Sweat and Big Pimples

Athletes always want to know if there is a correlation between sports and acne. Simply put, yes. And no. In truth, it depends on the individual. Yes, for those who are susceptible to acne and breakouts, both teenagers and adults, sports and high levels of activity and heavy sports equipment can cause acne to develop in problem areas.

Many are under the impression that sports related acne is just something that has to be dealt with as consequence of the activity, however, there are ways to help prevent breakouts. Sweat, as well as skin irritants such as equipment, jerseys, sports bras, compression shorts or Under Armor can cause big pimples to develop in several places: The face, neck, shoulders, back, chest and even buttocks.

Sports, Sweat and Big Pimples

This topic is a bit complicated, because of the relation between sports and acne. Sports acne is not caused from playing sports or allowing your skin to sweat. In fact, allowing the skin to sweat and breathe as such will aid in the pores ridding themselves of some waste, while acting as a body temperature regulator. Exercise and sweat also come with the release of endorphins, making you feel better, regardless of the outcome of a sporting event.

The problem with sweat and big pimples comes from the irritation the skin undergoes from a variety of variables. Athletic clothing such as jerseys, underclothing, padding and helmets. Many athletes wear such equipment to participate in sports and then move on about the day or evening after exercising, without properly caring for the affected skin. This is especially true in teenagers.

How Can Sweat Add to the Problem of Big Pimples

Cleansing the skin after sweating profusely is the only way to ensure that the sweat doesn’t dry, become stale and coat the epidermis with a layer of the salt/sodium the body discharges when it sweats. Sodium allows us to perform at high athletic levels, but when left on the face, neck, shoulders, back or chest after an athletic, it can simply become another contributing factor to big pimples.

Dead skin cells, skin oils and bacteria are some of the pore-clogging entities that cause pimples to develop. Combine to those naturally occurring elements another variable–any impurities or body waste released through the sweat. Not the best environment for healthy skin to thrive.

Following any athletic event, you can help to prevent the development of big pimples by properly caring for the skin. Exfoliate the dead skin cells away, cleanse the skin and then treat it with a benzoyl peroxide cream, followed by a moisturizer.

For acne problems on the face, or any other body part, the same skin care regimen can be applicable. A common problem associated with acne and sweat is known as folliculitis, in which red bumps occur in areas that sweat heavily, and are potentially irritated by sports uniforms or equipment. While these spots are not acne, they can be treated in the same manner.

Finally, be sure to clean any athletic equipment regularly, and use a mild or gentle allergy free detergent on practice clothing and uniforms.