You've finished your workout, you're warm, sweaty and short on time. The last thing you want is a complicated routine in a busy changing room. But a few minutes of simple post-workout skincare can leave you feeling fresh for the rest of the day.
Here's what we keep in our gym bags, and the small habits that make the biggest difference.
Why post-workout skincare matters
When you exercise, you sweat, and sweat mixes with the oil, sunscreen and make-up already on your skin. Left on for hours, especially under a hat, headband or tight kit, it can leave skin feeling grimy and uncomfortable.
A quick cleanse and refresh straight after your session helps skin feel clean and comfortable again, whether you're heading home, back to the office or out for the evening.
Your post-workout skincare kit
You don't need a full bathroom cabinet in your bag. Three small essentials cover the basics.
1. A gentle face wash
Start with a cleanse to lift away sweat and the day's grime. Our Foaming Face Wash lathers easily and rinses clean, so it's quick to use in a changing room or at home.
How to use: wet your face with lukewarm water, massage a small amount over the skin, then rinse and pat dry with a clean towel.
2. A travel spray
If there's no time for a shower, or the queue is long, a light mist is a quick way to freshen up. Our 20ml Travel Spray is small enough for any pocket and fits hand luggage limits too.
How to use: hold a short distance from clean skin and mist lightly. Let it absorb, or wipe away any excess with a clean towel.
3. A lightweight gel
Finish with a little moisture. After a hot shower, skin can feel tight, but heavy creams can feel too much when you're still warm. Our Multi-Purpose Gel is light and fast-absorbing, with no greasy finish and a fresh citrus note from bergamot oil, so you can get dressed straight away.
How to use: smooth a small amount over clean skin on your face, body or hands until absorbed.
Your three-minute routine
|
Step |
What to do |
Product |
|---|---|---|
|
1. Cleanse |
Wash away sweat and grime |
Foaming Face Wash |
|
2. Refresh |
A light mist when there's no time to shower |
20ml Travel Spray |
|
3. Moisturise |
A light layer to finish |
Multi-Purpose Gel |
Gym habits that help your skin
The products are only half of it. These simple habits make a real difference too:
- Start with clean skin. Remove make-up before your workout if you can.
- Bring your own towel, and use a fresh one each session. Avoid sharing towels.
- Shower or cleanse soon after training, rather than sitting in sweaty kit.
- Change out of damp clothes as soon as you can.
- Wear flip-flops in shared showers and changing rooms.
- Wash your kit after every session, including headbands and gloves.
- Wipe down equipment before and after use.
- Drink water before, during and after exercise.
What else to pack
Alongside your skincare, a well-packed gym bag might include:
- A clean towel and a separate small face towel
- Flip-flops
- A spare pair of socks
- Hair ties and a brush
- Deodorant
- A small bag for damp kit
- A water bottle
Frequently asked questions
Should I wash my face straight after the gym? It's a good idea to cleanse as soon as you reasonably can after exercise, so sweat isn't left sitting on your skin for hours.
Is a gel or a cream better after exercise? Many people prefer a lightweight gel straight after a workout, as it absorbs quickly and doesn't feel heavy on warm skin. A richer cream can suit the evening or colder days.
What size products should I keep in my gym bag? Small and leak-proof is best, so your bag stays light and fits easily in a locker. Our 20ml Travel Spray slips into a pocket or side compartment, and a small gel or face wash is all you need for a quick routine before you head off.
Pack light and feel fresh after every session. Browse our Personal Care range, or save with our bundles.