‘CAKEd’ walk to fit goals

With #fitspiration ruling Gen-Y’s health goals, it comes as little surprise to note how millennials are getting fitness-conscious with great purpose. But, in a rather interesting trend, a lot of gym rats and yoga buffs (on an endorphin drive) don’t mind prepping up and dabbing layers of make-up before heading to their favourite workout class.

While the concept has been shunned by many, owing to how unhealthy it is for the skin, there are still many people who think it is okay to jazz up a little before working out. Experts and workout-holics weigh in the positives and negatives of this new trend.

“I always wear a bright pop of lipstick and waterproof eyeliner while working out, as I believe the right kind of make-up makes me feel turbo-charged while sweating out,” shares actress Sanjjanaa Galrani, who is also an ardent power yoga enthusiast.

But, again, she believes it’s important to be cautious while dabbing on some make-up, “Always settle for quality products and dermatologist-prescribed products as you will be working out on most days and can’t afford to have foundation soaked up by your pores.” Entrepreneur Veena Ashiya, another fitness junkie, adds how she understands why women like it. “Despite being a no-make-up person, I completely get why most women like wearing it to the gym or while exercising in general. A little bit of make-up really boosts your confidence, but again, it’s very important to be as minimal as possible. Pores opening up due to sweat can make make-up soak in, and that can leave your skin in a really bad shape, in the long run.”

For entrepreneur Sneha Petnikota, the idea seems a little absurd, nevertheless. “Working out is all about being healthy, fresh and active. So when you have put on make-up, you are not allowing your skin to breathe as it’s covered with many layers of make up. I sweat so much after a workout session and if I have make-up on, I’m not comfortable at all.”

Stressing upon the cons, Dr Sanjeev Nelogi, a cosmetologist, believes a good sunscreen is advisable. But, nothing beyond that. “Your skin needs to be at ease and open pores get clogged with any kind of make-up. It’s also a little silly, as most of the make-up unless super-sweat proof, wears off. So, women really need to stick to a basic sunscreen, irrespective of where you are working out.”