Can sweat really be good for your skin? Here’s what dermatologists say.

When you think of sweat in relation to your skin, oil build-up and breakouts may come to mind. However, experts say that sweating can also remove dirt and dead skin cells from the body normal sweat production could have an aesthetic effect that can appear to be anti-aging.

Sweating, of course, is a normal physiological response that plays a crucial role in maintaining the body’s health. “The purpose of sweating is to help your body maintain a normal body temperature and to cool you down when your body temperature rises, which can occur during exercise, work, stress or high temperatures, among other causes,” he said. Dr. Marisa Garshicka New York dermatologist.

But if sweating has aesthetic benefits, we want to hear about them. HuffPost reached out to Garshick and other dermatologists to explain.

The average person has between 2 million and 4 million sweat glands. There are three types: eccrine, apocrine, and apoecrine. The latter two types play a minor role in the overall production of sweat and are limited to certain regions of the body, but the eccrine glands play a role in the benefits of sweat to the skin we are talking about.

Sweat contains a natural antibacterial peptide called dermcidin. “This peptide naturally destroys bacteria and other harmful contaminants,” he explained Dr. Dylan Alston, a dermatologist in Salt Lake City. “As a result, it helps minimize infections and can even help clear up acne.”

You may have heard of “sweating toxins,” but don’t put too much emphasis on sweating as a means of detoxification. Here’s why: While studies have shown that toxic elements and heavy metals such as mercury, lead, cadmium and arsenic can be expelled from the body through sweat, most toxins in the body are excreted through the liver, kidneys and intestines. No need to “sweat”.

A potential benefit of sweating, according to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Enrico, is that sweat plays a key role in supporting the skin’s hydration level and strengthening the skin’s barrier function. “Sweat increases blood circulation in the skin, which also gives it a healthy glow,” she said.

So what does circulation have to do with your skin? Garshick explained that with improved circulation, the skin receives the nutrients it needs to look and feel more hydrated and healthy. When circulation is impaired, the skin can suffer and appear dry and dull.

“When it comes to skin and aging, sweat is the most effective and natural moisturizer available,” said Alston. “By increasing the hydration of the skin’s surface, sweat provides a protective benefit, helping to prevent allergens from entering the skin.” If you’re wondering what allergens have to do with your skin, Alston explained further: “Both reduced hydration and increased allergies stress the skin’s ability to regenerate and recover. These two factors directly affect the rate of cell differentiation and revitalization.”

Sweating can cause some negative consequences if not managed properly. According to Henry, excessive sweating can lead to skin irritation, breakouts, and clogged pores, leading to acne breakouts. Additionally, it can promote bacterial and fungal growth, leading to skin infections or diseases such as tinea pedis, also known as athlete’s foot.

To mitigate the risks of skin irritation caused by a good amount of perspiration, it is essential to maintain proper hygiene. “Cleanse your skin regularly and wear breathable, sweat-wicking fabrics when exercising or in hot weather,” Henry said.

And don’t mess with oily-streaked cleansers—you want to keep your skin’s protective barrier intact. “It’s important to find the balance between cleansing your skin to remove build-up and sweat, but not stripping your skin of its natural oils,” Garshick said.

For those who have a condition known as hyperhidrosis, or excessive sweating, “there are treatment options, and it’s best to talk to a board-certified dermatologist,” Garshick said.

Sweating has some positive benefits for the skin, but don’t neglect your skin care and bathe in sweat all day. The act of sweating can increase the glow of the skin and provide temporary hydration, but it is not the only agent responsible for a glowing complexion.

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