Though you might not have heard of the term runner’s face, it’s certainly a concern for those who love pounding the pavement.

With so many of us developing a new passion for running outdoors during the coronavirus pandemic – including a massive 92% rise in people signing up to the Couch to 5K app – and with many being reluctant to return gyms and fitness studios while the country eases out of lockdown, the running community will only continue to grow.

John Lewis has seen a dramatic increase of 72% in online sales of running shoes since lockdown began, so it’s clear to see that more and more people are loving the joy of the great outdoors.

The benefits of running are many, both from a physical perspective and in terms of improving your mental health, thanks to the endorphin buzz you get after completing your favourite route. However, one of the negative effects of taking up this time-honoured hobby is the toll it takes on your skin.

By bouncing up and down on a hard surface for a sustained period of time, you play havoc with your skin’s elasticity and plumpness. The more you run, the more you’ll need to pay more attention to the effect it’s having on your face. Whether you prefer to sprint or jog on your runs, you will gradually expect a loss of volume and skin elasticity, leading to sagging skin and sunken cheekbones, the effects of which have the same results as premature ageing.

Aesthetic doctor Dr David Jack explains some of the many concerns he receives from his patients about the impact of running causing ageing, telling Metro.co.uk: ‘Over time, repeated exposure to UV light from the sun can have a negative impact on the skin in many ways (pigmentation, reduced collagen/elastin levels and general DNA damage), and running often will cause a reduction in body fat levels which are often more obvious on the face than elsewhere.

‘There may also be a slightly increased level of oxidative damage to the skin from anaerobic exercise.’

The good news is there are several solutions to prevent that runner’s face look.

‘The main thing is to use an SPF and cleanse the skin straight after exercise and performing a lymphatic drainage massage technique on clean skin with a little oil, which is excellent for lifting and reducing excessive tissue fluid,’ notes Dr David. ‘Plus, apply an antioxidant serum before and after running is also important to reverse some of the oxidative damage to the skin.’

Now you’ve got the perfect running kit at the ready, it’s time to add a few secret weapons to your running kitbag to keep your face as toned as the rest of your body.

Your new runner’s face checklist:

Stating the obvious here but hydrating with water is key pre- and post-run to prevent dehydration.

Introduce Gua Sha or facial massage into your skincare routine – particularly after a run. Designed to relieve tension in the muscles of the face, boost circulation, and encourage lymphatic drainage to lift, sculpt and tone cheekbones, it essentially retrains the muscles of the face after the hours of impact it receives during your runs.

Another no brainer, but before any workout outdoors, use sun protection. Dr David Jack recommends his All Day Long lightweight moisturiser with added SPF50, £89, especially during the summer months, to prevent sunburn and premature ageing – this simple step will go a long way.

Book in for a weekly FaceGym virtual PT 1-2-1 digital face training session concentrating on the lower face to lift and contour after a run. A FaceGym expert trainer will demonstrate the key facial exercises to get your face fit, which will help defy gravity as well as lifting, sculpting and improving muscle tone around the neck, jowls and cheeks. Goodbye runner’s face, hello cheekbones.

Invest in an antioxidant serum, like Aesop Parsley Seed anti-oxidant serum, £55 or Skinceuticals C E Ferulic, £140 – pricey but mighty powerful in delivering a major dose of protection.

Apply FaceGym Spirulina Training Stick, £38.50 before a run. Infused with MyoSKINFIT and Bidens Pilosa extract, which helps to strengthen skin and improve elasticity while you run, all you need is a quick sweep across the face before a run and to let the stick work its wonders.

Invest in a good pair of running sunglasses with UVA and UVB defence, which will prevent frowning when running. It’s hard to find a stylish pair that perform without slipping down your face. SunGod is a great shout for all outdoor sports and ticks the boxes for practicality, UV-protection, style and affordability.

A visor is also another good option to shield you from the sun – Lululemon stock a range of colours to complement your workout mood.

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