For many, a workout isn’t complete without a motivating playlist. But that sweat-proof pair of earbuds you rely on could be sabotaging your skin. A dermatologist specializing in active lifestyles warns that the combination of sweat, heat, and pressure from earbuds during exercise is a major trigger for skin problems, particularly a condition known as acne mechanica.
During a workout, your body naturally produces more sweat and oil. When you wear earbuds, you’re trapping all of that right in the delicate ear area, creating a humid, bacteria-friendly microclimate. A skin expert explains that this, coupled with the friction of the earbuds moving as you do, is a potent formula for clogged pores, inflammation, and breakouts.
It’s also important to consider the material of your earbuds. The expert notes that some people may have a sensitivity to the silicone or plastic tips, leading to allergic contact dermatitis—an itchy, red rash that can be mistaken for acne. Furthermore, tossing your sweaty earbuds into a gym bag without cleaning them allows bacteria to multiply, increasing your risk of a skin infection the next time you use them.
To keep your skin clear, post-workout hygiene is paramount. The dermatologist advises cleaning your earbuds with an alcohol wipe immediately after every gym session. It’s also beneficial to cleanse the skin around your ears with a gentle, non-comedogenic wipe or cleanser as part of your post-exercise routine. Taking short breaks during a long workout can also help reduce moisture buildup.
If you’re already fighting these fitness-related breakouts, don’t just cover them with makeup. Use a spot treatment with benzoyl peroxide or azelaic acid. However, if the problem doesn’t clear up or seems to be getting worse, a dermatologist can help determine if it’s simple acne, an allergy, or an infection, and prescribe the appropriate treatment to get you back in the clear.