Are your workouts giving you acne?

As a fitness fanatic, I love exercising and make it a priority to hit the gym at least 5 times a week.
And while my body (and mood!) love my rigorous workout regime, my skin, unfortunately, does not.
Like many frequent gym-goers, I suffer from horrible breakouts on my chest and back. During a flare-up, it’s embarrassing and painful. I stay covered up and avoid any activities that would involve me wearing a tank top, low back, plunging neckline and even a bathing suit.
So in an effort to get to the root of these breakouts, I talked to skincare expert Emma Hobson, Education Manager for the International Dermal Institute and Dermalogica, to figure how and why exercise contributes to acne, and what can be done to avoid it.
RELATED: 3 salicylic acid products for back and chest pimples
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How does body acne differ from facial acne?
Emma explains that body acne occurs for many of the same reasons that face acne occurs. “Just as acne breakouts on the face, the triggers are primarily the same.” She says genetics, hormone fluctuations and stress are the biggest triggers for acne in general.
“The body [skin] has the same configuration as that of the face,” she says. “It does, however, have a tendency for an increased number of oil (sebaceous) glands, particularly in the ‘T’ of the back. This is one of the main reasons for the higher incidence of breakouts in this area.”
What causes body acne?
Similar to face acne, Emma says “Heat and humidity can also be a factor to increase breakouts, as can being in a polluted environment.” She explains that acne can also be caused by body products (like your favourite foaming body wash, perhaps?) that contain comedogenic ingredients. “These ingredients are known to block the pores and cause skin congestion leading to acne breakouts.”
And unfortunately for those of us who love the gym, “A common trigger [of body acne] is continued friction in one particular area on the skin (acne mechanica) for example where straps on clothing rub the skin or friction from tight fitted sports gear."
Why does body acne seem to be more prevalent in those who exercise frequently?
Breakouts on the chest and back are commonly known as “sweat acne” or Pityrosporum Folliculitis, Emma says. This occurs when the combination of sweat and heat create bacteria on the skin, which in turn proliferates into an overgrowth of yeast in the skin follicle.
This volatile combination is only made worse by frequent friction on the same area of the skin, which is why those who wear tight gym clothes often are potentially more susceptible to develop body acne.
How can one prevent breakouts from exercise?
Keeping the skin clean with a good cleansing routine is Emma’s first tip, as she insists it’s the foundation of maintaining healthy skin (including back and chest!) However, choose your cleanser wisely. “It’s important to avoid using any form of ‘soap’ (including antibacterial soaps) as these can strip, dry and irritate the skin,” she says. “Instead opt for either a cleansing bar (soap free) or an antibacterial cleansing gel wash (soap free), these ideally are pH balanced to the skin (4.5-5.5pH).”
Ensure you cleanse your skin morning and night, and always immediately after exercising or sweating heavily.
bh recommends Dermalogica MediBac Clearing Skin Wash, La Roche-Posay Toleriane Foaming Gel, and A’kin Purifying Gel Cleanser.
You should also avoid wearing workout gear that is too tight to the skin and always look for fabrics that are breathable and will “wick” the sweat away. These include polyester/lycra blends, wool, and bamboo.
“Exfoliation is a key step in the effective treatment as well as maintenance of congestion and spots.” She suggests using a scrub 2-3 times a week if your skin is free of spots. However, if you have red, inflamed acne, do not use an exfoliating scrub. “Instead use Hydroxy Acids, in particular, Salicylic Acid (great for breakouts as it is a fantastic decongestant of follicles) or digestive enzymes (pineapple or papaya).”
If you’re looking for a spot treatment or booster to provide quick relief and reduce scarring, Emma recommends an active recovery treatment that also contains a mineral/natural conceal makeup so it hides the spot. This is ideal for those of us who rock a sports bra to the gym!
bh recommends Dermalogica Clear Start Breakout Clearing Booster, Murad Blemish Control Rapid Relief Spot Treatment, Paula’s Choice Resist BHA 9 Treatment.
Do you suffer from exercise-related body acne?
Have you tried any of the products mentioned above?
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33 Member Comments
I never thought about gyms being susceptible places but makes sense and espiecailly the longer you are in gym clothes
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You can't always do it, but good to change and shower if you get the chance
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Another reason not to get that gym membership.
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I've noticed that using a cleanser with Lactic or Glycolic acid helped a lot.
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I seem to only get a few pimples on my back from hormones, about twice a year but these tips are good for when they appear.
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I occasionally get tiny pimples around my chest, which I think is from sweat, and get the occasional one on my back, which I actually think is from dry skin where I can’t reach with my moisturiser very well. I always try to shower as soon as possible after the gym.
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Luckily I don't have this issue, feel sorry for those that do!
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No my pimples are just on my chin, grrr
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Tea Tree and Charcoal are great ingredients in this situation.
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I don't get much body acne, except occasionally on my shoulders. Great tips to keep in mind!
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Omg during Summer, this is just the worst thing! With all that sweat after an hour walk, my back would start itching and then red dots would pop up.
I actually started bathing in Epsom Salt once a week. I'll be honest, I've seen a slight difference in my skin. It's more clearer and the red patched have started to go.!
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I don't get body acne, thankfully
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I have the odd breakout or so but nothing too bad luckily
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Phew....a reason not to exercise....LOL
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Falling off my chair laughing, Meedee. I was about to say the exact same thing!!
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We have to find the positives in things :D
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I get a few breakouts from time to time but I don't take much notice. Better out than in.
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Luckily I don't have that issue.
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ohh I've been searching for something for killing the bacane
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This happens to me every time i increase my workouts! Hard to get rid of
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God ANOTHER acne article? Wow this is some kind of record, the past 2 weeks acne acne acne.... variety please!
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Ha Ha yes, acne is big business
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Yes and this is so helpful; a great read, thanks.
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Agreed misfortune8! I do find the hot sweaty weather (and pollution) dies give me breakouts (blackheads mainly) on the chest and back if neck - and I do wash!
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I don't have this problem - probably because I don't get enough exercise.
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