Is there an “athlete’s acne”?

There is something called “steroid acne”, which can be one effect of taking performance-enhancing drugs such as anabolic steroids.
In general, taking such substances is not recommended, as they have considerable side effects. Excessive bodybuilding is also not recommended, as the higher levels of the male sex hormone testosterone that result can cause or worsen acne. Moderate fitness training or endurance sports are much better.
The most important thing is to pick a type of sport or exercise that you really have fun doing! Especially recommended for blemished skin prone to acne are endurance sports such as running, skating, swimming or cycling – and of course general exercise in the fresh air.
If you don’t enjoy these sports, you can get similar effects from sports such as football, volleyball or tennis. Working out at the gym is also a good alternative.
- Start with short training sessions and then slowly build up. That way you stay motivated and avoid failures.
- Don’t exercise alone: do it in a pair or a group. This makes it more fun and you can motivate one another.
- Don’t lose sight of your goal: exercise gives you a healthy body and clear skin!