I’m a huge fan of going to the gym, especially after work, to boost my mood and let off a little steam.
We all know it’s not the smartest idea to work out with a full face of make-up (resulting in a few breakouts and blackheads), but recent studies show that at least 40% of women will wear make-up to the gym.
Image: iStock
Whether it’s a full face, a lick of mascara or light hint of foundation, I’ve put together my top tips and buys for looking and feeling your best:
Control Shine
Primer helps your foundation last longer by smoothing out the skin and preventing any excess oils reaching the surface, it does the same for sweat – trapping it all below the surface. Try Max Factor Face Finity All Day Primer, R209,95 for 30ml.
Not a primer fan? The Body Shop Tea Tree Mattifying Lotion, R120 for 50ml, is light, non-greasy and will be your instant shine patrol.
READ MORE: How To Get Perfect Skin
Prevent ‘Panda Eyes’
You know once you’ve had a good cry and taken off all your mascara? Sweating can do the same as little droplets lightly sit on our lashes. Save yourself the trouble of looking overtired, or spending time scrubbing your lids, by investing in a fab waterproof mascara.
Essence All Eyes On Me Waterproof Mascara, R44,95, and Clinique High Impact Waterproof Mascara, R275, don’t budge!
No More Lipstick Bleed
Very little women actually wear lipstick while they train, simply because it’s a hassle to touch up every hour. For a light flush on your pout, tinted lip balms work best, and are super moisturizing too! I love Lip Ice Lip Balm Cherry, R15.85, and Maybelline Baby Lips Lip Balm in Pink Punch, R39.95.
Goodbye Foundation Fade
Foundation can be a little heavy on the skin, especially when it comes to a full body workout. I know if I go ‘bare-faced’, my confidence instantly drops, and I become insecure. I’ve found using either a BB or CC cream does the same job as a foundation, but lets my skin breathe and isn’t as heavy. You won’t find me without Clarins BB Skin Perfecting Cream, R455 for 45ml, and Bobbi Brown CC Cream, R520 for 40ml. The perfect cover with a lasting finish.
A few added extras to pop in your bag:
- Wet wipes (no-one likes the feel of a dirty face) – Johnson’s Daily Essentials Refreshing Facial Cleansing Wipes, R49,95 for 25 wipes
- Misting spray (it’s super refreshing) – Inglot Refreshing Face Mist, R229 for 50ml
- Hair brush (to smooth out and style) – Dischem Folding Hair Brush With Mirror, R14,95
PLUS: 8 Items Every Woman Should Have In Her Make-Up Bag
