Year: 2024
Type: paratext
Abstract: Background. Regular gym training is associated with repeated episodes of profuse sweating, occlusive sportswear, friction, and warm/humid indoor microclimates, which together may trigger or worsen several inflammatory and sweat-duct–related skin disorders. Sweat can act as a physical irritant, alter epidermal barrier function, and contribute to duct obstruction and neuro-immune activation, leading to exercise-associated flares that reduce comfort, adherence to training, and quality of life. Aim. To synthesize current evidence on sweat-induced exacerbation of dermatoses in gym users, with emphasis on clinical patterns, underlying mechanisms, modifiable risk factors, and practical prevention and management strategies. Material and methods. A narrative review was conducted using targeted searches of major biomedical databases (e.g., PubMed and publisher platforms) for publications from 2012–2025 relevant to sweating, exercise, gym environments, and dermatoses. Search terms included combinations of “sweat,” “exercise,” “gym,” “miliaria,” “cholinergic urticaria,” “atopic dermatitis,” “acne,” “skin barrier,” and “sports dermatology.” Eligible sources included clinical and observational studies, reviews, and selected case reports. Findings were summarized using thematic synthesis. Results. The literature indicates that sweat exposure in gym settings is most consistently linked to miliaria (sweat-duct obstruction), cholinergic urticaria (heat/sweat-triggered mast-cell activation), and aggravation of acne and atopic dermatitis through occlusion, friction, and barrier impairment. Key modifiable contributors include high-intensity workouts with rapid core-temperature rise, non-breathable tight clothing, delayed post-exercise hygiene, and inadequate ventilation/humidity control. Preventive approaches emphasize breathable/moisture-wicking apparel, prompt showering and clothing changes, gentle cleansing, barrier-supportive emollients, temperature management, and individualized training modifications. Symptom-directed therapies (e.g., topical anti-inflammatory agents for eczema, antihistamines for cholinergic urticaria, acne regimens) are commonly required for susceptible individuals. Conclusions. Sweat-related dermatoses in gym users are common and largely preventable through combined environmental, behavioral, and dermatologic measures. Clinicians and fitness professionals should identify high-risk individuals and implement practical sweat-, heat-, and friction-reduction strategies alongside evidence-based treatment. Prospective, gym-based interventional studies are needed to quantify the effectiveness of specific preventive interventions.
Language: English
Subfield: Dermatology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7128055697