Acne on your chest or body can be embarrassing. Working up a sweat during intense exercise may burn calories, improve your cardiovascular fitness and make you feel good, but it may also bring on an acne breakout. Acne on your chest caused by sweat can be treated with acne medication, gentle washing and selecting the right clothes, so you do not have to choose between a having lean body or having clear skin.

Select workout bras and loose tops made from soft, breathable and "moisture wicking" fabrics from companies like Lucy, Athleta and Under Armour. Each company has its own name for these fabric blends, such as Pilayo or Supplex, but all are usually made with cotton. Check the labels at your local sporting goods store, or shop online. Tight clothing can irritate your skin and cause breakouts. Clothing may also trap sweat close to the skin, encouraging the development of acne on your chest.

Wash your chest with a gentle cleanser after workouts. Harsh cleansers may irritate your skin and increase acne, but mild cleansers will remove sweat and make for easier absorption of topical acne treatments 2. AcneGuide.com recommends water-soluble and oil-free cleansers 2.

Apply a topical acne lotion, cream or gel to your chest. Be generous and use the medication everywhere, not just where your current blemishes are, as topical acne treatments are effective in preventing acne. Try a product containing 10 percent alpha hydroxy acids with licochalcone, as recommended by Acne.org.

Wash sweaty clothes with unscented laundry detergents, as ingredients used for scent may also irritate the skin on your chest and increase breakouts. Use unscented fabric softeners as well.