Mat Burns in Jiu-Jitsu: A Dermatologist’s Guide to Treatment and Prevention

By Dr. Claudia Martins, Dermatologist & BJJ Practitioner

As a dermatologist and a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioner over the age of 65, I often say that mat burns are almost a rite of passage in our sport. Whether you are a beginner stepping onto the mats in Montreal or a seasoned black belt, sooner or later, you will experience the familiar sting of skin rubbing against the tatami.

While a mat burn may seem like a minor annoyance, understanding how to treat and prevent it is essential for keeping you safely on the mats.

What is a BJJ Mat Burn (and Why Does It Matter)?

A mat burn is essentially a superficial abrasion caused by the intense friction between your skin and the mat. While it is a common part of grappling, it deserves proper attention. Any break in the skin can become an entry point for bacteria, fungi, or viruses—which are, unfortunately, a reality in any contact sport. Protecting your skin means protecting your health and your training partners.

How to Treat Mat Burns Fast and Safely

The good news is that most mat burns heal quickly when managed properly. If you get a friction burn during training, follow these dermatological recommendations:

Clean immediately: Wash the area as soon as possible after class with mild soap and warm water.
Dry gently: Pat the skin dry with a clean towel; do not rub.
Moisturize and protect: Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly or an appropriate wound-healing ointment to create a protective barrier.
Bandage it up: Cover the area with a clean bandage, especially if it is exposed or likely to rub against your clothing or gi.
Do not pick: Avoid picking at scabs. This delays the healing process and increases the risk of scarring and infection.
Monitor the wound: Watch for signs of infection, which include increasing redness, swelling, warmth, pain, or any unusual drainage. Consult a doctor if these occur.

Training BJJ as You Age: Skin Care for Master Athletes

As we age, our skin naturally becomes thinner and more fragile. If you are training into your fifties, sixties, and beyond, recovery from a scrape may take a little longer than it did in your twenties.

However, this should never discourage anyone from training. Regular physical activity like Jiu-Jitsu contributes immensely to overall health, confidence, balance, strength, and social connection at every age. You just need to be a bit more proactive about your skin health.

How to Prevent Mat Burns in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Prevention is always the best medicine. You can drastically reduce the frequency and severity of mat burns by taking a few simple precautions:

Wear a rash guard: Wearing long-sleeved rash guards and spats under your gi (or during No-Gi classes) provides a physical barrier between your skin and the mat.
Hydrate your skin: Moisturizing regularly keeps your skin supple and less prone to tearing.
Maintain personal hygiene: Shower immediately after training to wash away sweat and bacteria.
Train at a clean facility: At Gracie Barra, maintaining sanitized, premium mats is a top priority for everyone’s safety.

The Resilience of a Grappler

One of the greatest lessons Jiu-Jitsu teaches us is resilience. A mat burn is usually just a small reminder that we are learning, moving, and challenging ourselves. As practitioners, we must respect our bodies, care for our skin, and continue training safely.

At over 65 years of age, I can say with absolute confidence that the benefits of stepping onto the mat far outweigh the occasional scrape. Take care of your skin, take care of your training partners, and keep rolling!