There are two distinct points of view when it comes to wearing make-up in the gym: the certainly not, and the yes please. I’ve always fallen into the former category. I hate the feel of it on my skin, melting when I sweat – sorry, glow – and I know I’ll end up with a face full of blocked pores at the end of it.

I have nothing against make-up in general – I’m an avid fan. I use it to disguise all manner of sins. But it simply doesn’t work for me when working out. And according to Sarah Chapman, facialist extraordinaire and founder of Skinesis, problems ensue when the wrong sort of make-up is used at the gym. “Make-up sits on the skin, blocking pores and stopping your natural oils, sebum and sweat from escaping.” This attracts bacteria that will cause blackheads.

But, Chapman adds, looking after your skin and looking good in the gym need not be mutually exclusive, providing you adopt the right routine.

First, Chapman maintains that it is imperative to cleanse your face thoroughly before exercising. Be sure to remove all foundation, as it will melt and combine with the sweat to block pores and cause blemishes. Following cleansing, you should, as normal, still moisturise your skin. Instead of using a heavy cream that can melt and run into your eyes, Chapman recommends a serum that is lighter and will penetrate the epidermis without leaving a film behind. Skinesis Age Repair Serum (£46, at www.spacenk.co.uk from September 3) brightens and firms skin, and contains vitamins and antioxidants to protect against environmental damage, giving your complexion a healthy glow.

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• Mineral make-up for sensitive skins

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• Credit crunch beauty: Tesco make-up

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• How to create a natural make-up look

If you do insist on wearing make-up in the gym though, Chapman suggests using pure mineral make-up, as it is talc-free and won’t clog pores. Laura Mercier Mineral Make-up (£25, 0800 123400) is my make-up bag staple. It is ideal for evening out skin tone – perfect when you get blotchy during exercise – and is water-resistant and oil-free. Or you could use a tinted moisturiser such as Dermalogica Sheer Tint Moisture SPF 15 (£23.80, 0800 591818). It, too, will even out skin tone and provides good coverage, but doesn’t contain comedogenic ingredients.

For finishing touches, ensure your mascara is waterproof, and use a lip and cheek stain for a natural flush. Benefit Benetint (£22.50, 0808 2380230) is a natural shade of rosy pink that is great for lips as it isn’t glossy, so will keep your make-up natural.

It’s important to cleanse again after exercising. Chapman’s top tip is to give your face “a final rinse with cold water”. This will constrict the dilated capillaries that have expanded during exercise. And, of course, follow with your usual day cream.

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