How to save your skin and body post-marathon
- Posted by
- Jacqueline Kilikita
- Published

For anyone in training for the race in London this weekend, we have the aftercare you need
You’ve finally broken in your trainers, found a pair of leggings that don’t chafe, toiled through months of training to reach your target time, pushed yourself through 152 stitches, and, now, you’re this close to the hallowed finish line.
We can guarantee that moment will feel irreplaceable. But whether you’re one of the 386,050 taking part in the London Marathon this Sunday, or participating in any number of other endurance events over the coming months, the training doesn’t end when you take your final strides.
After any long-distance run, achy knees, weary muscles and torturous toenails make everyday tasks such as walking up the stairs and even sitting on the toilet (ouch) feel like an Olympic sport. Which is why your postrun wellness kit is essential, the right products – from skincare to supplements – can make the difference between being out of action for two weeks and being sore for just a few days.
Here’s exactly what you need to recover, restore and take the edge off those physical side-effects…
The Beauty Chef Hydration Inner Beauty Boost
A daily shot of this electrolyte-packed elixir will boost hydration from the inside out.
£29, www.spacenk.com
Free People Crystal Elixir Water Bottle
The amethyst inside this bottle is said to support revitalisation and clarity of body and mind.
£70, freepeople.com
The Gentle Label Organic Healing Balm
Vitamin E, pawpaw and calendula in this velvety balm soothes chapped skin.
£11.90, thegentlelabel.com
Mio Skincare Clean Slate Workout Swipes
Remove sweat, dirt, oil and make-up with these refreshing wipes.
£21 (as part of the New Gym Kit), mioskincare.co.uk
Form Chocolate Salted Caramel Superblend Protein
Pea protein, hemp and algae deliver amino acids to cells, aiding recovery in tired muscles.
£24, formnutrition.com
Nails Inc Superfood Repair Oil
Give sore toenails a slathering of this almond and argan-infused oil to condition, nourish and strengthen them.
£15, nailsinc.com
The Lost Explorer Magnesium Arnica Gel
Magnesium and menthol crystals alleviate sore joints, while witch hazel heals scrapes.
£35, libertylondon.com
Aromatherapy Associates Light Relax Bath & Shower Oil
Unwind mentally with calming ylang ylang, lavender and petitgrain.
Neom Organics Scent To Calm & Relax Candle
Light this patchouli and frankincense-scented candle to relax after that post-race adrenaline surge
£45, neomorganics.com
Kiki Health Magnesium Oil
A silky oil that makes skin tingle and helps unravel tight quads and glutes.
£12, cultbeauty.co.uk
Images: Getty