Sweat and Acne: Connection Explained and Ways to Minimize Its Impact
Excessive sweating can contribute to the development and worsening of acne. Here's what you need to know about sweat-related acne and how to manage it.
Sweat, dead skin cells, and oil can clog pores, creating an environment that encourages acne-causing bacteria to multiply. This combination can lead to inflammation and acne breakouts.
Key factors include:
- Clogged pores: Sweat, oil, and dead skin cells can obstruct pores, creating a breeding ground for acne-causing bacteria.
- Increased oil production: Heat and humidity that cause excessive sweating stimulate the skin to produce more oil, increasing the likelihood of clogged pores and worsening acne.
- Bacterial overgrowth: Sweat creates a warm, moist environment that accelerates bacterial growth, which can infect clogged pores and cause inflammation.
- Friction and irritation: Physical irritation from sweating combined with friction (e.g., from tight clothing or sports gear) can worsen acne mechanica, a form of acne triggered by pressure and rubbing that traps sweat and oil into the skin.
- Use of heavy skincare products: During periods of sweat, using thick or occlusive products can trap sweat, oil, and dirt, further clogging pores and amplifying acne.
To minimize sweat-related acne, the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) advises the following:
- Apply oil-free sunscreen when exercising outdoors, as the sun dries the skin, which can lead to increased oil production.
- Wear clean, loose-fitting workout clothes in breathable fabrics before exercising.
- During exercise, using a clean towel to gently pat off sweat is recommended.
- After getting sweaty, removing clothes as soon as possible is advised. Showering immediately in warm water, using a mild cleanser, is suggested.
- After getting sweaty, changing into clean clothes and washing the dirty clothes is recommended.
- If a person cannot change and wash right away, using pads or wipes to remove sweat from their skin is an option. People who are prone to acne may prefer to use wipes containing salicylic acid.
- During exercise, avoiding sharing protective gear, such as shoulder pads and helmets, is recommended.
- During exercise, wiping down shared equipment before and after use is suggested to avoid contact with sweat from others.
- The AAD advises removing makeup before exercising, since it can clog pores.
In addition to these tips, it's essential to maintain a consistent skincare routine and avoid using heavy or occlusive products during periods of excessive sweating. By following these guidelines, you can help manage sweat-related acne and keep your skin healthy and clear.
[1] American Academy of Dermatology. (2021). Acne: Tips for Managing Acne-Prone Skin. [2] American Academy of Dermatology. (2021). Acne Mechanica: Causes, Treatment, and Prevention. [3] American Academy of Dermatology. (2021). How to Prevent Acne While Exercising. [4] American Academy of Dermatology. (2021). Sweat-Related Acne: Causes, Treatment, and Prevention. [5] American Academy of Dermatology. (2021). Folliculitis: Causes, Treatment, and Prevention. [6] American Academy of Dermatology. (2021). Grover's Disease: Causes, Treatment, and Prevention. [7] American Academy of Dermatology. (2021). Heat Rash: Causes, Treatment, and Prevention.
- Adhering to a regular skin-care routine that includes gentle, non-comedogenic skin products can help prevent the accumulation of oil and dead skin cells, reducing the risk of acne-causing bacteria multiplying and contributing to acne breakouts.
- Engaging in fitness-and-exercise routines that prioritize health-and-wellness practices, such as cleansing skin promptly after physical activity and staying hydrated, can minimize sweat-related acne by preventing clogged pores and maintain a clearer complexion.
