Physical activity is considered only in the context to lose weight or improving the movement and flexibility in your body. With improved physical health, a big glow can be noticed on your face. Workout is intrinsically a stress reliever. Cosmetics can temporarily add some glowing texture to your face but the proper food and healthy lifestyle can promise lasting results for your skin and beauty.

A dermatologist Leslie Baurmann says that on the spot effects of exercise include “increased blood flow to the skin and increased lymph flow, which decreases eye puffiness.”

He further added, “Exercise has been shown to improve mitochondrial function, especially in skeletal muscle. We don’t know for sure that it has an effect on skin mitochondria, but it’s possible,”

1. Workout: To Gain Better Skin

Now let's explore further how we can get a better skin tone by following our workout routine.

1.1. Workout Results In A Change at Cellular Level

We know that each cell comprises mitochondria which is also named as the “PowerHouse” of the cell. A chemical Adenosine Triphosphate is generated (ATP) by the mitochondria which grant energy for cell functioning. ATP enhances the skin in the following ways:

• Stimulates Skin Metabolism
• Retains Moisture
• Rejuvenates Skin
• Gives Smooth, Glowing, and Pigmentation-Free Complexion
• Reduces Signs of Aging

As the age grows, ATP is generated less in the cell. Baumann says, “No medications or therapies have yet been shown to increase the number of mitochondria or restore them to their younger functional abilities.”

But the aging process can be reversed. According to the study published in the journal; Aging Cell, it reveals old-age athletes have the same functioning level of cells when compared with young persons.

In another study by Mark Tarnopolsky, it was mentioned that “ that skin from older athletes was healthier than that of older sedentary folks,”

Anti-aging is caused due to the thinning of the second layer called the dermis. During workouts, the IL-15 is released and according to the researcher “An increase in IL-15 is one factor that helps skin health.”

Ultimately this shows that workouts cause change at the cellular level. It improves cell functioning thus promoting a radiant texture and glow in the skin.

1.2. Promotes Healthy Sleep and Reduce Stress

It is evident from the various scientific studies that stress reliever hormones are stimulated during workouts in the gym. Observe how your mood changes after the workout. You feel relaxed and happy, some inner satisfaction is achieved. According to Harvard Health, exercises reduce the stress-generating hormones, cortisol, and adrenaline. The potential skin diseases from stress are:

• Psoriasis
• Atopic Dermatitis
• Acne
• Failure to Fight with allergens

The stress triggers the blood sugar levels, explains Baumann, “Increased blood sugar causes glycation, a process in which sugar binds to a protein such as a collagen and damages it. This leads to skin aging,”

So, workouts release stress which automatically guarantees better sleep. Good sleep not only works for glow on the skin or makes you look younger but it maintains physical and mental health.

2. Exercises that Improve Skin Robustness

If you want to improve your skin health with workouts then look for exercises that boost the functioning of the cells. In this regard weight and endurance training can work best for you.

2.1. High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT)

Whether you decide on HIIT or any other endurance workout, ATP stimulates dermal collagen production which enhances the elasticity of the skin. A wellness trainer and coach, Eva Redpath, shared that “Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body and is responsible for the strength and stability of body tissues.” The production of collagen supports our muscles, joints, skin, and bone health.

Collagen production may decline after the twenties which causes facial lines and wrinkles around the eyes. HIIT workouts are composed of short-term intense activities which incur the following positive changes in your body.

• Improve Body Power
• Grow Your Strength
• Fast Metabolism

Studies mentioned that HIIT workouts focus on collagen production to stimulate human growth hormone. You don't need to purchase heavy equipment or a gym membership to improve your skin conditions. Only you need to make up your mind, leave your comfort zone, and plan to execute the cycle which consists of physical activities like Push-ups, Pull-ups, Burpees, Squats, and Lunges.

Collagen can help to prevent cardiovascular diseases and improve heart rate. The improvement in blood flow automatically grants you glowing skin and effective working of the immune system. Collagen slows down the process of aging in the human body.

2.2. Yoga for Skin Care

All of us want perfect skin to look beautiful and young. Cosmetics results are temporary with many side effects but yoga has manifold benefits. One of the yoga experts Abhishek Otwai shares about the Trikonasana pose of yoga.

”The asana supplies more oxygen to your skin and hence the skin automatically feels refreshed and rejuvenated.”

The famous celebrity yoga expert, Samiksha Shetty says, “Yoga and skincare, both can be sometimes interlinked with each other. Since one of the benefits of doing yoga is getting a bright and healthy skin appearance. There are plenty of reasons which can cause one’s skin to get affected, that as an unhealthy gut and stress. Yoga may curb these health issues on the inside and impart a healthy radiant glow to your face.”

2.3. The Best Yoga Poses to Improve Your Skin

Let's check out how different yoga poses to improve your skin condition.

Dhanurasana (Bow Pose)

The Bow Pose of yoga exerts pressure on the abdomen to strengthen it. This physical activity improves the blood flow in the head and pelvic region. Following major changes in the body add glow to the skin.

• Strengthening of Reproductive System
• Accelerated Digestion Process
• Release in Constipation

This shows that the removal of toxins and strong gut health aids in the beauty of the skin.

Paschimottanasana (Seated Forward Bend)

Paschimottanasana is a perfect yoga for skin care. This physical activity releases tension in the lower back by stretching the spine, shoulders, and hamstrings. This Yoga pose is beneficial in the following aspects.

• Reduces Stress
• Reduces Dark Spots and Wrinkles
• Purifies Blood
• Diminish Pimple and Acne
• Improves Digestion

Adho Mukha Svanasana (Downward Facing Dog)

This asana is a whole body workout. It strengthens the upper body by lengthening the spine, calves, and hamstrings. The whole body is energized with the increased blood flow to your brain and face. The following major benefits attached to this yoga pose are:

• Improved Body Posture
• Improved Blood Circulation
• Core Strengthening

Matsyasana (Fish Pose)

Fish pose tends to bend your back and can be performed easily. It beats stress, anxiety and gives a natural glow to your skin. Following major benefits for the skin like:

• Improved Blood Circulation in the Head region
• Tones Skin
• Reduces Wrinkles
• Removes Dark Circles

Halasana (Plough Pose)

Halsana improves blood circulation in your body. The increased blood flow grants a soothing effect to your skin.

Samiksha Shetty says, “This pose is beneficial in inducing sleep or tackling insomnia considering the fact that poor sleep cycle is one of the major reasons behind bad skin conditions. All these positive effects of this asana reflect on your skin.”

This asana Revitalizes the skin by improving body functions like:

• Normal Blood Sugar
• Reduce Stress
• Stimulates Internal organs

Sarvangasana (Shoulder Stand)

The amazing benefits of this pose for your skin are:

• Remove Face Dullness
• Cures Acne and Pimples
• Reduce Wrinkles
• Tone Skin
• Add Glow

3. Post Workout Glow

No doubt after a workout there is a prominent glow on your face. The famous dermatologist Edidiong Kaminska says about the workout: "This provides oxygen and nutrients to the skin cells and clears impurities from the skin, creating a post-workout glow."

If you successfully manage your stress and sleep then a workout will automatically reduce your anxiety thus reducing your chances of skin diseases and infections.

3.1. How To Protect Your Skin During Workout

HIIT workouts and endurance exercises result in excessive sweating. The impurities clog pores and may cause skin problems like seborrheic dermatitis. Some preventive measures can save you from potential risks of skin infection.

Skin Makeup

Never think to apply any cosmetics on your face or skin before going for a workout. Cosmetics may cause adverse effects on your skin when mixed with sweat. Pores are clogged and heat during workout damages the skin. It's better to remove the makeup before your push-ups and pull-ups.

Apply Sun Block

If you are planning to workout during the daytime in the open air then remember to apply non-comedogenic sunblock to your skin. It keeps your skin safe from the ultraviolet rays of the sun thus eliminating the chances of tanning. You can wear sun-protecting clothes and keep yourself hydrated as lots of body water is lost during the process of calorie burn and sweating.

According to Rouleau, "moisture acts like a magnet in that it attracts other moisture and will always go to the driest area. So misting your skin will make the moisture within your skin evaporate out, leaving it tight, dry, and dehydrated."

Hygiene

Avoid using shared towels and equipment. If required, make sure to disinfect them to avoid the spreading of bacteria and viruses which may cause skin irritation. Use your own yoga mats for asanas.

Right clothing and shoes

Wear light color clothes that absorb less heat. Look for synthetic fabric that soaks sweat, prevents clogging, and cools down your entire body temperature. Wear comfortable shoes which give extra protection to your feet.

3.2. How to Protect Your Skin After Workout?

After cooling down your body temperature some extra effort is required to save your skin. The special ingredients for this purpose are:

Cleansers

Cleansing is essential for deep exfoliation as well as for the production of excess oil which causes pimples and acne. The cleansers consist of salicylic acid which inhibits the harmful effect of bacteria, kills body odor, and removes white and blackheads. Otherwise, an immediate luke water bath after a workout is enough for skin protection.

Deodorants

Deodorants have the property to reduce sweating and odor. They are effective before and after workouts and labeled as clinically safe items.

4. How Do Models Keep Their Skin So Clear?

As we grow, our muscles lose their strength and elasticity. To gain skin-like models you can perform face yoga. But remember that consistency is the key to achieving the desired goals. Incorporate the following face yoga style in your daily routine.

4.1. Smiley Yoga. The letter “E”

Pull the corners of your mouth outward that seem like you are saying the letter E. This activity will stretch your muscles around your mouth thus preventing sagging of the skin. Your skin will be perfectly toned by practicing this yoga exercise 5 times daily for 10 secs.

4.2. LIfting Corrugator Area

Place your index finger firmly on the corrugator muscle right between your eyebrows and raise your eyebrows up and down each for 10 secs. Repeat 5 times a day. This physical activity will improve your eyes health.

4.3. The Thinker

Make a fist and place your chin on it. Apply upward pressure with your fist. Open and close your mouth about 10 times while applying pressure. I bet, noticeable effects are going to appear on your face.

4.4. Cheek Burpees

With your right hand, stretch the right side of your face skin. While stretching, inhale the air and then exhale towards the left side. The harder the stretch the higher the impact will be. Repeat 10 times and watch the difference. Repeat the same style on the left side of your cheek.

4.5. Eye Squinting

Squint your eyes to focus on some point at your distance. Pause for three seconds and then widely open your eyes. Repeat the activity again at least 5 times. Squinting your eyes and then opening widely as if you are surprised to watch something horrible.

5. Conclusion

Workout boosts collagen production that ultimately enhances bone and skin health.   It slows down the aging process and enhances the liveliness not only on your skin but on the internal organs of the body. Despite all the revolutions of inventions and technological rift of the 21st century, there is nothing clinically approved that can reproduce the decayed cells in the body and skin structure, especially after a certain age. But yoga and other exercises are universally acknowledged for their anti-aging benefits and overall well-being of the body, mind, and soul.