36 of the most useful Pores and skin-Maintenance Systems for Pimples-Vulnerable Pores and skin

Skin Care Basics for Teen Athletes with Acne-Prone Skin

Sweat, helmets, chin straps, shared mats and long hours outdoors all take a toll on skin, and many high school athletes notice breakouts get worse during the season. The good news is that a simple, consistent routine usually does more than a crowded shelf of products. What follows is general information, not medical advice; a family doctor or dermatologist is the right person to ask about persistent or painful acne.

Why sports can trigger breakouts

Dermatologists often describe a type of acne called acne mechanica, caused by heat, pressure and friction from equipment. Football shoulder pads, lacrosse and hockey helmets, softball catcher's gear and tight compression wear can all trap sweat and oil against the skin. Wrestlers and swimmers face their own challenges, from mat contact to chlorine drying out the skin, which can prompt it to produce more oil.

A practical routine around practice and games

• Rinse soon after activity. Showering or at least washing your face within about half an hour of practice helps clear sweat and oil before pores clog.
• Use a gentle cleanser. Harsh scrubbing irritates skin and can make acne look worse. Wash twice a day and pat dry.
• Choose non-comedogenic products. Moisturisers and sunscreens labelled this way are formulated to avoid blocking pores, which matters for outdoor sports like track, soccer and baseball.
• Wash gear and pads. Clean headbands, chin straps, helmet liners and practice jerseys regularly, and wear a clean cotton or moisture-wicking layer under equipment.
• Don't share towels. This also helps prevent skin infections, which are a real concern in contact sports.
• Hands off. Picking or popping spots increases the risk of scarring.

Common over-the-counter ingredients

Products containing benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid or adapalene are widely available and commonly recommended for mild acne. They can cause dryness or irritation at first, so start slowly and follow the label. Benzoyl peroxide can also bleach fabric, so be careful with team uniforms and towels.

When to get help

If breakouts are painful, leave marks, or don't improve after several weeks of steady care, it's worth seeing a healthcare professional. Athletes dealing with any skin rash before a competition, especially in wrestling, should also check with their athletic trainer or doctor, since some conditions need clearance before returning to the mat.

Feeling confident matters on game day as much as preparation does. For more on our programs and upcoming events, visit the Teams page or check the latest Schedule.