If you’ve recently started working out and have wondered why you have puffy cheeks shortly after starting an exercise routine.
You’re not alone.
This is a common side effect of starting an exercise routine, it’s caused by the increase in blood flow to your face and some reasons.
In this blog post, we will discuss the causes of puffy cheeks after starting an exercise routine, as well as some tips on how to reduce them.
Why do I have puffy cheeks shortly after starting an exercise routine?
Puffy cheeks after starting a new exercise routine are normal and should go away within a few weeks. It can be caused by inflammation, which is your body’s natural response to injury or stress. Puffy cheeks can be a sign that you’re working your body too hard. It may also be a sign that you need more water. Besides, it can sometimes be caused by an allergy or sinus infection. It may be because you’re eating too much salt and a side effect of medication.
1. Puffy cheeks after starting a new exercise routine is normal and should go away within a few weeks
When you begin working out, your body circulates more blood to your muscles in order to supply them with the oxygen they need. This increased blood flow can also cause your cheeks to look a bit puffy. This is perfectly normal and should go away within a few weeks as your body adjusts to your new exercise routine. Besides, a little extra blood flow to your face can actually give you a healthy-looking glow!
Avoid exercising in extreme temperatures, both hot and cold. Exercise itself will increase your body temperature, so adding extreme heat or cold can be too much for your system to handle. Try to drink plenty of water before and after your workout. This will help keep your skin hydrated and will also flush out any toxins that may be causing the puffiness. Finally, try not to wear tight headgear during your workout. This can restrict blood flow and cause the cheeks to become even puffier.
2. Puffy cheeks are caused by inflammation, which is your body’s natural response to injury or stress
When you begin an exercise routine, your body is going through a lot of changes. Your heart rate increases, you’re sweating more, and your muscles are working harder than they’re used to. All of this can lead to inflammation, which manifests itself in the form of puffy cheeks.
If you’re noticing that your cheeks are looking a little puffier than usual after starting a new workout routine, don’t worry – it’s perfectly normal. Inflammation is your body’s natural response to injury or stress, and it helps to protect your tissues from further damage.
In most cases, the inflammation will go away on its own once your body has adjusted to the new demands of exercise. However, if the puffiness persists or gets worse, it’s important to see a doctor to rule out any other underlying conditions.
3. Puffy cheeks can be a sign that you’re working your body too hard
If you find that your cheeks are consistently puffy after starting a new exercise routine, it may be a sign that you’re working your body too hard. When you push yourself too hard during exercise, your body releases stress hormones like cortisol, which can lead to inflammation.
When you’re noticing puffiness in your cheeks on a regular basis, take a step back and reassess your workout routine. Make sure that you’re giving your body enough time to rest and recover between workouts, and try not to push yourself too hard during exercise.
4. Puffy cheeks may also be a sign that you need more water
If you find that your cheeks are looking especially puffy after starting an exercise routine, it may be a sign that you need to up your water intake. When we sweat, we lose not only water but also electrolytes like sodium and potassium.
Drinking plenty of fluids helps to replenish these lost electrolytes and prevents dehydration, which can cause our cells to retain water and swell. So, if you’re working out regularly and notice your cheeks looking a little puffy, make sure you’re drinking enough H20.
5. Puffy cheeks can sometimes be a sign of an allergy or sinus infection
When you have started an exercise routine and notice that your cheeks are becoming puffy, it is important to consult with a doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions. Allergies and sinus infections can cause inflammation and congestion, which can lead to puffy cheeks. If you are cleared by a doctor, there are some things you can do to help reduce the swelling in your cheeks.
Apply a cold compress to your cheeks for a few minutes several times a day. This will help to reduce inflammation and swelling. Drink plenty of fluids, especially water, to stay hydrated and help flush out any toxins that may be causing the swelling.
Avoid salty foods, as they can contribute to water retention and make your cheeks look even puffier. Get plenty of rest and reduce stress, as both can lead to inflammation. If you follow these tips, your puffy cheeks should start to improve. However, if you notice that the swelling is getting worse or you have any other concerning symptoms, be sure to consult with a doctor.
6. Puffy cheeks may be caused by eating too much salt
If you’re eating a lot of salt, that could be the cause of your puffy cheeks. When you eat salty foods, your body retains water to dilute the salt. This can lead to bloating and swelling in different parts of your body, including your cheeks. So, if you want to avoid puffy cheeks after exercise, cut back on the salt.
Salt isn’t the only food that can cause puffy cheeks. Other foods that can lead to water retention and bloating include carbohydrates, dairy, and alcohol. So, if you’re struggling with puffy cheeks, take a close look at your diet and see if there are any changes you can make.
7. Puffy cheeks can sometimes be a side effect of medication
Puffy cheeks can sometimes be a side effect of medication, such as those used to treat allergies or asthma. If you think your medication might be the cause, talk to your doctor. They may be able to prescribe a different medication that doesn’t have this side effect.
Medication can also interact with other things you’re taking, such as supplements. So, if you’re taking any supplements, be sure to talk to your doctor about whether they could be interacting with your medication and causing puffy cheeks.
8. Things you can do to minimize exercise-induced puffiness.
There are a few things you can do to minimize exercise-induced puffiness.
- First, make sure you warm up before you start your workout. This will help increase blood flow gradually and reduce the risk of inflammation.
- Second, avoid working out in hot or humid conditions. Heat can cause your blood vessels to dilate, which will lead to puffiness.
- Third, try to exercise for shorter periods of time. If you can’t avoid long workouts, take breaks during your workout so you can cool down and reduce the inflammation in your face.
- Fourth, use a cold compress after your workout. Applying a cold compress to your face will help constrict the blood vessels and reduce swelling.
- Fifth, make sure you’re staying hydrated. Drinking plenty of fluids will help keep your skin healthy and reduce the risk of inflammation.
- Finally, make sure you cool down after your workout. Cooling down helps your body slowly return to its resting state and can reduce inflammation.
Final thoughts
If you’re noticing puffy cheeks after starting an exercise routine, there are a few possible explanations. Allergies, sinus infections, and medication side effects can all cause swelling in the face. In some cases, puffy cheeks may also be due to dietary choices or simply working out in hot or humid conditions.
There are a few things you can do to minimize exercise-induced puffiness such as warming up before your workout, taking breaks during long workouts, and using a cold compress after your workout. You can also reduce swelling by staying hydrated and cooling down after your workout.
I hope you found this article helpful. Do you have any tips for reducing puffiness after exercise? Let us know in the comments below!
Thanks for reading!