Acne mechanica in athletes.

Acne mechanica is a papulopustular eruption caused by the physical factors of pressure, occlusion, friction, and heat acting upon the skin, either separately or in unison. Athletes in certain sports are at particular risk for this condition. Dermatologists, if familiar with its presentation, can play a critical role in relieving its distracting symptoms during a competitive season, and eliminating it completely at the season's end.