Wrestling Hygiene 101

Wrestling Hygiene 101

Yeah, most wrestlers already know the basics—but I thought it’d be fun to share some of the best hygiene, health, and even beauty advice I’ve picked up over the years. Take what works for you!

Skin Care

Wrestling is rough on your skin. You’re constantly in close contact with mats, gear, and other people. A solid skincare routine can help you stay clean and avoid stuff like acne or skin infections.

Here’s what I use:

Face Routine:

1. Wash – Use unscented antibacterial soap like:

   • Dove (sensitive skin)

   • Cetaphil

   • PanOxyl

2. Tone – I use witch hazel, but any toner works. It helps fight acne.

3. Moisturize + SPF – Wrestling dries your skin out, so don’t skip this step.

   • My favs: CeraVe, Nivea cream]

   • Any Sunscreen of your choosing (use in the morning re-apply as necessary )

Pro tip: Wash your face and behind your ears—don’t skip that.

Hair Care

Everyone’s hair is different, but here’s some general advice:

• If your hair’s long, braid it during training and matches. It keeps it out of your face and prevents breakage.

• Sweat + washing = dryness, so find products that match your hair type and keep it moisturized.

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Shower Routine

Use two separate soaps—one for your face and one for your body. Start with antibacterial soap, then follow up with your favorite body wash.

I like using an exfoliating cloth, but any wash rag works. Just make sure to switch it out every 2 days.

Gym Bag Essentials

Always bring a change of clothes. Ideally, shower right after practice. If that’s not possible:

• Wipe down with body wipes

• Change into clean, dry clothes

• Shower as soon as you get home

If your practice is during school hours, get comfortable using the school showers. It’s better than sitting in sweaty clothes all day. ( you simply cant do that)

Things to keep in your gym bag:

• Change of clothes (sweatshirt/sweats during winter season)

• Fresh underwear and socks

• Deodorant

• Body wipes

• Toiletries: shampoo, conditioner, soap, wash rag

• Plastic bag for sweaty gear (take it out when you get home!)

• Dryer sheets (for your shoes + bag)

• Towel

Wrestling Kit Must-Haves

• Nail clippers

• Hair ties (if needed)

• Athletic tape

• Chapstick

• Floss

• Hand Sanitizer

  
  

Laundry Tips

Wrestling clothes get nasty quick. I wash my gear 3–4 times a week. Don’t let sweaty stuff sit in your hamper too long.

Here’s my laundry routine:

• Separate lights and darks

• Use OxiClean, detergent, and scent beads (Unstoppables are 🔥)

• Use the soak setting if your machine has one

• Always dry your gear fully

If something gets that permanent stink—even after washing—I toss it.

Knee pads: Wash once a weekWrestling shoes: I wash mine once a month. In between, I:

• Throw in dryer sheets

• Spray them with Febreze

• Unlace them and leave them outside to air out

Let me know if you have questions or want product recs. Stay clean, stay ready 💪