Fall is just around the corner and with all this beautiful cool weather we are having I am even more eager for fall to arrive. We are about to be sending the children back to school. Fall and school bring lots of fun things including sports. Athletics are such a big part of my family and so many others. I mean we do live in the South where most small towns close everything on Friday nights to head to the local football stadium. EEEEKKKK it’s exciting just thinking about the fun that’s about to be had by all! Along with sports comes celebratory slapping of booties, wrestling with heads in armpits, showering with feet sharing space, contact with each other, sweat, dirt and the dreaded injuries. The point is there’s a lot of potential when participating in sports to cause harm to your skin. So if you participate in sports, or have a loved one participating in sports this post is for you. Here are tips for an athlete’s skin.
1. After you exercise wash with benzoyl peroxide soap or antidandruff shampoo to kill that funky stuff living on your sweaty body. An occasional dilute bleach bath can be helpful too. Simply put 1/4 cup of bleach in a full bath tub and soak for 20 minutes.
2. Wash your hands and clean under your nails as soon as you are finished exercising. Don’t share personal equipment such as towels and washcloths.
3. Clean your equipment. Do you know how much funk accumulates in that chin strap. I don’t, I don’t want to know either, clean that puppy.
4. Limit antibiotics. If you have ever turned on the tv then you have heard of antibiotic resistance. Superbugs. If you need acne treatment feel free to ask your dermatologist about alternatives (we are full of them).
5. Stay moisturized. If you have dry, cracked skin its like little reservoirs for bacteria and infection to start. Your skin is a protective organ, give it the tools it needs to do its job. I recommend plain, thick cream that comes in a jar applied at least when fresh out of the shower.
6. If you get an injury to the skin, cut, scrape, etc. then keep it covered with a layer of vaseline. Vaseline provides a barrier from infectious agents. It also helps with the healing process resulting in lessening of discoloration and scarring.
7. Be Sun Smart- Shade, sun protective clothes, sunglasses and sunscreen when applicable can protect you from harmful UV rays you will be exposed to during outdoor activities.
Have fun out there all you athletes. I am starting my running game back in hopes of participating in the Fort Smith Marathon. Have you heard? It’s going to be February 2015 and a total blast. Athletics don’t stop after school. It may be time for you to find your inner athlete again. Whether you have always been an athlete, love an athlete or are going to become an athlete I hope these tips help keep your skin healthy!
Remember, everyday is a second chance, hope to see you in clinic, Nina
P.S. Shout out to Dr. Sandy who inspired and practically wrote this list. She is an amazing female athlete!
