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If you’re out jogging in shorts on a hot summer day, you may feel discomfort on your inner thighs from chafing. This can result in burning, stinging, itching, and a rash. However, doctors suggest ways to prevent it.
Chafing occurs when the skin rubs against itself, clothing, or other surfaces repeatedly, causing damage to the outer layer of the skin, leading to inflammation and a red rash, explains Dr. Channing Hood, a dermatologist at U.S. Dermatology Partners Golden in Colorado. While inner thighs are a common site for chafing, it can happen anywhere on the body, especially in warm and moist areas or where friction is likely, such as underarms, breasts, nipples, backside, or groin, according to Dr. Michele Green, a dermatologist in New York City.
Chafing tends to be more prevalent in the summer due to increased sweating, which raises friction levels, says Dr. Green. Sweat softens the skin, breaks down its barrier, and adds to irritation with its acidity and saltiness, creating an ideal environment for chafing, says Dr. Hood. Endurance athletes like runners and cyclists are particularly susceptible to chafing due to their repetitive movements and sweating, as noted by the Cleveland Clinic.
Here are some suggestions for preventing and treating chafing:
Preventing Chafing:
– Wear moisture-wicking clothing to stay dry and reduce friction.
– Opt for well-fitting garments made of fabrics like cotton, spandex, polyester, or nylon to avoid skin irritation.
– Change out of sweaty clothes promptly to prevent increased friction and skin irritation.
Using Anti-Chafing Products:
– Consider using balms, ointments, powders, or creams to create a protective barrier on the skin’s surface and minimize friction.
– Look for products containing ingredients like dimethicone, zinc oxide, or petrolatum to prevent chafing.
– Avoid alcohol-based anti-chafing products, as they can exacerbate irritation.
If you experience symptoms of chafing, it is advisable to stop the activity causing it to prevent further skin damage. Continuing to engage in activities while experiencing chafing can worsen the issue and potentially lead to long-term skin complications such as scarring or discoloration, warns Dr. Hood.
To avoid chafing, Hood recommends steering clear of products with fragrance or talc. If any product causes skin irritation, discontinue use and seek advice from a dermatologist. Dermatologists offer additional tips to prevent chafing: stay hydrated to reduce sweat saltiness and skin friction, moisturize with products containing vitamin E, zinc oxide, or aloe, use bandages on chafing-prone areas, and keep skin dry, especially in hot and humid conditions.
When treating chafing, cleanse the affected area gently with mild soap, then apply a thick ointment with petrolatum or zinc oxide for healing and protection. Soothe irritation with aloe vera gel, coconut oil, or over-the-counter antibiotic cream. For inflammation, use 1% hydrocortisone cream twice daily for a few days. Wear loose, breathable clothing while the skin heals. If symptoms persist or worsen, consult a dermatologist, especially if additional symptoms of infection such as rash spreading, oozing, increased pain or swelling, or fever occur. In such cases, doctors may prescribe medication and offer tailored prevention strategies. Contact us at letters@time.com for more information.
