As an athlete, your skin faces unique challenges that go beyond those of the average person. From intense sun exposure to excessive sweating and friction, your skin needs specialized care to maintain it’s health and allow you to perform at your peak.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best athletic skin care products that cater to various sports and environmental conditions, ensuring you’re covered for all seasons and activities.
1. Neutrogena Sport Face Oil-Free Lotion Sunscreen SPF 70+
When it comes to protecting your face during outdoor activities, Neutrogena Sport Face Oil-Free Lotion Sunscreen is a game-changer. With an impressive SPF of 70+, it provides superior protection against harmful UVA and UVB rays.
The oil-free, PABA-free formula won’t clog pores or cause breakouts – a crucial factor for athletes who are prone to sweating. It’s water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, making it perfect for swimming or intense sweating sessions.
I’ve found that this sunscreen stays put even during the most grueling workouts. It doesn’t sting your eyes when you sweat, which is crucial for maintaining focus during your training or competition.
The lightweight feel means you’ll forget you’re wearing it, allowing you to concentrate on your performance.
Application Tips:
Apply a generous amount to your face, neck, and ears about 15 minutes before sun exposure. For best results, reapply every two hours or after swimming, sweating, or toweling off.
Don’t forget often-missed spots like the back of your neck, ears, and the tops of your feet if you’re wearing sandals or going barefoot.
Why It’s Great for Athletes:
- Sweat-resistant formula
- Non-greasy feel
- Won’t clog pores
- High SPF for extended protection
- Doesn’t sting eyes
2. Body Glide Original Anti-Chafe Balm
Chafing can be a real pain for athletes, quite literally. Body Glide creates an invisible protective barrier on your skin, reducing friction and preventing irritation.
It’s long-lasting formula means you can apply it before your workout and be good to go for hours.
Body Glide isn’t greasy or messy, and it won’t stain your clothes. It’s made with plant-derived ingredients, making it suitable for people with sensitive skin.
I’ve used Body Glide for everything from marathon training to long bike rides, and it’s never let me down. It’s especially effective for preventing chafing in areas like the inner thighs, underarms, and nipples for long-distance runners.
How to Use:
Apply Body Glide directly to areas prone to chafing before your activity. Common areas include inner thighs, underarms, nipples (for runners), and anywhere clothing might rub against skin. For longer activities, you may want to reapply midway through.
Benefits for Different Sports:
- Running: Prevents thigh chafing and nipple irritation
- Cycling: Reduces saddle sores and inner thigh chafing
- Swimming: Helps prevent wetsuit chafing
- Team Sports: Protects against equipment rubbing on skin
3. Zealios Swim & – Sport Shampoo
For swimmers and triathletes, chlorine can wreak havoc on your hair and skin. Zealios Swim & – Sport Shampoo is specifically designed to remove chlorine, salt water, and hard water minerals from your hair and scalp. It’s sulfate-free and pH balanced, which means it won’t strip your hair of it’s natural oils.
I’ve noticed a significant difference in my hair’s health since using this shampoo. It leaves my hair feeling clean and soft, without that dry, brittle feeling often associated with frequent swimming.
The added vitamin B5 helps to nourish and strengthen your hair, which is especially important for athletes who spend a lot of time in the water.
This shampoo is gentle enough for daily use, making it perfect for those who train in the pool regularly. It also has a pleasant, subtle scent that won’t overpower your other grooming products.
Key Ingredients:
- Vitamin B5: Strengthens hair and adds shine
- Aloe Vera: Soothes and moisturizes the scalp
- Citric Acid: Helps remove chlorine and other minerals
How to Use:
Use Zealios Swim & – Sport Shampoo immediately after swimming or any water-based activity. Wet your hair thoroughly, then apply a small amount of shampoo.
Massage into your scalp and through the lengths of your hair.
Rinse well and follow with your regular conditioner if needed.
4. Supergoop!
PLAY Everyday Lotion SPF 50
For full-body sun protection, Supergoop! PLAY Everyday Lotion is an excellent choice.
This broad-spectrum sunscreen is water and sweat-resistant for up to 80 minutes, making it ideal for outdoor sports.
It’s fast-absorbing, non-greasy formula feels light on the skin. I appreciate that this sunscreen is reef-safe and free from oxybenzone and octinoxate. It’s also packed with sunflower, rosemary, and rice antioxidants, which help protect your skin from environmental damage.
Whether you’re hitting the beach for a volleyball game or going for a long run, this sunscreen has got you covered. I’ve used it for everything from trail running to surfing, and it’s never let me down. The pump bottle makes application quick and easy, which is perfect when you’re in a hurry to start your workout.
Key Features:
- Broad-spectrum SPF 50 protection
- Water and sweat-resistant for 80 minutes
- Fast-absorbing, non-greasy formula
- Reef-safe ingredients
- Antioxidant-rich for added skin benefits
Application Tips:
Apply liberally to all exposed skin areas 15 minutes before sun exposure. For best results, reapply every two hours or after swimming, sweating heavily, or toweling off.
Don’t forget often-missed areas like the back of your neck, tops of your feet, and behind your ears.
5. Rocket Pure Natural Foot Deodorant Spray
Athlete’s foot is a common problem for many athletes. Rocket Pure Natural Foot Deodorant Spray is a fantastic solution.
This all-natural, antifungal spray helps prevent athlete’s foot and eliminates odor-causing bacteria.
It’s made with essential oils like peppermint and eucalyptus, which provide a refreshing scent and cooling sensation. What I love about this spray is that it’s free from harsh chemicals and aluminum.
It’s safe to use daily and won’t irritate your skin.
I’ve found it particularly useful for keeping my feet fresh during long hikes or after intense gym sessions. It’s also great for spraying inside your athletic shoes to keep them smelling fresh.
The compact bottle is perfect for tossing in your gym bag or suitcase when traveling for competitions.
Key Ingredients:
- Peppermint Oil: Provides a cooling sensation and fresh scent
- Eucalyptus Oil: Has antifungal and antibacterial properties
- Tea Tree Oil: Known for it’s antifungal and antiseptic qualities
How to Use:
Spray directly onto clean, dry feet, paying special attention to areas between toes. Allow to dry completely before putting on socks or shoes.
For best results, use daily, especially after showering or exercising.
You can also spray inside your shoes to keep them fresh.
6. Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Oil-Free Gel Cream
For athletes with oily or combination skin, finding the right moisturizer can be challenging. Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Oil-Free Gel Cream offers the perfect solution.
This lightweight, oil-free moisturizer provides 24-hour hydration without clogging pores or leaving a greasy residue.
The gel-cream formula absorbs quickly, making it ideal for use before or after workouts. It contains glacial glycoprotein and desert plant extract, which help strengthen your skin’s moisture barrier.
I’ve found that this moisturizer keeps my skin balanced and hydrated, even during intense training sessions. What’s particularly great about this product is that it’s suitable for all climates.
Whether you’re training in humid conditions or dry, cold environments, this moisturizer adapts to keep your skin comfortable and healthy.
Key Features:
- Oil-free formula
- 24-hour hydration
- Quick-absorbing gel-cream texture
- Contains glacial glycoprotein and desert plant extract
- Suitable for all climates
Application Tips:
After cleansing, apply a small amount to your face and neck, gently massaging in circular motions. Use morning and night for best results.
For daytime use, follow with sunscreen for added protection.
7. Aquaphor Healing Ointment
Every athlete should have a tube of Aquaphor Healing Ointment in their gym bag. This multi-purpose ointment is a lifesaver for dry, cracked skin, minor cuts, and burns.
It creates a protective barrier on the skin, allowing for optimal healing conditions.
I’ve used Aquaphor for everything from preventing blisters on long runs to soothing wind-burned skin after skiing. It’s versatility makes it an essential item for athletes participating in various sports and environments.
One of the things I appreciate most about Aquaphor is it’s simplicity. With just a few ingredients, it manages to be incredibly effective at protecting and healing the skin. It’s also fragrance-free and hypoallergenic, making it suitable for even the most sensitive skin.
Uses for Athletes:
- Blister Prevention: Apply to areas prone to blisters before long runs or hikes
- Chafing Relief: Use on areas that tend to chafe during activities
- Wind Burn Treatment: Soothe wind-burned skin after skiing or cycling
- Minor Cut and Scrape Care: Helps create an optimal healing environment
- Dry Skin Relief: Excellent for extremely dry or cracked skin, especially in cold weather
How to Use:
Apply a thin layer to the affected area as needed. For blister prevention, apply before your activity. For healing purposes, clean the area first, then apply Aquaphor and cover with a bandage if necessary.
8. EltaMD UV Sport Broad-Spectrum SPF 50
For athletes who need serious sun protection, EltaMD UV Sport is a top contender. This broad-spectrum sunscreen is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes and doesn’t drip into your eyes when you sweat.
It’s formulated with zinc oxide, which provides excellent UVA and UVB protection.
What sets this sunscreen apart is it’s ability to go on clear, despite containing zinc oxide. It’s also oil-free and non-comedogenic, making it suitable for all skin types.
I’ve found it particularly effective for long days of outdoor training or competitions.
The formula is also enriched with vitamin E, which helps neutralize free radicals and protect against skin-aging UV rays. This makes it not just a protective product, but one that contributes to your skin’s long-term health.
Key Features:
- Broad-spectrum SPF 50 protection
- Water-resistant for 80 minutes
- Contains zinc oxide for superior UVA/UVB protection
- Goes on clear
- Enriched with vitamin E for antioxidant protection
Application Tips:
Apply generously to all exposed skin areas 15 minutes before sun exposure. For best protection, reapply every 2 hours or after 80 minutes of swimming or sweating.
Don’t forget often-missed areas like the back of your neck, ears, and tops of your feet.
9. Jack Black Pit Boss Antiperspirant & – Deodorant
Controlling sweat and odor is crucial for athletes, and Jack Black Pit Boss does an excellent job. This antiperspirant and deodorant offers 24-hour protection without using aluminum.
It’s formulated with vitamin E and aloe leaf juice to soothe and condition the skin.
What I appreciate about this product is it’s clean, fresh scent that isn’t overpowering. It goes on smoothly and doesn’t leave white marks on your clothes.
Whether you’re hitting the gym or competing in a marathon, this deodorant keeps you feeling fresh and confident.
The roll-on application is smooth and easy, and the product dries quickly. This means you can apply it and get dressed immediately without worrying about stains or residue on your clothes.
Key Ingredients:
- Vitamin E: Conditions and protects skin
- Aloe Leaf Juice: Soothes and hydrates
- Natural Fragrance: Provides a clean, fresh scent
How to Use:
Apply to clean, dry underarms. Allow to dry completely before dressing.
For best results, use daily, especially after showering or before intense physical activity.
10. CeraVe Moisturizing Cream
For athletes dealing with dry, rough skin, CeraVe Moisturizing Cream is a game-changer. This rich, non-greasy cream provides 24-hour hydration and helps restore the skin’s protective barrier.
It contains three essential ceramides and hyaluronic acid, which are crucial for maintaining healthy skin.
I’ve found this cream particularly useful during winter sports or in dry climates. It’s fragrance-free and non-comedogenic, making it suitable for sensitive skin. The pump bottle is convenient and hygienic, perfect for keeping in your gym bag or locker.
What’s great about CeraVe is that it’s developed with dermatologists, so you know you’re getting a product that’s truly useful for your skin. It’s also suitable for use on both face and body, which makes it a versatile addition to your skincare routine.
Key Ingredients:
- Ceramides: Help restore and maintain the skin’s natural barrier
- Hyaluronic Acid: Attracts hydration to the skin’s surface and helps keep moisture
- MVE Technology: Provides controlled release of ingredients for long-lasting hydration
How to Use:
Apply liberally as often as needed, or as directed by a physician. Use on both face and body.
For best results, apply to damp skin after bathing to help lock in moisture.
11. Banana Boat Sport Performance Sunscreen Lip Balm SPF 50
Don’t forget about your lips! Banana Boat Sport Performance Sunscreen Lip Balm offers SPF 50 protection specifically designed for active lifestyles.
It’s water-resistant and provides broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays.
This lip balm goes on clear and doesn’t leave a white residue. I’ve found it particularly useful for outdoor sports like skiing, surfing, or hiking, where your lips are exposed to harsh elements.
The convenient stick format makes it easy to apply and reapply as needed.
The formula is also moisturizing, which helps prevent your lips from getting dry and chapped during your activities. It’s a small product that makes a big difference in your comfort during long outdoor sessions.
Key Features:
- SPF 50 broad-spectrum protection
- Water-resistant
- Clear application
- Moisturizing formula
- Convenient stick format
Application Tips:
Apply liberally to lips 15 minutes before sun exposure. Reapply at least every 2 hours, or more often if swimming or sweating.
For best protection, use in combination with other sun protection measures like hats and seeking shade during peak sun hours.
12. Thayers Alcohol-Free Witch Hazel Facial Toner
After a sweaty workout, your skin needs some TLC. Thayers Alcohol-Free Witch Hazel Facial Toner is perfect for refreshing and cleansing your skin post-exercise.
It’s alcohol-free, which means it won’t dry out your skin, and it contains aloe vera for added hydration.
I love using this toner to remove any remaining sweat or dirt after cleansing. It helps balance my skin’s pH and reduces the appearance of pores.
The rose petal version has a lovely, subtle scent that leaves you feeling refreshed and ready to take on the day.
This toner is also great for preventing and treating razor bumps, making it a versatile product for athletes who need to maintain a clean-shaven look for their sport.
Key Ingredients:
- Witch Hazel: Natural astringent that helps tighten pores and remove excess oil
- Aloe Vera: Soothes and hydrates skin
- Rose Water: Provides a gentle, natural fragrance and extra soothing properties
How to Use:
After cleansing, apply toner to a cotton pad and gently swipe over face and neck. Can be used morning and night, or as needed after workouts.
Follow with your regular moisturizer for best results.
People Also Asked
What’s the best sunscreen for athletes?
The best sunscreen for athletes is typically a broad-spectrum, water-resistant formula with an SPF of at least 30. Products like Neutrogena Sport Face Oil-Free Lotion SPF 70+ and EltaMD UV Sport Broad-Spectrum SPF 50 are excellent choices because of their long-lasting, sweat-resistant formulas.
How can I prevent chafing during sports?
To prevent chafing during sports, use an anti-chafe product like Body Glide Original Anti-Chafe Balm. Apply it to areas prone to friction before your activity.
Wearing moisture-wicking, properly fitting clothing can also help reduce chafing.
What’s the best way to care for swimmer’s hair?
The best way to care for swimmer’s hair is to use a specialized shampoo like Zealios Swim & – Sport Shampoo. These products are designed to remove chlorine and other minerals that can damage hair.
Wetting your hair with fresh water before entering the pool can also help reduce chlorine absorption.
How often should athletes reapply sunscreen?
Athletes should reapply sunscreen every 2 hours, or more often if swimming or sweating heavily. For water activities or intense sweating, look for water-resistant formulas and reapply at least every 80 minutes.
Can moisturizer help with athletic performance?
While moisturizer doesn’t directly improve athletic performance, it can help maintain healthy skin, which is important for overall comfort during activities. Products like Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Oil-Free Gel Cream can keep skin hydrated without feeling heavy or greasy.
What’s the best way to prevent athlete’s foot?
To prevent athlete’s foot, keep feet clean and dry, especially between toes. Use an antifungal spray like Rocket Pure Natural Foot Deodorant Spray regularly.
Wear moisture-wicking socks and avoid walking barefoot in public showers or locker rooms.
How can I protect my lips during outdoor sports?
Protect your lips during outdoor sports by using a lip balm with SPF, like Banana Boat Sport Performance Sunscreen Lip Balm SPF 50. Apply regularly, especially before prolonged sun exposure or in windy conditions.
What skincare routine should athletes follow post-workout?
A good post-workout skincare routine for athletes includes cleansing to remove sweat and dirt, using a toner like Thayers Alcohol-Free Witch Hazel Facial Toner to balance skin, and applying a lightweight moisturizer. Don’t forget to reapply sunscreen if heading back outdoors.
Are natural deodorants effective for athletes?
Natural deodorants can be effective for athletes, but they may need to be reapplied more often than traditional antiperspirants. Products like Jack Black Pit Boss offer long-lasting protection without aluminum, making them a good choice for athletes concerned about using natural products.
How can I treat wind burn from winter sports?
To treat wind burn from winter sports, use a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer like CeraVe Moisturizing Cream or a healing ointment like Aquaphor. These products help soothe irritated skin and restore moisture.
Prevention is key, so always apply a protective layer before heading out in cold, windy conditions.
Key Takeaways
- Sun protection is crucial for athletes, with products like Neutrogena Sport Face SPF 70+ and EltaMD UV Sport SPF 50 offering excellent, sweat-resistant coverage.
- Anti-chafe products like Body Glide are essential for preventing skin irritation during long or intense workouts.
- Specialized shampoos like Zealios Swim & – Sport help protect hair from chlorine and other water-related damage.
- Moisturizers such as Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Oil-Free Gel Cream keep skin hydrated without clogging pores, which is important for athletes with oily or combination skin.
- Multi-purpose products like Aquaphor Healing Ointment are versatile additions to any athlete’s skincare kit, useful for everything from preventing blisters to treating minor cuts and burns.