Despite the fact that experts say we should ditch the make-up when working out, many of us can't resist the temptation to dip into our make-up bag before stepping out of the house. While nothing looks more out of place than a full face of slap at the gym - after all, we are there to work up a sweat, not enter into a beauty pageant - it's nice to feel confident with all those mirrors around. If you can't face heading to the gym without a scrap of make-up, here are some tips and tricks to stay looking great while working out.
Make it mineral
Heavy foundation is a big fat no-no when working up a sweat. It'll clog your pores and cause nasty bacteria build-up. Yuk! If I'm suffering with my skin and I'm desperate for a subtle hint of coverage, I'll only ever wear a lightweight mineral product that blends perfectly with my skin tone, so it won't leave tell-tale patchiness when I'm sweating it out.
If I'm out running, it's essential that I have an SPF on protect my face from the sun. A mineral product such as Bare Minerals SPF30 Natural Sunscreen, £25, will give just a subtle hint of colour to even out your complexion but will protect you from the harmful rays of the sun, too.
Tinted moisturiser is also a great alternative to heavy foundation. I find Laura Mercier's Tinted Moisturizer SPF20, £33, is one of the best around for stay factor and a natural looking, sheer finish.
Wear waterproof
My eyes are really small and I'm a self-confessed mascara addict. While I ditch the eye shadow, eyeliner and pretty much the rest of my make-up at the gym, mascara is one thing I'm reluctant to give up. A sweaty face complete with panda eyes is never a good look so opt for a decent waterproof mascara before hitting the treadmill.
If you want something longer-term with virtually zero maintenance an eyelash tint or 30-day mascara treatment is a great option. While you could hit the salon, there are lots of inexpensive DIY kits available. I like Colorsport Black 30 Day Mascara, £8.25, which can also be used to tint your brows.
Perk up your pout
If you're running outdoors, don't forget to protect your lips from the sun, too. A tinted lip moisturiser with added SPF will keep your lips hydrated, add a natural-looking hint of colour and stop your lips from drying out in the sun. A dab of a lip product like Benefit's Benetint Lip Balm SPF 15, £14, and sweep of mascara is usually enough to make me feel great without looking unnatural.
Go bold with a bun
Beat sweaty gym hair frizz with a clever hairstyle. When I wear a ponytail to the gym the ends tend to get damp and frizzy and it irritates my neck. Instead, I opt for a high braided ballerina bun and it doesn't budge no matter what exercise I'm doing. I like to sweep my short face-framing layers back so that my hair is completely out off my face. Twist a braid into a neat bun and use kirby grips to pin into position. It also looks chic if you don't have time to re-do your hair after a quick lunchtime fitness class.