Running and Your Skin

It's race day, and you awake early. You need to double-check your race-day checklist before you head out the door:

Good breakfast: Check!

Running bib: Check!

Adequate fluids: Check!

Petroleum Jelly: Check????

Many newbie (and sometimes not so new) runners experience some serious and unexpected skin discomfort after racing. But do not be afraid, new runner! A recent European running review analyzed the most common dermatological running injuries and offered some simple avoidance strategies.

The most common skin injury? Blisters... Most runners experience blisters at some point. Heat, excessive moisture, ill-fitting shoes, and excessive training can all produce blisters. Using dry socks, wearing appropriate-fitting shoes and wicking socks, and applying petroleum jelly reduce blister risk.

Jogger's nipples (OOOUCCHHH!) are another common running injury and occur when clothing repetitively chafes against the nipples. I can personally attest JN are quite painful! I experienced JN after my first half-marathon and experienced pain several days afterward. Applying petroleum jelly, using commercial patches or placing adhesive tape on the nipples can help avoid this most painful condition. Women should also utilize soft bras, and men should wear synthetic, wicking shirts.

Chafing can be another runner's regret. Always wearing dry, well-fitting clothes and completely drying after showering can minimize chafing risk. Applying petroleum jelly to the inside of the upper thigh can also help. Larger people are particularly susceptible to chafing and should take appropriate caution.

Whether you are running your first or your fiftieth race, taking simple steps can let you avoid these highly unwelcome visitors.

E A Mailler, B B Adams, The wear and tear of 26.2: Dermatological Injuries Reported
on Marathon Day, Br J Sports Med 2004;38:498–501.