Does Sweating Cause Acne?
Updated: Mar 5, 2025
Sweating does not cause acne since sweat glands differ from sebaceous glands. However, the salt excreted by the sweat (eccrine) glands can aggravate clogged pores, leading to inflamed acne lesions. But, if you get small bumps that look like acne from working out/sweating, what you may be experiencing is something called folliculitis, an infection of the hair follicle thought to be caused by cutaneous yeast.
Acne mechanica is another condition that causes acne lesions by combining heat, friction, and covered skin. It is common among athletes who sweat under their helmets. Moreover, tight clothing, snug backpack straps, and headbands worn for long periods can also induce acne mechanica.
Treatment and Prevention:
1) Showering immediately after exercise/sweating is crucial to prevent skin irritation by the salt content in your sweat and to prevent yeast and bacteria from multiplying further. Making sure the skin is thoroughly cleansed. Our skin products contain anti-fungal and anti-bacterial ingredients that have helped resolve many cases of acne and folliculitis.
2) Avoid wearing a hat, helmet, or headband for long periods of time. If you must wear a helmet, apply petrolatum jelly (e.g., Aquaphor) to the rub areas.
3) Wear absorbent cotton clothing beneath a uniform to help soak up sweat and minimize skin friction.
4) Do not wear clothes that are too tight.
Our Acne Specialist at Integrative Aesthetics Boston can get you on a treatment program that will clear your skin in approximately 90 days.
