What is ‘runner’s face’ and what do you need in your skincare kit to avoid it?

What is ‘runner’s face’ and what do you need in your skincare kit to avoid it? LARA OWEN has the answers.

Running is not only great for your physical health, but sweating can also help to flush out toxins and give your skin a fresh glow.

But having the right skincare is the difference between healthy, bouncy skin and clogged, congested pores.

So, doctors and skincare experts reveal the skincare essentials you need as a runner to maintain great skin throughout your training.

How running affects the skin

You may have heard of ‘runner’s face’, referring to sagging skin caused by long-term running.

This isn’t totally down to the high-impact effects of running though – sun exposure and other environmental pollutants can cause your skin to break down collagen and elastin more quickly, resulting in so-called ‘runner’s face’.

“Over time, repetitive impact and exposure to the elements, particularly UV and pollution, can take a toll on your skin,” explains regenerative skincare specialist, Dr Sheila Li.

“One of the biggest concerns I see in clinic is collagen degradation.

“Collagen is essential for maintaining skin’s structure and elasticity, and prolonged sun exposure during runs can accelerate its breakdown, leading to premature ageing, fine lines and a loss of firmness.”

However, Li says you shouldn’t have to choose between running and skin health.

“With the right protection and post-run care, it’s absolutely possible to preserve your skin’s natural glow.

“Antioxidant-rich skincare, broad-spectrum SPF, and collagen-ing supplements and injectables can make all the difference.”

Running essentials

Alongside headphones, sunglasses and a decent hydration pack – there are a few beauty essentials you should ensure you have in your running kit.

According to cosmetic dermatologist Dr Amiee Vyas, every runner’s skincare kit should include the following: “A gentle, sulphate-free cleanser to remove sweat, dirt, and pollution without stripping the skin, a high-quality SPF 50, a hydrating serum to restore moisture post-working out, and a barrier-repairing moisturiser to soothe and replenish the skin.”

You should first apply SPF in the morning and reapply several times before the race so it has had time to penetrate the skin.

An SPF that can be applied to wet skin is crucial, so be sure to look out for sports formulas, which are fast-absorbing and non-greasy.

Alongside SPF, reparative formulas are essential.

“I often suggest incorporating a collagen-stimulating product into your evening routine, such as a retinoid, as long as it’s used alongside appropriate hydration and sun protection,” says Li.

“Niacinamide is another great option,” says skincare expert and Clinicbe founder Dr Barbara Kubicka, “as it helps to reduce redness and strengthen your skin barrier.

“If you want hydration without heaviness, hyaluronic acid is your go-to, while green tea extract offers a natural anti-inflammatory boost.”

The ideal post-run skincare routine

The ideal post-run skincare routine doesn’t look drastically different to your everyday evening routine.

The important thing to after a run is to replenish.

Just like the rest of your organs, your skin needs nourishment and hydration.

“Begin with a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser, then apply a hydrating mist or essence to immediately soothe and rebalance the skin,” says Vyas.

“Follow this with a hydrating serum that includes ingredients like panthenol or niacinamide, which calm and the skin barrier.

“Finish with a lightweight moisturiser – and if you’re heading back outside, reapply your SPF.”

Ingredients such as peptides, hyaluronic acid and ceramides all seal in moisture helping you to maintain hydration – key if you’re doing a long run.

Exfoliating after a sweaty run is also important, but if you’re running every or every other day, you don’t want to overdo it and aggravate your skin.

Using an AHA and BHA once or twice a week will remove dead skin cells and keep excess sebum at bay.

What to do if you can’t wash your face straight away

If you’re taking part in any races this year, you’ll know that running to the bathroom straight after finishing is near impossible.

So what should you do if you’ve crossed the finish line, but still have a pub lunch to go before you can get home?

All experts advise against using harsh wipes or anything strongly scented – so avoid packing make-up wipes.

Instead, bring a travel-size micellar water and cotton pads.

“I recommend carrying a pack of gentle micellar cleansing wipes or a reusable cleansing pad pre-soaked with a micellar solution,” says Li.