Playing sports and staying active is important for both physical and mental well-being, but for people with eczema, exercise can be a double-edged sword. Sweat, heat, friction, and certain sportswear materials can all trigger flare-ups, making workouts uncomfortable. However, eczema shouldn’t stop you from enjoying sports—you just need the right approach to keep your skin calm and protected.
In this blog post, we’ll explore how sports can affect eczema, the best ways to manage flare-ups, and tips to stay active without irritation.
How Does Exercise Affect Eczema?
1. Sweat Can Be a Trigger
Sweat is one of the most common eczema triggers. As sweat evaporates, the salt left behind can irritate the skin, leading to itching, stinging, and redness. Sweat can also mix with bacteria, which may worsen flare-ups.
How to Manage It:
- Wear moisture-wicking, breathable clothing.
- Take breaks to cool down and pat sweat away gently.
- Shower or rinse off immediately after exercising, then moisturise.
2. Heat and Overheating
Intense exercise raises body temperature, which can make eczema symptoms worse. Some people experience more flare-ups in hot weather or during high-intensity workouts.
How to Manage It:
- Exercise outdoors during cooler times of day.
- Choose lower-impact workouts like swimming, yoga, or cycling.
- Stay hydrated to help regulate body temperature.
3. Friction from Clothing and Equipment
Sports that involve tight-fitting gear, straps, or repetitive movements can cause irritation. Running may lead to chafing, while helmets or pads can trigger flare-ups where they touch the skin.
How to Manage It:
- Choose seamless, soft clothing made from cotton or moisture-wicking fabrics.
- Avoid tight gear or straps on eczema-prone areas.
- Apply a protective barrier ointment to reduce friction.
4. Chlorine and Other Irritants
Swimming is great exercise, but chlorine can dry out the skin and cause irritation. Grass, dirt, or artificial turf may also trigger reactions for some people.
How to Manage It:
- Apply a thick layer of moisturiser before swimming.
- Rinse off immediately after leaving the pool and moisturise again.
- Wear long sleeves or leggings when playing on grass.
Best Sports for People with Eczema
While you can participate in any sport with the right precautions, some activities are more eczema-friendly than others.
Good Options:
- ✔ Swimming – cool water prevents overheating.
- ✔ Yoga or Pilates – low-intensity and low friction.
- ✔ Cycling – airflow helps keep the body cool.
- ✔ Strength Training – typically less sweating.
Sports That May Be More Challenging (But Still Possible!)
- ⚠ Running or HIIT – can cause excessive sweating and overheating.
- ⚠ Contact sports – gear and physical contact may irritate skin.
- ⚠ Outdoor sports – pollen, grass, and heat can be triggers.
Pre- and Post-Workout Skincare Routine
Before Exercise:
- Apply a light, fragrance-free moisturiser.
- Wear breathable, loose-fitting clothing.
- Use protective ointment in cold or windy conditions.
During Exercise:
- Pat sweat away gently.
- Stay hydrated.
- Take breaks if irritation starts.
After Exercise:
- Shower or rinse off quickly.
- Use gentle, fragrance-free cleanser.
- Moisturise immediately after drying off.
Final Thoughts
Eczema doesn’t have to stop you from enjoying sports and staying active. With the right clothing, skincare routine, and workout choices, you can minimise flare-ups and keep your skin comfortable. Listen to your body, cool down when needed, and keep your skin well-hydrated.
Do you have eczema and play sports? Share your strategies with us on social media!