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Bacne
Ah, the dreaded bacne. Hard workouts to buff up those lats, only to get repaid in pimples? Back acne is one of the most common post-workout skin problems. Running and HIIT cardio create the perfect storm for clogged pores with a combo of sweat, a tight sports bra, and friction.
What to do: After your run or gym sesh, cleanse with a mild salicylic acid to loosen and liberate the oil. If you don't have time to shower, at least wipe the area with a glycolic pad. Try Glycolix 10% Cleansing Pads—they're free from parabens, gluten, and alcohol.
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Butt Bumps
The technical term for these pimple-like blemishes is folliculitis. They are actually irritated hair follicles (yes, we all have hair there). Besides being potentially embarrassing in intimate situations, these bumps can hurt. Folliculitis is common among cyclists—indoor and outdoor—because of the sitting position and body-hugging gear.
What to do: Using a gentle benzoyl peroxide 2.5% wash can help. If that doesn't cut it, your dermatologist may prescribe a topical antibiotic lotion to reduce inflammation. Avoid the temptation to pop these spots —popping them can lead to long-term skin discoloration.
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Facial Flushing
Increased blood flow from pumping iron can give you a rosy, vibrant glow—or beet-red cheeks that just won't quit. Persistent facial flushing after a workout can be a sign of mild rosacea, and although it is nothing medically concerning, it can be the source of cosmetic angst.
What to do: If a red complexion isn't your thing, hold a cold water bottle on the side of your neck—that's where your body's temperature regulators live. The cool-down will help reduce redness significantly. Selenium, a naturally occurring mineral with anti-inflammatory qualities, is also great to have in your gym bag to remedy redness and for a refreshing post-workout spritz. Get it with in La Roche Posay Thermal Spring Water.
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Corns and Calluses
Repetitive motion can cause those annoying areas of thickened skin on the palms or toes. They can be unsightly and even painful.
What to do: First and foremost, to reduce the risk of corns, find shoes that fit. Ill-fitting kicks are the number-one culprit for corns and bunions. During resistance training, wear protective gloves to minimize contact with machines (this can benefit in more than one way, see #6). At night, try using a urea-based cream to soften the skin. Carmol 20 is a good choice.
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Chafing
Hard workouts can lead to raw skin. Excessive rubbing weakens the skin and breaks it down, especially between the thighs.
What to do: According to Allison Hanlon, M.D., a dermatologist in Nashville, Tennessee, a protective, invisible balm like Body Glide is a great solution. Hanlon also recommends ditching loose fitting, cotton workout pants—they trap moisture and irritate the skin further. Go for moisture-wicking materials that cling to your body.
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Fungus Among Us
Unless you work out in a sterile bubble, viruses, fungi, and bacteria are impossible to avoid. The dirtiest spots at the gym—the equipment and communal showers—mean germs and an increased risk of skin infections. Fortunately, ringworm and warts are easy to treat with creams or minor in-office procedures. Community-Acquired Methicillin Resistant Staph Aureus (CAMRSA) infections, however, are on the rise in healthy young athletes. The infection usually shows up as a tender boil, commonly in the groin area, underarms, or abdomen. It's important to get treated with the appropriate antibiotic quickly so it doesn't become more serious.
What to do: Proper hygiene is essential for any gym-goer. Basic hand-washing and a pair of flip-flops for the shower can go a long way.
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Eczema (Gym Skin)
The dry generic shower soap provided in most big gym showers is a common culprit of inflamed, irritated, itchy, dry, cracked skin. The harsh cleanser strips our protective barrier of essential oils, leading to flakes and even full-blown eczema. This is common in January when the skin is already dry from the weather and New Year's resolutions are fresh, or toward summer when everyone is getting in gear for the beach.
What to do: For smooth, soft skin, pack your own products. Try a gentler option such as the Dove Dry Oil Moisture Body Wash infused with argan oil to cleanse, nourish, and replace essential lipids and proteins.
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