My Fitness Beauty Routine
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I may not be partaking in the Summer Olympics, but I am currently training for the New York City Marathon, which feels like a global event in and of itself. My training plan officially kicked off last week, and I’m not gonna lie: it’s already kicking my ass. Going from zero to 10-plus miles a week can really rattle a routine.
This race isn’t my first rodeo (I’ve run a handful of half marathons in the past), but this is definitely the first time I’ve committed to running longer than 13.1 miles at one time. It’s also the first time I’ve had to actively worry about body acne and keeping extra hair ties and a bottle of hypochlorous acid mist (more on that soon) in my gym bag. Let me break down how I’m adapting to this big lifestyle change.
1. Skin Care: Whether I’m running outside or on the treadmill, I always wear facial sunscreen. (I love you, KraveBeauty Beet The Sun SPF 40 PA+++.) For my new-to-me outdoor runs—dear god, what am I going to do without AC?—I’m slathering on body sunscreen. I like Bask Sheer Moisturizing Sunscreen SPF 30 and Supergoop Play Everyday Lotion SPF 50, from the neck down. I also plan on adding a lip balm with sunscreen, like EltaMD UV Lip Balm Broad-Spectrum SPF 36, to my routine.
Now that I’m upping my mileage, I could be sweaty for an hour or more—and that can create a sticky environment that’s perfect for p. Acnes (the breakout-causing bacteria) to thrive. So after every workout, I spray a generous amount of hypochlorous acid mist all over my face, ear piercings, and down my neck for a quick cleanse without having to physically wash.
The ingredient is a weak acid (a.k.a. has a low pH level) with strong anti-bacterial properties. My favorite mists at the moment are the Prequel Universal Skin Solution Hypochlorous Acid Spray and the Tower 28 SOS Daily Rescue Facial Spray. I’ve also added Panoxyl Acne Foaming Wash, which is formulated with 10% benzoyl peroxide, to my shower routine.
2. Makeup: I…. don’t wear any! Not even waterproof mascara. I can’t risk having something drip into my eyes or smudge all down my face in the middle of a workout during the hottest time of year.
3. Hair: As someone who exclusively air-dries their hair and considers leave-in conditioner a styler, I’m not putting extra effort into my routine during training season. In fact, the only change I’m making is adding extra silk scrunchies (Slip's slim ties are my favorite—they don’t budge!) and a claw clip (Alo and Kitsch are my go-tos) to my gym bag.
4. Lifestyle: While I can’t bring my gym bag or my beloved Owala water bottle on my actual runs (water fountains are my new BFFs), I do wear my favorite all-black look: an Alo Wellness Bra and Biker Shorts, Asics running shoes, and my superworn Mets hat (yes, I’m a fan and I’m not sorry about it!). I’ve also upgraded my sock collection with super-cushy Nike crew cuts.
5. Tech: As for gadgets, I keep the Runna app on my phone open, my Apple Watch tracking my mileage, and a spicy audiobook on blast (don’t worry, no one but me can hear through my Bose noise-canceling, over-the-ear headphones).
Reader Question
What really helps with enlarged pores? I no longer have acne or oily skin, but have not found anything that really helps my pores. I've tried tretinoin and niacinamide. Is the only option finding a silicone-based primer/filler?
— asks Allure Reader Elizabeth
Dear Elizabeth,
Primer isn’t your only option! I recommend adding a salicylic acid-based product to your routine, which will not only treat and prevent breakouts, but will also deep-clean pores and decrease oil production. Two things that can ultimately minimize the appearance of pores in the long run.
Have a burning skin-care question? Send one in.
Editor's Pick
BEST LED MASK: TheraFace Mask
Made with 648 red lights to target fine lines and boost collagen production
Vibrates to massage pressure points on the face and scalp
Cordless and makes for a creepy yet really expensive Halloween costume
Quick Tip
If you ever find yourself in Paris (maybe for the Olympics?), find a local pharmacie and stock up on French skin care, especially sunscreen. SPF formulas in the E.U. are elegant and made with excellent filters. My favorite French sunscreens that you can’t find in the U.S. are from La Roche-Posay, Garnier, and Eau Thermale Avène.
Book Club
Not in Love by Ali Hazelwood
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ out of 5
Don’t date your coworkers—or fall in love with them. This spicy (like, really spicy—phew! 😮💨) story tells the tale of forbidden office romance and what it’s like to let yourself feel vulnerable to love for the first time. I loved this book so much I reread it immediately after finishing it.
Originally Appeared on Allure
