When we think of the benefits of exercise, we often focus on its impact on muscle strength, cardiovascular health, and weight management. However, emerging research is shedding light on an unexpected benefit of resistance training: its ability to rejuvenate and improve the health of our skin at a cellular level. Let’s delve into the fascinating findings of recent studies and explore how “strength training” for the skin is becoming an essential part of skincare.
A study published in Scientific Reports revealed that both aerobic exercise and resistance training, particularly weight lifting, can lead to more youthful skin at a cellular level. The research, which involved middle-aged Japanese women, assessed the elasticity, thickness, and structure of the dermal layers in the women’s facial skin. The most profound improvements were observed in those who engaged in weight lifting, with their skin showing better elasticity, tone, and increased activity in genes involved in skin collagen production.
“It is possible to expect an additive effect of skin improvement when both resistance and aerobic exercise are combined.”
Satoshi Fujita: An exercise scientist at Ritsumeikan University in Kyoto, Japan, who oversaw the study published in Scientific Reports
Overall, the findings “suggest that the skin is strongly influenced not only by external factors such as UV radiation and dryness,” he explained, “but also by internal factors” like gene expression and inflammation, that can change when you exercise.
While skincare products have long been the focus of anti-aging efforts, these studies underscore the importance of incorporating resistance workouts into our beauty routines. The potential to achieve fresher, more youthful skin through weight lifting is a powerful incentive to embrace this form of exercise.
By adding “strength training” for our skin to our fitness regimens, we may unlock a new dimension of anti-aging benefits that go beyond what topical products can offer. It’s an exciting prospect that invites us to explore the transformative potential of exercise for our skin.
