Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is a close-contact sport. Sweat, friction, shared mats, and skin-to-skin contact create a perfect environment for bacteria and fungus to spread.
If you train consistently, hygiene is not optional — it’s part of performance.
This guide covers:
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How to prevent acne from BJJ
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How to avoid fungal infections
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How to keep your gear from smelling
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What to do if you break out
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Best post-training hygiene habits
Why Hygiene Matters in Jiu Jitsu
Grappling exposes you to:
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Other people’s sweat
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Shared mats
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High humidity inside gis and rash guards
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Repeated skin friction
Without proper hygiene habits, this can lead to:
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Acne
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Fungal infections
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Bacterial infections
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Ringworm
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Body odor buildup
Clean training is safe training.
Common Skin Issues in Grapplers
1. Acne (Bacterial, Fungal, or Hormonal)
Acne in BJJ athletes is often caused by:
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Sweat trapped in pores
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Friction (acne mechanica)
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Yeast overgrowth
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Hormonal stress
👉 Read: Does Jiu Jitsu Cause Acne?
👉 Read: What Is Fungal Acne in BJJ?
2. Fungal Infections
Warm, moist environments encourage yeast and fungus growth.
Common signs:
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Itchy red patches
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Circular rashes
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Persistent irritation
If symptoms worsen, consult a medical professional.
3. Odor & Bacteria Buildup in Gear
Gis and rash guards trap sweat and bacteria.
If not washed immediately, odor-causing bacteria multiply quickly.
👉 Read: How to Defunk Smelly Grappling Clothes
How to Prevent Skin Issues in BJJ
Shower Immediately After Training
Wash with warm water and a gentle cleanser as soon as possible.
Even rinsing at the gym is better than waiting hours.
Change Out of Training Gear Immediately
Do not sit in sweaty clothes.
Moisture promotes bacterial growth.
Wash Your Gi and Rash Guard After Every Session
Never re-wear unwashed gear.
This is one of the most common causes of recurring skin issues.
👉 Read: How to Treat Acne From Jiu Jitsu
👉 Read: How to Prevent Acne From Jiu Jitsu
Keep Nails Trimmed
Long nails can:
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Trap bacteria
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Scratch skin
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Spread infection
👉 Read: IBJJF Nail Rules Explained
Avoid Overtraining
Excess stress can weaken immune response and increase breakouts.
Sleep and recovery matter.
When to See a Dermatologist
Seek medical attention if:
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Rashes spread
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Acne becomes cystic or painful
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You suspect fungal infection
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Symptoms persist beyond 6–8 weeks
Always mention that you train grappling sports.
Hygiene Is Part of Respect
Good hygiene protects:
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You
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Your training partners
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Your gym
In grappling, cleanliness is part of team culture.
