However, we’ve all been told that working out while wearing makeup is a skin sin (and a surefire way to get breakouts). But the best part about athleisure beauty is that you don’t need to worry about wrecking your complexion.
“It does not have to be a no-go, just primp wisely. I like powder-based products because they absorb oils and sweat and are non-comedogenic,” says Mona Gohara, MD, a dermatologist in New York City.
Over the past few years, athleisure has evolved from cute gym clothes to a full-blown lifestyle movement. And the latest trend to hit the activewear universe is workout-friendly beauty. From on-the-go wipes and mattifying balms to tinted cheek stains, skin care and makeup products created specifically with gym goers in mind are popping up everywhere. Similar to how a fun pair of leggings can make exercising feel a little more glam, athleisure beauty lines promise the same thing.
“These products are designed for the individual who has an active lifestyle. Products should offer convenience, a polished look, and they should hold up – and keep up – with you while you are on the move because of their high performance, sweat-resistant formulas that won’t clog pores,” explains Achelle Richards, Global Artistic Director at e. l. f. Cosmetics. Most products offer a happy medium between an obvious full-face of makeup and going completely bare, which is why they are ideal for going from barre class to the bar.
If mineral foundations aren’t your thing, look for skin tints that are oil-free. Clinique’s CliniqueFIT Workout Makeup Broad Spectrum SPF 40 ($29. 50, clinique. com) won’t clog pores and is humidity-proof. Whatever you do, though, just avoid any oil-based face products. “They tend to block the skin and trap sweat under your makeup, which could cause breakouts,” says Richards. Plus, when you get hot and sweaty your pores enlarge, which can lead to the oil from the makeup penetrating and irritating skin.
When it comes to other makeup must-haves, it’s all about being practical. “Less is more. I’ve come to rely on a few key products that I always have in my backpack to feel cute rather than wearing a full-face,” says Kate Champagne, a SoulCycle instructor based in DC. Sheer, breathable formulas, like e. l. f. Cosmetics’ Active Workout Ready Lip Cheek Palette ($8, elfcosmetics. com), are the best way to warm up your look and avoid a makeup meltdown.
Also, don’t forget about your eyes and brows: “One thing I’ve learned is that you need to make sure your eyebrows and lashes look good,” says Andi Prather, owner and instructor at barre3 Winter Park. “It’s the easiest way to look more put-together in class. ” Try using a growth serum for your arches and always use waterproof mascara. Tarte’s Lifted Sweatproof Mascara ($23, tartecosmetics. com) lengthens and volumizes so much, you’ll never go into an early morning class looking tired again.
On-the-go skin care solutions are another staple of athleisure beauty. Cleansing wipes, such as Arrow’s Refresh On The Go Cleansing Cloths ($8, birchbox. com), are an easy way to remove any makeup that could melt-off beforehand, and they can also be used to refresh your face and body afterwards. Hydrating mists and balms are popular products as well, since they replenish the moisture you lost without feeling too heavy. “Avoid facial creams and lotions since they can make it hard to stop sweating,” adds Champagne.
Want to check out more ways you can feel pretty while working out? Keep scrolling for some our favorite athleisure beauty products.
The Cheek Tint
ARROW REVIVE Cooling Cheek Tint ($18, birchbox. com)
The oil-free gel formula blends into skin to create a workout flush that you’ll actually want.
The Redness Reducer
Clinique CliniqueFIT Post-Workout Neutralizing Face Powder ($29, Clinique. com)
Or, nix unwanted rosiness with a color-correcting powder that also helps absorb excess oil.
The Cooldown
e. l. f. Cosmetics Workout Ready Hydration Stick ($8, elfcosmetics. com)
This multipurpose cooling balm can be used to soothe tired skin.
The Hair Reviver
Tarte Limited Edition Hair Goals Dry Shampoo ($19, tarte. com)
A gym-bag friendly bottle of dry shampoo soaks up sweat and perks up your ponytail.
The Mineral Must-Have
Sweat Mineral Foundation SPF 30 + Twist Brush ($42, sweatcosmetics. com)
This mineral foundation provides coverage and protects during outdoor sports. The reason you know it’s good? The brand was developed and tested by female Olympians.
