Skin Problems Related to Gym Use

Well………there are several, but fortunately most are easily caught and cured.   Here are the main ones:
  • Athlete’s foot –  can be between the toes OR look like just slightly scaly red skin on the entire bottom of the foot.  Cure –  Non prescription Lamisil/terbinafine is the best
  • Minor abrasions and skin irritation from rubbing:   Drugstore zinc paste works well.   Look for ones with a propylene glycol-free base (PG allergies are common)
  • Folliculitis –  This is irritation of the hair follicle openings, usually from sweating and clothes that rub.  Shaving may help or may aggravate it depending on the area.  Try to wear designated gym clothes that don’t rub and take off sweaty clothes right away. Shower as quickly as you can.
  • Infections – unfortunately bacteria like Staph can live on gym equipment for a short while if someone has an active infection and doesn’t know it.   If a rash is spreading after 24 hours, contact your doctor to be seen.
  • Sexually transmitted diseases –  it’s almost impossible to get these from gym equipment!
Dr. Brandith Irwin, MD

Ask me your skincare question!

Hi, I’m Dr. Irwin. I believe that consumers deserve a medically trained and unbiased skin care advocate.

  • All our content is written and researched by myself.
  • My medical office in Seattle has treated thousands of patients for 15+ years.
  • This site is not affiliated or financially tied to any product, treatment or device.
Ask Me Something
SkinTour Skincare
One of the best investments in your skin is your daily skincare. Why? Because you can prevent many problems with blotchy skin color, lack of glow, texture, some types of acne, and fine lines with good skincare products. You can also correct some of these problems with effective skincare products. Great skincare is often more expensive because quality ingredients are expensive. Some companies spend on research/development which benefits all of us and adds to the cost. Are they worth it? In general - yes! I have handpicked some of what I consider to be the best skin care products, and offer them for sale on SkinTour's shop. This is based on my team and I's testing and research at our clinic. Many of the products are in my own regimen. What could be better than using skin care products a dermatologist uses?!