Skip the Post-Workout Shower (& Smell Awesome)...Really!

After a hard workout, all you want to do is take a shower and freshen up. But if you’re in a rush? Don’t fret. Here’s how to take care of that sweaty scalp and drenched skin and look perfectly fresh—minus the time-consuming shower. Keep reading for my favorite post workout beauty tips that’ll get you looking (and smelling) fresh as a daisy:

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Skip the Post-Workout Shower (& Smell Awesome)...Really!

Deep clean your skin (NO excuses!)

Cleanse. Your. Face. Don’t let lingering sweat and bacteria have its way with your skin---it’s essential to deep clean your skin to get rid of the gunk that could otherwise cause long-term issues. I can’t offer enough praise for Neutrogena Purifying Facial Cleanser ($7.49), which contains detoxifying willowbark extract that prevents clogged pores.
Your post-workout BFF

Baby wipes are your friend. Actually, they’re your BFF on workout days, especially when you’re pressed for time and need to get back to the office for a meeting. Baby wipes work beautifully in a pinch, quickly ridding your body of sweat and grime. My current favorites are Ban Total Refresh Cooling Body Cloths ($2.99)---they leave skin soft, refreshed, and mildly scented, and they can be used anywhere. There’s a slight tingle that just feels so good after a strenuous workout!
Nix scalp sweat

A sweaty scalp is no joke. Left to its own devices, your hair may appear matted, your roots may soak up sweat, and your mane will appear flat and lifeless. Revive it with a dry shampoo, such as one from cult favorite Batiste ($8). Available in formulas for both blondes and brunettes ($8), plus original and scented versions, this spray quickly boosts dull locks. Just shake, spray, massage, and style as usual.
Deodorize and nix bacteria

Don’t neglect to reapply deodorant. You’ll simply feel fresher with that extra bit of insurance to keep you (literally) covered. Nip bacteria and moisture in the bud with my holy grail: Fresh Sugar Roll-On ($18). It smells incredible and eliminates odor (and if you apply pre-workout, you’ll notice it prevents the dreaded soaked-shirt syndrome, too).
Clean up your complexion

Despite being the world’s most devout beauty junkie, I’m not a fan of wearing makeup while working out. The aftermath, though, is a different story. I’m partial to Smashbox Camera Ready BB Cream ($39). It’s not a heavy-duty foundation, but provides just the right amount of coverage for a flawless, clean complexion. (Bonus points for broad-spectrum SPF 35.)
Get a natural glow

A natural flush of color is perfect for a quick post-workout touch-up. The fuss-free element alone is appealing (who needs a mirror?), but it’s also great to know I’m moisturizing my lips while adding just a hint of natural color to my look. Burt’s Bees Tinted Lip Balm ($7) is available in several colors, including the ever-flattering Pink Blossom.
Plump up your lashes

Minimal makeup finishes with a coat or two of waterproof mascara, like Maybelline Full ’N Soft ($7.77). I prefer simpler formulas like this; they add volume without the va-va-va voom look that’s better left for big nights out.
Keep your fragrance light

The final touch? A light fragrance that brightens up my whole day. I love anything with citrus and water notes during spring and summer, but come fall and winter a vanilla-based scent, like LAVANILA Vanilla Lavender ($19 for the rollerball), is perfect (and wears well year round, too).