Finding time for the gym as a college student can be very difficult. And if you do find time to go during your day, you don’t always have the motivation to go. Don’t lie to yourself. You know part of the reason why you might be hesitant to go in the middle of the day is because you do not want to ruin your hair or makeup. Fortunately, I have cute hairstyle and makeup tips for after working out that will make you just as glamorous as before you hit the gym…maybe even better.
BEFORE:
First things first, it is never a good idea to workout with makeup on, because when you sweat your makeup will clog your pores. If you must workout with makeup, use minimal concealer and mascara. When you are coming from school or work, chances are you have your full makeup face on. Wipe off along your hairline, neck, cheekbones, nose, forehead, and jawline. If you can go without eye makeup, carefully wipe off your eyelids. It is best to not use a towel or paper towel that the gym provides. These can be harmful to your delicate skin tissue. I would suggest picking up a pack of makeup removing wipes by Aveeno, Neutrogena, or Simple. They are gentle and soft on your face.
If you are concerned about your hair getting kinked from your hair tie, I would suggest picking up the newest hair tie called Ribbon hair ties. You can pick these up at any convenience store or online at Cyndibands ($10 for 6 or $5 for 3). Cyndibands has a great variety of colors and styles, and she even has some sorority ones. If you have bangs, make sure to pin them back to reduce sweat and hair oil getting mixed on your face, this can cause acne. Once you have removed your makeup and put your hair up, it time to go get your workout on.
AFTER:
When you’re done, it’s time to get it all together before you head back out for the day. The basic items you will need are, dry shampoo (Psssssst, $6.49), a hair tie (color of your hair), bobby pins, a teasing comb, and travel size hair spray. If you have time and the room to carry things such as a towel, hair cap, loofa, and body wash to take a body shower before you go back to work, that’s awesome. Either way, once you are done, wash your face using oil wipes by Neutrogena, or at least give it a good rinse. Make sure to put a light, oil free, lotion on your face. It is important to replenish the moisture you just lost. I would not suggest putting lotion on your body if you could not take a body shower. In this case, you should wait until you can go home and shower later that night before you moisturize.
After this, take your hair out of your ponytail, and spray dry shampoo all over. This will help soak up some of the sweat and oil that has accumulated in your hair. Once you are done, you can continue to style your hair. Here are three easy hair styles:
The Better Bun:
This is a great and easy way to make a sock bun without the damaging effects of the sock. This hair style is great for both formal and informal occasions.
The Sleek Ponytail:
A more elegant approach to the original ponytail.
Messy Twisted Bun:
An effortless messy bun that takes less than two minutes to create.
Side Dutch Braid:
We can thank The Hunger Games for Katniss’s fiery fierce arena up-do. This is also great for days when you’re dressed up or days when you’re dressed down.
Fishtail Braid:
A low maintenance braid that has a bit of glamour to it.
Classic Ballerina Bun:
A classic hair style that will keep your hair out of your face for the rest of the day.
After your hair is all dolled up, you are ready to reapply your make up. You can re-do all of it, or just do touch ups as needed. Once that is done, you’re all set to go out and conquer the day.