Skin Conditions You Can Get From the Gym

Sweating it out at the gym feels great, but there’s more to watch out for than just sore muscles. With all their shared equipment and damp environments, gyms can be prime spots for picking up some unwelcome skin issues. From fungal infections to pesky warts, even the cleanest fitness spaces can harbor bacteria, fungi, and viruses that aren’t on your workout plan.

Understanding the risks and taking a few preventive steps can help you stay on top of your skin health. And if anything strange does show up on your skin, it’s always a good call to see one of the expert dermatologists at Altitude Dermatology to keep things in check.

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Athlete’s Foot

One of the most common gym-acquired infections, athlete’s foot is caused by fungi that thrive in warm, damp environments, like locker room floors and communal showers. It starts as itching, cracking, and redness, typically between the toes, and can easily spread if untreated. The good news? A few preventive steps, like always wearing flip-flops in shared spaces and drying your feet thoroughly after showers, can make a huge difference. 

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Ringworm

Despite its name, ringworm isn’t caused by a worm—it’s actually a fungal infection that creates red, circular rashes with a raised border. Gyms are prime hotspots for ringworm, as the fungus can linger on equipment, mats, and towels. It’s highly contagious, meaning it can spread quickly through skin contact or shared surfaces. To dodge this unwanted guest, always use a personal towel on gym benches, wash your hands often, and avoid sharing gear. But if a red, scaly patch shows up and seems to be sticking around, it’s time to get it checked out. 

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Staph Infections

Staph infections, caused by Staphylococcus bacteria, can spread through shared gym equipment, towels, or mats—anything that isn’t properly sanitized. These infections often start as red, swollen bumps that may feel tender or warm to the touch, and they can quickly worsen. Even small cuts or abrasions can be an entry point for staph, so it’s essential to cover any open skin and wash thoroughly after workouts. 

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Folliculitis

Folliculitis is an inflammation of the hair follicles that can show up as red, itchy, or even pus-filled bumps. It’s especially common after sweaty workouts where tight clothing traps moisture against the skin, creating a breeding ground for bacteria. You might notice it in areas where sweat and friction mix—like your shoulders, back, or thighs. Good post-gym hygiene, like showering promptly and wearing loose, breathable fabrics, can help prevent this. If folliculitis becomes a recurring issue, a consultation with Altitude Dermatology can help keep your skin clear and irritation-free.

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Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are small, rough growths that tend to appear on the bottoms of your feet, often from stepping on surfaces like locker room floors or communal showers. Caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), these warts latch on through tiny cuts or weak spots in the skin. If you've ever noticed a thickened area on the sole of your foot that’s tender when you walk or press on it, you might be dealing with a plantar wart. They’re not dangerous, but they can be stubborn and uncomfortable to live with. To lower your risk, wear flip-flops or shower shoes in shared spaces, and always keep your feet clean and dry. 

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Contact Dermatitis

Contact dermatitis can be a serious rash that can pop up when your skin reacts to certain materials, and gyms are full of potential triggers. Often, these rashes can be mistaken for an infection. Whether it’s from equipment, cleaning products, or even the residue from someone else’s body lotion, these irritants can lead to redness, itching, and discomfort. While not contagious, it’s definitely a nuisance. To minimize your chances of contact dermatitis, keep clothing on as a barrier between your skin and workout equipment, and wipe down gym equipment before and after use.

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Save Your Skin with Altitude Dermatology

Whether it’s an annoying itch, a painful blister, or a persistent rash, skin issues from the gym can disrupt both your fitness routine and your peace of mind. Altitude Dermatology understands the discomfort and inconvenience of these conditions, and our team is here to help. We provide comprehensive care for everything from stubborn athlete’s foot to recurring folliculitis and irritating contact dermatitis. Our experts can diagnose, treat, and guide you through preventative steps to keep your skin healthy and ready to take on anything your body may run into at the gym.

If you’re dealing with a gym-related skin issue or have questions about how to protect your skin, contact Altitude Dermatology today. We’re here to support you with personalized care that keeps you looking and feeling your best.

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