‘Adult acne is the worst’: Kusha Kapila on how strength training became her secret to clearer skin
4/12/2024 - Updated 1:04:17 pm
Courtesy: The Indian Express
Acne, especially in adulthood, can stem from a variety of factors, including hormones, stress, and lifestyle choices.
Digital creator and actor Kusha Kapila recently opened up about her struggles with adult acne and how strength training has become an unexpected ally in managing her skin health. In a podcast hosted by Mira Kapoor, she said, “Strength training helps with my acne. If I do not work out for two weeks, I have a new pimple.” She continued, “Adult acne is the worst but when I was 29 I had this acne which I had no idea where it was coming from… until I found out that it was my hormones and PCOS (sic).” When asked if she had a cult favourite, she shared that while dealing with persistent breakouts can be frustrating, the "sweat glow" from regular workouts gives her skin a renewed vitality when other remedies fall short. “My cult favourite is just working out… when nothing works just that sweat glow is the best glow.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Skoda KushaK (@kushakapila_20) Acne, especially in adulthood, can stem from a variety of factors, including hormones, stress, and lifestyle choices. While skincare routines and medical treatments are common solutions, could exercise like strength training offer additional benefits? Dr Swetha Sridhar, consultant dermatologist and assistant professor at Lady Curzon and Bowring Hospital, tells indianexpress.com, “Hormonal imbalance is a major cause of adult acne, and exercise plays a pivotal role in regulating these hormones. High cortisol levels from chronic stress can trigger increased sebum production, leading to acne. Strength training reduces cortisol levels, helping to stabilise sebum production.” Insulin resistance can contribute to acne by increasing androgen activity, she says, which stimulates oil glands. Strength training enhances insulin sensitivity, reducing androgen spikes and preventing acne flare-ups. Exercise boosts endorphins, the ‘feel-good’ hormones, which reduce stress and its negative
impact on the skin. “For women, hormonal fluctuations during menstrual cycles often cause breakouts. Regular exercise helps regulate oestrogen and progesterone levels, mitigating these effects,” stresses Dr Sridhar. “A study published in The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology found that individuals engaging in consistent exercise had better skin elasticity and fewer inflammatory markers, which are common in acne. Strength training’s ability to regulate these factors makes it particularly effective for promoting clear skin,” says Dr Sridhar. Can sweating during workouts truly benefit the skin? Dr Sridhar explains, “Sweating during workouts can have both benefits and drawbacks for skin health, especially for individuals prone to acne. Sweat opens up pores and flushes out impurities like dead skin cells, dirt, and excess sebum that can clog pores and lead to breakouts.” Sweat carries dermcidin, she adds, a natural antimicrobial peptide that helps fight acne-causing bacteria on the skin’s surface. Precautions for acne-prone skin Dr Sridhar suggests the following: -Pre-Workout Preparation: Remove makeup or heavy skincare products before exercising to prevent pore blockage. Use a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser to prep the skin. -Post-Workout Cleansing: Wash your face immediately after exercising to remove sweat, oil, and bacteria. Use a mild cleanser with salicylic acid for acne-prone skin. -Avoid Touching Your Face: Gym equipment is a breeding ground for bacteria. Wiping sweat with dirty hands can introduce more irritants to the skin. -Breathable Clothing: Wear moisture-wicking fabrics to reduce sweat buildup and prevent body acne. -Hydration: Drink plenty of water to replenish lost fluids and maintain skin hydration. “While sweating is beneficial, neglecting post-workout hygiene can worsen acne by trapping bacteria and oil on the skin,” cautions Dr Sridhar.