry itself is not bad — it is inherent in every human being and is natural.” With that said, “it is important to recognize the variability, so that treatments can try to decrease them versus exacerbate them,” she notes.

One of the most obvious examples? The aforementioned breasts. “If a patient with breast or nipple asymmetry gets a breast augmentation with the same size implant, the asymmetry will be highlighted,” Dr. Mahmood cautions. With that in mind, it’s important to visit a board certified provider who will be able to evaluate the entire body and how these asymmetries relate to one another. To give you a better sense of what that entails, we’ve broken down a few of the most common treatment areas below:

### **For Breasts**
“I would say that the area where I see the most asymmetry is in the [breasts](https://aedit.com/concern/breast-shape-and-size),” Dr. Buford shares. “This difference can range from mild to severe and the patient may not even be aware of the difference until it is pointed out.” The goal, however, is not necessarily to create [a ‘perfect’ result](https://aedit.com/aedition/how-plastic-surgeons-balance-patients-cosmetic-surgery-desires-and-safety). “The art of plastic surgery and the opportunity is to try and even out this difference, although I emphasize to each patient that we will never achieve mirror image results,” he notes.

“I always tell patients, ‘breasts are sisters, not twins,’” Dr. Mahmood quips. Even so, your sisters may be a little too different for your taste, in which case there are an array of surgical procedures — from [breast augmentation](https://aedit.com/procedure/breast-augmentation-solutions) and [breast reduction](https://aedit.com/procedure/breast-reduction-and-revision-solutions) to [breast lifts](https://aedit.com/procedure/breast-lift-solutions) — that can be performed. In fact, the treatment protocol is anything but one-size-fits-all. “For the breast, it depends on what the asymmetry is,” she says. 

If your breasts are both “overly large or ptotic” (read: sagging), then “the treatment is a [breast reduction](https://aedit.com/procedure/breast-reduction) and/or [mastopexy](https://aedit.com/procedure/breast-lift)” (i.e. breast lift) “with more tissue removed from the larger side,” Dr. Mahmood explains. For patients who have volume asymmetries and prefer the size of the larger breast, “the treatment can be a [breast augmentation with implants](https://aedit.com/procedure/breast-augmentation-with-implants), [fat transfer](https://aedit.com/procedure/breast-augmentation-with-fat-transfer), or [combination of both](https://aedit.com/aedition/hybrid-breast-augmentation-with-implants-fat-transfer),” she shares. From there, the surgery and [recovery process](https://aedit.com/aedition/breast-augmentation-recovery-healing-process) is similar to that of any breast procedure. 

Additionally, it’s important to consider the chest as a whole. “In this area, it's not only about asymmetry of the breasts but also about asymmetry of the chest wall itself,” Dr. Buford explains. “It is not uncommon for a patient to have either pectus excavatum (concave chest wall) or pectus carinatum (convex chest wall) or both. Add scoliosis to this and the difference in the projection of the breasts becomes even more pronounced.” 

All of this should be taken into account when devising a treatment plan. “For the breasts, the sky's the limit,” Dr. Buford says. “I often use [different sized implants](https://aedit.com/aedition/how-to-get-the-most-natural-looking-breast-implants) to even out volume differences and can go as far as fat grafting to one or both sides to also aid in achieving greater symmetry.”  

### **For the Waist, Hips, & Buttocks**
Addressing waist and hip asymmetries is generally similar, in theory, to the breasts: reduce one side and/or make the other side larger. “Asymmetry in the hips and shoulders is often reflected in an uneven distribution of subcutaneous fat, with one flank having more fullness or one side of the posterior bra roll area being more pronounced,” Dr. Mahmood explains. In such cases, “[liposuction](https://aedit.com/procedure/liposuction) of the subcutaneous fat in the area that has more fullness can help minimize the skeletal asymmetries,” she notes.

If your backside is a cause of concern, volume can be restored via fat grafting or implants. “Asymmetry in the buttock can be addressed with gluteal augmentation with fat transfer and/or gluteal implant,” Dr. Mahmood says. [Fat grafting](https://aedit.com/aedition/why-everyone-is-talking-about-fat-grafting) procedures involve removing fat from a donor site (think: the low abs or flanks), purifying the tissue, and injecting it into the area you wish to enhance. The procedure is not an option for people with low amounts of body fat because there is not enough tissue to remove and transfer. The body metabolizes around 30 to 40 percent of the grafted tissue within the first year of surgery, but there is no risk of rejection. If this sounds like the makings of a [Brazilian butt lift (BBL)](https://aedit.com/aedition/brazilian-butt-lift-procedure-safety), it’s because the fat transfer techniques are similar.

[Gluteal implants](https://aedit.com/procedure/butt-augmentation-with-implants), on the other hand, are usually made of silicone (a firmer version than you’d find in breast implants). They are custom-fabricated to fit your body’s exact contours — ideal for patients looking to correct asymmetries. It should be noted that [butt enhancement procedures](https://aedit.com/procedure/buttocks-enhancement-solutions) do come with a rather significant recovery period that involves not applying pressure to the area for the first couple of weeks, so it is important to keep that in mind when considering your treatment options.
 
## **Patient Perspective**
Lara* grew up with scoliosis, which led to asymmetry of her shoulders, chest, waist, and hips. As she grew older, she decided she wanted to pursue cosmetic procedures to address some of them. Here, she shares her experience.

<Dialogue>
  <Question party={The AEDITION}>
    What led to you want surgery to treat your body’s asymmetries?
  </Question>
  <Response party={Lara}>
    I was diagnosed with scoliosis when I was 14, and it was the asymmetry of my waist that led to my mom consulting a doctor about my spine. After trying bracing, I ended up getting surgery to hold my spine in place and stop the curves from worsening, but the asymmetries remained. As much as I tried to take a body-positive approach to my appearance, I couldn’t get past the fact that I looked in the mirror and saw this very wonky-looking person. I ended up looking into cosmetic surgery and landed on a page about fat transfer, which sounded like it could work well for me.
  </Response>
  <Question party={The AEDITION}>
    What procedures did you have, and are you pleased with the results?
  </Question>
  <Response party={Lara}>
    I started by having liposculpting to fix the difference between my hips and waist on both sides. That was the main concern I had since I was young. Before surgery, every dress with a marked waistline would sit wrong on me, and I would always wear cover-ups when I went to the beach with friends. Now, I can wear whatever I want and not have to think about whether it will flatter my extra curves or not. A year after my first procedure, I had a breast reduction procedure during which my surgeon reduced the asymmetry between my left and right side by removing different amounts of tissue. I would say the results from that procedure were less transformative, but I’m still thrilled that I had the procedure. I subsequently had [scar revision surgery](https://aedit.com/aedition/minimizing-scars-after-surgery) for my spinal fusion scar, too.
  </Response>
  <Question party={The AEDITION}>
    Do you have any advice for people considering treatments to resolve asymmetries?
  </Question>
  <Response party={Lara}>
    My first piece of advice is to talk things through with a therapist. I think people like me who have a complicated relationship with their bodies should be certain they are choosing to have surgery for the best reasons — and not simply because they think it will make them happier. Sure, my procedures made me less self-conscious, but surgery alone didn’t change my relationship with my body. Secondly, I would advise seeking out a surgeon or medical team who is experienced working with cases such as yours. The surgeon I went to was referred to me by a friend who also has scoliosis and had a procedure to reduce the appearance of a rib hump. I think there’s a certain level of artistry involved in cosmetic procedures, so finding someone who knew how to work with a non-traditional body shape was helpful in my case.
  </Response>
</Dialogue>

## **A Quick Note on Facial Asymmetries…** 
Completely symmetrical faces are as rare as perfectly symmetrical bodies, so having a certain degree of difference on each side of your face is normal. Generally speaking, facial asymmetries can be broken down into three main categories:

- **Structural Asymmetries**: These originate with the structure of the bones that form your facial features (think: a [crooked nose](https://aedit.com/concern/nose-angle)).
- **Functional Asymmetries**: These tend to become visible when you use your facial muscles and can have several different origins, including overuse, nerve damage, and scar tissue.
- **Asymmetrical Aging**: Changes in the rate of aging between one side of the face and the other can be due to a range of factors, including the way you sleep (here’s looking at you, side sleepers), uneven sun exposure from driving, and more.

As with body asymmetries, if you have concerns about the [proportion of your facial features](https://aedit.com/aedition/facial-harmony-in-aesthetic-medicine), it is best to consult with a board certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon. There are an array of surgical and non-surgical treatment options that will be able to address the overall balance and harmony of the face. 

*Patient’s name has been changed

Aesthetics

You’ll be hard pressed to find a body that is perfectly symmetrical, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t aesthetic treatments that can restore proportion. Here’s what you need to know.

Cosmetic Procedures To Treat Breast And Body Asymmetries

How Cosmetic Procedures Can Address Body Asymmetries

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A sweat session is great for the body and the soul. But, if it’s not followed by a skincare savior or two, it could lead to breakouts, [inflammation](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-inflammaging), and more – now your skin is the one doing the heavy lifting. While [acne](https://aedit.com/concern/acne) can manifest in different forms and sweat is not the root of all breakouts, experts recommend having a carefully curated post-workout regimen to reduce sweat and bacteria-induced skin concerns. So, whether you’re hitting the Reformer machine or heading out for a run, here’s what you should do to keep your skin in tip-top shape.  

## **What Happens to Your Skin During a Workout** 
“When you’re working out, your core body temperature rises, the oil glands  become more active, you sweat more, and all of that contributes to a build-up of dirt, oil, and debris,” explains [Michelle Henry, MD](https://www.skinaestheticsurgery.com/), a board certified dermatologist and founder of Skin & Aesthetic Surgery of Manhattan. “This allows for dirt to build up in your pores.” In fact, those effects linger long after your last rep. “Even after you’re done working out and sweating, your skin needs ample time to restore to its natural state,” explains Annabel Short Berroya, senior brand manager at [Lique Cosmetics](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fliquecosmetics.com%2F). 

Safe to say, the body is under a lot of stress during exercise, and the skin is not immune (flushed cheeks, anyone?). But your post-workout skincare regimen actually starts *before* you hit the gym. “I always recommend that your skincare routine begin before you work out,” Dr. Henry explains. Her recommendation? [Remove any makeup](https://aedit.com/aedition/best-makeup-removers-for-every-skin-type) or skincare products in advance to prevent additional build-up — especially for those who are acne-prone. But, if you’re heading outside, don’t use this as an excuse to skimp on [sunscreen](https://aedit.com/aedition/best-sunscreens-of-2021). “You can’t have healthy skin if it is burned and the barrier is compromised,” she cautions. 

## **What To Do After Your Sweat Session** 
Properly prepping the complexion pre-workout will set you up for success, but it’s important to be equally prepared for the immediate aftermath of your sweat-sesh, too. Here’s what you need to know and what you need to do when it comes to post-workout skincare. 

### **1. Pack It Up**  
If you’re not WOFH ([working out from home](https://aedit.com/aedition/best-fitness-classes-workouts-exercises-to-try-at-home)) and have plans post-workout, the best course of action is to pack a toiletry kit. No need to stash your whole vanity — just the key products that will keep you dewy, not sweaty. When examining which products to utilize in this time, ingredients are key. “Activated charcoal is a key ingredient for drawing out excess dirt, oil, and impurities from the skin,” explains Philip Taylor, founder of [Carbon Theory](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fus.carbontheory.com%2F%3Futm_content%3Dcountry-selector). “And [tea tree oil](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-tea-tree-oil-in-skincare) is an anti-inflammatory ingredient that can help minimize redness from the skin.” 

Carbon Theory’s products are formulated for those who are acne-prone or who have an active lifestyle and want to ensure their physical activities do not factor into their skin concerns. And they are also packaged with portability in mind. “I love the [Carbon Theory Breakout Control Facial Cleansing Bars](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fus.carbontheory.com%2Fproducts%2Fcharcoal-tea-tree-oil-cleansing-bar) because they are super light and you can transport them in the pouches they come in,” explains Morgan Brennan, a soccer player and founder of the [Victoria Park Vixens](https://www.instagram.com/victoriaparkvixens/). Her other must-have? Wipes, in the event that a shower may not be accessible or in the schedule (we’re fans of the [Yuni Shower Sheets](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fbluemercury.com%2Fproducts%2Fyuni-shower-sheets-large-body-wipes)).

### **2. Cleanse**
Yes, Dr. Henry recommends removing makeup prior to exercising, but you need to wash your face after, too. “After a workout, it’s important to [cleanse your skin](https://aedit.com/aedition/dermatologist-tips-for-applying-removing-makeup) with warm water to remove the sweat,” Taylor says. Doing so removes any “bacteria and dirt that may have built up during the workout,” he says. You can pick your cleanser based on your skin type. 

### **3. Exfoliate**
Cleansing alone won’t always do the trick. To properly get into the pores and remove the toxins, Dr. Henry recommends a chemical exfoliant. “Something with [salicylic](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-beta-hydroxy-acids-salicylic-acid-in-skincare), [glycolic](https://aedit.com/aedition/benefits-of-glycolic-acid-for-body), or [lactic acid](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-topical-alpha-hydroxy-acids-in-skincare) can help the skin cut back the oil and debris,” she explains. For those who are [acne-prone](https://aedit.com/aedition/difference-between-oily-and-acne-prone-skin), be gentle. “Your skin is going to be more prone to be inflamed, so you don’t want to be too aggressive just because you’re working out,” she cautions. If you have [sensitive skin](https://aedit.com/aedition/difference-between-sensitive-vs-sensitized-skin), Taylor suggests “waiting until the evening to use an exfoliator, as the skin can sometimes be more prone to irritation after a workout.”

### **4. Step It Up**
Whether it’s a hydrating dose of [hyaluronic acid (HA)](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-hyaluronic-acid-in-skincare-dermal-filler), a brightening [vitamin C](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-topical-vitamin-c-in-skincare), or a [peptide](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-topical-peptides-in-skincare)-powered serum, don’t forgo your usual skincare routine just because you worked out. If you’re the kind of person who starts their day with a sweat session, Dr. Henry says to follow it up with your [regular regimen](https://aedit.com/aedition/best-skincare-routine-products-ingredients-for-20s) — albeit with a few key exceptions. You may want to skip heavy oils or rich moisturizers that can clog the pores, especially in the warmer months. 

### **5. SPF**
We don’t need to remind you about the importance of [sunscreen](https://aedit.com/aedition/dermatologist-approved-sunscreen-for-face-body) in the morning (and throughout the day), but we'd be remiss not to tell you that it is perhaps the most integral part of any skincare routine. In addition to preventing [sun damage](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-actinic-keratosis) and reducing [skin cancer risk](https://aedit.com/aedition/dermatologist-skin-cancer-screenings-mole-checks), applying sunblock after exfoliation is key to counteracting the skin- and sun-sensitizing effects. “You can’t use your active products if your skin is compromised,” Dr. Henry notes. 

### **6. Don’t Forget About The Body** 
Of course, the [body is susceptible to breakouts](https://aedit.com/aedition/how-to-treat-prevent-body-acne) (hello, backne!), too, and that’s why Dr. Henry recommends using similarly exfoliating products to help prevent the build-up of sweat and debris. “Use the same principles as you would with your face and utilize the same chemical exfoliants,” she says, adding that it can also be beneficial to try [benzoyl peroxide](https://aedit.com/aedition/guide-to-benzoyl-peroxide-in-skincare) (just remember that bleaching element of the chemical compound can take the color out of clothing). Unlike the face, the body can handle a bit of gentle [physical exfoliation](https://aedit.com/aedition/best-ways-to-exfoliate-body-skincare-scrubs-dry-brush) as well. “I love light manual exfoliation,” Dr. Henry says. If you aren’t interested in bringing a loofah to the gym, Taylor suggests reaching for a product with natural exfoliating beads. 

Brennan admits that it may be tempting to skip the shower — particularly if the locker rooms are packed and you’ve got a schedule to abide by — but it’s not the way to go. “Some people just do their armpits or the main sweaty areas, but you have to remember how sweaty you were during that workout or match,” she says. A shower should always be factored into your overall routine.   

### **7. Change Your Clothes**
Last but not least, don’t forget to get out of your wet and, likely, compressive garments as soon as possible. Dr. Henry says to pack breathable, lightweight alternatives to change into. While we don’t condone skipping the shower, the simple act of [removing your sweaty clothes](https://aedit.com/aedition/how-to-treat-prevent-face-body-acne-in-the-summer) will help prevent breakouts, chafing, and the like. 

## **A Note About Post-Workout Beauty** 
Are you wondering about what your post-workout beauty routine should look like? Turns out, it’s fine to apply makeup after the gym — so long as you do your skincare first and pay attention to what you are putting on your face. “I suggest oil-free makeup post-workout,” Dr. Henry says.  

Although not all [beauty products feature skincare ingredients](https://aedit.com/aedition/skincare-ingredients-in-makeup) (nor do they need to), using makeup with hydrating, brightening, or soothing actives can help to extend your post-workout glow. “Adding products with ingredients such as cucumber extract, green and white tea, botanical extracts, and vitamin C will help calm and revive your skin, which ultimately helps deter redness, irritation, and breakouts,” Berroya says. The [Lique Active Beauty](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fliquecosmetics.com%2F) collection is full of multitasking balms, highlighters, mists, and BB creams that fit the bill.

For a quick hair refresh, waterless shampoo is your best friend. Any dry shampoo formula will do, but, if you struggle with the powdery product, we recommend [SWAIR Showerless Shampoo](https://go.skimresources.com?id=170670X1638612&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.swairhair.com%2Fproducts%2Fshowerless-shampoo-8-oz). Simply spritz it into your locks for a clean look and feel — sans suds, rinsing, or residue.

## **The Takeaway** 
Exercising takes care of your mind and body, but it’s important that you take care of your skin. We know it’s inconvenient to pack up your vanity, which is why we recommend focusing on a few key ingredients that cater to your skin type and concerns. Fortunately, there are more and more skincare and makeup products designed with workouts in mind.

*All products featured are independently selected by our editors, however, AEDIT may receive a commission on items purchased through our links.*

Wellness

Breaking a sweat is great for your overall health, but it may be damaging to your skin. From how to cleanse to what actives to avoid, here are the dos and don’ts of post-workout skincare. 

The Best Post-Workout Skincare And Makeup Routine

Here’s What Your Post-Workout Skincare Routine Should Be

Used in regenerative medicine that can be combined with PRP to treat hair loss and encourage hair growth and thickening.

Thinning Hair

Receding Hairline

Bald Spots

PRP has been used for hairless treatment and can also be combined with Acellular matrix to encourage better and longer lasting results. Acell is a porcine derived powder that has regenerative properties similar to stem cells. When combined with PRP concentrate, the serum can then be injected into the scalp to encourage hair growth. The PRP and Acell matrix helps to heal damaged hair follicles which in turn allows for more, and thicker hair growth. 

Before injection, a small amount of blood will be drawn from the patient’s arm. The blood will be placed in a centrifuge to separate the platelet rich plasma, or PRP. The PRP will then be mixed with the powder Acell product. The serum can then be injected into parts of the scalp that are experiencing hair thinning.

ACell and PRP Injections for Hair Loss

Hair Restoration

Hair

Head

ACell matrix, a porcine derived powder that is used in regenerative medicine, can be combined with PRP for hair loss treatment. This therapy helps to repair damaged hair follicles on the scalp and encourages hair growth and thickening.

ACell and PRP Injections for Hair Loss

The Skinny

About the Procedure

Concerns

Recovery Notes

Ideal Candidate

Not Recommended For

Side Effects

Pros

Cons

From the AEDITION

ACell and PRP Injections for Hair Loss

The Skinny

About the Procedure

Concerns

Recovery Notes

Ideal Candidate

Not Recommended For

Side Effects

Pros

Cons

Related Procedures

From the AEDITION