I run in make-up. I know, I know.
Ideally you want to run without, especially if you have problem skin as pores can become clogged. Also, if you happen to sweat (rather than delicately perspire) youre bound to end up with a mascara moustache okay, that may be an exaggeration but you get the idea.
Hair should be off your face - again I flout the rules and run with flowing tresses. Sure, it sounds lovely but I tend to get caught up in my headphones and the ties on the neck of my top. I run with my hair down not for vanity sake but because hairbands just hate living with me and will escape from any bedside cabinet or shelf I place them upon (its all very The Borrowers).
Recently Ive been trying to follow these simple hair and beauty rules for running, mainly to avoid a choking hazard or from scaring small children with my cosmetic-less face
Hair Tie Reminder
Ive been looping a few of these around my door keys so I can tie my hair up on the go. I tend not to forget my keys when I go for a run
Otherwise loop a couple around your iPod (at least youll have neat hair when youre locked out). Then theres Kirby grips, my tip for these little b**gers (where do they go!?) is to buy in bulk from Sallys, you can get a massive tub for around a fiver which should last you more than a few weeks.
Wipe Your Face
Recently Ive taken to using face wipes to remove make-up before exercise. I swear by Ole Henriksen Truth To Go wipes, £15 (
at look fantastic). They are moist and contain vitamin C an antioxidant ideal if youre running outside and exposed to the elements.
Protect from the Sun
Which brings me on to SPF. Use it every day. At least SPF 15 and look for a lotion that is designed for face and protects from both UVA (ageing rays) and UVB (burning rays). I love
Dr Nick Lowe Supercharged SPF 15 Day Cream, £17.49, its my daily moisturiser so that kills two birds with one stone. I rub any excess on the back of my hands as these age faster than your face partly because they are always exposed and not treated to the same amount of attention. Think on. On really hot days use a suntan lotion on any exposed areas, especially shoulders and the back of your neck.
Mist Your Hot Face
I go very red. I look like Im about to combust after any form of exercise so I always keep a bottle of Evian Brumisateur Facial Spray, £3.50 (at
Cult Beauty), in my fridge so I can cool myself down. On really hot days Ill just bury my head in the salad drawer. You know, whatever works for you.
Lashes in the Wind
I dont really ever leave my house without mascara and when I know Im going running Ill apply waterproof mascara. Traditional mascara tends to run when I run. Maybelline Great Lash Waterproof Mascara, £3.99 (at
Superdrug), is good.
Complexion Perfection
If you have problem skin there can be nothing more daunting than stepping out with no make-up, just for your complexion to become even more blotchy as you pick up the pace. Dont feel bad about applying foundation to go running! Who cares? (Unless of course youre Katharine Jenkins and the Daily Mail is watching you). Go for a non-comedogenic tinted moisturiser whether you have problem skin or not, this will just prevent the product clogging your pores a bonus whatever your skin type.
NARS Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturiser also has SPF 30, £28.
