Whether you're sharing equipment at the gym, practicing on a mat, or spending time in a locker room, germs have opportunities to spread to your skin.
“Skin infections are very common among athletes,” explains Howard Pride, MD, a pediatric dermatologist at Carilion Clinic. “Sweat, close contact with teammates, and small cuts or scrapes can all make it easier to pick one up.”
Sports-related skin infections to watch for
If you play sports, chances are you or a teammate will get a skin infection at some point. Some of the most common include:
Ringworm
Despite the name, this isn't actually caused by a worm. It's a fungal infection that spreads through skin-to-skin contact or by sharing things like towels, clothing, helmets, or mats. Symptoms include:
- A circular or ring-shaped rash
- Red or scaly skin
- Itching
- A rash that slowly gets bigger
Most cases clear up with over-the-counter antifungal cream, but sometimes prescription medicine is needed.
Staph infections
Staph bacteria naturally live on many people's skin without causing problems. But if the bacteria get into a cut or scrape, they can lead to an infection. Watch for:
- Red, swollen skin
- Pain or tenderness
- Pus-filled bumps
- Skin that feels warm to the touch
Some infections are caused by MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staph aureus), a type of staph bacteria that's resistant to several common antibiotics. MRSA can spread quickly among athletes, especially those involved in contact sports.
Untreated staph infections can become serious, so it’s important to see a doctor if you have symptoms.
Impetigo
Impetigo is a common, very contagious skin infection that's caused by staph or strep bacteria. It's especially common in children and teens but can affect people of any age. Symptoms include:
- Red sores or blisters
- Yellow or honey-colored crusts
- Itching
- Sores that spread to nearby skin
It usually clears up quickly with antibiotics.
Athlete's foot
Athlete's foot is a fungal infection that loves warm, damp places like locker rooms, public showers, and swimming pool decks. Signs include:
- Itching or burning between the toes
- Cracked or peeling skin
- Dry, flaky skin
- Sometimes blisters
The same fungus that causes athlete’s foot can also cause “jock itch,” which often starts in the groin area.
Over-the-counter antifungal treatments usually take care of it, but more severe cases may need prescription medicine.
Warts
Warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). The virus can enter through tiny breaks in the skin (especially on the feet), and spreads in damp places. You may notice:
- Small, rough bumps, sometimes with black dots
- Thickened skin
- Pain when putting pressure on the bumps
Warts eventually go away on their own, but treatment can help remove them sooner and keep them from spreading. Look for over-the-counter wart treatments or visit a dermatologist to have them treated.
Molluscum contagiosum
This viral skin infection spreads through skin-to-skin contact or by sharing things like towels and sports equipment. Symptoms include:
- Small, firm bumps that are white, pink, or skin-colored
- A tiny dimple in the center of each bump
- Groups of bumps on the skin
The bumps are harmless and usually aren't painful, but they can spread easily (especially if you pop them, so try not to pick). Molluscum goes away on its own in 6 months to 2 years. If symptoms are severe, talk to your doctor about treatment options.
Herpes simplex virus (HSV)
This is the same virus that causes cold sores. Sometimes called “mat herpes,” HSV can spread to different parts of the body through contact sports like wrestling. Symptoms may include:
- Painful blisters
- Tingling or burning before the blisters appear
- Fever or swollen lymph nodes in some cases
Prescription antiviral medicine can help shorten the infection and reduce the chance of spreading it to others.
How to help prevent skin infections
Good hygiene is one of the best defenses against skin infections. To lower your risk:
- Shower as soon as possible after practice or games
- Wash your hands often
- Don't share towels, razors, water bottles, clothes, or other personal items
- Wear sandals in locker rooms and public showers
- Keep cuts, scrapes, and blisters clean and covered
- Wear clean workout clothes each time you practice
- Wash uniforms, towels, and gear after every use
- Check your skin regularly for new rashes, sores, or bumps
“Coaches, trainers, and athletes should also make sure mats, equipment, and all shared surfaces are cleaned and disinfected regularly,” says Dr. Pride.
When should you get medical care?
Don't ignore a rash or sore that isn't getting better. See a doctor if you have:
- A rash that's spreading
- Pain, redness, swelling, warmth, or pus
- A fever along with a skin infection
- A skin problem that doesn't improve after a few days of home treatment
If you have a contagious skin infection, you may need to stay out of practices or games until your doctor says it's safe to return. That helps protect your teammates and gives your body time to heal.
If you have symptoms of a skin infection, reach out to your pediatrician, primary care doctor, or dermatologist.
