Yes, says dermatologist Jeffrey Benabio. It’s because of a skin condition known as acne mechanica:
When solid or nonbreathable materials, such as pads or straps, rest on the skin, it occludes the pores. Heat and friction under the material makes the problem worse.
It can be improved by applying a breathable fabric such as cotton between the equipment and the skin. Treating the skin with mild exfoliants such as salicylic acid acne washes or with antibiotics like benzoyl peroxide washes can improve the acne. Sometimes oral antibiotics are needed to clear things up.
topics: acne, dermatology
