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Joseph D. Jensen, M.D. & Keri L. Holyoak, PA-C
7396 S. Union Park Ave. #201Midvale, UT 84047
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Preventing skin conditions in athletes

Welcome to our Patient Education page!

We believe that informed patients are better equipped to make decisions regarding their health and well being. For your personal use, we have created a patient library covering a few educational topics, which can be found on the side of each page. As always, you can contact our office to answer any questions or concerns.



Athletes are at an increased risk of skin infections, which can have serious consequences. To help prevent infections, athletes, coaches and athletic trainers can follow these tips from dermatologists:

  1. Keep cuts and scrapes clean and covered with a bandage until healed. A cut or scrape weakens the skin’s defense and allows germs that cause infections to enter.
  2. Prevent blisters to reduce infections. Apply a pad, gel or spray to areas that routinely blister. To help prevent blisters on the feet, ankles and hands, consider using specialized gloves and socks or wearing two pairs of socks. Athletes should also make sure that their footwear fits properly.
  3. Wear moisture-wicking clothes. This helps keep the athlete’s skin dry and prevents germs from growing.
  4. Wear sandals in the locker room. Wearing sandals or other shoes helps reduce infections on the feet.
  5. Shower after every practice and game. In addition, athletes should use an antimicrobial soap and wash their entire body.
  6. Do not share personal care items. Athletes should always use a clean towel after showering and use their own towels, soaps, razors and other personal care items.
  7. Wash clothes and towels after each use. Sports bags should also be washed, as germs that cause infections can remain in the bags and grow.
  8. Disinfect equipment, including protective gear, daily. For proper disinfection, follow the manufacturers’ instructions.
  9. Perform regular skin checks. Athletes should check their skin daily, especially those in high-risk sports, such as wrestling. Look for any changes, such as cuts, sores, redness, swelling and pus, and report any changes to an athletic trainer or doctor.
  10. Never use sandpaper or bleach to pass a skin check. This will cause more damage to the skin and keep the athlete on the bench longer.

Without treatment, skin infections can worsen. If you or your athletes notice anything on their skin that itches, burns or is infected, make an appointment to see a board-certified dermatologist or sports medicine doctor.

© American Academy of Dermatology. All rights reserved. Reproduction or republication strictly prohibited without prior written permission. Use of these materials is subject to the legal notice and terms of use located at https://www.aad.org/about/legal


Patient Education

Patient Education Menu
  • Acne and rosacea
    • Acne
    • Acne scars
    • Acne products: How to avoid allergic reaction
    • Acne: Tips to help you see clearer skin
    • Adult acne
    • Isotretinoin: Treatment for severe acne
    • Rosacea
    • Rosacea: Skin Care Do's and Don'ts
  • Bumps and growths
    • Keratosis pilaris
    • Moles
    • Seborrheic keratosis
  • Color problems
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    • Melasma
    • Melasma:Tips to Make It Less Noticeable
    • Tinea versicolor
    • Vitiligo
  • Contagious skin diseases
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    • Before getting cosmetic treatment, ask questions
    • Botulinum toxin therapy
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  • Dry / sweaty skin
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  • Eczema / dermatitis
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    • Dyshidrotic eczema
    • Neurodermatitis
    • Nummular dermatitis
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    • Eczema: Tips to help children feel better
    • Eczema Bleach bath therapy
  • Hair and scalp problems
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  • Skin, hair, and nail care
    • Skin care
      • How to Apply Sunscreen
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      • Skin Self-Exam: How to Do
      • Face Washing 101
      • How to Apply Self-Tanner
      • Get the most from your skin care products
      • Dry skin relief
      • Preventing skin conditions in athletes
      • How to care for tattooed skin
      • How to care for pierced ears
      • How to Treat Diaper Rash
      • Skin Care on a Budget
      • How to Treat Boils and Styes
      • How to Treat Dandruff
      • How to Treat Shingles
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      • Proper Wound Care: How to Minimize a Scar
      • How to Prevent and Treat Frostbite
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      • Tips for Healthy Nails
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Our Location

7396 S. Union Park Ave.
#201
Midvale, UT 84047
(801) 567-1400

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