“Runner’s face” and the effects of exercise

Clearing your head as you pound the streets, that feeling of elation as you finally reach the end, the multiple health benefits you’ll start to notice when you make it a regular habit – there’s a lot to love about running! But despite the many advantages, some people are reluctant to work up a sweat on the treadmill for fear of developing “runner’s face”. So, what is it and what can be done to counteract it? The aesthetic experts at YourGP explain all…

The many benefits of running

Running is a fantastic way to improve your cardiovascular fitness. It is especially effective at strengthening muscles and bones, keeping your blood pressure in check, reducing your risk of a heart attack and stroke, and helping you to maintain a healthy weight.

No wonder last year thousands of people joined their local ParkRun and a record-breaking number of runners took to the streets in the race for a PB at events such as the Great Scottish Run and the Edinburgh Marathon Festival.

The reality of “runner’s face”

Many beauty magazines have been quick to respond to the growing popularity of running with warnings of “runners face”. This refers to the loss of fullness in the face resulting from weight loss which can create a gaunt-like appearance.

They also point to the impact of repetitive running which can appear to drag the face down, resulting in sagging skin and jowling. And exposure to the sun during long outdoor runs can result in premature ageing of the skin, the formation of wrinkles and pigmentation.

Treating runner’s face

Whether you’re a runner or not, if your confidence is affected by any of the symptoms listed above, speak to the aesthetic experts at YourGP. We offer a range of safe and effective treatments that have been proven to lift, fill, tighten and add definition to the face.

What are the options?

Dermal fillers are great for treating sunken cheeks and sagging jowls. The treatment involves injecting a natural, biodegradable gel between layers of your skin to replace and restore facial volume. It can give you back the round contours, high cheekbones and defined jawline that ageing, gravity (and arguably running!) can take away. The treatment takes an average of just 30 minutes and the effects can last for up to 18 months.

Anti-wrinkle injections can be used in addition to dermal fillers to tackle lines and creases. They work by relaxing the targeted muscles, causing the overlying skin to become smoother. The treatment itself is quick and the effects can last up to 6 months.

Enjoy a complimentary consultation

If you’re unsure which treatment is right for you, book an in-depth chat with a medical aesthetic expert at YourGP. During your consultation we will explain how each treatment works, assess your suitability, and answer any questions you might have. What’s more, the consultation is free. Simply choose a date and time that suits you via our simple online booking system, or you can email reception@your.gp.

Don’t let the fear of runner’s face hold you back!

Remember, running comes with so many benefits. It can improve your circulation, stimulate collagen production to improve skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and reduce inflammation by helping to flush out toxins.

All of these things will ultimately improve your skin health and overall complexion, so don’t let the fear of runner’s face hold you back!