Exercise and Your Skin

by Ryan Halvorson

Making News:

Do your clients complain of skin conditions related to physical activity? According to a dermatologist who spoke at the American Academy of Dermatology’s SKIN academy in November, exercise can cause bothersome, sometimes painful skin conditions that can inhibit further physical activity if left untreated.

“Despite its positive effect on a person’s physical and psychological health, regular exercise does not necessarily improve our skin health and may in fact lead to a rash of skin conditions that require treatment,” said Brian B. Adams, MD, MPH, FAAD, associate professor of dermatology at the University of Cincinnati. “While exercising indoors eliminates the threat of skin cancer and sun damage, it is important for people who frequent health clubs to be aware of the risks to their skin as well.”

According to Adams, the most common skin conditions in people who engage in regular indoor exercise are blisters, fungus/athlete’s foot, acne mechanica (from rubbing against athletic equipment or tight-fitting clothing) and turf burns, which can be caused by sliding on exercise mats, carpeting or a basketball court. Most exercise-related skin conditions can be easily treated with over-the-counter medications, but Adams recommends that people see a dermatologist if a condition persists or infection occurs. For more information, visit www.aad.org.