Stay in the game with advanced protection and healing strategies
You wince as you shift on the bench, your raw, angry-red knee a painful reminder of yesterday’s slide tackle. As you watch your teammates sprint across the field, frustration builds. This turf burn – a seemingly minor injury – has benched you for today’s crucial match.
For many athletes, turf burn may seem like just a nuisance – but its impact on your performance and health can be significant. From the risk of infection to the sheer discomfort that affects your focus and mobility, this common injury deserves serious attention.
In this guide, we’ll explore what turf burn is, why it happens, and most importantly, how you can prevent and treat it effectively to stay in the game.
Understanding turf burn: More than just a scrape
Turf burn is a common injury among athletes who play on artificial turf or natural grass. It occurs when the skin experiences intense friction against the playing surface, resulting in a painful abrasion. While it can happen to anyone, athletes in sports like soccer, football, rugby, lacrosse and field hockey are particularly susceptible.
What causes turf burn?
Turf burn is typically caused by:- Sliding or falling on artificial turf or grass
- Intense or repetitive friction between skin and playing surface
- Lack of proper protective gear
- Poorly maintained playing surfaces
Common areas affected include arms, elbows, thighs, knees, shins, calves, and even the palms of your hands. The severity can range from mild redness to deep, painful abrasions. Turf burn typically appears as a raw, red abrasion resembling a raspberry, often with small scrapes or cuts.

The hidden dangers of turf burn
While turf burn may seem like a surface-level injury, it can lead to more serious complications if not properly treated. The very turf itself, particularly artificial varieties, can harbor harmful bacteria.
Infection risk
Open wounds from turf burn are vulnerable to bacterial infections, including MRSA (Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus). Studies have even implicated artificial turf as a potential source of MRSA in athletes. These infections can sideline athletes for extended periods and may even require medical intervention.
In severe cases, turf burn can ooze or leak clear fluid or blood, indicating that deeper layers of skin have been damaged and are vulnerable to infection.
Pain and performance impact
The pain from turf burn can significantly impact an athlete’s performance. It can limit mobility, affect concentration, and reduce overall effectiveness on the field.
Scarring
Without proper care, severe cases of turf burn can lead to scarring, potentially affecting an athlete’s skin long after the initial injury has healed.
Preventing turf burn
Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some strategies to minimize your risk of turf burn:
- Wear appropriate protective gear, including long sleeves and pants when possible
- Use proper techniques for sliding and falling
- Ensure playing surfaces are well-maintained
- Keep skin moisturized to reduce friction
Treating turf burn: Traditional approaches
When an athlete experiences turf burn, traditional care – at home or in the training room – typically follows these steps:
Cleaning the wound
- Gently wash the area with mild soap and water or saline solution
- Pat dry with a clean towel or sterile gauze
Applying medication
- Use over-the-counter antibiotic ointments to help prevent infection
- Consider pain relievers like ibuprofen for pain relief and inflammation
Covering the abrasion
- Small areas: Standard adhesive bandages
- Larger areas: Non-adherent gauze pads with medical tape
- High-movement areas: Flexible or waterproof bandages
- Advanced option: Hydrocolloid dressings for a moist healing environment
Limitations of traditional treatments
- Bandages often come loose during intense activity
- Ointments can be messy and ineffective over time
- Most treatments don’t actively combat pathogens
- Continued friction and movement can disrupt healing
While these methods offer some protection, they often fall short for athletes who need to quickly return to play. This is where more advanced solutions, designed specifically for active individuals, can make a significant difference.
Why DuraDerm SPORT is a game-changer for turf burn
DuraDerm SPORT offers a powerful remedy approach to treating and healing turf burns. Unlike traditional treatments, DuraDerm SPORT is an advanced liquid bandage specifically designed for athletes and active individuals.
Superior protection
DuraDerm SPORT creates a flexible, waterproof barrier that moves with your skin. This means you can continue to play without worrying about your wound reopening or becoming contaminated.
Active healing
Our advanced formula doesn’t just cover the wound – it actively works to promote healing. DuraDerm SPORT kills viruses, fungi, and bacteria on contact, significantly reducing the risk of infection.
Long-lasting relief
While traditional bandages often fall off during activity, DuraDerm SPORT stays in place, providing continuous protection throughout your game or practice.
Comfort and convenience
Unlike bulky bandages and messy ointments, DuraDerm SPORT’s liquid application is a convenient and effective remedy that dries quickly and stays put, allowing you to get back in the game with minimal disruption.
Optimal healing
DuraDerm SPORT creates an optimal environment for wound healing. By keeping the area clean, protected, and properly moisturized, it supports your body’s natural healing processes. Many athletes find that their turf burns heal more comfortably and with less complications when using DuraDerm SPORT.
Beyond the burn: stay in the game with DuraDerm SPORT
Turf burn may be a common injury, but it doesn’t have to derail your athletic pursuits. With proper prevention techniques and the advanced protection of DuraDerm SPORT, you can stay focused on your performance without worrying about skin injuries.
Ready to take your game to the next level? Try DuraDerm SPORT for your next turf burn and experience the difference for yourself. Your skin – and your teammates – will thank you.