Breaking a sweat is supposed to leave you feeling refreshed and energized. But if you’ve noticed an increase in breakouts after your workouts, your clothing could be the hidden culprit. Acne mechanica—a type of acne caused by heat, friction, and pressure—may be linked to what you’re wearing.
Choose Fabric Wisely
Many workout clothes are designed to be snug and form-fitting, which helps with movement and performance. But when these fabrics trap sweat, oil, and bacteria against your skin, the result is clogged pores and irritation. Synthetic fabrics, while praised for their stretch and durability, don’t always allow your skin to breathe. Without airflow, sweat lingers on the surface, creating a breeding ground for breakouts.
Avoid Poor Fit and Friction
That new sports bra or viral set of compression leggings may look great, but the tight fabric against your skin generates friction, especially in sweat-prone areas like your back, shoulders, and thighs. The friction weakens your skin barrier and triggers inflammation—two key contributors to breakouts. The more fitted and non-breathable your clothes are, the higher the risk.
Address Laundry Issues
Even if you’re diligent about washing your clothes, leftover detergent, fabric softener, or bacteria embedded in tight-knit fabrics can worsen skin problems. Activewear is notorious for holding onto sweat and odor, which means that if your clothes aren’t being cleaned thoroughly, you could be re-exposing your skin to pore-clogging residue every time you work out.
Pro Tips
1) Opt for cotton blends or moisture-wicking materials that allow sweat to evaporate instead of lingering on your skin.
2) While form-fitting gear has its place, alternating with looser styles can reduce friction.
3) Don’t let sweat and bacteria sit on your skin. If you can’t shower immediately, change into clean clothes and gently cleanse your skin.
4) Use fragrance-free detergent and avoid fabric softeners, which often leave behind pore-clogging residue.
Cover Photo by Josh Duke
