• Fitness and Exercise
• Health Topics
• Injury/Illness
• Skin Care

How Athletes Can Prevent Skin Infections

Skin infections are prevalent in athletes, but there are ways to prevent them:

• Good hygiene is essential. Wash your hands, shower before and after practice and games, and wash your clothes and equipment after every use.
• Don’t share towels, soap, lotion, or other personal care items.
• When using exercise equipment, place a clean towel between yourself and the equipment.
• Wipe down equipment and mats after use.
• Wear shower shoes in locker rooms and public showers.

Be aware that skin-to-skin contact, common in wrestling and other sports, can put you at a higher risk for skin infections.

Source: American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons