Why Wearing Make-up During Workout May Be A Bad Choice

Updated Dec 14, 2024 | 01:00 PM IST

SummarySkincare is not a linear thing for people, what might be a good thing one day, may backfire on you later. Though social media presence has given rise to the trend of wearing make-up to gym, here is why that may not be such a good idea.
Make-up For Workout (Credit-Canva)

Make-up For Workout (Credit-Canva)

Social media has encouraged many people to look beyond just moisturizer and face cleanser for their skin care. While some people may have a 10-step care routine and others may have a 5-step care routine, there are some basic skin care tips that help everyone. Everyone has their own style to dress for gym. While some prioritize comfort with baggy gym outfits, others like to keep it stylish in gym sets along with make-up. But is wearing make-up while sweating it out a good idea? The internet is divided but we delved deep into the conversation and it is definitely not a good idea. A recent scientific study delved into the effects of wearing makeup during exercise, revealing potential detrimental consequences for skin health. Researchers observed that makeup can impede the skin's natural cooling and oil-balancing mechanisms, leading to a cascade of issues.

What Does The Study Tells Us?

In the study published by the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, participants who applied foundation to half of their face before a workout, experienced increased moisture retention in the makeup-covered areas. This phenomenon can contribute to clogged pores, acne breakouts, and dry skin, as the makeup traps sweat and dirt, preventing the skin from breathing and regulating its oil production.

Why Skin Needs to Breathe During Exercise

During physical exertion, the body's core temperature rises, triggering a physiological response to cool itself down. The sweat glands release moisture onto the skin's surface, which then evaporates, dissipating heat and maintaining optimal body temperature. However, when makeup is present, it can create a barrier that hinders the evaporation process. This can lead to increased skin temperature, discomfort, and potential skin irritations. Additionally, the combination of sweat, oil, and makeup can clog pores and create a breeding ground for bacteria, increasing the risk of acne breakouts and other skin problems.

Risks of Wearing Makeup at the Gym

The potential risks of wearing makeup during exercise are multifaceted. Firstly, the occlusion of pores by makeup can lead to the accumulation of dirt, oil, and bacteria, resulting in clogged pores and subsequent acne breakouts. Secondly, the occlusive nature of makeup can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness, irritation, and a compromised skin barrier. Thirdly, eye makeup, such as mascara and eyeliner, can irritate the delicate eye area, increasing the risk of infections.

Is There A Middle Ground?

While it is generally advisable to avoid makeup during exercise, some individuals may find that a minimal amount can enhance their confidence and motivation. In such cases, it is crucial to select non-comedogenic products that are less likely to clog pores. Additionally, it is imperative to remove makeup immediately after the workout using a gentle cleanser to prevent skin issues. Here are some tips to clean your face properly to avoid any infections or breakouts,

Gentle Cleansing

A gentle cleanser is essential for maintaining healthy skin. Choose a cleanser that suits your skin type and use lukewarm water to avoid stripping away natural oils. Massage your face gently in circular motions and rinse thoroughly to remove all traces of dirt and makeup.

Regular Exfoliation

Exfoliating your skin 2-3 times a week helps remove dead skin cells, revealing a brighter complexion. However, it's important to avoid over-exfoliation, as it can irritate the skin. Opt for a gentle scrub and use it sparingly to maintain a healthy balance.

Toning Your Skin

A good toner can help balance your skin's pH level, minimize the appearance of pores, and hydrate your skin. Choose an alcohol-free toner to avoid drying out your skin. Apply it to your face using a cotton pad, gently patting it in.

Daily Moisturizing

Choose a moisturizer that suits your skin type and apply it generously to your face and neck. Don't forget to use a moisturizer with SPF during the day to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.

Cleaning Your Tools

Regularly cleaning your makeup brushes and sponges is essential to prevent the buildup of bacteria. Use a gentle cleanser to wash your tools and allow them to air dry completely before using them again.

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What Is The Best Low-Cost Solution For Panic Attacks?

Updated May 25, 2026 | 12:59 PM IST

SummaryPanic attacks, a common problem for millions of people in their daily lives, have a very effective and low-cost solution. A new study concludes that 30-second sprinting can work like therapy in the case of panic disorder.
What is the best low-cost solution for panic attacks?

Photo credit: iStock

Panic attacks are a consistent problem that impacts millions of people worldwide. This feeling of uneasiness and discomfort can impact one's life drastically. Though often the solution to this common problem is costly and full of medications and therapies. Fortunately, certain ways can help you get rid of your issue with panic attacks. The solution: sprinting. It is a very low-cost and effective solution for this everyday problem, according to a recent study.

Ricardo William Muotri's research at the University of São Paulo Medical School was published in Frontiers in Psychiatry. Research using data from clinical trials finds that Brief Intermittent Intense Exercise (BIE) can be a very effective and low-cost solution for panic attacks. This study concludes that 30-second sprints help your body forget the fear related to panic disorder. In this way, the physical sensations associated with panic fade away.

How Can Sprinting Help Get Rid Of Panic Disorder?

The research also sheds light on how to use intermittent physical exercise to get relief from panic attacks. The fruitfulness of this whole process can be seen in just 12 weeks. The exercise should be done in a methodical order.

  • At first, you should start by stretching.
  • Then follow up with 12 minutes of light walking.
  • After that, you can start your sprinting with about 6 bouts spanning about 30 seconds each.
  • Be sure to take a 4.5-minute break to let your body recover.
  • At last, conclude your routine with another 15-minute-long light walk.

Panic Disorder: Why Does Sprinting Work As A Remedy?

The 30-second sprinting lets your body feel the sensation of a racing heart, and that, in turn, trains your brain that it is not a dangerous physical symptom. As a result, the effects of panic attacks lessen with time. Along with this, the intense physical exertion stimulates peptide hormones and endorphins that calm your nervous system. Another important aspect of sprinting is that it is a low-cost option to treat panic disorder. This is the case because it does not require any medication or specialized clinical procedures.

What Is A Panic Attack?

A panic attack is a sudden rise of discomfort and uneasiness along with intense fear. These emotions, in turn, cause multiple other physical and psychological problems along with the initial issues and compound the overall torment of having panic disorder.

What Are The Signs Of A Panic Attack?

Physical symptoms of panic attacks:

  • Heart racing is one of the first and common symptoms of panic attacks, coupled with shortness of breath.

  • Other symptoms are dizziness, nausea, chest pain, trembling, shaking, or sweating.

Emotional symptoms of a panic attack:

  • The emotional symptoms can vary from person to person, but usually revolve around the fear of death and detachment from oneself and the reality of his or her situation.

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Gym Supplements And Heart Health: When Fitness Trends Turn Dangerous

Updated May 24, 2026 | 09:00 AM IST

SummaryMost harm isn’t from basic supplements like protein—it’s from stimulants, hormone-like substances, and unregulated combinations. The risk becomes significant when users chase rapid physique gains without medical awareness.
Gym Supplements And Heart Health: When Fitness Trends Turn Dangerous

Credit: iStock

There’s a real issue here—“gym supplements” aren’t automatically harmless, and unsupervised use can increase cardiovascular risk, especially when stacking multiple products.

Most harm isn’t from basic supplements like protein—it’s from stimulants, hormone-like substances, and unregulated combinations. The risk becomes significant when users chase rapid physique gains without medical awareness.

Where Does The Heart Risk Come From

1) Stimulant-heavy pre-workouts

  • Often contain high-dose caffeine, synephrine, yohimbine, or hidden stimulants
  • Risks: tachycardia, hypertension, atrial/ventricular arrhythmias, and even ischemia in susceptible people
  • Case reports link these to events resembling acute coronary syndrome and sudden cardiac death

2) Anabolic agents / “muscle boosters”

  • Includes anabolic steroids or “test boosters” adulterated with hormones
  • Risks: LV hypertrophy, fibrosis, dyslipidemia (↓HDL, ↑LDL), thrombosis → premature CAD
  • Strong association with cardiomyopathy

3) Protein excess + dehydration

High protein alone is usually safe in healthy individuals, but can increase the risk of electrolyte imbalance and arrhythmias when combined with:

  • poor hydration
  • intense workouts
  • creatine misuse

4) Fat burners / thermogenics

  • Often under-regulated blends
  • Risks: QT prolongation, coronary vasospasm, hypertension

5) Electrolyte imbalance

  • Overuse of diuretics, cutting agents, or poor hydration
  • Can precipitate arrhythmia even in structurally normal hearts

6) Contamination & mislabeling

  • Many supplements contain undeclared drugs (steroids, stimulants, SARMs)
  • This is one of the biggest hidden risks globally

Who Is At Risk

People at risk include those with:

  • Undiagnosed structural heart disease (e.g., hypertrophic cardiomyopathy)
  • Prior myocarditis
  • Family history of sudden death
  • Hypertension or CKD
  • Combining supplements with alcohol, dehydration, or extreme training

Red fags In Gym Users

  • Palpitations, skipped beats
  • Chest pain during/after workouts
  • Unexplained syncope or near-syncope
  • Excessive BP rise or headaches
  • Decline in exercise tolerance

These should not be dismissed as “normal gym effects.”

Practical Guidance

  • Avoid “proprietary blends”—know exact ingredients and doses
  • Limit caffeine intake (<300–400 mg/day total from all sources)
  • Prefer single-ingredient supplements over stacks
  • Screen high-risk individuals (ECG ± echo before intense training)
  • Encourage hydration and electrolyte balance
  • Absolutely avoid anabolic steroids outside of medical indication.

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Can Running Marathons Or Ultramarathons Raise Colon Cancer Risk? Study Sparks Concern

Updated May 22, 2026 | 10:15 AM IST

SummaryThe study found that the rate of advanced adenomas — noncancerous tumor which are likely to become cancerous — nearly tripled among the marathon runners, compared to the general population, at 4.5 -6 per cent.
Can Running Marathons Or Ultramarathons Raise Colon Cancer Risk? Study Sparks Concern

Credit: iStock

Colon cancer, medically known as colorectal cancer, was historically typical for people aged 50 or older. However, in recent years, the cancer that forms in the tissues of the large intestine has been increasing in prevalence in young adults. As many as one in five colorectal cancer patients today falls into this younger age group.

Now, a study published by the American Society of Clinical Oncology shows that marathons, which are one of the most celebrated physical activities, may be increasing the risk of the disease.

What Did The Study Find?

The team at Inova Schar Cancer Institute in Virginia, US, initiated the study after observing multiple “ultramarathoners” present to their cancer center with advanced colorectal cancer.

To probe the link, they recruited 100 runners to undergo colonoscopies — the gold standard for screening and preventing colorectal cancer. The team then looked at runners ages 35 to 50, who had either completed at least five marathons or two ultramarathons (any runs of 50 kilometers or more).

Presenting the findings at the 2025 American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) annual meeting, Dr. Timothy Cannon, an oncologist at the Institute, stated that

  • Nearly 50 per cent of the participants in the study had polyps, which can become cancerous,
  • 15 per cent had advanced adenomas (noncancerous tumor) which are likely to become cancerous.

Also read:Colorectal Cancer: UK Surgeon Warns Of 5 Silent Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore

Almost always, colon cancers start as small growths called polyps or precancerous lesions on the inner lining of the colon or rectum.

Moreover, the study found that the rate of advanced adenomas nearly tripled among the marathon runners, compared to the general population, at 4.5 -6 per cent.

How Does Ultra-running Spike Chance Of Developing Colon Cancer?

In general, running and other forms of exercise are known to reduce the risk of developing colon and other cancers. At the same time, exercise-induced gastrointestinal injury is also believed to be associated with reduced blood flow to the intestines during long-distance running.

Notably, to date there is no evidence that definitively shows running causes polyps.

The new study presents a correlation — an increasing relationship between long-distance running and advanced adenomas. It does not prove that running directly causes the adenomas.

Read More: Europe Sees Record Surge In Gonorrhea, Syphilis Cases In Over A Decade, Says ECDC

The new results suggest that “intensive long-distance running is a risk factor for advanced adenomas of the colon", said Dr. Timothy, in the paper. The team also called for "refining screening strategies" for marathon runners.

It is because runners put their bodies through a lot, which can raise the risk of chronic inflammation, enabling cancerous cells to grow.

Their high-caloric foods for immediate energy can slow down digestion and impact your overall colon health.

What is Colorectal Cancer

The American Cancer Society notes that colorectal cancer is a cancer that starts in the colon or the rectum. Colorectal cancer impacts around 1.9 million people every year, noted the World Health Organization (WHO) as per its 2022 data.

It is a disease of the large bowel and a type of cancer that originates from the rectum or colon. A person's colon, cecum, rectum, and anus make up the large intestine.

According to experts, if you are above 45 years of age or have high-risk factors, you need to take the initiative to be screened, as the symptoms appear late, impacting treatment outcomes.

The common red flags for colorectal cancer include:

  • rectal bleeding,
  • persistent abdominal discomfort,
  • pain,
  • a noticeable change in bowel habits.

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