4 Myths and Facts About Runner's Face

Just when you were getting your kms in, TikTok hits you with the viral runner’s face theory. Nope, it’s not the expression you make after you’ve crossed the finish line. It’s also not that serious, deadpan look you have while you’re running, focusing, and keeping tabs on your pace. According to the theory, runner’s face is the gaunt or hollow appearance you allegedly develop from the physical stress of long-distance running.

But before you start panicking and thinking about switching to another sport, hold your horses! There may not be enough evidence behind the theory anyway. Check out this list of myths and facts first.

Long-distance running can take a toll on your joints, and, as some believe, your skin. According to the theory, the repetitive bouncing and impact from the workout causes stress on your skin and makes it sag.

Fact: It’s not the physical aspects of running that cause skin sagging. Several other factors come into play:

• Loss of collagen: Studies say that collagen in your body gradually declines once you reach your mid to late 20s, which results in a less snatched appearance as the years go by. 
• External factors: As running is typically done outdoors, it exposes your skin to the sun, pollution, and other stressors that can contribute to its aging.
• Low body fat: With constant running, you lose body fat, which in turn, can make your face look less plump and your cheeks appear hollow. 

Sun protection is definitely a must. Slathering on and reapplying sunscreen will make a difference, as does wearing sunglasses and a cap. However, sun protection alone isn’t enough to stop your skin from looking hulas.

Fact: Keeping your skin protected from the sun is crucial, but other external factors can weaken your skin barrier just as much. For example, air pollution can lead to inflammation and even skin issues like acne. Running against strong winds can strip your face of its natural oils and make it dry. All of these can add up and cause stress on your skin.

You do need a good skincare routine, whether you run or not. A regimen that includes a cleanser, serum (vitamin C for the day, retinol at night), moisturizer, and SPF helps you maintain clear, young-looking skin. But there are other smart habits beyond a rigorous skincare routine that can help you keep enjoying your runs, while protecting your skin.

Fact: To prevent a runner’s face, you need to think beyond your skin, from the weather outside to the condition of your body internally. Here are some tips to try.

• Schedule your runs: If possible, avoid the hottest hours of the day, like noon, to mitigate the effects of the sun’s harmful rays. There's a reason fun runs are often scheduled so early in the morning! 
• Hydrate from inside: The more you sweat, the more you need to hydrate. Plus, dehydration shows on your skin. Your fingertips will look wrinkly. Your lips will chap. And your complexion will look dry and dull. 
• Wear proper attire: Other than sunglasses and a cap, opt for breathable, moisture-wicking clothing to help regulate your body temperature and prevent dehydration.

By now, you already know that the workout per se isn’t the cause of premature skin aging. So don’t leave that run club just yet – quitting the sport altogether isn’t the solution. Instead, build a lifestyle that supports your running to help prevent you from looking gaunt, tired, and stressed out.

Fact: Adjust your lifestyle so your body and skin remain in shape, giving you the energy and rest you need for your runs. For instance, proper nutrition helps in achieving radiant skin. Getting a full seven to eight hours of sleep supports skin cell renewal, repair, and recovery.

Now isn’t the time to give up on that 10km medal. A few lifestyle tweaks are all you need to support your running and prevent you from getting a runner’s face. And while you’re at it, maintain good body hygiene, too.

Cleanse with Lifebuoy Antibacterial Bar Soap with Multivitamins+ Total 10 after every run. It’s formulated with vitamins B3, C, and E to help boost skin immunity and fight against germs. On extra hot days, try Dove Cucumber and Green Tea Body Wash to help prevent skin dryness and dehydration. It has an easy-rinse formula that gives you a gentle yet thorough cleanse and leaves your skin feeling refreshed, hydrated, and non-sticky.  

So, don’t let the fear of getting a runner’s face stop you in your tracks. Stick to a solid skincare routine, plan your runs wisely, and fuel your body with a balanced diet, plenty of sleep, and proper hydration. Keep doing what excites you, move as you please, and rock that post-run glow!