Influence of cosmetic foundation cream on skin condition during treadmill exercise

Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology
Open Access

Clinical Summary

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What was studied

A split‑face, within‑person comparison in 43 healthy college students assessed how applying foundation to half the face affected skin measures before and after a 20‑minute treadmill session, using a skin analysis device to track moisture, elasticity, pores, sebum, and oil.

Key findings

After exercise, moisture rose in both non‑makeup T (24.5→38.5) and makeup T (18.7→40.4) zones and elasticity increased similarly (25.6→41.5; 20.0→41.7); pore size increased in the non‑makeup T zone (41.7→47.8). Sebum increased in makeup zones (MT 2.4→4.2; MU 1.8→4.9) but decreased in the non‑makeup T zone, while oil increased in non‑makeup zones (T 6.1→11.8; U 7.3→11.9) and decreased in makeup zones (MT 13.3→7.4; MU 22.1→3.2) (all p<0.05).

Study limitations

Split‑face allocation was not reported as randomized, outcomes were short‑term (single 20‑minute session) and device‑based with no clinical endpoints, and the sample was limited to healthy college students.

Clinical implications

During a 20‑minute aerobic workout, foundation use was associated with lower surface oil and higher sebum in makeup areas; patients prone to dryness may wish to avoid foundation while exercising to limit post‑workout dryness.