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Running is one of Best types of exercise : Studies say that this can improve your cardiovascular health, stimulate your mood and even reduce the risk of arthritis and memory problems. But if you have spent time online recently, you may have heard that it can also cause characteristic skin changes, often described as the "runner's face". What exactly means, ask yourself? Continue to read to find out what plastic surgeons have to say about it.

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What is Runner's face?

There is no official definition for Runner's face, but health professionals recognize the phenomenon.

"In general, it refers to the skeletal appearance that runners often put themselves in the area of the face," explains Dennis Schimpf , MD, a Plastic surgeon based in Charleston . "There is no indication or research according to which running actually leads to aging faster, but that clearly changes the way a person appears."

In addition to the opportunity to sometimes cause a global glider appearance, this type of exercise can also have an impact on the skin.

"The term generally describes the appearance of a skin of the discolored and wrinkled face which may seem tough, tired or older than the true age of the individual," said Samuel J. Lin , MD, Facs, Associate Professor of Harvard Medical School surgery and Plastic surgeon in Boston .

When did the term take off?

Most people have heard the term for the first time on Tiktok. In February 2023, Gerald Imber , MD, plastic surgeon and anti-aging expert, Published a video on the concept , saying that certain exercises can accelerate weight loss and wrinkles - and run long distances, it makes one of them.

"Have you ever seen a longtime long-standing runner who did not have a big old face," he asked. "This is what is happening: in addition to the old emaciated face, your knees go, your back is, and it's a bit stupid."

He adds that it is "perfectly well" to run a little every day or a few kilometers a few times a week.

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What causes Runner's face?

The development of Runner's face is probably associated with a few different things. Here is what plastic surgeons say the most.

Low body fat

Studies show that distance runners tend to have lower body fat than inactive people , especially these 35 years and over. It's good for some things and less for others.

"The subcutaneous fat offers a volume and support for the skin, smooth fine lines and wrinkles and provide a more complete, refreshing and younger look," said Elie Levine , MD, a Certified visual artist surgeon At New York. "As you get older, this volume decreases naturally, so if you have a low body fat to start, your volume is already decreased and your skin will appear aged."

Unwelcomed skin

Low body fat in the face can also cause uninformed skin. Think, for example, about facial grease on the cheeks and fat pads surrounding the eyes. If those who disappear, then the skin loses its support, explains Leo Lapuerta , MD, a Plastician surgeon in Houston . Which can cause a sagged effect.

You might also look a little winding. "The loss of fat pads around the eye area leaves the eyes tired and hollow, and the tired eyes look only increases the eyes glove of the face," explains Lapuerta.

Damage the sun

Many runners spend hours outside, which can evolve towards chronic sun exposure.

"The effect of the sun on the skin is known as photovagicie and it has been shown to cause increased wrinkles, bad texture of the skin and discoloration," explains Lin. "Because runners tend to spend more time exposed to the sun and potentially without sun protection, damage to the sun can cause signs of photoaging over time, which can collectively lead to what is called the face of the runner. "

Lin adds that research has also shown that sweating can intensify damage that exposure to ultraviolet light has on the skin.

Free radicals

It is not only the sun that wreaked havoc on the skin during the race. "Your skin is also exposed to free radicals and other environmental elements, thus becoming vulnerable to oxidative damage, which can ensure that the skin is more emaciated, weakened, wrinkled and dull," explains Levine.

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How can you prevent Runner's face?

Avoid running in the sun

In this way, you decrease your exposure as much as possible. "The runners must be invited to minimize the race at noon and run in the shade when possible," explains Lin. You can also wear a hat, protective clothes and sunglasses to reduce your risk. AE0FCC31AE342FD3A1346EBB1F342FCB

… And wear sunscreen if you do it

Wearing a sunscreen is a major defense against premature aging.

"It must be applied to dry skin before heading outside, even on cloudy days, and authorized to dry," explains Lapuerta. "It must be reappired frequently outside, and you must ensure that you do not remember the application on the ears and the neck."

Use SPF 15 or more on the face, body and lips for the best protection against harmful UV rays, suggests Laperta.

Wash your face after your race

THE Association of the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) suggests using lukewarm water after exercise to eliminate sweat, dirt and oil.

Stay hydrated

You need adequate hydration to supply your shopping, and this will also help protect against runner's face.

"Poor hydration can ensure that the skin is drier and less firm," explains Lin. "Adequate water intake helps maintain skin health. If runners do not hydrate adequately, the global effect can contribute to the appearance of the" runner's face ".

Bring a water bag or hit the water fountain as you go, in particular, you practice long distance stroke.

Keep your skin hydrated

You also want to hydrate your skin from the outside. "The use of hydrating nutrients and skin care products containing antioxidants can help fight oxidative stress and maintain the hydration and elasticity of the skin," said Alexis Pfropper , an approved esthetician and Founder of the skin of the skin ästhetik .

Do not smoke

Smoking can increase the effects of aging and amplify the facial effects of runners. According to American Osteopathic College of Dermatology (AOCD), you may notice dry skin, unequal complexion, loose eyes, blurred jaw and deeper wrinkles and furrows.

"It is common that the skin of a heavy 40-year-old smoker looks like that of a 70-year-old non-smoker," they write. For a range of reasons, it is better to abandon the habit.

Kiss healthy fats

Your diet can have an anti-aging effect, which can bring the clock back on some of the aesthetic effects of the race. Healthy fats, such as those found in olive oil, avocados and nuts, are part of a healthy diet.

Eat your vegetables

They are rich in antioxidants and nutrients, which can help cell regeneration. They are also anti-inflammatory And can help the production of collagen, the protein that gives the skin its strength and rebound.

In relation: How the exercise could age you faster, reveals a new study .

Conclusion

Although the face of a runner is not attractive, there are no medical risks. If you are concerned about the appearance of your skin, follow the above advice to mitigate the impact of the race. For more advice from health, beauty and well-being, visit Better life again soon.

Best Life offers the most up -to -date information for high -level experts, new research and health agencies, but our content is not supposed to replace professional advice. If you have health questions or concerns, always consult your health care provider directly.