Question:
My son’s acne is much worse when he lifts weights. What would cause acne to flare up during weight lifting seasons?
Answer:
Testosterone is one of the main hormones that cause acne to flare. Adolescent boys and young men have increased amounts of testosterone that cause acne to flare in puberty, in general. If your son is lifting weights, he may be taking natural supplements to help improve his performance. Many of these supplements boost testosterone production and will cause acne to worsen.
Another potential cause of it to flare would be less-than-the-most hygienic conditions. We know that bacteria is a key component in acne and that weight-lifting facilities tend to have higher levels of bacteria. The most important way to combat this is washing immediately after exercising.
Lastly, exercise and sweating in general can worsen acne. There is not a lot to do about that except just make sure he is cleansing immediately after exercising.
Mark Callery, DO
Family Medicine, Skin Care
Utica Park Clinic – Owasso
10512 N. 110th East Ave., Suite 200
Owasso, OK 74055
918.376.8900
