How to prevent skin conditions in athletes
- Athletes are more at a risk to catching skin infections, as prolonged skin-to-skin contact is often the case (such as in wrestling).
- Infections include bacteria, viruses and fungi, and they easily spread from one teammate to another
- The following video by dermatologists from the American Academy of Dermatology gives the following recommendations:
- Clean and cover cuts and scratches before training
- Perform regular skin checks. Cover friction blistering areas (such as the heels)
- Keeping the skin dry reduces infection risk and this can be done by wearing moisture absorbing clothes
- Reduce blistering risks by wearing properly fitting shoes, 2 pairs of socks (absorbent) and alternate footwear daily
- Shower after each training session the whole body by using an antimicrobial soap
- Encourage wearing of flip flops or sandals in public areas and when showering.
- Discourage sharing of towels and other “personal” material. Wash clothes and towels after each use as well as sports bags.
- Disinfect used equipment daily
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