Before activity
- Apply broad-spectrum, water-resistant SPF 30+ sunscreen 15 minutes before outdoor sports.
- Wear breathable, moisture-wicking clothing and well-fitted shoes.
- Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly to areas prone to chafing, such as inner thighs or heels.
- Wet and condition hair before swimming to reduce chlorine absorption.
During activity
- Reapply sunscreen every two hours, or after swimming or heavy sweating.
- Take shade and water breaks.
- Change out of wet swimsuits promptly between sessions.
After activity
- Rinse off sweat, chlorine or saltwater with lukewarm water soon after activity.
- Use a mild cleanser on sweaty areas.
- Moisturize, especially after swimming.
- Change into clean, dry clothes and socks.
- Wash sports clothes, towels and gear regularly.
Tip: Keep a small ‘after-sports kit’ in your child’s bag: a towel, a travel moisturizer, clean socks and a plastic bag for wet clothes.
Swimming and skin
Chlorine can dry skin and hair. For curly and coily hair, wetting hair with clean water and applying a conditioner before swimming, using a swim cap, and rinsing and conditioning afterward can help reduce dryness.
Scrapes and minor wounds
- Wash your hands, then rinse the wound with clean water.
- Gently clean around it with mild soap.
- Apply petroleum jelly to keep it moist.
- Cover with an adhesive bandage and change daily.
Skin infections to watch for
Shared mats, locker rooms and equipment can spread skin infections such as athlete’s foot, ringworm and impetigo. Encourage flip-flops in locker rooms, no sharing of towels, and showering after practice.
Blisters, chafing and friction
New shoes, long runs, and repetitive movements can cause friction. Well-fitted shoes and moisture-wicking socks go a long way.
- Break new shoes in gradually before a big game or event.
- Cover rubbing spots early with a bandage or blister pad.
- Leave small, intact blisters alone — the skin protects the area underneath.
- If a blister pops, wash gently, apply petroleum jelly and cover.
- Apply a thin barrier of petroleum jelly to areas that chafe.
Hair care for active kids
Sweat can make the scalp itchy, and ponytails or braids worn tight for sports can pull on the hairline. Choose looser styles for practice, rinse sweat out when needed, and give the scalp breaks between protective styles.
At every age
Every child is different — use these as a starting point, not a rulebook.
4–6 years
Parents apply sunscreen and check skin after play.
7–9 years
Children can rinse, change and moisturize with reminders.
10–12 years
Tweens can manage their own sports skin routine and deodorant.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Staying in sweaty or wet clothes.
- Forgetting to reapply sunscreen during long games.
- Sharing towels, razors or sports equipment without cleaning.
- Ignoring small rashes that spread.
Helpful parent tips
- Pack sunscreen in the sports bag permanently.
- Keep flip-flops in the pool bag.
- Encourage a quick rinse after swimming even if your child is in a hurry.
When to call a professional
Everyday care supports comfort — it doesn’t diagnose or treat. Contact your pediatrician, dermatologist or healthcare provider if you notice:
- A wound that becomes red, warm, swollen, painful or oozing.
- Honey-colored crusts, round scaly patches or itchy peeling between toes.
- Signs of heat illness: dizziness, nausea, confusion or fainting.
Questions parents ask
Should my child shower right after sports?
As soon as practical. Rinsing off sweat and changing clothes helps prevent irritation and infections.
What sunscreen is best for sports?
A broad-spectrum, water-resistant SPF 30+ sunscreen. Sticks are handy for faces.
How do I protect curly hair from chlorine?
Wet and condition hair before swimming, use a swim cap, and rinse and condition afterward.
Is it okay to wear the same sports clothes twice?
It’s best to wash sweaty clothes, socks and pads after each use. Damp, sweaty gear can irritate skin and help germs that cause skin infections spread.
Do kids need deodorant?
Once puberty starts, many children begin to notice body odor. A gentle deodorant, daily showers and clean clothes are usually enough. There’s no rush before then.
