Does running make your skin age faster?
Knack Weekend, 3 September 2024
Does lots of running give you a 'runner's face'? Dr Griet Voet in Knack Weekend on sun, free radicals and how to protect your skin as a runner.
The idea of a 'runner's face' is circulating online: people who run a lot would get wrinkles and sagging skin sooner. In Knack Weekend, Dr Griet Voet puts it into perspective. Scientific research on this is scarce, and the impact of running itself does not seem to age the face.
Other factors do play a part, though: runners often spend a long time outdoors in the sun, and UV radiation is a major cause of skin ageing. A low body weight can also mean less volume in the face. Moderate exercise is actually good for the skin and health, but exhausting exertion can release more free radicals. Dr Voet advises applying a high sun protection factor well before running, reapplying it regularly and cleansing the face after exercise.
Key advice
Apply a high sun protection factor well before your training session, preferably SPF 50.
Reapply every two hours and after swimming.
Cleanse your face after exercise to remove sweat.
Exercise regularly and in moderation; exhaustion does your skin no good.