Workout acne is real, and it can strike whether you’re at the gym, in a class, or outdoors. When sweat mixes with oil and dead skin cells under tight gear, it can trigger face and body breakouts known as acne mechanica.

So how do you work out without breaking out? Don’t sweat it: Sandra Lee, MD (aka Dr. Pimple Popper) shares her dermatologist-approved tips to prevent workout acne, plus the products that keep skin clear while you crush your fitness goals.

Fast Facts

• Workout acne happens when sweat and friction clog pores.
• Pre- and post-workout skincare steps make a big difference.
• Consistency with acne-fighting products helps keep skin clear.

Pre-workout skincare tips to prevent workout acne

Dr. Pimple Popper says that starting with clean, protected skin is the best way to keep breakouts from taking hold during your workout.

Wash skin before workouts

Sweat, oil and makeup create the perfect breeding ground for bacteria and clogged pores, says Dr. Lee. So skip the glam before the gym — your skin will thank you for it. Before your session, wash your face and make sure you’ve showered recently.

Try: SLMD Salicylic Acid Cleanser to remove excess oil without stripping skin.

Protect breakouts while you work out

If you’ve got a pimple, sweat and friction will only make it worse. Protect spots under tight clothing with an adhesive acne patch, and for exposed areas like your face, apply a clear spot treatment before your workout.

Try: SLMD Salicylic Acid Pimple Patches and BP Acne Spot Treatment.

Use a lightweight moisturizer

When your body heats up, thick creams can trap oil and sweat. Instead, pick a lightweight, non-greasy moisturizer that hydrates without clogging pores.

Try: SLMD Facial Moisturizer or Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizer.

Always apply SPF

This one is non-negotiable. Working out is how you maintain your body’s health; sunscreen is how you maintain your skin’s health. UVA and UVB rays can damage skin whether you’re outdoors or indoors near windows. Choose an SPF formulated for acne-prone skin so you don’t add to the problem.

Try: SLMD Daily Moisturizer with SPF 15, a moisturizer and sunscreen combo that won’t exacerbate acne.

Post-workout skincare tips to prevent breakouts

Shower after workouts

The longer sweat sits, the more likely it will clog pores and trap bacteria. Dr. Lee recommends cleansing as soon as possible after your workout with products that target acne-causing debris. salicylic acid, glycolic acid, and/or benzoyl peroxide, to exfoliate, unclog pores, and inhibit acne-causing bacteria.

Try: SLMD Salicylic Acid Cleanser for face, and BP Body Wash for body.

Exfoliate skin to keep pores clear

“Exfoliation helps keep pores clear, but too much can damage your skin barrier,” says Dr. Lee. A balanced approach with gentle acids works best.

Try: Keep SLMD AHA/BHA Swipes and Salicylic Acid Body Spray in your gym bag for quick use, in case you can't shower right away.

Replenish hydration

Sweating dehydrates your skin as well as your body. A lightweight moisturizer helps restore balance and strengthen your barrier, even if your skin is oily.

Try: SLMD Hyaluronic Acid Serum or Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizer for face, and Glycolic Acid Body Lotion for body.

Reapply SPF

Think of sunscreen like water breaks — one application isn’t enough for the whole day. Even indoors, UV exposure can age and irritate skin. Dr. Lee reminds patients that regular reapplication is the only way SPF can actually protect your skin.

Try: SLMD Daily Moisturizer with SPF 15, which is lightweight enough to reapply without leaving skin greasy feeling.

Clean your gear

Workout gear and equipment can harbor acne-causing bacteria. Wash clothes and towels regularly, and disinfect things like mats, hats, and straps between uses. Keeping your gear clean means your skin treatments can actually do their job, instead of constantly fighting new bacteria.

Try: SLMD Salicylic Acid Body Spray on high-friction areas and gear.

Workout acne FAQ

Q: Does sweating cause acne?

A: Sweating by itself does not cause acne. The problem comes when sweat mixes with oil, bacteria, and friction, which can clog pores and trigger breakouts.

Q: Should I wash my face before or after working out?

A: The best approach is to do both. Dr. Lee recommends starting with clean skin and then washing again after exercise to remove sweat, oil, and bacteria.

Q: Can sunscreen cause breakouts?

A: Sunscreen can cause breakouts if you use the wrong kind. Always choose a formula that is designed for acne-prone skin, like SLMD Daily Moisturizer with SPF 15.

Q: What is acne mechanica?

A: Acne mechanica is a type of breakout caused by heat, sweat, pressure, and friction. It is especially common in athletes and people who wear tight or heavy gear.