Could Your Wellness Routine Be Ruining Your Skin?

Marisa Arredondo, founder of Phace Bioactive Skincare, knows firsthand how wellness trends can impact the skin. "If you must do long heated workouts, I suggest starting makeup-free and cleansing with a pH-balanced cleanser," she advises. Arredondo emphasizes that while exercise has numerous benefits, certain practices like hot yoga, dance cardio, and infrared saunas can compromise the skin barrier. She recommends applying moisturizers with zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, and iron oxide to help block infrared heat and protect the skin. "Apply pH-optimized products to maintain a healthy skin barrier," she adds, reinforcing the importance of post-workout skincare to combat potential damage.

Marisa Arredondo isn't alone in highlighting these concerns. As board-certified dermatologist Dr. Melissa Levin explains, "In the winter, the air humidity dips significantly, coupled with cold outside weather, hot showers, and heaters—all of which dry out the skin and further damage the skin barrier." This makes it essential to reassess skincare habits, especially those that might seem beneficial but could actually be causing harm.

The Impact of Chemical Peels and Lasers on Skin Health

Some wellness advocates have raised concerns about chemical peels and laser treatments, claiming they strip the skin of essential fats, lipids, and ceramides. However, experts agree that these treatments, when done correctly by professionals, can be highly effective. Peels help with hyperpigmentation and decongestion, while laser treatments like Fraxel stimulate collagen production for long-term benefits. For those hesitant about these options, alternative treatments such as radiofrequency and ultrasound technology offer non-invasive ways to improve skin texture and elasticity.

The Heated Debate: How Infrared and High Temperatures Affect Skin

Emerging research suggests that excessive heat exposure can trigger melanocytes, leading to hyperpigmentation. A study from Seoul, Korea, indicates that heated activities three times a week for 30 minutes can have adverse effects. "No one is suggesting that exercise is bad for skin—it manages cortisol levels and controls blood sugar," says Arredondo. "But for those with hyperpigmentation, rosacea, eczema, or sensitive skin, precautions should be taken."

To minimize heat-related skin damage, Arredondo advises cooling the skin as quickly as possible post-workout with a cold shower or compress. "Drink lots of lemon water—it’s alkaline and supports your pH balance internally," she suggests. Experts like Dr. Levin recommend using cooling products with hyaluronic acid and ceramides, such as Dermalogica Calm Water Gel, and avoiding occlusive moisturizers like petroleum-based creams that trap heat.

Antioxidants: The Secret Weapon for Skin Protection

Antioxidants play a crucial role in defending against oxidative stress caused by exercise and environmental factors. Marisa Arredondo highlights the benefits of topical and dietary antioxidants: "Incorporate vitamin C serums and supplements like Heliocare to counteract free radical damage." Other dermatologists support the use of antioxidant-rich skincare, such as SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic and Phace Bioactive Illuminating Serum, to protect and repair the skin.

For winter skincare, hydration is also key. Hyaluronic acid serums like Osea Hyaluronic Sea Serum provide deep hydration, while zinc-based sunscreens, such as Isidin Actinic Ultralight Emulsion, offer sun protection with additional reparative properties.

Conclusion: Balancing Wellness and Skin Health

While a wellness-focused lifestyle is beneficial, it's essential to recognize how certain habits may affect the skin. Marisa Arredondo and other skincare experts emphasize that simple adjustments—like using protective skincare, cooling down after workouts, and incorporating antioxidants—can help maintain a healthy skin barrier. By making informed choices, you can ensure that your wellness routine enhances, rather than harms, your skin.