Introduction

Athletes’ skin is exposed to multiple adverse factors during training and competitions, including ultraviolet radiation, mechanical friction, sweating, and contact with water or equipment. Effective skin protection is essential for preserving health and performance.

Aim

To investigate the patterns of cosmetic and medical product use for skin protection among athletes of different sports disciplines and identify key factors influencing product choice and dermatological outcomes.

Material and methods

A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted from May 2023 to May 2025 in Kyiv, Ukraine, including 386 athletes (212 women, 174 men) from outdoor, aquatic, and contact/strength sports. Data were collected using a structured online questionnaire covering socio-demographics, frequency and regularity of product use, dermatological problems, and sources of information. Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests (c², p < 0.05) were applied.

Results

Sunscreens were the most commonly used products (87.3%), followed by moisturisers (81.1%), antiseptics (74.9%), barrier agents (58.3%), and specialised products (45.1%). Gender analysis revealed significant differences: 59% of women used moisturisers regularly versus 25.9% of men, and 51.9% of women systematically used sunscreens versus 34.5% of men, indicating a proactive-preventive approach in women and a reactive pattern in men. Dermatological issues were prevalent: friction injuries and abrasions (85%), skin dryness (78%), sunburns (64%), acne and folliculitis (50%), and fungal infections (30%). Specific patterns emerged by sports: aquatic athletes experienced high skin dryness (92.9%), outdoor athletes high sunburn rates (83.9%), and contact/strength athletes high friction injuries (99.2%). Coaches (76.9%) and peers (71%) were the primary influencers on product choice, while medical specialists influenced 62.9% of respondents. Despite high sunscreen use, 64% still reported burns, highlighting gaps in the application technique or SPF adequacy.

Conclusions

Athletes demonstrate sport- and gender-specific skin care behaviours, with a high prevalence of dermatological problems despite widespread use of protective products. Different dermatological protocols and educational programs for athletes, coaches, and medical staff are recommended to optimise skin protection, prevent complications, and enhance early detection of dermatological conditions. The study underscores the need for greater involvement of dermatologists in sports medicine.