Can I Wear Makeup To The Gym? We Say Yes (In Moderation)!

Break out the bikinis—no, wait-- put’em back.  Summer is almost here, but that means there’s still a bit of time to crack down and get our fluffy winter bods to the gym.

Last week, I looked around the barre studio and noticed how well dressed everyone was.  Lululemon from head to toe, $12 grip socks, headbands coordinated to tank tops.  The one inconsistency (other than me in my old man t-shirt) was whether or not the ladies had on makeup.  I’d say the split was an even 50/50. 

The majority of sources will tell you not to wear makeup to the gym, as it’s detrimental to your skin, but when you’re sporting $200 worth of athletic gear, you can’t expect every girl to stop caring when it comes to her face.  (Mascara and a cute ponytail were really the only things keeping me from running out of the studio in baggy t-shirt shame.)

Taking into account what we’ve learned and what we want, here’s our list of gym makeup must's!

1. First and foremost, let your skin breathe.  Don’t be that girl with bronzer-tinted sweat and uneven foundation.  Instead, apply a tinted moisturizer, and if you’re moving and shaking outside, be sure to use one with SPF.  Try Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 20 Sunscreen for an array of shades and superb skin protection.

2. A little lipstick never hurt anyone.  We’re not suggesting a matte red or trendy lilac, but feel free to add a hint of color or shine.  We suggest Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment (SPF 15).  Pick from 7 lovely shades or opt for clear if you’re just looking for a subtle sheen.

3. Invest in a sturdy waterproof mascara.  Raccoon eyes and a black smudged towel are not flattering, but some of us feel more naked without mascara than we do without pants.  For those gals, take the time to try and test a great waterproof mascara.  Try a natural, gentle formula like Bareminerals Flawless Definition WaterproofMascara.

4. You wore makeup to the gym, now what?  Cleanse your skin in 30 seconds with a quick and easy face wipe.  This will save you hours standing in front of the mirror staring at this week’s skin imperfection.   Shiseido’s Pureness Refreshing cleansingSheets (Oil-Free, Alcohol-Free) should do the trick.

Fit, fresh, and a little fancy.  Who says you can't look great all day, every day?