FEATURED ARTICLE: Common Sports-Related Skin Problems
Posted 16 December 10Exercisers are prone to skin problems caused by increased moisture or friction or damaging elements like sunlight. Common sports-related problems include sunburn, and blisters. By keeping the skin dry, clean, and protected, many of these problems can be prevented.
Excessive Moisture
Sweating is a common cause of sports-related skin problems. Moisture promotes the proliferation of bacteria on the skin.
Foot odour, for example, is due to excessive perspiration and bacteria that thrive in a moist environment. Athlete’s foot (tinea pedis) occurs in moist areas. Wear socks that help to keep your feet dry, change your socks frequently. After exercising, wash and dry your feet, and air out your feet and your shoes between activities.
Friction
Friction is another common cause of skin problems. Chafing often occurs in areas where skin rubs clothing or another skin surface. Friction from clothing can also cause an irritation. Soft light clothing should be worn to avoid friction.
Blisters
Most athletic activities include movements that may cause friction between the
skin and athletic equipment: tennis rackets, oars or paddles, etc. Compounded by perspiration, this friction may result in blisters that can be quite painful and diminish the athlete’s ability to compete. Blisters typically appear in thicker, pressure-bearing areas such as the palms and soles.
To prevent blisters, athletes should keep the skin well lubricated to help reduce friction. Tennis players often use petroleum jelly on their feet. Another preventative step to avoid blisters include wearing socks designed to draw perspiration away from the skin, helping to keep it dry. Padded insoles can help decrease pressure
in a specific area Wearing sports socks when exercising or playing sports can minimize shearing forces. You can also carry extra pairs of socks to change
into if your socks become damp.
Sunburn
Perhaps one of the most damaging effects of participating in outdoor sports and activities is the exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light, which can lead to skin cancer and premature ageing. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30+ at least 15 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every 2 hours spent outside and after swimming, exercise and toweling dry. Remember to wear protective clothing, hats and eyewear, seek shade and avoid prolonged sun exposure.
