Contact Dermatitus from Neoprene Knee Sleeves

Not sure where to put this but wondering if anyone has experienced this as well. I have developed a bit of irritation, “hot spots” on and around my knees after squatting in knee sleeves. This is a new development as I’ve squatted in knee sleeves for years. I was using a pair of Stoic knee sleeves I purchased based on price. However, compared to SBD’s, the Stoic’s had a slightly “rougher” texture on the inside (97% neoprene/3% nylon) that may have exacerbated this issue. I’ve since switched back to the SBD’s (95% Neoprene/5% nylon) after a few weeks of squatting without them to let the spots heal. I would just continue to squat without them but I do notice that they help, whether it’s the “warming” effect of the sleeves or the proprioception that you can add a few more pounds to your lifts. I’ve only been using knee sleeves on my Comp Squat days and any secondary squat movements I do without them to let my skin “breathe.”

Any suggestions or solutions you may have would be welcome. Thanks!

How are you cleaning your knee sleeves? Are you letting them dry thoroughly after you use them?

I am. Inside out. Fully dry. Just water so far. I read soap can damage neoprene.

I’m not worried about soap damaging them, and I throw my in the washing machine from time to time. I’d suggest giving them a good clean in some fashion. Or do you need to size up?

Hi Leah! I think the sizing is spot on. Not overly tight. I will run them through a washer load and report back. Thanks.