The gym and I have a tenuous relationship, not least because my health doesn’t make working out easy for me. Over the last couple of months I’ve been trying to find a way to make working out work for me, and I’ve figured out a routine of swimming and yoga classes that so far is going well. They’re both more supportive full body workouts that I can take at my own pace, and I’m enjoying them! I thought I’d show you the staple beauty bits in my gym bag for pre and post workout, because there’s a few gems in here you need to know about.
Finding a good shampoo and conditioner for post-swim has been a bit of a chore. I need something clarifying to get rid of product and chlorine, but also gentle on my bleached hair. I’ve tried a few things but the best by far has to be the Kristin Ess The One Signature Shampoo and Conditioner. It’s a unique one, clarifying and cleansing whilst nourishing and softening, my hair feels like it’s cleaned of all product whilst being nourished and smoothed. Not the cheapest shampoo and conditioner on the market (not the most expensive either mind) but a little goes a long way and my hair loves it.
I also keep a mini Lush shower gel in my gym bag, I have a ton of these from Christmas gift sets to work through, right now I’m using Cinders which is a lovely spicy cinnamon orange scent. I only ever use Lush shower gels, they’re gentle with good ingredients that keep my skin happy, and nourishing and soothing on the skin. I also have a mini Glossier Milky Jelly Cleanser in here, to get rid of any chlorine or sweat from my skin. I love how cute the little travel mini is, and it’s easy to refill from my big bottle. (Don’t forget to use this link for 10% off your first Glossier order!). I’ve also got my Venus Snap travel razor in here, these are so practical, long gone are the days of me putting my hand in my shower bag only to slice my fingers on a loose razor!
An absolute gym bag essential for me is the IGK Blocked Water Resistant Hair Shield. Since my hair is bleach treated, it’s dry at the best of times, and chlorine doesn’t help matters at all. I discovered this last summer and I’ve been addicted to it ever since, a serum you smooth through your hair pre-swim to protect your locks from chlorine, sea salt and even UV rays. I can’t stress how much healthier my hair is since using this, even my hairdresser said ‘whatever you’re doing, it’s working, don’t stop!’ last time I saw her. It washes out easily with a good cleansing shampoo, but really works wonders in protecting your hair. (Side note: This stuff is inexplicably only £7.50 on Space NK’s website right now so I’ve just stocked up, really hoping that doesn’t mean it’s being discontinued?)
In terms of other beauty and haircare bits, I try to keep it as simple and paired back as possible. I’ve got a pack of Bioderma Crealine Face Wipes for whipping off makeup before a class or a dip, and my beloved Mitchum Stay Fresh Deodorant for pre and post workout top ups. I’ve got my Wet Brush to detangle my curly mane post swim, it’s the best thing for wet hair!
Also for hair, I have a mini Briogeo Farewell Frizz Conditioning Spray, a great detangling leave in conditioner as an extra step for post swim hair. Again I have the full size of this and just decant in which is handy, this is a great leave in conditioner, nourishing without weighing your hair down. I also never wash my hair without then applying some IGK Mistress Leave In Conditioner, which gives my hair a soft glossy sheen.
Skincarewise, it couldn’t be simpler. My Caudalie Eau de Beaute to tone and refresh my skin, this is particularly lovely spritzed on post workout. Probably a princess product but I always find this nourishing and gives my skin a good glow! I always pack a moisturiser, but I’m not particularly loyal, I tend to have a lot of mini moisturisers kicking around, so I just use whatever I have. Right now I’m using a mini Sephora Instant Moisture + Cream, and I like it, it’s light and fast absorbing but really hydrating, leaves my skin looking seriously juicy.
I don’t keep any makeup on hand as I usually tend to go to the gym in the evening! On the off chance I am going out after and want to look more put together, I’ll just chuck my concealer and mascara in my bag and that’ll do!
What do you keep in your gym bag?