While sports can be a great way to keep yourself active and stay in shape, athletes are at risk for a number of skin conditions and irregularities. Whether t’s a rash, skin infection or simply too much exposure to the sun, it’s important to take the proper safety precautions when participating in any athletic activities. Take a look at some of the most common skin problems that occur in athletes and what you can do to avoid them.
- Infections. One of the most common dermatological issues to plague athletes are fungal, bacterial and viral infections. These can include athlete’s foot, ringworm, folliculitis, impetigo, herpes simplex virus-1 and more. Fortunately, there are a number of steps you can take to reduce the risk of these infections. Make sure to always shower after every game, keep all cuts and scrapes covered with bandages, use sandals when walking around the locker room, avoid sharing any personal care items and always wash your towels and clothes after any game or practice.
- UV exposure. If you have outdoor games or practices, you’ve already been exposed to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays. Extended exposure to these rays can cause a number of problems, like sunburn, cataracts and even skin cancer. In fact, excessive sun exposure in childhood can raise the risk for melanoma during adulthood. If you participate in any outdoor sports, it’s important to always keep your skin protected, even if it doesn’t seem sunny outside. Make sure to wear sunscreen that has an SPF of 30 or higher, and reapply it every 2 hours.
- Blisters. Blisters are formed due to friction between the skin and another object, and can occur frequently in runners, tennis players or anyone who makes a great deal of stops and starts. The moisture and heat that can occur during athletic activity can make it even more easy for blisters to appear. To help prevent blisters, make sure that your shoes fit properly and that they’re the right type of shoe for the intended activity. Moisture-wicking socks or even double-layering socks can help keep your feet dry and blister-free.
For More Information about Sports-Related Skin Problems, Contact Dr. Balle Today.
To learn more about athletic skin conditions, contact us today to schedule an appointment. Our offices are located in Grosse Pointe, and we can be reached at 313-886-2600. We look forward to hearing from you.