7 Yoga Pants mistakes you are probably making

We live in our yoga pants. From the gym to the grocery store, they are the uniform of the modern lifestyle. A new word is even being added to the Dictionary: “Athleisure.”

It seems as though the yoga pants trend is here to stay – and who isn’t excited about that?! They are form flattering, versatile, and best of all – comfy! But new medical research suggests your favorite leggings might be hiding a dirty secret.

What if your comfort comes at the cost of your health? There is an entire host of skin issues that can develop from wearing tight, synthetic clothing for too long; especially if you don’t shower or change out of your gear after a workout.

Before you panic, you need to hear what top dermatologists are saying about "Athleisure Sickness."

#1. What The Doctors Are Saying

Assistant Professor at Mount Sinai School of Medicine and Chelsea Skin & Laser Medical Director, Dr. Michael Eidelman, warns about skin conditions that can develop due to clothes that “don’t breathe as well and hold sweat closer to the skin.”

Dr. Eidelman explains that moisture and oil on the skin can cause issues such as acne, folliculitis, and fungal flare-ups.

Why does this matter? Synthetic fabrics like Spandex and Nylon are designed to repel water, but that means they trap bodily fluids against your pores. It creates a "greenhouse effect" on your skin.

#2. The "Red Bump" Phenomenon (Folliculitis)

Dr. Eidelman explains that Folliculitis is basically an inflammation of the hair follicle due to rubbing or tight clothes. When your yoga pants trap sweat against your skin, bacteria build up and block the follicles.

The result is painful, unsightly red bumps that can take weeks to heal. Often mistaken for regular acne, this condition requires air to heal. If you see red bumps on your legs or glutes after a workout, your pants are likely the culprit.

#3. It Gets Worse "Down There"

This is the one nobody wants to talk about, but it is critical. Not to mention the issues women can encounter, you know, “down there,” due to fabrics that don’t breathe well enough.

Some experts claim that yeast infections and vaginitis are becoming more common among women who wear athleisure all day. The warm, moist environment created by tight leggings is the perfect breeding ground for bacteria.

#4. Do We Have to Burn Our Leggings?

But fear not! Wearing sweat-wicking or breathable clothing during exercise can prevent issues from developing. There are also natural and organic fabrics out there that are breathable and better for your skin.

The Golden Rule: Don’t forget to get yourself clean after a sweaty workout, especially if you go to a gym. Not only do you sweat at the gym, but so does everyone else! All the bacteria you come in contact with during a normal workout are a huge contributor to many of the aforementioned health issues.

#5. No Time to Shower? No Problem.

While it might be nice to change into a clean pair of stretchy pants, keeping those yoga pants on all day might not be so comfortable in the long run. If you don’t have time to shower after your workout, use biodegradable shower sheets or wipes.

Start a habit of keeping an extra pair of clean pants (yoga leggings or loose work pants) in your car or gym bag. That way, even if you forget to pack a change of clothes, there’s nothing stopping you from staying clean and preventing health issues on-the-go.

#6. The Bacteria Magnet You Forgot About

If it’s a dirty yoga mat you’re worried about, use a mat cleaning spray regularly. Lastly, if you want to keep your yoga mat clear of nasty germs after each use, fold it in half with the top side folded together, and then roll it up.

This way, the part of the mat that picks up whatever is on the floor doesn’t transfer the dirtiness to your face or body next time you unroll it!

Final Thoughts

While these skin conditions sound serious, the good news is that you have the power to prevent them. Just make sure to keep yourself clean and wear clothing that breathes as much as possible.

There’s no need to get rid of your favorite lululemons – just make sure to clean up – both yourself and your yoga mat – after a workout. Cheers to your health!