Exercising while wearing make-up can harm skin health, according to a new study. The research, which involved 43 college students, found that wearing foundation during exercise can change the size of pores and the release of sebum, ultimately leading to negative effects on the skin.

During the study, participants were asked to wash their faces using cleanser before researchers analyzed skin variables, including pore size and sebum production. A single layer of foundation was then applied to either the cheeks or the forehead of the participants before they engaged in a moderate 20-minute workout.

After the workout, researchers observed a reduction in sebum production in the areas covered by foundation compared to the areas with no make-up. Additionally, pore size increased in areas without foundation, while there was no change in pore size in areas covered by foundation.

The findings suggest that make-up can restrict pores from enlarging and prevent sebum and sweat from being released. While the immediate impact may not be significant for those engaging in short periods of exercise, the researchers are interested in investigating the effects of wearing make-up during longer exercise sessions.

To gain a comprehensive understanding of the effects of wearing make-up during exercise, Shari Lipner from Weill Cornell Medicine in New York suggested that researchers should have studied all areas of the face, as skin characteristics can vary depending on the location.

This study, conducted by Sukho Lee and colleagues at Texas A&M University, San Antonio, sheds light on the potential negative consequences of wearing make-up during exercise. The researchers hope to further explore the long-term effects of make-up use during physical activity.

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