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If you’re trying to figure out the difference between contact dermatitis vs ringworm, you’re not alone. Both cause red, itchy skin but have very different causes and treatments. Here’s what you need to know. Understanding the Basics What is Contact Dermatitis? Contact dermatitis is a common skin reaction that happens when your skin touches something that irritates it or causes an allergic response. It’s not contagious — it’s your body’s way of protesting a substance it doesn’t like. Common causes include soaps, detergents, cosmetics, plants like poison ivy, and certain metals like nickel. Typical symptoms are red, itchy skin that...

Understanding Ringworm Knowing how ringworm is caused helps you avoid this stubborn, itchy infection. Let’s break down what it is and why it’s so easy to catch. What is Ringworm? Ringworm is a common fungal infection — there’s no actual worm involved. It shows up as a red, circular rash with clear or scaly skin in the center. Common types include: Body ringworm (tinea corporis) — appears on arms, legs, or trunk. Scalp ringworm (tinea capitis) — affects the scalp, often causing patches of hair loss. Athlete’s foot (tinea pedis) — itchy, cracked skin between toes. Jock itch (tinea cruris)...

What is Impetigo? Impetigo and football often go hand in hand because this skin infection loves the conditions found on the field. Impetigo is a highly contagious bacterial infection that causes red sores, blisters, and honey-colored crusts on the skin. Two main bacteria cause it: Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes. These germs easily find a way in when a player has a cut, scrape, or turf burn. Impetigo is common among football players and other athletes because sweat, close contact, and shared gear create the perfect storm for bacteria to spread quickly. Why Football Players Are at Risk for Impetigo...

Summer football practice is the backbone of every successful football season. While most people think the big games are won on Friday nights, seasoned players and coaches know it’s the sweat and discipline during summer that truly makes the difference. This crucial off-season period builds players’ physical conditioning, sharpens individual skills, and strengthens team chemistry. From endurance runs to position drills, summer football practice sets the tone for a disciplined, cohesive team ready to hit the ground running when the season starts. A Typical Summer Football Practice Day Early Morning Conditioning A summer football practice day usually kicks off before...

Summer hygiene tips are essential for football players because the heat, gear, and constant contact create the perfect environment for sweat, bacteria, and skin infections. When high temperatures combine with layers of padding and hours of physical activity, hygiene isn’t optional—it’s a must. Without the right routine, players risk rashes, infections, and discomfort that can take them off the field. This guide covers hygiene tips before, during, and after practices and games—plus trusted product recommendations from MATGUARD® to keep skin and gear clean all summer long. Why Summer Hygiene Matters for Football Players Increased Sweat and Heat Sweat is unavoidable...