7 Skin Conditions You Can Blame on Exercise ...

By Eliza

Before you get too excited, this list is not going to advocate quitting your exercise program. However, it will clue you in to some skin issues that can be caused by your workout. Once you know where they come from and what could be causing them, it’s infinitely easier to avoid them in the future. So, yes, you should definitely still be getting your 30 minutes every day, but you can likely take action to make it less hard on your skin. Here are some conditions that exercise can lead to.

1 Chafing

I’m sure you’ve experienced this problem at one time or another. It’s caused when you get all sweaty and certain body parts rub against each other. That might be on your inner thighs, between your butt cheeks or under your arms. Wherever it crops up, it isn’t comfortable. Wear moisture wicking fabrics to help keep sweat away from your skin.

Frequently asked questions

2 Runner’s Face

This so-called condition occurs in women who are serious runners. According to experts, when someone spends a lot of time pounding the pavement, it breaks up the collagen in the face, which can lead to sagging. However, other experts say the problem can be blamed on free radical damage or oxygenation. Never fear – you don’t have to give up running. Simply shorten your runs to less than one hour and don’t go all out the entire time. Try intervals instead.

3 Sunburn and Skin Damage

This is a skin condition you can blame on your outdoor workout. Whether that’s running, swimming, basketball or anything else you do outside, the sun can really do a number on your skin. Be sure you always wear SPF when you spend time in the sunshine and see your dermatologist regularly so you can detect skin conditions before they get too serious.

4 Acne

Exercise is just another thing that causes acne. Great, right? When you let sweat sit on your skin, it can lead to clogged pores and breakouts. That’s true of your face, but sweat can also cause acne to crop up on your back. Be sure you use a good clog clearing skin cleanser on your entire body as soon as you finish your workout. Never, ever sit around in your sweaty clothes.

5 Inflammation

This can be as simple as a red face from all the exertion put forth during exercise, but can also be rashes. Workouts can also exacerbate certain skin inflammation conditions. Experts suggest working with your doctor to determine the cause so appropriate treatments can be found. Also, it’s important to practice good skincare to keep your skin healthy, even when you exercise.

6 Skin Infections

This is something you have to worry about if you prefer to work out in the gym. If you touch a machine or piece of equipment that has been contaminated with bacteria, you run the risk of getting it yourself. Always wipe the equipment before and after using it, cover any open wounds or sores, and shower immediately after exercise. This will help prevent all kinds of things, including MRSA, staph and much more.

7 Blisters

Blisters are generally harmless, but are definitely painful and uncomfortable. They can form when your shoes are too tight or too loose and rub repeatedly against your skin. To avoid them, be sure you choose shoes that fit properly. An open blister is a good way to contract some sort of skin infection. Plus, they hurt!

Have you suffered with any of these conditions? I hope you’ve learned some good ways to take care of the problems. Don’t quit exercising! Just take action. Do you have any other tips or tricks?

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