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How Exercise Affects Your Skin (And How to Avoid Post-Workout Breakouts)

Exercise is one of the best things you can do for your body—it boosts your mood, improves circulation, and enhances overall health. But did you know that your workout routine also impacts your skin? While sweating during exercise can help detoxify the skin, improper post-workout care can lead to clogged pores, breakouts, and irritation. Dr Tom Goyer, a skincare expert in Sydney, explains how exercise affects your skin, its benefits, and the best ways to prevent post-workout breakouts.

How Exercise Benefits Your Skin

Regular physical activity doesn’t just sculpt your body—it plays a crucial role in maintaining clear, youthful skin.

1. Increases Blood Circulation

Exercise boosts blood flow, delivering oxygen and nutrients to your skin cells. This improves skin tone, promotes collagen production, and speeds up skin repair.

  • Result: A natural post-workout glow and faster healing of blemishes.

2. Helps Flush Out Toxins

Sweating can help flush out dirt, oils, and toxins from your pores. This clears impurities and detoxifies the skin.

  • Result: Reduced risk of breakouts (if sweat is properly removed afterward).

3. Reduces Stress (and Stress-Induced Breakouts)

High stress levels increase cortisol (the stress hormone), which triggers oil production and inflammation, leading to acne. Exercise helps regulate cortisol, reducing breakouts caused by stress.

  • Result: Fewer stress-induced pimples and a more balanced complexion.

4. Promotes Collagen Production

Collagen keeps skin firm and youthful. Regular movement stimulates fibroblasts, the cells responsible for producing collagen and elastin.

  • Result: Fewer fine lines, improved elasticity, and younger-looking skin.

5. Improves Sleep Quality

Exercise helps regulate sleep, which is essential for cell repair and regeneration. Poor sleep leads to dull skin, dark circles, and premature aging.

  • Result: Rested, glowing skin with fewer signs of fatigue.

How Exercise Can Cause Skin Issues

While exercise has many skin benefits, improper post-workout habits can increase the risk of breakouts and irritation.

1. Sweat Can Clog Pores

When sweat mixes with oil, dirt, and bacteria, it can clog pores and lead to acne, blackheads, and irritation—especially if left on the skin for too long.

  • Common Affected Areas: Face, back (bacne), and chest.

2. Touching Your Face Spreads Bacteria

Gym equipment, yoga mats, and towels harbor bacteria and fungi. Touching your face during a workout transfers these onto your skin, increasing the risk of breakouts.

  • Solution: Use a clean towel and avoid touching your face!

3. Tight, Sweaty Clothing Can Cause Body Acne

Wearing tight, non-breathable fabrics can trap sweat and bacteria, causing body acne (especially on the back and chest).

  • Solution: Opt for moisture-wicking, breathable fabrics and shower immediately after workouts.

How to Prevent Post-Workout Breakouts

To keep your skin clear and healthy, follow these pre- and post-workout skincare tips:

Pre-Workout Skincare Routine

✔️ Remove Makeup: Heavy foundation mixed with sweat clogs pores. Use micellar water or a gentle cleanser before exercising.

✔️ Apply a Lightweight Moisturiser: Keeps skin balanced and prevents excessive oil production.

✔️ Use a Tinted Sunscreen (If Exercising Outdoors): Protects against UV rays while avoiding pore-clogging heavy sunscreens.

Tip: Avoid thick, occlusive skincare products before working out, as they can trap sweat and bacteria.

Post-Workout Skincare Routine

✔️ Wash Your Face Immediately: Use a gentle, sulfate-free cleanser to remove sweat, oil, and bacteria.

✔️ Use a Toner: Helps tighten pores and prevent breakouts. Look for witch hazel, salicylic acid, or niacinamide.

✔️ Hydrate Your Skin: Apply a lightweight moisturiser with hyaluronic acid to replenish hydration.

✔️ Don’t Forget Sunscreen (If Heading Outdoors After a Workout): Sun exposure after sweating can cause hyperpigmentation and irritation.

Tip: Keep face wipes or a travel-sized cleanser in your gym bag for quick cleansing on the go.

How to Prevent Bacne and Chest Acne

✔️ Wear Breathable Workout Clothes: Opt for loose, moisture-wicking fabrics like cotton or performance fabrics.

✔️ Shower Immediately After Exercising: Sweat left on the body breeds bacteria and fungus, leading to breakouts.

✔️ Use an Exfoliating Body Wash: A salicylic acid or glycolic acid body wash unclogs pores and prevents acne.

✔️ Change Out of Sweaty Clothes ASAP: Sitting in damp, sweaty clothes increases bacterial growth.

✔️ Wash Your Gym Gear Regularly: Dirty towels, yoga mats, and workout clothes collect bacteria and sweat.

Tip: If you can’t shower immediately, use body wipes or toner pads to remove sweat and bacteria.

Common Post-Workout Skincare Mistakes to Avoid

🚫 Using Harsh Scrubs Right After Exercising: Skin is more sensitive post-workout—avoid over-exfoliation.

🚫 Skipping Moisturiser: Sweat doesn’t hydrate your skin—you still need moisturiser!

🚫 Not Cleaning Your Gym Accessories: Dirty equipment, towels, and mats transfer bacteria onto your skin.

🚫 Leaving Sweat on Your Skin Too Long: The longer sweat sits, the higher the risk of breakouts.

🚫 Touching Your Face Too Much: Avoid spreading germs and bacteria from gym equipment.

Best Skincare Ingredients for Active Lifestyles

If you work out regularly, look for skincare products with these key ingredients:

✔️ Salicylic Acid (BHA): Exfoliates pores, preventing post-workout acne.
✔️ Niacinamide: Controls oil, reduces inflammation, and strengthens the skin barrier.
✔️ Hyaluronic Acid: Keeps skin hydrated without clogging pores.
✔️ Witch Hazel: Soothes irritation and minimises excess oil production.
✔️ Tea Tree Oil: Antimicrobial properties help fight breakouts.

Tip: Use lightweight, non-comedogenic products to prevent sweat buildup.

When to See a Dermatologist

If you’re experiencing persistent acne, rashes, or post-exercise irritation, it may be time to consult a skincare expert.

Seek professional help if you have:

  • Frequent or painful breakouts that don’t improve with skincare.
  • Severe irritation or redness post-workout.
  • Recurring fungal infections (like ringworm or athlete’s foot).

A dermatologist can recommend personalised treatments like prescription topicals, professional facials, or laser treatments to keep your skin healthy.

Exercise is great for your skin, but post-workout breakouts can be frustrating. By following a proper skincare routine, choosing breathable clothing, and cleansing immediately after sweating, you can enjoy all the skin benefits of working out—without the breakouts. For expert advice and treatments, Dr Tom Goyer is here to help. Visit Dr Tom Goyer’s blog for more skincare tips and insights.

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Everything You Need to Know About Treating Hyperpigmentation

Hyperpigmentation is one of the most common skin concerns, affecting people of all skin types and ages. Whether it’s sunspots, melasma, or post-acne marks, dark spots can make the skin look uneven and dull. The good news? There are effective treatments that can help fade pigmentation and restore a bright, even complexion. Dr Tom Goyer, a skincare expert in Sydney, explains the causes of hyperpigmentation and the best ways to treat and prevent it.

What Is Hyperpigmentation?

Hyperpigmentation occurs when melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color, is overproduced in certain areas, leading to dark patches or spots.

Types of Hyperpigmentation:

  1. Sunspots (Lentigines): Caused by long-term sun exposure, appearing as brown spots on the face, hands, and shoulders.
  2. Melasma: Often triggered by hormonal changes (e.g., pregnancy, birth control), it appears as brown patches on the forehead, cheeks, and upper lip.
  3. Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH): Dark marks left behind after acne, eczema, or an injury.

Tip: Identifying the type of hyperpigmentation is the first step to finding the right treatment!

What Causes Hyperpigmentation?

Several factors can lead to excess melanin production:

  • Sun Exposure: The #1 cause of hyperpigmentation. UV rays trigger melanin production, leading to dark spots over time.
  • Hormonal Changes: Fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone (pregnancy, birth control, menopause) can worsen pigmentation.
  • Skin Trauma: Acne, cuts, burns, and eczema can leave behind dark marks (PIH) as the skin heals.
  • Genetics: Some people are more prone to pigmentation due to their genetic makeup.

Tip: Sunscreen is non-negotiable if you want to treat and prevent dark spots!

How to Treat Hyperpigmentation

The best approach combines topical treatments, professional procedures, and sun protection.

1. Topical Treatments for Hyperpigmentation

Certain skincare ingredients can fade dark spots and prevent new ones from forming:

  • Vitamin C: A powerful antioxidant that brightens skin and inhibits melanin production.
  • Retinoids (Retinol, Tretinoin): Increase cell turnover, helping to fade dark spots faster.
  • Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): Reduces inflammation and prevents excess pigmentation.
  • Alpha Arbutin: A gentle skin-lightening agent that fades pigmentation over time.
  • Hydroquinone (Prescription Only): A potent lightening agent for stubborn hyperpigmentation.
  • Azelaic Acid: Great for acne-prone skin, reducing redness and dark spots.

Tip: Layering Vitamin C in the morning and retinol at night can maximise results!

2. Exfoliation to Remove Pigmented Cells

Exfoliation speeds up cell renewal, helping to fade dark spots faster:

  • AHAs (Glycolic & Lactic Acid): Dissolve dead skin cells and boost radiance.
  • BHAs (Salicylic Acid): Penetrate deep into pores, reducing post-acne marks.
  • Enzyme Exfoliants: A gentle alternative for sensitive skin.

Tip: Start exfoliating 2-3 times a week to avoid irritation.

3. Professional Treatments for Hyperpigmentation

For stubborn pigmentation, dermatologist-approved procedures can provide faster results:

  • Chemical Peels: Use acids to exfoliate and fade pigmentation over several sessions.
  • Laser Therapy: Targets melanin clusters, breaking down pigmentation.
  • Microneedling: Stimulates collagen production to reduce dark spots and scars.
  • Intense Pulsed Light (IPL): Uses light energy to target sunspots and redness.

Tip: Always consult a professional to find the best treatment for your skin type.

How to Prevent Hyperpigmentation

1. Wear Sunscreen Daily

Sun exposure is the biggest culprit behind hyperpigmentation, so SPF is essential!

  • Best Sunscreen: SPF 30 or higher, broad-spectrum (UVA & UVB protection).
  • Reapplication: Every 2 hours if outdoors.
  • Bonus Protection: Wear hats & sunglasses for extra defense.

Tip: A tinted sunscreen with iron oxides can provide even better protection against pigmentation!

2. Avoid Picking at Your Skin

Touching, squeesing, or scratching blemishes leads to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH).

Tip: Use pimple patches to prevent picking!

3. Maintain a Skincare Routine

A consistent routine with brightening ingredients will keep pigmentation at bay:

  • AM Routine: Cleanser → Vitamin C → Moisturiser → Sunscreen
  • PM Routine: Cleanser → Retinol or AHA/BHA → Moisturiser

Tip: Stick to gentle formulas to avoid irritation, which can worsen pigmentation.

When to See a Dermatologist

If your hyperpigmentation isn’t improving with skincare, it may be time for professional treatments.

Signs You Should See a Doctor:

  • Dark spots aren’t fading after 3-6 months of consistent treatment.
  • Pigmentation spreads or worsens despite sun protection.
  • You develop sudden or unusual dark patches.

Tip: A dermatologist can create a customised treatment plan to tackle stubborn hyperpigmentation.

Hyperpigmentation can be frustrating, but with the right treatments, skincare ingredients, and sun protection, you can achieve a brighter, more even complexion. Consistency is key—results take time, but a combination of Vitamin C, retinoids, exfoliation, and SPF will help fade dark spots. For personalised advice and professional treatments, Dr Tom Goyer is here to help. Visit Dr Tom Goyer’s blog for more expert skincare tips and insights.

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The Best Ingredients for Reducing Fine Lines and Wrinkles: Expert Tips from Dr Tom Goyer

Ageing is a natural process, but that doesn’t mean you can’t take steps to keep your skin looking smooth, firm, and youthful. Fine lines and wrinkles appear due to collagen loss, dehydration, and repeated facial expressions, but the right skincare ingredients can help slow the process and even soften existing lines. Dr Tom Goyer, a skincare expert in Sydney, breaks down the most effective ingredients for reducing fine lines and wrinkles—so you can achieve healthier, younger-looking skin.

Why Do Fine Lines and Wrinkles Form?

Before diving into the best anti-ageing ingredients, let’s understand why wrinkles develop in the first place.

1. Collagen & Elastin Breakdown

Collagen is the protein that keeps skin firm and bouncy, while elastin provides flexibility. By your mid-20s, collagen production declines by about 1% per year, leading to sagging and wrinkles over time.

2. Sun Damage (Photoageing)

UV rays break down collagen and elastin, leading to premature ageing, fine lines, and deep wrinkles.

3. Repetitive Facial Movements

Expressions like squinting, smiling, and frowning cause dynamic wrinkles (such as crow’s feet and laugh lines) that become more permanent over time.

4. Dehydration

When the skin lacks moisture, fine lines become more pronounced.

5. Lifestyle Factors

Smoking, poor diet, stress, and lack of sleep all contribute to premature ageing.

Tip: A combination of sun protection, hydration, and targeted skincare can slow the development of fine lines.

The Best Ingredients to Reduce Fine Lines & Wrinkles

1. Retinoids (Retinol, Retinal, Tretinoin)

Retinoids, derivatives of Vitamin A, are the gold standard for anti-ageing. They stimulate collagen production, speed up cell turnover, and smooth wrinkles over time.

  • Best For: Wrinkles, uneven skin tone, and texture improvement.
  • How to Use: Apply at night after cleansing; start with a low-strength retinol (0.25%-0.5%) and increase as tolerated.
  • Pro Tip: Retinoids can cause dryness—always follow up with a moisturiser and use sunscreen daily.

2. Hyaluronic Acid (HA)

Hyaluronic acid is a powerful hydrator that attracts and retains moisture in the skin, plumping up fine lines and making skin look firmer and smoother.

  • Best For: Hydration, fine lines, and dull skin.
  • How to Use: Apply after cleansing and before moisturiser; works well with Vitamin C and peptides.

Tip: Use a HA serum on damp skin to maximise absorption and hydration.

3. Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid)

Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that fights free radicals, boosts collagen, and brightens skin. It protects against sun damage and premature ageing while reducing fine lines.

  • Best For: Wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and dull skin.
  • How to Use: Apply in the morning before sunscreen.

Tip: Look for a 15-20% concentration of Vitamin C for the best results, and pair it with Vitamin E for added protection.

4. Peptides

Peptides are short chains of amino acids that stimulate collagen and elastin production, helping to firm skin and reduce fine lines over time.

  • Best For: Loss of firmness, sagging skin, and fine lines.
  • How to Use: Apply a peptide serum or moisturiser twice daily.

Tip: Combine peptides with hyaluronic acid and niacinamide for extra hydration and skin repair.

5. Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)

Niacinamide is a multi-tasking powerhouse that helps improve skin elasticity, even out skin tone, and strengthen the skin barrier.

  • Best For: Fine lines, enlarged pores, and redness.
  • How to Use: Works well in both morning and night routines; pairs well with retinol and Vitamin C.

Tip: Niacinamide regulates oil production, making it great for all skin types, including oily and acne-prone skin.

6. AHAs & BHAs (Exfoliating Acids)

Chemical exfoliants like glycolic acid (AHA) and salicylic acid (BHA) remove dead skin cells, promote faster cell turnover, and reveal smoother, younger-looking skin.

  • Best For: Fine lines, rough texture, and dullness.
  • How to Use: Use a toner or serum with AHAs/BHAs 2-3 times per week.

Tip: If you’re using retinol, avoid over-exfoliating to prevent irritation.

7. Squalane

Squalane is a lightweight oil that mimics the skin’s natural moisture, preventing dryness and fine lines caused by dehydration.

  • Best For: Dry skin, sensitive skin, and fine lines.
  • How to Use: Apply after serums or mix with moisturiser.

Tip: Unlike heavier oils, squalane is non-greasy and absorbs quickly, making it ideal for all skin types.

8. Sunscreen (SPF 30 or Higher)

UV exposure is the #1 cause of premature ageing, making daily sunscreen your best anti-ageing weapon.

  • Best For: Preventing fine lines, sun damage, and skin cancer.
  • How to Use: Apply every morning and reapply every 2 hours if outdoors.

Tip: Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide for better skin protection.

How to Create an Anti-Ageing Skincare Routine

Morning Routine:

  1. Cleanser: Gentle, hydrating formula.
  2. Vitamin C Serum: For antioxidant protection.
  3. Hyaluronic Acid: To plump and hydrate.
  4. Moisturiser with Peptides: For extra firming benefits.
  5. Sunscreen (SPF 30+): The most important step!

Night Routine:

  1. Cleanser: Double cleanse if wearing makeup.
  2. Exfoliating Acid (2-3 times per week): AHA or BHA to renew skin.
  3. Retinol or Peptides: To boost collagen production.
  4. Moisturiser with Niacinamide or Squalane: To lock in hydration.

When to See a Skincare Professional

If over-the-counter treatments aren’t delivering the results you want, a dermatologist or skincare expert can recommend advanced anti-ageing treatments, such as:

  • Botox or Fillers: To smooth dynamic wrinkles and restore lost volume.
  • Microneedling: Stimulates collagen and elastin production.
  • Laser Resurfacing: Reduces fine lines and improves skin texture.
  • Chemical Peels: Helps fade wrinkles, pigmentation, and rough skin.

Tip: Professional treatments can enhance your results, but a solid skincare routine is your foundation for maintaining youthful skin.

Fine lines and wrinkles are a natural part of ageing, but the right skincare ingredients can slow their progression and improve your skin’s appearance. By incorporating retinoids, Vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, peptides, and daily sunscreen, you can maintain a youthful, radiant complexion. For expert skincare guidance and treatments, Dr Tom Goyer is here to help. Visit Dr Tom Goyer’s blog for more skincare insights.

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The Science of Skin Ageing: How to Maintain a Youthful Glow

Ageing is a natural part of life, but that doesn’t mean you have to settle for dull, sagging skin. Understanding the science behind skin ageing can help you make informed decisions about your skincare routine, lifestyle choices, and professional treatments. Dr Tom Goyer, a skincare expert in Sydney, breaks down the factors that contribute to ageing and provides actionable tips to keep your skin looking youthful for years to come.

What Causes Skin Ageing?

Skin ageing is influenced by intrinsic (natural) and extrinsic (environmental) factors. While you can’t stop the natural ageing process, you can take steps to slow down the external factors that accelerate ageing.

1. Intrinsic Ageing (Natural Ageing Process)

Intrinsic ageing is determined by your genetics and happens naturally over time.

  • Slower Cell Turnover: As we age, skin cells regenerate more slowly, leading to a dull complexion.
  • Collagen & Elastin Breakdown: By your mid-20s, collagen production decreases by about 1% per year, causing skin to lose its firmness and elasticity.
  • Reduced Oil Production: The skin produces less oil, making it drier and more prone to fine lines.

2. Extrinsic Ageing (Environmental & Lifestyle Factors)

Unlike intrinsic ageing, extrinsic ageing is within your control. These factors can speed up the ageing process:

  • Sun Exposure: UV rays break down collagen and elastin, leading to wrinkles, sunspots, and loss of firmness.
  • Pollution: Environmental toxins cause oxidative stress, damaging skin cells.
  • Lifestyle Choices: Poor diet, smoking, alcohol, and lack of sleep contribute to premature ageing.
  • Repeated Facial Expressions: Squinting, frowning, and smiling can create fine lines over time.

Tip: While you can’t control genetics, you can minimise extrinsic ageing by making better lifestyle choices.

Signs of Skin Ageing & When They Appear

Ageing affects everyone differently, but here’s a general timeline:

  • 20s: Collagen production starts to decline, and early signs of sun damage may appear.
  • 30s: Fine lines around the eyes and mouth develop, and skin starts to lose its natural glow.
  • 40s: Wrinkles become more noticeable, and skin elasticity decreases.
  • 50s & Beyond: Skin becomes drier, thinner, and more prone to sagging due to reduced collagen and estrogen levels.

Tip: The earlier you start an anti-ageing routine, the better your skin will look in the long run!

How to Maintain a Youthful Glow

1. Wear Sunscreen Every Day

Sunscreen is the most important anti-ageing product you can use.

  • Best SPF: Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.
  • When to Apply: Every morning, even on cloudy days.
  • Reapplication: Every 2 hours if you’re outdoors.

Tip: Pair sunscreen with an antioxidant serum (like Vitamin C) for added protection.

2. Boost Collagen Production

Since collagen loss is one of the biggest culprits behind ageing, stimulating its production is key.

  • Retinoids: Retinol and prescription retinoids (e.g., tretinoin) increase cell turnover and collagen synthesis.
  • Vitamin C: A potent antioxidant that helps brighten skin and boost collagen.
  • Peptides: These amino acids signal your skin to produce more collagen.

Tip: Introduce retinol slowly to avoid irritation—start with 2-3 times per week and increase as tolerated.

3. Hydrate & Strengthen the Skin Barrier

Moisturised skin appears plumper and healthier, reducing the appearance of fine lines.

  • Hyaluronic Acid: Attracts moisture and keeps skin hydrated.
  • Ceramides & Fatty Acids: Strengthen the skin barrier to lock in moisture.
  • Niacinamide: Reduces redness, strengthens the skin, and improves elasticity.

Tip: Avoid over-exfoliating, as this can weaken your skin’s protective barrier.

4. Eat an Anti-Ageing Diet

What you eat directly impacts your skin’s health and ageing process.

  • Antioxidant-Rich Foods: Berries, leafy greens, and nuts help fight free radicals.
  • Healthy Fats: Omega-3s from salmon, walnuts, and flaxseeds keep skin supple.
  • Hydrating Foods: Cucumbers, watermelon, and celery support moisture retention.

Tip: Reduce processed foods and excess sugar, as they contribute to skin inflammation and ageing.

5. Prioritise Sleep & Stress Management

Your skin repairs itself while you sleep, and stress can accelerate ageing.

  • Get 7-9 Hours of Sleep: Poor sleep increases cortisol levels, which break down collagen.
  • Reduce Stress: Meditation, exercise, and deep breathing help control stress-related ageing.

Tip: Invest in a silk pillowcase to reduce friction and prevent sleep wrinkles.

Professional Treatments to Slow Ageing

If you want to take your anti-ageing routine to the next level, consider professional treatments:

  • Chemical Peels: Remove dead skin cells and stimulate collagen.
  • Microneedling: Encourages skin regeneration and collagen production.
  • Laser Treatments: Improve skin texture, reduce wrinkles, and fade pigmentation.
  • Botox & Fillers: Smooth out fine lines and restore volume loss.

Tip: Consult a dermatologist or skincare professional to find the best treatment for your skin type and goals.

While ageing is inevitable, premature skin ageing isn’t. By protecting your skin from the sun, maintaining hydration, using collagen-boosting ingredients, and making smart lifestyle choices, you can keep your skin looking youthful for longer. For expert guidance and personalised treatments, Dr Tom Goyer is here to help. Visit Dr Tom Goyer’s blog for more skincare tips and insights.