Kegel exercises are broadly praised for offering numerous benefits. And yet, many women remain in the dark about what they are, how to do them, and if they’re really necessary.

Indeed, many of us may think that they’re something for pregnant women or women recovering from childbirth. Or that ‘women of a certain age’ should do Kegels to help improve incontinence. 

Beyond its postpartum and urinary incontinence benefits, doing Kegel exercises (a form of pelvic floor exercise) can help just about anyone strengthen their pelvic muscles. 

Benefits of Kegel Exercises for Pelvic Organs

Kegel exercises focus on strengthening the pelvic floor muscles. It's important to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles as they do an important job; they support the bladder, bowels, and reproductive organs.

Like any exercise, you must do Kegel exercises regularly (ideally, daily) to see the following pelvic floor muscle benefits. But if you follow a dedicated regime of doing Kegel exercises, you’ll see they help with:

1. Maintaining the Strength of Pelvic Floor Muscles

Just like any muscle, your pelvic floor muscles can become weaker over time, as you age. They can also be weakened by trauma, like childbirth or surgery. 

If you break your leg, you’re likely to go through physiotherapy to strengthen your leg and eventually return to exercise. The same goes for pelvic floor muscles—they need both care when injured and a maintenance regime to stay strong. 

2. Urinary Incontinence

In particular, doing pelvic floor exercises regularly can help prevent urinary incontinence that is caused by weak pelvic floor muscles (particularly stress incontinence or mixed—the 2 most common kinds). 

If you already suffer from incontinence and don’t do Kegel exercises, your doctor will likely recommend you start as part of your treatment plan.

3. Preventing Involuntary Passing of Gas or Fecal Incontinence

Since the pelvic floor muscles hold and support the bowel as well as the bladder, keeping them strong by doing Kegels also helps prevent health conditions such as fecal incontinence (a.k.a. bowel incontinence; involuntary bowel movements) or uncontrollable gas.

4. Pelvic Organ Prolapse

About one third of women are affected by prolapse or similar conditions in their lifetime. Pelvic organ prolapse may occur when the pelvic floor muscles can no longer support the pelvic organs (i.e., the bladder, uterus, vagina, small bowel, and rectum). 

5. Orgasm Improvement

Kegel exercises can also enhance your sexual health by helping you control your vaginal muscles, which allows your vagina to contract with ease and improves sexual function.

Moreover, the exercises increase blood circulation in the pelvic area, which may increase arousal as well as strengthen pelvic muscles and support pelvic organs.

Things to Watch Out for When Doing Kegel Exercises

With the above benefits to pelvic health, it may seem like a no-brainer to start doing Kegel exercises regularly. And indeed, most women would benefit from these exercises—don't wait to experience something like bladder leaks to motivate you to strengthen your pelvic floor.

Like all exercises, your muscles do not transform overnight. This is about sure and steady repetition, consistently doing Kegel exercises is key.

That said, there are some things to be aware of before you jump right in, namely:

Stop if you experience pain: Kegel exercises are not the kind of exercise where you should “feel the burn” or “push through the pain.” Make an appointment with your doctor or healthcare provider to discuss further if you experience pelvic pain.

You shouldn’t flex other muscles or strain: It’s important to know how to do Kegel exercises before you start (like most exercises, you’ll see the best results if you’re performing them properly and gradually increase the intensity). 

It’s especially important to note that your inner thighs, butt, and abdomen should stay relaxed when you do Kegel exercises. Moreover, you should not strain in any way when doing Kegel exercises. Straining can have a counterproductive result, adding pressure to the muscles instead of strengthening them.

Don’t do Kegel exercises by stopping urine mid-stream: Most of us have heard that we use our pelvic floor muscles to stop peeing mid-stream. This has led some women to believe that’s a good time to practice Kegel exercises. 

In fact, doing this regularly can disrupt your ability to urinate and have the opposite effect—weakening your pelvic floor muscles. This is because when you urinate, your brain sends a message to your bladder to loosen the muscles to allow the urine stream to evacuate from the body. By holding it in, you’re interrupting that natural process.

Ask for help: If you’re having trouble locating the correct muscles or are unsure you’re doing Kegel exercises right, you should absolutely ask for help from a physical therapist or another health care professional. 

Especially if you’re recovering from surgery, childbirth, or another trauma, it can be difficult to engage the appropriate muscles. Most of us have to learn to correctly lift weights at the gym. This is no different. So don’t leave it to guesswork; seek help!

How to Do Pelvic Floor Muscle Exercises (Kegel Exercises)

Step 1: Identify the Right Pelvic Muscles

The first step is to know which muscles you’re exercising. Your abdomen, buttocks, and legs should remain relaxed when you’re doing pelvic floor exercises.

One trick to help you locate the right muscles is to stop urinating mid-stream. The muscles you use to do this are your pelvic floor muscles. Become familiar with how these muscles feel when they contract and relax. (Important: You should not make a habit of stopping urine flow in this manner, just do it once or twice to help you understand the muscles that come into play).

Different techniques for finding the right muscles include:

• Imagine you’re tightening your vagina around a tampon.
• Imagine you’re lifting a tissue off the ground from the middle part of tissue
• Insert a finger into your vagina, then contract your pelvic floor muscles around it. You should feel your vagina tighten and your pelvic floor move upward. (Though, be sure to wash your hands before attempting this.) 
• Pretend you are trying to avoid passing gas.

If you’re still not sure you’ve located the correct muscles, don’t hesitate to ask your doctor for help. They may suggest pelvic floor physical therapy, vaginal weighted cones, a pressure sensor, biofeedback, or other treatments to help.

Step 2: Breathe Freely and Repeat

Now that you have identified the right muscles, you can focus on your routine to strengthen them and gain greater control. 

Inhale through your nose. When you inhale, your pelvic floor will naturally relax.

Now, contract your pelvic floor muscles as you start to exhale slowly.

Hold the contraction for 3–6 seconds. You might feel the muscles start to tire.

Relax for the same (or more) time you held your contraction. It’s important to relax between pelvic muscle contractions.

Repeat 10 times.

Step 3: Build Up Your Frequency

Like any exercise program, you’ll get stronger over time. You may find it difficult to reach 10 Kegels initially, but you can build up to that.

Eventually, you’ll want to do 1 set of 10 Kegels, 2 or 3 times a day. Space out the timing so you give yourself a chance to recover and don’t rush the exercises, especially at the beginning.

For continued benefits, make your Kegel exercises a permanent part of your daily routine. Once you get the hang of it, it’s easy to exercise correctly. But it’s also easy to forget! Set yourself a little reminder to do your 2–3 sets of Kegels a day.

Sources:

https://www.healthline.com/health/kegel-exercises#purpose 

https://www.healthline.com/health/fitness-exercise/pelvic-floor-exercises 

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/22729-pelvic-floor-muscles 

https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/urinary-incontinence/urinary-incontinence-in-women 

https://www.uchicagomedicine.org/forefront/womens-health-articles/kegels-the-30-second-exercise-that-can-improve-incontinence-and-sex 

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We hope you found this post informative — but remember: we’re not doctors and this post is not medical advice! While all posts are fact-checked and well researched, we always recommend you chat with your doctor about any questions or concerns you might have regarding a medical condition. We’re here to support and educate, but never with the aim of disregarding professional medical advice you’ve been given. Phew, now that that’s out of the way, you can go on living unapologetically free.

Most of us have a menstrual cycle that lasts on average 28 days, which means we have (roughly) monthly periods. The first day of your menstrual cycle is counted from the first day of your period.

If you’re bleeding 20 days after your last period, it could be that you have a shorter menstrual cycle. Or, it could be non-period bleeding (i.e., bleeding between periods). Read on to learn more.

What Is Spotting? 

In general, spotting refers to occasional, light vaginal bleeding that occurs outside of regular periods. It does not usually require menstrual products beyond a panty liner. Spotting is typically lighter than a regular period and may last anywhere between a few hours and a few days. Spotting in between periods is not the same as an irregular period, though some women may find them difficult to tell apart.

How to Tell the Difference Between Your Period and Spotting

Here’s an overview to help you tell the difference between your menstrual period and non-menstrual vaginal bleeding—or spotting—between periods.

Spotting is any light bleeding between periods (not to be confused with irregular menstrual cycles.) There can be many causes of spotting, some totally safe and some that are more concerning.

While unexplained spotting can be irregular, spotting that is caused by events in the menstrual cycle, like ovulation, may occur regularly. 

Spotting blood can have a different hue than period blood. It might be brown and it can also appear more like vaginal discharge. 

Finally, most spotting is light: A panty liner or Leakproof Underwear is usually sufficient to handle the bleeding caused by spotting. 

If you experience heavy bleeding outside a menstrual period, or experience consistent irregular spotting in between periods, you should consult a medical professional to find out the underlying cause.

The Likeliest Cause of Abnormal Uterine Bleeding

You ovulate on about day 14 of your cycle. For many women, the days around ovulation go completely unnoticed. But for some, ovulation is an event where they may notice light spotting, mild cramping, breast tenderness or thicker vaginal discharge. 

During reproductive ages, the ovary releases an oocyte (immature egg) every month. This event occurs when ovary follicles rupture and release the oocyte, which travels to the fallopian tube and becomes an ovum or egg. The rupture of the ovary follicles can cause some light spotting and some experience light cramping. 

Ovulation Pain

Ovulation pain manifests as a slight twinge or pain on one or both sides of your abdomen. This pain is called ovulation pain, or mittelschmerz. It translates literally as “middle pain” and is the name for the slight twinge or cramp that some women experience when the follicle releases the oocyte.

"Ovulation pain is not harmful. Most of the time, you can treat it with (over-the-counter) medications, rest, and warm baths," according to the Cleveland Clinic.

The best way to understand whether bleeding corresponds with ovulation is to track your periods and spotting using an app or diary. You can also crosscheck that you are ovulating by using ovulation strips so you can confirm the spotting is due to ovulation. If bleeding occurs and it does not coincide with ovulation, there may be many other possible causes.

Below is a list of the most common reasons (outside of ovulation bleeding) that you might be bleeding or spotting between periods. While this list is not exhaustive, it does cover the most likely explanations of bleeding between periods.

Other Causes of Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding After a Period

The truth is, there are many possible explanations of spotting between periods (including breakthrough bleeding associated with birth control pills and ectopic pregnancy). Some of these, you’ll be able to rule out on your own (e.g., if you’re not on medication or know you're not pregnant). But, when in doubt, check in with your doctor to review your symptoms.

Here are the most common causes of spotting between periods:

Birth Control & Breakthrough Bleeding

• Birth control pills (hormonal contraceptives): According to Medical News Today, bleeding between periods often occurs in the first 6 months of taking a new birth control pill (a.k.a. hormonal contraceptive pills, oral contraceptives, the contraceptive pill or simply "the pill"). Doctors sometimes refer to this light vaginal bleeding as breakthrough bleeding.
• Morning-after pill: According to the Mayo Clinic, the morning-after pill (emergency contraception) can cause vaginal bleeding between periods or heavier menstrual bleeding as it causes fluctuations in hormone levels.
• Intrauterine device (IUD): Some women with an IUD for birth control (like other forms of hormonal contraception) may also experience spotting at the time of their period and/or spotting in between cycles.

External Causes of Vaginal/Uterine Bleeding

• Trauma or medical examination: If you’ve experienced rough sex or a medical exam like a Pap test, you may also experience vaginal bleeding.
• Medications: Certain medications (other than hormonal contraceptives) may cause abnormal vaginal bleeding. Your pharmacist or other healthcare professional should advise you of any side effects of medication, including unusual vaginal bleeding.
• Stress: Increased stress may trigger many reactions. Stress may cause all kinds of changes in your body, including menstrual irregularities. Some may experience vaginal spotting or bleeding between periods due to high levels of emotional stress.

Common Infections, Including Sexually Transmitted Infections

The following infections may cause irregular bleeding between periods. It’s worth noting that most infections are treatable. However, infections can become more serious if symptoms are ignored. If you are experiencing any abnormal symptoms out of the ordinary like different vaginal discharge, pelvic pain, urinary symptoms, it’s probably best to check-in with your doctor.

• Sexually transmitted infection (STI), including chlamydia, gonorrhea, and genital warts
• Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), an infection of the upper part of the female reproductive system that typically occurs due to an STI that has gone untreated
• Urinary tract infection (UTI): A urinary tract infection (UTI) may cause spotting, although it is not a common symptom. However, sometimes a UTI may irritate the lining of the urethra or bladder, causing small amounts of blood to appear in the urine. If you are having urinary symptoms like burning and there is blood in the urine, be sure to see your doctor right away. 

Pregnancy-Related Causes of Bleeding Between Periods

• Implantation bleeding: After a sperm fertilizes an egg, the fertilized egg implants in the womb. Sometimes, implantation of the fertilized egg in the uterus causes light bleeding known as implantation bleeding. Some women don't experience it and others do. Implantation bleeding is light, stops on its own, and doesn't require treatment.
• Ectopic pregnancy: In an ectopic pregnancy, the fertilized egg implants in a location outside the uterus, usually in the fallopian tube. Ectopic pregnancies cannot be carried to term. Signs and symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy include abdominal pain and vaginal bleeding, and requires prompt medical attention.
• Pregnancy: According to the American Pregnancy Association, 20% of women experience spotting during the first 12 weeks of being pregnant.
• Miscarriage: Sometimes with a miscarriage you may not have heavy bleeding but can have spotting and cessation of other pregnancy symptoms.
• Breastfeeding: Depending on the frequency of breastfeeding and your own individual hormone levels, spotting may occur before your full period returns.

Other Causes of Unusual Vaginal Bleeding

• Uterine fibroids or polyps: Symptoms and signs of these benign tumors in the uterus or reproductive organs can include irregular or heavy periods and vaginal bleeding between periods. How your doctor will treat fibroids (or other abnormal growth) will depend on the size, number, location, and symptoms of the fibroids.
• Endometriosis: According to the Mayo Clinic, women who have endometriosis may experience heavy menstrual periods or irregular vaginal bleeding between periods (intermenstrual bleeding).
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): Polycystic ovary syndrome can cause cysts in the ovaries and could affect fertility. It can also cause irregular vaginal bleeding.
• Blood clotting disorders, like von Willebrand disease, can cause bleeding between periods.
• Other health conditions, like hypothyroidism, liver disease, or chronic kidney disease can cause irregular vaginal bleeding.
• Cancer or precancer: Cervical cancer, uterine cancer can cause spotting or abnormal bleeding.

Perimenopause & Menopausal Causes of Bleeding Between Periods

• Perimenopause: The time before menopause is known as perimenopause. During perimenopause, hormone levels fluctuate greatly. These hormonal imbalances can have an effect on ovulation. Some notice irregular or skipped periods and abnormal bleeding between periods during perimenopause due to hormonal changes (particularly a drop in estrogen levels.)
• Vaginal dryness, especially due to lack of estrogen in menopause, vaginal dryness can cause bleeding.

When to See Your Healthcare Provider

Many of us avoid consulting medical professionals about menstrual or intermenstrual concerns. However, if your bleeding pattern continues for a few cycles, it’s worth bringing up with your medical provider. 

If there’s nothing to worry about and it's normal vaginal bleeding, they’ll be able to set your mind at ease. However, there are times when spotting, breakthrough bleeding, or other bleeding between periods could be a cause for concern. And if that’s the case, the sooner you see your healthcare provider, the better.

If spotting is accompanied by any of the following symptoms, you should definitely seek medical advice:

• Heavy periods with a lot of clotting
• Irregular periods
• Abdominal pain or cramping
• Pain or a burning sensation when urinating
• Unusual vaginal discharge and/or redness and itchiness

Sources:

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9134-ovulation-pain-mittelschmerz

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322840#causes

https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/morning-after-pill/about/pac-20394730

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ectopic-pregnancy/symptoms-causes/syc-20372088

https://americanpregnancy.org/healthy-pregnancy/pregnancy-concerns/spotting-during-pregnancy/

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/endometriosis/symptoms-causes/syc-20354656

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/von-willebrand-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-20354978 

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We hope you found this post informative—but remember: we’re not doctors and this post is not medical advice! While all posts are fact-checked and well researched, we always recommend you chat with your doctor about any questions or concerns you might have regarding a medical condition. 

We’re here to support and educate, but never with the aim of disregarding professional medical advice you’ve been given. Phew, now that that’s out of the way, you can go on living unapologetically free.

Nobody wants their bladder to leak involuntarily at any time, but exercise can be a major stressor on the bladder. After all, you want to be able to push your body to perform without being held back by fear that your bladder might leak. 

Whether you’re a pro-athlete, a high impact trainer or an occasional exerciser, urine leakage during exercise can happen. This isn’t about how strong you are, or your fitness levels. When your bladder leaks it may leave you feeling embarrassed, but it’s important to know you’re not alone and there are steps you can take to manage it.

But first, let’s look at what could be happening when you experience urine leakage during exercise.

The Culprit Is Likely Stress Incontinence

There are many different forms of urine incontinence that can affect women. But if you’re experiencing involuntary urine leakage when exercising, it is very likely to be caused by stress urinary incontinence (SUI).

SUI is the most common reason for bladder leakage amongst women. It affects an estimated 15 million adult women in the U.S. 

You should see your healthcare provider so you can review your symptoms and they can perform an exam so you can correctly be diagnosed with SUI—as there are many potential reasons why women experience bladder leakage.

Some possible causes include childbirth, trauma from surgery (like a hysterectomy), weak bladder and pelvic floor muscles, as well as menopause. 

What Is Stress Incontinence?

If you’ve ever peed a little when you’ve:

• Laughed
• Sneezed
• Coughed
• Exercised
• Had sexual intercourse
• Lifted something heavy or bent over

… those are symptoms of SUI. It occurs when the body exerts itself and the muscles of your bladder and pelvic floor become compromised or less effective at doing their job, which includes holding in your urine.

Keep in mind that those of us who haven't gone through childbirth are also at risk: Bladder leakage can also be caused by any surgery that impacts the muscles of the pelvic floor, including hysterectomy.

Moreover, damage to muscles is just one dimension. If your pelvic floor muscles are weak due to lack of exercise or just general aging, you may also experience bladder leakage. This is why pelvic floor exercises are widely recommended for all women, no matter what age. 

What About Mixed Incontinence?

Another possible explanation of urinary leakage when exercising is mixed incontinence, which is a combination of stress and urge incontinence. Urge incontinence is the second most common form of involuntary urine leakage in women.

Some possible causes of urge incontinence include infection, inflammation of the bladder, uncontrolled diabetes, weakness of the bladder muscles, as well as the same causes as stress incontinence. 

What Can I Do About Leaking While Exercising?

Urinary leakage while you exercise can certainly be inconvenient and cause embarrassment. At worst, it could discourage you from exercise altogether. This isn’t ideal since exercise is so key to both our physical and emotional wellbeing, bringing numerous benefits to both body and mind.

So what are some things you can do to prevent urinary leakage during your favorite exercise routine?

Switch to Leakproof Underwear When Exercising

This is an easy and immediate change. It won’t solve the urine leak, but it will protect your clothing and keep you dry. What’s more Leakproof Underwear has come a long way! You probably won’t even notice the difference between your favorite underwear and Leakproof Underwear. 

High absorbency Leakproof Underwear is a solid choice—it absorbs not just urine, but period blood and sweat. Products like these can be a game changer for those experiencing bladder leakage, allowing them to remain active and social while exploring treatment options for urinary leakage.

Add Kegel Exercises to Your Workout

Kegel exercises or pelvic floor muscle exercises strengthen your pelvic floor, which support the uterus, bladder, small intestine and rectum. For those of you who already devote time to exercise: Kegel exercises and pelvic floor exercises can be done any time, either sitting or lying down. You can even do Kegel exercises when you are eating, sitting at your desk or watching TV. 

If you’re unsure how to do Kegel exercises, it’s like pretending you have to urinate and then holding it. You relax and tighten the muscles that control urine flow of the pelvic floor. 

One way to learn the muscles you should activate is to pay attention when you pee: Start to urinate and then stop. You should feel the muscles in your vagina, bladder, and anus get tight and move up. These are the pelvic floor muscles.

When you are unsure how to do these strengthening exercises, it’s always a good idea to see a pelvic floor physical therapist. They can also be very helpful in diagnosing any pelvic floor issues you may have and can facilitate a treatment plan.

Talk to Your Doctor

Of course, it goes without saying that you should also talk to your doctor. Your doctor will be able to work with you to provide an accurate diagnosis of the type of incontinence you’re experiencing and help come up with a treatment plan.

More than that, your doctor will be able to help you explore long term treatment options if your incontinence is not improved by Kegel exercises, lifestyle changes, pelvic floor physical therapy.

Sources:

https://www.healthline.com/health/urinary-incontinence/incontinence-when-exercising 

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK539769/ 

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1472862/ 

https://www.ucsfhealth.org/conditions/mixed-incontinence-in-women 

https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/womens-health/in-depth/kegel-exercises/art-20045283 

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We hope you found this post informative — but remember: we’re not doctors and this post is not medical advice! While all posts are fact-checked and well researched, we always recommend you chat with your doctor about any questions or concerns you might have regarding a medical condition. We’re here to support and educate, but never with the aim of disregarding professional medical advice you’ve been given. Phew, now that that’s out of the way, you can go on living unapologetically free.

Peeing a little bit when you cough or laugh, or during exercise is not unheard of. So odds are you're not alone in asking yourself, "Why do I pee when I cough?" Indeed, this kind of urinary incontinence in women can affect us for four main reasons:

1. You already needed to pee, and your ability to ‘hold it in’ is compromised when you have a sudden physical exertion. In this case, make sure you heed the need to pee in a timely fashion should take care of the problem. If this is a one time event, don't worry about it. Just try not to hold your urine in for long periods. If you notice, however, this is a recurring problem, you may be experiencing stress incontinence which we describe below.
2. You’re experiencing temporary incontinence. This can be caused by many things, which we’ll dive deeper into in the next section.
3. However, if this is less a one-off accident and more a pattern that keeps happening, you may be experiencing a form of incontinence called “stress incontinence.”
4. You have “mixed incontinence,” which is a combination of stress incontinence and urge incontinence. Urge incontinence usually manifests as a sudden urge to urinate, which may result in urinary leakage.

What Would Cause *Temporary* Incontinence?

Urinary incontinence can be brought on temporarily for a number of reasons. Most of the causes of temporary urinary incontinence in women are not medically concerning.

Causes of temporary urinary incontinence include eating hot and spicy foods or drinking too much liquid (water, coffee/tea, alcohol). If this applies to you, it should pass in a relatively short time.

In this instance, there’s no need to worry—though you may want to pay increased attention to how much liquid you’re consuming in one day and the foods you’re eating, especially if they're irritating foods. 

Temporary urinary incontinence can also be a side effect of certain medications. Your doctor or pharmacist will usually caution you if this is the case with a medication you’ve been prescribed. If it gets too much, you can work with your doctor to explore alternative treatments.

One cause of temporary incontinence that does warrant a visit to your doctor is a urinary tract infection (UTI). Other symptoms of a UTI include a burning sensation when urinating, urgency and/or blood in your urine, and pelvic pain.

Stress Urinary Incontinence (SUI) Explained

It might surprise you to know there are different kinds of incontinence. You can read about all 5 types of urinary incontinence here.

But if you are peeing when you cough and it’s happening more frequently, it’s likely you have stress urinary incontinence. 

Stress urinary incontinence (also known as stress incontinence) has nothing to do with emotional stress but is about physical exertion. This can be the obvious physical exertion of doing exercise.

But it can also include bodily functions and involuntary reactions like coughing, sneezing, and even laughing, which cause an involuntary release of urine.

In fact, stress incontinence can occur during any of the following:

• Coughing or sneezing
• Laughing
• Bending over
• Lifting heavy objects
• Exercise
• Have sex

When you cough, for example, there’s a lot of exertion: Your abdominal muscles, diaphragm, and intercostal muscles push the air out of your lungs, and your vocal cords, your throat, and even eyelids muscles play a role.

In other words, your body is working! With all that bodily stress, weaker muscles can “falter” in those moments, and that can cause a small amount of urine to leak.

But why would the muscles in your urethra and bladder be weakened? The pelvic floor muscles are just like any other muscle: They can be weak, injured, or damaged which can cause you to develop stress incontinence. 

Causes of Stress Incontinence in Women

Damage to the pelvic floor muscles or the muscles of the bladder and urethra can happen to women due to childbirth or trauma from surgery (e.g., hysterectomy), and this is often a reason women develop stress incontinence or urge incontinence (urgency urinary incontinence).

Weakened muscles can happen because of aging (menopause) and lack of exercise. This is one of the reasons why pelvic floor exercises (exercising the pelvic floor muscles) come up so often in relation to urinary incontinence.

Additional factors that increase the risk of developing stress incontinence include:

• Age
• Being overweight
• Smoking
• Family history
• Other diseases (e.g., diabetes, MS, Parkinson’s Disease)
• Having been through pregnancy and childbirth
• Having undergone certain pelvic surgeries (e.g., hysterectomy)

Lifestyle Changes You Can Make to Manage Stress Incontinence

50% of people who experience incontinence do not seek help. But whether incontinence is temporary or persistent, there are lifestyle changes you can make to treat and manage your stress incontinence and have an excellent quality of life.

Reduce the Risk of Stress Incontinence by Reducing Risk Factors 

If you want another reason to quit smoking, reduce alcohol consumption or maintain a healthy weight, here it is. Of course, you can do these things for myriad medical reasons, and while they don’t come with guaranteed health outcomes, you will help to reduce the risk of stress incontinence (along with many other diseases and conditions).

Strengthen Your Pelvic Floor Muscles With Kegel Exercises

These exercises strengthen the weakened pelvic floor muscles, which support the bladder, uterus, small intestine, and rectum. There’s no reason to wait to start doing pelvic floor exercises—but no matter what age you start to do them, they can help!

Don’t think of pelvic floor exercises just as something to do if/when incontinence occurs. Doing them when healthy can have myriad benefits, both present and preventative:

• Helps prevent urinary incontinence
• Preventing involuntary gas or fecal incontinence
• Improve symptoms of prolapse
• Orgasm improvement
• Maintaining overall pelvic floor strength
• Improve your other workouts, like running or weight training

To learn more about how to do pelvic floor exercises, read this.

Try Products Like Leakproof Underwear 

Experiencing incontinence can often cause some embarrassment. It even prevents some people from participating in events and outings, leading to isolation, depression, and shame. While you explore treatment options with your doctor, you can also explore products to help you stay active and social. Leakproof Underwear comes with different absorbency levels, including Zones+ Ultra Leakproof which features targeted protection and coverage zones for light bladder leaks. 

While lifestyle changes are easy to make, we don’t suggest those changes replace medical advice. 

When to Seek Medical Advice for Stress Incontinence

It is never a good idea to use “Dr. Google” to self-diagnose, so we definitely recommend booking some time to discuss your experience of incontinence with your healthcare provider.

During your visit, they may want to conduct a complete pelvic examination and study your medical history to better understand possible causes that might point to certain treatment options.  

They will be able to confirm whether you do indeed have stress incontinence or if it could be mixed urinary incontinence.

When you do take the time to talk to your doctor, it always helps to be prepared. Write down the questions you want to ask and anticipate the questions they might ask you.

These are some of the questions your doctor may ask about your experiences of urinary incontinence:

• How long have you been experiencing these symptoms?
• Have your symptoms been continuous or occasional? Have they worsened over time?
• How often do you need to urinate?
• When (time of day or night) do you leak urine?
• Is it difficult for you to empty your bladder?
• Have you noticed any blood in your urine?
• Do you have any urgency before having to urinate? Do you feel like you do not completely empty your bladder?
• General lifestyle questions: surgeries, pregnancies and types of deliveries, smoking, diet, alcohol, caffeine consumption, exercise, etc.

And here are some questions you might ask your doctor:

• What type of incontinence do I have?
• What is causing my urinary incontinence?
• What tests should I expect?
• Should I make lifestyle changes, like:
• Bladder diary
• Kegel exercises
• Timed bathroom breaks
• Diet changes, etc.
• What treatment(s) do you suggest for me and why?
• Without treatment, what will happen?
• What are the side effects or risks associated with this treatment plan?

Incontinence is not an easy thing to experience, but there are treatment options and lifestyle changes that can make it easier to live with incontinence. 

Stress Incontinence Treatments You Might Explore with Your Doctor

As you explore treatments for stress incontinence with your doctor, some combinations of the following may be discussed.

Pelvic Floor Therapy & Biofeedback

Kegel exercises are something you can do yourself as part of general health and fitness, but your doctor may recommend you see a pelvic floor physical therapist who can assess the strength of your pelvic floor and help you to rehabilitate it. They can teach you how Kegel exercises strengthen your pelvic floor muscles and sphincter, as well as how to do them. Just like any exercise regime, Kegel exercises require consistent practice to have effect.

Biofeedback can also be used along with Kegel exercises to increase effectiveness. This involves the use of pressure sensors or electrical stimulation to reinforce certain muscle contractions. This would usually be offered as part of a pelvic floor therapy program to help address stress incontinence and strengthen the pelvic floor muscles.

Fluid Consumption & Bladder Training

Your healthcare professional may also recommend making changes to the fluids you consume and when you consume them to help control bladder leakage.

Of course, it’s important to stay hydrated, but they may suggest cutting back on caffeinated, carbonated beverages and/or alcohol. If these simple changes have a positive effect, then it may be something you incorporate day to day.

In addition to curtailing certain beverages, your doctor may advise bladder training. This involves taking bathroom breaks at regularly timed intervals. By ensuring your bladder is emptied frequently, you minimize the chances of leakages.

Over time, the time between breaks can be increased, especially if you are also strengthening the pelvic floor with Kegel exercises and other pelvic floor exercises. This course of action might be especially effective for those with mixed incontinence.

Devices & Surgery

Devices that can be used to control stress incontinence and bladder leakage include vaginal pessaries and urethral inserts.

Finally, under certain circumstances, you may need surgery. Your doctor might explore surgery options for stress incontinence. These will usually help strengthen the bladder neck or improve closure of the sphincter. 

Surgeries can include sling procedures, pelvic organ prolapse surgery, or bladder neck suspension. Surgery for stress incontinence often offers a more long-term solution to involuntary urinary incontinence.

However, as with any surgery, there are risks to consider and your health care provider will often suggest exploring other options before you undergo surgery.

Sources:

https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/urinary-incontinence/urinary-incontinence-in-women 

https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/urologic-diseases/bladder-control-problems/symptoms-causes 

https://www.health.harvard.edu/bladder-and-bowel/types-of-urinary-incontinence 

https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/mens-health/in-depth/kegel-exercises-for-men/art-20045074 

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We hope you found this post informative—but remember: we’re not doctors and this post is not medical advice! While all posts are fact-checked and well researched, we always recommend you chat with your doctor about any questions or concerns you might have regarding a medical condition.

We’re here to support and educate, but never with the aim of disregarding professional medical advice you’ve been given. Phew, now that that’s out of the way, you can go on living unapologetically free.

Quite the contrary: Sweat is good! It’s an essential and natural bodily function and (not to get all booyah about it) working up a good sweat will make you feel vital and truly alive. Now, we get it: There are situations where you maybe don’t want to sweat through your favorite silk blouse. And for a long time, it was considered dreadfully unladylike to sweat. Well, no more! Women sweat and - far from bad - it’s something to celebrate!

Body Temperature Regulation Is the Main Benefit of Sweating

When the body becomes too warm, either due to external heat or physical exertion, the brain signals the sweat glands to produce sweat.

Sweat is mostly made up of water, but it also contains small amounts of salt and other minerals. As the sweat evaporates from the skin's surface, it helps to cool the body down. This is because the heat energy required to convert liquid water into water vapor is taken from the body, which results in a cooling effect.

Put bluntly: If you didn’t sweat, you could risk overheating. So it’s perfectly normal to sweat when your body temperature rises through activities like:

• Exercise or exertion
• Being exposed to hotter temperatures (though some of us are more heat-tolerant than others)
• Eating hot or spicy foods (again, people have different thresholds for spicy and hot foods)
• When you’re sick and running a fever

Sweating in these cases, either a little or a lot, is your body’s way of regulating your temperature and is considered healthy. 

But There Are Other Benefits of Sweating to the Human Body

If that isn’t enough to help you feel okay with sweat, let’s discuss some of the other benefits. The health benefits of sweating have become so mainstream that people build saunas in their backyards or work out under infrared heat. We even steam our faces as part of facials. 

Let’s explore some of the health benefits:

Sweating Goes Hand-in-Hand With the Health Benefits of Exercise

Because we generally work up a sweat when we exercise you can find correlation (if not causation) between the benefits of exercise and the benefits of sweating. They include:

• Improves cardiovascular health
• Aids in weight loss
• Boosts mood and reduces stress
• Increases energy levels
• Improves sleep quality

Whether you’re working up a sweat on the dancefloor, gym or even (ahem!) in the sack all these benefits apply!

Sweating May Also Help With Muscle Recovery & Relaxation

A session in the sauna or under an infrared blanket can help your muscles recover post-workout. It’s worth noting that cold therapy also works (and some say works better) for muscle recovery. However, both offer more benefits than doing nothing!

It May Help Flush Out Toxins, Including BPA and PCB

While the whole concept of “detoxing” is controversial, there’s some promising research that shows sweating can help flush out some very nasty toxins, including BPA and PCB.

BPA - bisphenol A

A good sweat sesh may help you eliminate BPA (check out this research paper from the Journal of Environmental and Public Health). BPA (bisphenol A) is a synthetic chemical commonly found in plastics, including food packaging and water bottles. It has been linked to a range of negative health effects, including hormone disruption and reproductive issues. While there is some evidence that sweating can help flush out BPA from the body, it is important to note that more research is needed in this area.

PCB - polychlorinated biphenyls

PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls) are a class of synthetic chemicals that were widely used in industrial and commercial applications until they were banned in the 1970s. They are known to be persistent environmental pollutants that can accumulate in the body over time. There is some evidence that sweating may help to eliminate certain (but not all types) of PCBs from the body (source).

A Regular Sauna May Boost Your Heart Health

Although this fascinating study on the Association Between Sauna Bathing and Fatal Cardiovascular and All-Cause Mortality Events only included men (typical, amirite?!) it did find that those who sweated it out regularly in a sauna were at reduced risk of sudden cardiac death, coronary heart disease, and cardiovascular diseases.

While there is evidence to suggest that regular sauna use may have beneficial effects on heart health, including a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease and improved cardiovascular function. However, it is important to note that sauna use may not be appropriate for everyone, particularly those with certain medical conditions, and individuals should consult with a healthcare provider before starting a sauna regimen.

It Makes Your Skin Glow & Unclogs Pores

A gentle facial steam will make you sweat and can help to flush out impurities and toxins from the skin, which can help to reduce the occurrence of breakouts and other skin issues. It will also make the extraction of blackheads easier (though this is always best done by an aesthetician). 

In addition, sweating can help to stimulate blood flow to the skin, which can promote a healthy, glowing complexion. Increased blood flow to the skin can also help to deliver oxygen and nutrients to the cells, which can support the skin's natural repair and regeneration processes.

However, it is worth noting that if the sweat is allowed to sit on the skin for too long or if the sweat mixes with dirt and oil on the skin's surface, it can also clog pores and cause breakouts. Therefore, it is important to cleanse the skin thoroughly after sweating.

Working Up a Sweat Can Just Feel Damn Good

It can feel good when your body gives you feedback. That can include the “good kind of pain” from doing certain exercises. Similarly, sweating lets you know immediately that your workout is having an effect. 

While it can take much longer to see physical changes and benefits from exercise, sweating gives you an immediate feedback loop that you’re increasing your heart rate, your body temperature, and burning calories. But when you learn to embrace working up a sweat, this can feel like a positive feedback loop that you’re pushing your body in all the right ways! 

What Exactly Is Sweat? What Are Sweat Glands?

Sweat is clear, odorless liquid that is produced by sweat glands in the skin. Sweat is primarily made up of water, but also contains small amounts of salts, urea, and other waste products. There are two types of sweat glands in the skin: eccrine glands and apocrine glands.

1. Eccrine sweat glands: Eccrine glands are the most numerous type of sweat gland and are found all over the body, with the highest concentrations in the palms, soles of the feet, and forehead. These glands produce sweat that is mostly composed of water and salt, as well as small amounts of other substances like urea and sugar. Eccrine glands are primarily responsible for regulating body temperature through evaporation.
2. Apocrine sweat glands include the underarm sweat glands: Apocrine glands are located in the skin of the armpits and groin area. They are larger than eccrine glands and secrete a thicker, milky sweat that contains more proteins and fatty acids. The sweat produced by apocrine glands does not directly regulate body temperature, but instead interacts with bacteria on the skin to produce odor. Apocrine glands typically become active during puberty and are stimulated by emotional stress, hormonal changes, and sexual excitement.

Both eccrine and apocrine glands are important for regulating body temperature and maintaining overall health. 

Unlike eccrine sweat, which is primarily composed of water and salt, apocrine sweat contains proteins and fats that can be broken down by bacteria on the skin's surface. It’s the bacteria breaking down apocrine sweat that leads to body odor.

Fact-Checking: Some Benefits We Could Not Substantiate

Pardon the pun, but sweating is hot right now. From infrared blankets to Nordic spas and hot yoga. And while we’re clearly big fans of working up a sweat, there are some claims that we were not able to find sufficient medical literature to support. These claims include:

• Sweating promotes weight loss (you may lose weight from water, but once you rehydrate, you’ll regain it). However, you can lose weight from exercise!
• Sweating reduces the risk of kidney stones. The reasoning here is if you’re eliminating water through sweat rather than urine, your kidneys are less likely to develop stones. We could not find anything to corroborate this and in fact, being dehydrated can increase kidney stone hydration. So when you do sweat, make sure you also drink plenty of water!
• Sweating will significantly boost your immune system. The body is complicated and being active and healthy is definitely connected with a healthy immune system. While there may be connections between sweat and a healthy immune system (and healthy skin) direct connections need more research.

Okay, But Sometimes I Just Need to Control My Sweat

Roger that! There are days when you’re game to work up a sweat and let it show and other days (and events) when you want to keep a lid on sweat. Sweating it out in a hot yoga class and at a job interview are two very different situations, after all.

1. Wear breathable clothing: Wearing loose-fitting, breathable clothing made of natural fibers such as cotton or linen can help to reduce sweating by allowing air to circulate around the body.
2. Wear sweat-wicking underwear and outerwear: Fabrics that wick moisture away from your skin will help you stay dry and cool (e.g. leakproof underwear can absorb sweat as well as other liquids and Knix activewear is all sweat-wicking)
3. Use antiperspirants: Antiperspirants work by blocking sweat ducts and reducing the amount of sweat that is produced. They are available in both over-the-counter and prescription strength.
4. Or try natural deodorant: Some natural deodorants may also contain ingredients such as arrowroot powder or cornstarch which can absorb moisture and help keep the underarms dry, but they may not be as effective as antiperspirants in reducing sweat.
5. Practice good hygiene: Regularly washing the body with soap and water can help to remove sweat and prevent odor. Showering or bathing at least once a day is recommended. This will also help minimize chances of skin irritation, such as thigh chafing, and even skin infections.
6. Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help to regulate body temperature and reduce sweating.
7. Avoid triggers: Certain foods, beverages, and activities, such as spicy foods, caffeine, and stress, can trigger sweating or make sweating worse. Avoiding these triggers can help to reduce sweating.

If sweating is more extreme, you should see a healthcare provider. Hyperhidrosis is a skin condition characterized by excessive and prolonged sweating that is not necessarily related to heat or physical activity. Treatments for heavy sweating may include:

1. Try iontophoresis: Iontophoresis is a medical procedure that uses electrical currents to reduce sweating. It involves immersing the affected body part in water and applying a low electrical current.
2. Explore botulinum toxin injections: Botulinum toxin injections, also known as Botox injections, are a medical treatment option for managing excessive sweating, specifically for primary hyperhidrosis. Botox injections work by temporarily paralyzing the sweat glands, which reduces the amount of sweat produced in the treated area.
3. Consider medication: Prescription medications such as anticholinergics or beta-blockers may be used to reduce sweating in severe cases.
4. Discuss surgical options: In severe cases of hyperhidrosis, surgical options such as sympathectomy, where the nerves that control sweating are cut, or sweat gland removal may be considered.

We hope you found this post informative — but remember: we’re not doctors and this post is not medical advice! While all posts are fact-checked and well researched, we always recommend you chat with your doctor about any questions or concerns you might have regarding a medical condition. We’re here to support and educate, but never with the aim of disregarding professional medical advice you’ve been given. Phew, now that that’s out of the way, you can go on living unapologetically free.

While sweating is an essential and healthy body function, many of us dislike the signs of armpit sweat outside of a real workout. Damp sweat stains on clothing are nothing to be ashamed of, but many of us want to better manage our armpit sweat. And with traditional antiperspirants recently falling out of favor due to their high aluminum content, you may be looking for other ways to manage armpit sweat. Look no further!

But first, let’s better understand armpit sweat…

What is Armpit Sweat and Why Does it Smell?

Armpit sweat is a natural bodily function that helps regulate body temperature by cooling the body through evaporation. Sweat glands in the armpits produce a mixture of water and salt, as well as other substances like urea, amino acids, and sugar.

The smell associated with armpit sweat - known as body odor -  is caused by the bacteria that naturally live on the skin. When sweat is released from the sweat glands, the bacteria break down the compounds in the sweat, producing an odor.

The odor is typically stronger in areas where there is more hair, as the hair provides a conducive environment for bacterial growth. Additionally, factors like hormonal changes, diet, and certain medical conditions can also affect the odor of armpit sweat.

Fun Fact: You Have Two Different Kinds of Sweat Glands

There are two different kinds of sweat glands in the human body: eccrine glands and apocrine glands.

1. Eccrine sweat glands: Eccrine glands are the most numerous type of sweat gland and are found all over the body, with the highest concentrations in the palms, soles of the feet, and forehead. These glands produce sweat that is mostly composed of water and salt, as well as small amounts of other substances like urea and sugar. Eccrine glands are primarily responsible for regulating body temperature through evaporation.
2. Apocrine sweat glands include the underarm sweat glands: Apocrine glands are located in the skin of the armpits and groin area. They are larger than eccrine glands and secrete a thicker, milky sweat that contains more proteins and fatty acids. The sweat produced by apocrine glands does not directly regulate body temperature, but instead interacts with bacteria on the skin to produce odor. Apocrine glands typically become active during puberty and are stimulated by emotional stress, hormonal changes, and sexual excitement.

Both eccrine and apocrine glands are important for regulating body temperature and maintaining overall health, but they have different functions and locations in the body. Understanding the differences between these two types of sweat glands can help you better manage and treat conditions related to excessive sweating.

Excessive Underarm Sweating: What Is Hyperhidrosis

Hyperhidrosis is a skin condition characterized by excessive sweating that is not necessarily related to heat or physical activity. Individuals with hyperhidrosis will find excessive sweating occurs (including excessive armpit sweating) even when they are at rest or in a cool environment.

Hyperhidrosis can affect any part of the body, but it is most commonly observed in the underarms, palms, soles of the feet, and the face. The condition can be primary or secondary. Primary hyperhidrosis has no known underlying cause, while secondary hyperhidrosis is caused by an underlying medical condition or medication.

11 Ways to Manage Underarm Sweat

Looking for some ways to treat excessive sweating or simply stop excessive armpit sweating? Try these options:

1. Use an Antiperspirant Natural Deodorant

These days, many of us are seeking alternatives to antiperspirants that contain aluminum. However, we would be remiss not to mention them on a list of products that help manage underarm sweat. Aluminum chloride is the most effective ingredient for reducing sweat. 

It’s fully your choice whether you are comfortable with the ingredients they contain. Here are some medical sources for you to consider: are designed to reduce sweating and keep you dry. Look for antiperspirants containing 

2. …Or Switch to Natural Deodorant

Natural deodorants can help reduce underarm odor, but they may not be as effective at controlling underarm sweat compared to antiperspirants. Natural deodorants work by using natural ingredients such as baking soda, coconut oil, and essential oils to neutralize odor-causing bacteria.

Some natural deodorants may also contain ingredients such as arrowroot powder or cornstarch which can absorb moisture and help keep the underarms dry, but they may not be as effective as antiperspirants in reducing sweat.

It's important to remember that everyone's body chemistry is different, so it may take some trial and error to find the best solution for you. You might also go through a detox period when you make the switch (using clay masks on the underarms can help draw out impurities). When using natural deodorant, you may want to reapply them throughout the day.

3. Wear Loose-Fitting Breathable Fabrics 

Your choice of clothing can have a significant impact on underarm sweat. Certain fabrics and clothing styles can trap heat and moisture, making it more difficult for sweat to evaporate and causing an increase in underarm sweat. Here are some ways in which clothing can affect underarm sweat:

• Tight or synthetic clothing: Tight clothing or clothing made from synthetic fabrics like polyester can trap heat and moisture, making it difficult for sweat to evaporate. This can increase underarm sweat and body odor.
• Breathable fabrics: Clothing made from breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, or bamboo can help keep you cool and allow sweat to evaporate more easily. This can help reduce underarm sweat.
• Dark-colored clothing: Dark clothing can absorb more heat from the sun and make you feel hotter, causing an increase in underarm sweat. Light-colored clothing, on the other hand, reflects heat and can help keep you cool on hot days.
• Layering: Wearing multiple layers of clothing can trap heat and moisture, causing an increase in underarm sweat. It's best to wear lightweight, breathable layers that can be easily removed if you start to feel too warm.

4. Or Try Moisture-Wicking Fabrics

Moisture-wicking clothing is specifically designed to help manage sweat and keep you dry and comfortable during physical activity or in hot weather conditions. These types of fabrics are engineered to pull sweat away from the skin and allow it to evaporate quickly, which can help reduce the feeling of dampness and prevent odor-causing bacteria from developing.

Moisture-wicking leisurewear is typically made from synthetic materials such as polyester, nylon, or spandex. These garments - like leggings, cycling shorts, and running vests - can also help to prevent chafing and skin irritation caused by sweat. 

For these reasons, and because they're just so darn comfortable, athleisure clothes have found a place in most of our everyday closets, especially during summer months.

However, it's important to note that these fabrics do not contain antiperspirant properties, so you may still need to use an antiperspirant or deodorant to control sweat and odor.

5. Stay Hydrated

When the body is dehydrated, it tries to cool itself down by producing more sweat, which can lead to an increase in underarm sweat. Drinking plenty of water and other fluids helps to keep the body hydrated and maintain proper body temperature regulation. This can help to reduce the amount of sweat produced by the body, including underarm sweat. Additionally, staying hydrated can help to flush toxins and waste products out of the body, which can help to reduce body odor.

6. Avoid Sweat-Inducing Foods Including Spicy Foods

Spicy foods can increase sweating in some people, as they contain compounds like capsaicin that can cause a temporary increase in body temperature and activate the sweat glands. 

If you're trying to manage sweat - including underarm sweat - it may be helpful to avoid spicy foods or limit your intake of them. Instead, focus on a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins. Eating a healthy diet can help regulate body temperature and reduce the production of sweat.

However, it's also important to note that everyone's body reacts differently to different types of foods: Some people may not notice increased sweating after eating spicy foods! You know your own body best!

7. Use Underarm Sweat Pads

Sweat pads (also known as underarm pads) are disposable adhesive pads that attach to the underarm area of your clothing. They are designed to absorb sweat and prevent sweat stains. Sweat pads are typically made of a soft, absorbent material, such as cotton or bamboo, and are designed to be discreet and comfortable to wear.

Sweat pads can be a helpful solution for managing underarm sweat, as they can prevent sweat from staining your favorite clothing and reduce the need for frequent washing. They are also an alternative to other sweat management products, such as antiperspirants or deodorants. To use sweat pads, you simply remove the adhesive backing and place the pad on the inside of your top, with the absorbent side facing your skin.

8. Manage Your Stress 

In times of stress, you may experience even more sweaty armpits. It even has a name: Emotional sweating and it can occur in response to a variety of stressors, including anxiety, fear, embarrassment, or excitement. 

When you're stressed, the sympathetic nervous system sends signals to the sweat glands to produce more sweat, which can cause an increase in underarm sweat. This response is often referred to as emotional sweating,

If you experience excessive underarm sweating in response to stress, there are several strategies you can try to manage it, such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga, which can help to reduce feelings of stress and anxiety.

9. Avoid Caffeine

Caffeine is a stimulant that can increase the activity of the sympathetic nervous system, which controls sweat production. When the body is exposed to caffeine, it can trigger the sweat glands to produce more sweat, which can cause an increase in underarm sweating.

For some people, caffeine may have a greater impact on sweat production than others — and the amount you drink can also be a factor. We know Don't take your coffee! But, if you're experiencing excessive underarm sweating and consume large amounts of caffeine, it may be helpful to reduce your caffeine intake or avoid it altogether.

10. Get Enough Sleep

Another good reason to put down that phone and get some quality shut-eye: Poor sleep or sleep deprivation can have a significant impact on sweating, as it can disrupt the body's natural cooling mechanisms and lead to an increase in body temperature. When the body is sleep-deprived, it may struggle to regulate its internal temperature, which can cause an increase in sweat production.

11. Remove Underarm Hair

Another personal choice here, but we’re just going to share the information and let you be the judge! 

Removing underarm hair can help with sweaty armpits because hair can trap sweat and bacteria, which can lead to odor. When hair is removed from the underarms, it can allow sweat to evaporate more easily, which can help to keep the underarms dry and reduce the production of sweat.

Additionally, removing underarm hair can also improve the effectiveness of antiperspirants and other sweat-reducing products, as these products can more easily come into contact with the skin without being blocked by hair.

In Cases of Excessive Sweating, Chat With Your Healthcare Provider…

If you suspect you have excessive sweating or hyperhidrosis, it’s important to chat with your doctor. Treatment options for hyperhidrosis include:

• Iontophoresis: Iontophoresis is a medical procedure that uses electrical currents to reduce sweating. It involves immersing the affected body part in water and applying a low electrical current.
• Botulinum toxin injections: Botulinum toxin injections, also known as Botox injections, are a medical treatment option for managing excessive sweating, specifically for primary hyperhidrosis. Botox injections work by temporarily paralyzing the sweat glands, which reduces the amount of sweat produced in the treated area.
• Medication: Prescription medications such as anticholinergics or beta-blockers may be used to reduce sweating in severe cases.
• Surgical options: In severe cases of hyperhidrosis, surgical options such as sympathectomy, where the nerves that control sweating are cut, or sweat gland removal may be considered.

It’s worth noting that hyperhidrosis affects only about 4.8% of the US population.

However, if you’re still struggling with excessive armpit sweat, don’t hesitate to bring it up at your next checkup!

We hope you found this post informative — but remember: we’re not doctors and this post is not medical advice! While all posts are fact-checked and well researched, we always recommend you chat with your doctor about any questions or concerns you might have regarding a medical condition. We’re here to support and educate, but never with the aim of disregarding professional medical advice you’ve been given. Phew, now that that’s out of the way, you can go on living unapologetically free.

If you didn’t sweat, you could risk overheating. So it’s perfectly normal to sweat when your body temperature rises through activities like:

• Exercise or exertion
• Being exposed to hotter temperatures (though some of us are more heat-tolerant than others)
• Eating hot or spicy foods (again, people have different thresholds for spicy and hot foods)
• When you’re sick and running a fever

Sweating in these cases, either a little or a lot, is your body’s way of regulating your temperature and is considered healthy. There are other situations too when sweat is considered normal (e.g. menopausal hot flashes.)

But if you are prone to sweating without apparent cause, you might have a condition known as hyperhidrosis. In this post, we’ll help you understand sweat better and get to the bottom of all the causes of sweating, ways to manage sweat, and take a closer look at hyperhidrosis.

Why Do We Sweat & All About Sweat Glands

Sweating is our body's natural physiological response to heat. It helps to regulate our body temperature. For example, when we exercise, feel hot, or experience a rise in body temperature due to stress or illness, the hypothalamus sends a signal to our sweat glands to release sweat.

As sweat evaporates from our skin, it cools our bodies. This prevents us from overheating and suffering from heat-related illnesses. Sweat also helps to maintain the balance of fluids and electrolytes in our body by releasing salts and other compounds.

When it comes to sweat glands, we have two different kinds:

1. Eccrine sweat glands

Eccrine sweat glands are the most numerous and widely distributed sweat glands and are found all over the body, but are particularly concentrated on the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, and forehead — where you’ll also find hair follicles.

Eccrine sweat glands produce a watery, odorless sweat that is composed of mostly water, electrolytes, and some small amounts of waste products. Eccrine sweat glands do not produce the strong-smelling sweat that is responsible for body odor. This type of sweat is important for regulating body temperature, as it evaporates from the skin and cools the body.

Eccrine sweat glands are controlled by the sympathetic nervous system, which activates them in response to heat, physical activity, or emotional stress. When stimulated, the eccrine sweat glands secrete sweat onto the surface of the skin through tiny ducts, which then evaporates and cools the skin.

2. Apocrine sweat glands

Apocrine sweat glands are located primarily in the armpits, groin, and areola of the breast, and are larger than eccrine sweat glands.

Unlike eccrine sweat glands, apocrine sweat glands do not play a major role in regulating body temperature. Instead, they are primarily responsible for producing a thick, oily secretion that contains proteins and other substances. When this secretion comes into contact with bacteria on the skin's surface, it can create a strong odor commonly known as body odor.

Apocrine sweat glands are activated by the hormones testosterone and estrogen during puberty and are thought to be involved in the development of sexual scent. These glands are controlled by the sympathetic nervous system, which is activated in response to stress, anxiety, or sexual arousal.

It's worth noting that apocrine sweat glands are not the primary source of sweat production in the body, as they are much fewer in number than eccrine sweat glands.

Excessive Sweating: Why Do Some People Sweat More Than Others?

Do ever find yourself on a hot day looking around and wondering why everybody else seems cucumber cool while you feel you’re sweating excessively? There are a few reasons some people may sweat more than others:

• Genetics: The number of sweat glands, their size, and their activity level are largely determined by genetics. Some people are simply born with more active sweat glands than others.
• Gender: Men tend to sweat more than women due to higher levels of testosterone, which stimulates the apocrine sweat glands.
• Age: As we age, the number of sweat glands in our body decreases, resulting in a decrease in overall sweat production.
• Weight: People who are overweight or obese tend to sweat more because their body needs to work harder to maintain a normal body temperature.
• Physical fitness level: People who are in better physical shape tend to sweat more because their body is better able to regulate their body temperature during exercise.
• Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions such as hyperthyroidism, menopause, and diabetes can cause excessive sweating.
• Medications: Some medications, such as antidepressants and blood pressure medications, can cause excessive sweating as a side effect.
• Geographical background: People who grow up in hot and humid climates may have a greater tolerance for heat than those who grow up in cooler climates. Living in a hot environment can lead to increased heat acclimatization, which means that your body becomes more efficient at regulating its temperature through sweating and other mechanisms.

Again, it's worth noting that sweating is a normal and healthy response to heat, physical activity, and stress. However, if you are concerned about excessive sweating or if your sweating is interfering with your daily life, it's important to speak with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

What Is Hyperhidrosis?

According to the Archives of Dermatological Research, “hyperhidrosis is a skin disorder characterized by sweating in excess of what is required to maintain regulation of normal body temperature.” The same paper found that hyperhidrosis affects 4.8% of the US population.

Excessive sweating / hyperhidrosis can have a significant impact on a person's quality of life, causing social embarrassment, anxiety, and difficulty in performing daily activities. If you believe you may have hyperhidrosis, it's important to speak with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.

Hyperhidrosis can be classified as primary or secondary hyperhidrosis.

Primary Hyperhidrosis

Primary hyperhidrosis typically affects specific areas of the body, such as the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, face, or underarms, and can have a significant impact on a person's quality of life. 

Primary hyperhidrosis is thought to be caused by overactive sweat glands that respond excessively to stimuli, such as stress or anxiety, although the exact mechanism is not fully understood. The condition usually begins in childhood or adolescence and may run in families, suggesting a genetic component.

Secondary Hyperhidrosis

Unlike primary hyperhidrosis, secondary hyperhidrosis is caused by some other condition. It often affects the entire body and may be accompanied by other symptoms related to the underlying condition causing it. 

Secondary hyperhidrosis can be caused by a variety of medical conditions, such as: 

• Diabetes
• Hyperthyroidism
• Menopause (hot flashes, night sweats)
• Infections
• Certain types of cancer 

It can also be a side effect of certain medications, including antidepressants, blood pressure medications, and certain antibiotics.

Once the underlying cause is treated, the excessive sweating usually resolves. If the excessive sweating continues even after the underlying cause is treated, treatment options for primary hyperhidrosis, such as antiperspirants, prescription medications, iontophoresis, Botox injections, or surgery, may be considered.

Hyperhidrosis Treatment

Once the underlying cause is treated, the excessive sweating caused by secondary hyperhidrosis usually resolves. If the excessive sweating continues even after the underlying cause is treated, treatment options for primary hyperhidrosis sweat include antiperspirants, prescription medications, iontophoresis, Botox injections, or surgery, may be considered. We strongly recommend a doctor's visit to determine the best way to treat excessive sweating.

10 Ways to Manage Sweat

There are several ways to manage and minimize sweating, ranging from simple lifestyle changes to medical treatments. Here are some common methods for managing sweat:

1. Wear breathable clothing: Wearing loose-fitting, breathable clothing made of natural fibers such as cotton or linen can help to reduce sweating by allowing air to circulate around the body.
2. Wear sweat-wicking underwear and outerwear: Fabrics that wick moisture away from your skin will help you stay dry and cool (e.g. leakproof underwear can absorb sweat as well as other liquids and Knix activewear is all sweat-wicking)
3. Use antiperspirants: Antiperspirants work by blocking sweat ducts and reducing the amount of sweat that is produced. They are available in both over-the-counter and prescription strength.
4. Practice good hygiene: Regularly washing the body with soap and water can help to remove sweat and prevent odor. Showering or bathing at least once a day is recommended. This will also help minimize chances of skin irritation, such as thigh chafing, and even skin infections.
5. Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help to regulate body temperature and reduce sweating.
6. Avoid triggers: Certain foods, beverages, and activities, such as spicy foods, caffeine, and stress, can trigger sweating or make sweating worse. Avoiding these triggers can help to reduce sweating.
7. Try iontophoresis: Iontophoresis is a medical procedure that uses electrical currents to reduce sweating. It involves immersing the affected body part in water and applying a low electrical current.
8. Explore botulinum toxin injections: Botulinum toxin injections, also known as Botox injections, are a medical treatment option for managing excessive sweating, specifically for primary hyperhidrosis. Botox injections work by temporarily paralyzing the sweat glands, which reduces the amount of sweat produced in the treated area.
9. Consider medication: Prescription medications such as anticholinergics or beta-blockers may be used to reduce sweating in severe cases.
10. Discuss surgical options: In severe cases of hyperhidrosis, surgical options such as sympathectomy, where the nerves that control sweating are cut, or sweat gland removal may be considered.

It's important to speak with a healthcare professional to determine the best method of managing sweat for your individual needs.

We hope you found this post informative — but remember: we’re not doctors and this post is not medical advice! While all posts are fact-checked and well researched, we always recommend you chat with your doctor about any questions or concerns you might have regarding a medical condition. We’re here to support and educate, but never with the aim of disregarding professional medical advice you’ve been given. Phew, now that that’s out of the way, you can go on living unapologetically free.

Chafing can be exacerbated by sweat, which causes the skin to become salty and sticky. It can also be exacerbated by existing skin irritations, stubble from hair regrowth, or any other rough materials that come in contact with the skin (from clothing to sand on the beach.)

If you have chafing, you’ll want to get rid of it ASAP. In this article, we’ll look at ways to treat chafing right when it happens. With proper treatment, your skin should heal completely.

However, repeated chafing may cause scars or discoloration to occur. So, we’ll also look at how to treat more permanent marks from chafing.

Inner Thighs, Neck, Feet—Chafed Skin Can Occur Almost Anywhere

Chafing can occur almost anywhere on the body where you have skin folds or where the skin rubs together (skin-on-skin contact.) Sensitive skin is always more susceptible; the inner thighs are a common place to experience chafing for this reason.

But chafing can also occur because certain materials rub against the skin. For example, you might find a purse strap rubs against the neck, or the tough leather of a new shoe chafes your heels.

So chafing can occur almost anywhere and to anybody. But here are some of the more common spots:

• The heels and toes (often caused by stiff shoes that haven’t been broken in. Sometimes, you'll have to treat blisters as a result of this kind of chafing)
• Inner thigh chafing (caused by the friction when the thigh skin rubs together and often exacerbated by groin sweat or stubble from bikini hair removal)
• Beneath the boobs (often caused by too-tight or too-loose underwire bras that rub against the rib cage. Can also be exacerbated by boob sweat)
• The collar or neck (often caused by a stiff, starched collar or even a seatbelt or cross-body purse strap for some people)
• Nipple-chafing (often happens to male athletes who may experience chafing when the fabric of their running vest rubs against the nipples. Less common in women as sports bras are usually worn)
• Inner arm or armpit chafing (another area where the skin is delicate and friction can easily happen between the skin folds)

Immediate Relief: How to Treat ‘Fresh’ Skin Chafing 

1. Make Sure to Clean the Chafed Skin

Chafing generally happens when the skin is hot and sweaty, so we’re more susceptible to it in the summer months or when working out. Damp, clammy skin can also be a breeding ground for bacteria, which can cause yeast infections and other skin infections. So, the first thing you should do is get out of those sweaty and wet clothes and hop in the shower and wash all that sweat away.

Cool water will probably feel really nice against your hot, inflamed skin and will immediately start to reduce the swelling. Also, choose a gentle soap (scent-free, hypoallergenic if possible) and lather it up with your hands instead of using abrasive scrubbers like sponges or loofahs. Pat your skin dry instead of rubbing the skin aggressively. 

2. Apply Petroleum Jelly, Aloe Vera Gel, or Another Soothing Product to Help Healing

There are a number of products that can be applied to:

• Soothe chafed skin and offer immediate relief (cooling, anti-inflammatory, and even numbing properties)
• Help the skin heal faster
• Form a protective barrier to prevent chafing

Petroleum jelly is a really popular option, but here’s a full list of products to consider for treating chafed skin:

• Aloe vera gel (aloe vera is known for its cooling properties, especially when used on sunburn)
• Argan oil (nutrient-rich and has anti-inflammatory properties)
• Coconut oil (coconut oil reduces inflammation and helps heal wounds)
• Shea butter (contains vitamins A, E, and F, antioxidant vitamins that promote circulation and healthy skin cell growth)
• Diaper rash cream (serves as a barrier cream)
• Petroleum jelly, aka Vaseline (petroleum jelly keeps the skin slick to prevent further rubbing)
• Medicated ointment

Chafing can happen in lots of different places on the body (we’ll cover that in the next section), so do think about what product is appropriate for what body part. You should reapply whatever product you choose every few hours.

3. Consider Your Clothing or Nightwear

Chafed skin needs a break from the movements that cause friction. If you can, now is a good time to chill out, or you could make chafing worse and cause further irritation.

But you can also reduce friction and treat chafing by thinking about what you wear. Here are some good considerations:

• Create a physical barrier around the chafed skin: To prevent further skin-on-skin chafing and reduce friction, make sure the skin is encapsulated in soft, fitted clothing. For example, if you have inner thigh-chafing, you need to minimize friction between your thighs at this point, so choose fitted clothing that will create a physical barrier to prevent the thighs from rubbing together. Leggings are a good choice for daywear or try some Leakproof shorts. If you’re turning in for the night, opt for pajamas rather than a night dress.
• Sweat-wicking materials are key: If you’re going back outside or will be moving around, sweat-wicking materials will keep the skin dry. Athletic leggings and fitted athleisure tops are usually made of this kind of material. This will prevent salty sweat from agitating the skin, thereby giving it a chance to heal.
• Choose soft materials: Cotton, modal cotton, and soft sweat-wicking materials will feel cool and comfortable next to the skin. Avoid anything hard or scratchy, like thick denim that hasn’t yet been broken in or wool.
• Watch out for seams: Athleisure wear usually has offset seams to prevent the seams from causing chafing. But thick protruding seams (on joggers, jeans, and bulky sweaters) may only aggravate chafing further. So, look for products that are seam-free or have offset seams. 

4. Ice packs, Painkillers, Possibly a Visit to Your Doctor

We all have different pain thresholds, and if you’re in sincere pain, you can absolutely consider taking an over-the-counter painkiller (always follow the dosage guidelines.)

Ice packs can also bring additional relief; just make sure you’re wrapping the ice pack in something (an old tea towel or pillowcase is ideal) before pressing it against the skin.

You might also wonder if you need to visit the doctor. Most often, the answer to this is ‘no.’ However, there are some exceptions, and here are some clear signs you might want to have a doctor take a look:

• A wound opens up around the chafed area and doesn’t scab over in a few days (assuming it’s not further exacerbated)
• You notice blood or pus coming from a chafing wound or cracked skin (a sign of skin infection)
• The skin is very hot or swollen
• Redness spreads beyond the point of chafing

That said, chafing does not usually require medical attention, and it’s simply a matter of giving the skin time to heal. 

Medium-to-Long Term: How to Treat Chafing Scars and Discoloration

If you have a body part that undergoes continuous cycles of chafing and healing, you may notice some scarring or skin discoloration that stays permanently. This often takes the form of darker skin (especially common on the inner thighs), and it is perfectly normal and is not considered medically concerning.

Prevent Future Skin Rubbing and Skin Chafing

Prevention is almost always better than the cure. If you are susceptible to repeated chafing in certain body parts, explore anti-chafing products to prevent chafing from happening again. This will help you avoid permanent marks from chafing altogether or at least prevent existing marks from worsening, giving them a chance to heal and fade.

Products like Thigh Savers will help protect your thighs from chafing. There are also anti-chafing balms and powders that you can try. Read more about helping prevent chafe here. 

Maintain a Healthy Skin Care Routine

Keeping skin smooth and supple will help reduce scars and discoloration. While you want to be gentle with chafed skin when the skin barrier is healing, once it’s healed, you can resume regular skin care to prevent irritated skin. This includes:

• Exfoliation: Regular exfoliation will help skin shed old skin and renew itself. You can use a body brush or gentle scrubs. Don’t go for anything too scratchy—scrubs with oats or sugar are good options.
• Moisturizer: Keeping skin moisturized will help reduce scarring. A lot of the ingredients in the products used to treat chafing immediately will continue to soothe and heal the skin. Top ingredients for addressing marks or scars include aloe vera, coconut oil, or Vitamin E oil. 

Always Practice Sun Protection

If the skin is discolored, it’s important to protect it from further sun damage. Always wear an appropriate SPF (30 or higher is best) on the affected area. Avoiding the sun altogether is also a good option.

Try Products That Address Hyperpigmentation

Many over-the-counter products make claims to reduce pigmentation. According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association, “these ingredients can fade existing dark spots. In some cases, the ingredient can also slow down the production of melanin, which is what causes the dark spots and patches.”

• Azelaic acid
• Glycolic acid
• Kojic acid
• Retinoid (retinol, tretinoin, adapalene gel, or tazarotene)
• Vitamin C

Always patch-test these products before applying them on a large surface area. If you are applying these products to your inner thighs, be careful that you don’t get them close to your vulva, as they may irritate this delicate area and disrupt your pH balance.

See a Dermatologist

It’s worth emphasizing again that scars and discoloration are natural and not something you should feel bad about. However, if you are really hung up on these things, it might be worth talking to a dermatologist. 

They’ll be able to assess the skin and recommend products and procedures beyond over-the-counter creams. Some options may include:

• Laser treatments
• Stronger retinoids

Your dermatologist will also advise you regarding ongoing skincare and prevention of further chafing. 

FAQs on Chafing Marks

Do Chafe Marks Go Away?

Chafing marks can fade over time, but there is no guarantee that they will completely disappear as healing varies from person to person. Maintaining a basic skincare routine, exfoliating regularly, keeping the skin moisturized, practicing sun protection, and using products that address hyperpigmentation, like azelaic acid or retinoids can aid in minimizing the appearance of chafing scars

How Do You Get Rid of Chafing Discoloration?

The best way to avoid chafing discoloration is to prevent chafing in the first place. Use anti-chafing products like Thigh Savers or Leakproof Thigh Savers to protect your skin from rubbing and irritation. Consider using products that address hyperpigmentation like azelaic acid, glycolic acid, kojic acid, retinoids, or Vitamin C. Always patch-test these products before applying them widely.

How Do You Get Rid of Chafing Spots? 

To get rid of chafing spots, apply ointments like petroleum jelly or aloe vera to soothe the skin and form a protective barrier to prevent further irritation. Avoid activities that cause chafing and reduce friction by encapsulating the skin in soft, fitted clothing. Use ice packs or try an over-the-counter pain relief if you're in a lot of pain. 

—

We hope you found this post informative — but remember: we’re not doctors and this post is not medical advice! While all posts are fact-checked and well researched, we always recommend you chat with your doctor about any questions or concerns you might have regarding a medical condition. 

We’re here to support and educate, but never with the aim of disregarding professional medical advice you’ve been given. Phew, now that that’s out of the way, you can go on living unapologetically free.

Sunburn, skin chafing, and stepping on sharp stones or shells are some of the pesky inconveniences that can occur. Not to mention sand literally everywhere and all those pesky stinging creatures that live in the ocean…

While some of this is just part and parcel of the beach experience, there are things you can do to set yourself up for success by the sea!

Sun, Sand, Salt Water… Sweat and Skin Irritation

After months of being carefully swaddled in layers of clothes, the beach can be a bit of a shock to the skin. Your poor skin is suddenly exposed to sun, sand, and salt water. And while all of this may be exactly what you are craving, your delicate skin may react otherwise.

Skin chafing is caused by friction due to repeated rubbing. It can be skin-on-skin (like the inner thighs rubbing together) or materials on the skin (like clothes rubbing against the skin.) Chafing is always exacerbated by sweat. And, of course, if you’re active or sitting in the sun, you will sweat more.

But the beach has another chafing ingredient: Sand. Sand is made of tiny particles of stones, rocks, and shells that have been battered by the sea. We all know the abrasive properties of sand (just think of sandpaper!), so when sand repeatedly rubs against the skin, it can cause or exacerbate skin chafing.

Thigh Chafing Is Especially Common on the Beach

You can experience chafing almost anywhere on the body, but the inner thighs are a common area for skin-on-skin chafing. The delicate skin of the inner thighs is suddenly exposed to all the elements when you hit the beach. And because we often sit on the sand on the beach, the sand can definitely be a huge contributor here. So you should take steps to prevent thigh chafing before you hit the beach!

Beach Chafing: How to Prevent Chafing at the Beach

If you’re experiencing chafing on your beach vacation or just planning one and want to avoid beach chafing altogether, follow these steps to prevent chafing on your beach trip:

Rinse Sand Off the Skin Regularly

Sand can quickly build up on the skin, and when you move around, it will act like literal sandpaper, rubbing the skin until inflammation and small tears occur.

So, make sure you rinse the skin off the sand regularly to prevent chafing. Remember: Sand floats around in the ocean too, so if there are beach showers, they’ll be a better way of rinsing off. Pat the skin dry before returning to the beach, as sand will stick more easily to wet skin.

Shake Out Your Towels 

If you have the choice, lounge on a chair or lounger, as this will help you avoid beach chafing. But if you are lying on a beach, do use a beach towel and make sure you shake out your beach towel regularly to make sure sand is not building up on it. 

Add a Coverup or Try Anti-Chafing Swim Shorts

When you’re not in the water, an extra layer will help protect the skin from sand (and from the sun.) There are lots of styles of cover-ups out there, but if you experience inner-thigh chafing, you could think about throwing on a pair of drawstring shorts or even a specialty product of anti-chafing beach shorts.

Even in the water, there are styles of swimsuits that will offer more coverage and skin protection. Products like rash guards, swim shorts, and even wetsuits can help.

Explore Body Glide Balms and Anti-Chafing Creams

There are many anti-chafing products hitting the market to help prevent friction and combat (and treat) skin chafing. These products are designed to create a barrier that sits on top of the skin and help the skin “glide” past other skin rather than it rubbing and creating friction.

It might take some trial and error to find an anti-chafe balm or product you like, but they might be worth trying. Some notes to consider: 

• These anti-chafe products might rub off on or stain clothing, and
• Of course, they will run out and need to be replenished!

If you don’t have these products handy, you can even try good old petroleum jelly (aka Vaseline) to create a skin barrier, and it’s worth noting that petroleum jelly can also be used to treat chafing if it does happen.

Try Anti-Perspirants or Deodorants

Sweat is a major contributor to skin-chafing. While we usually think about our armpits when it comes to sweat, you have sweat glands all over your body, including your boobs, groin, back, and thighs. 

Factors that impact how much you sweat include:

• How many sweat glands you have (the average person has 3 million, but it can range between 2 million and 4 million. The more glands, the more sweat).
• Gender
• Genetics
• Age
• Fitness level
• Environment

But if you sweat more, you are more susceptible to chafing. So deodorants or antiperspirants can help.

Antiperspirants work by temporarily plugging your sweat glands, so they are very effective at preventing sweat. Many of us use antiperspirants for underarm sweat (though people increasingly switch to natural deodorants for various health reasons connected with aluminum - the chief ingredient used to plug those glands). Whether you are for or against them, antiperspirants can offer an effective solution to sweat. And you can use antiperspirant on other body parts too. 

A Very Light Dust of Powder May Prevent Sand Clinging

If sweat is a major source of bother, moisture-absorbing powders can keep you dry by absorbing excess moisture. A light dusting of baby powder may also help prevent sand from sticking to the body.  Look for non-talc all-natural products with ingredients like kaolin or cornstarch to absorb moisture. Other ingredients, like aloe and lavender, can cool, soothe and have antibacterial properties.

Treat Sensitive Skin Gently: But Keep Clean and Dry (but Moisturized)

If your skin is already irritated, red or inflamed, sand chafing can happen more easily. There are certain body parts where the skin is just naturally more delicate. These include:

• The skin of the inner thighs and vulva
• The breasts and nipples (and beneath the breasts)
• Inner arms and armpits

Always make sure that you are treating the skin gently. This includes not scrubbing too hard in the shower nor drying too aggressively (pat dry rather than rubbing harshly.) It also includes the kinds of products you choose: Products with scrubbing particles or acids (like lactic acid, fruit acid, or AHAs) may irritate, as might products with a strong fragrance. Also, consider the temperature of the water you’re bathing in: Hot showers and baths can agitate sensitive skin. 

If your skin is sensitive (or is already a chafed area), gentle washing with a scent-free shower gel is ideal. Pat the skin dry and moisturize it with a light lotion.

While gentle cleaning is best, it is also worth noting the importance of staying clean and dry. If you work up a sweat, don’t sit around with wet skin in damp and sweaty workout clothes. Remember, damp conditions can easily aggravate the skin (as well as create a breeding ground for bacteria that can cause skin infections, UTIs, or yeast infections!)

Shower and change often to keep the skin clean and dry. But also treat the skin gently so you don’t cause any irritation!

We hope you found this post informative — but remember: we’re not doctors and this post is not medical advice! While all posts are fact-checked and well researched, we always recommend you chat with your doctor about any questions or concerns you might have regarding a medical condition. We’re here to support and educate, but never with the aim of disregarding professional medical advice you’ve been given. Phew, now that that’s out of the way, you can go on living unapologetically free.

• Skin-on-skin chafing: This occurs when the skin rubs together, creating friction and heat. Sweat exacerbates skin-on-skin chafing. Common areas this kind of chafing can occur include the inner thighs, beneath the breasts, armpits, and anywhere there are skin folds.
• Material-on-skin chafing: This occurs when materials repeatedly rub across the skin, causing friction and skin irritation. Sensitive skin will always chafe faster. Common areas for this kind of chafing include the feet (chafing caused by shoes), the neck (purse straps, seatbelts, etc.), and the breasts (chafing caused by underwire and too-tight bras.)

What Causes Skin Chafing Around the Breasts?

The main cause of bra-chafing is an ill-fitting bra. This can mean that the bra is the wrong size (too small or too big.) But it may also mean that your bra is just the wrong shape or style for you.

Common areas bras can cause chafing include:

• Under the breasts: A too-tight underwire can be exacerbated by the sweat that sometimes occurs beneath the breasts.
• Along the sides: The reinforced seams along the sides of the bra are there to keep your breasts in place and stop them from falling out to the sides. However, if they’re too tight or the skin is particularly sensitive, they may cause chafing.
• Shoulder straps: Again, straps that are too tight will sometimes cause redness which could lead to chafing.

No matter where it occurs on your body, chafing will always be exacerbated by sweat. Sweat causes two challenges: First, it creates a damp, sticky skin surface that is more likely to ‘drag’ when it rubs. 

Second, sweat contains salt. And salt can be irritating to inflamed skin. In fact, that’s often where a lot of the burning sensation of chafing comes from. Those tiny salt crystals can also cause micro-tears to the skin, and while they might not be individually visible to the eye, they will cause red skin and inflammation.

So, on days when you’re sweaty, skin chafing is more likely to occur. This is why it’s such a concern for athletes (in addition to the fact they’re often repeating the same movements for prolonged periods of time.)

How to Treat Chafed Skin Around the Breasts

Skin chafing can be a very painful skin irritation. The sensation starts as a feeling of heat, but it can quickly turn into a burning and prickly sensation that makes movement painful. Because chafing is caused by repeated rubbing, it is important to remove the source of chafing right away.

Because chafing is caused by repeated rubbing, it is important to remove the source of chafing right away. If this is your bra, you should try to get home and get out of that bra as soon as you can. The longer you continue to wear it, the worse the chafing will become (and - not to be alarmist - bad skin chafing can lead to skin infection).

So, if you have bra chafing, follow these steps:

1. Hop in the Shower to Clean the Chafed Skin

Damp, clammy skin can also be a breeding ground for bacteria, which can cause yeast infections and other skin infections. So, the first thing you should do is get out of those sweaty and wet clothes. Hope in the shower and wash all that sweat away.

When it comes to washing, this is a time to keep the temperature lower. Cool water will probably feel really nice against your hot, inflamed skin and will immediately start to reduce the swelling. Also, choose a gentle soap (scent-free, hypoallergenic if possible) and lather it up with your hands instead of using abrasive scrubbers like sponges or loofahs. Gentle is key.

And ‘gentle’ carries on outside the shower too. Pat your skin dry instead of rubbing the skin aggressively. But do make sure you try the area around your breasts carefully, particularly the area beneath your breasts, which sometimes gets less air.

2. Apply a Soothing Product to Help Bra Chafing Heal

Dry, clean skin will heal over time by itself. But there are a number of products that can be applied to irritated skin to treat sports bra chafing or other forms of chafing:

• Aloe vera gel (aloe vera is known for its cooling properties, especially when used on sunburn)
• Argan oil (nutrient-rich and has anti-inflammatory properties)
• Coconut oil (coconut oil reduces inflammation and helps heal wounds)
• Shea butter (contains vitamins A, E, and F, antioxidant vitamins that promote circulation and healthy skin cell growth)
• Diaper rash cream (serves as a barrier cream)
• Petroleum jelly, aka Vaseline (petroleum jelly keeps the skin slick to prevent further rubbing)
• Medicated ointment

You’ll likely have to reapply whatever product you choose every few hours to soothe the friction burn caused by skin chafing. If you’re in considerable pain, ice packs can also bring additional relief.

3. Swap Your Bra for Something Softer

Chafed skin needs a break from the movements that cause friction. If you can, now is a good time to chill out. Don’t put the bra you were wearing back on! Instead, swap into something softer. A pullover bra in modal cotton will be gentle, or a tank top with a built-in bra. 

If you must wear a bra, ensure it fits you properly. If you can, choose a wireless bra over an underwire bra or sports bra.

How to Avoid Skin Chafing Around the Breasts

Wouldn’t it be better if you could simply avoid chafing around the breasts altogether? Good news: There are steps you can take to prevent breast chafing. These include:

Make Sure Your Everyday Bra or Sports Bra Fits

An ill-fitting bra, especially too tight, can squeeze and compress your breasts. You might notice red marks around the band or underwire. But you might also just feel too constricted, and this may cause the sensitive skin of the breasts to react.

Here are some of the giveaways that your bra is the wrong fit for you:

• Your straps slide off your shoulders even after you’ve tightened them
• You shift around in your cups
• Your breasts bulge out of your cup or sides
• The band rides up your back
• The underwire hurts your ribcage
• Your bra leaves painful marks on your skin
• You’re plain uncomfortable

The wrong size or fit of bra will ruin your day. You’ll feel uncomfortable, maybe even sore, and just want to get home so you can rip the damn thing off. On the other hand, a well-fitting and supportive bra will reduce friction and even add a protective barrier to prevent chafing.

At Knix, we really wanted to help more women avoid this experience altogether. As an online retailer, we know it can be especially daunting to make a bra purchase online. That’s why we developed our virtual fit program. Learn more about it today and book your appointment!

Choose a Wireless Bra

Wireless bras simply win on comfort. Many women who find underwire bras uncomfortable are wearing the wrong size. But even when you’re wearing the right size, underwires are more prone to dig into your ribs and generally feel more constricting than wireless bras. This can be a source of skin irritation. Wireless is consistently considered the most comfortable choice.

Underwires have been known to cause allergic reactions and rashes in some wearers. If metal is irritating or your skin is especially sensitive, you may find the delicate skin under your breasts is irritated by the underwire.

Look for a Bra (Like a Sports Bra) That is Sweat-Wicking

Sports bras are usually made of high-performance athletic materials that have moisture-wicking properties. While boob sweat is a normal and natural by-product of exercise or hotter days, it can also cause irritation. A bra designed for sports can help keep you dry.

However, a sports bra often fits more snugly than your everyday bra. So with your sports bra, it's really important to make sure the fit is perfect in order to prevent skin chafing.

Prevent Chafing With Anti-Chafing Cream

There are many anti-chafing products that help prevent friction and combat skin rubbing and soothe chafed skin. These products are designed to create a barrier that sits on top of the skin. If you don’t have these products handy, you can even try good old petroleum jelly (aka Vaseline) to create a skin barrier (yes, petroleum jelly is good for both treating chafing and preventing it!)

Minimize Excess Moisture and Sweat With (Non-Talc) Powders

We now know all about the sweat-chafing connection, so it’s also good to think about products that will minimize and absorb sweat, like moisture-absorbing powders. Look for non-talc all-natural products with ingredients like kaolin or cornstarch to absorb moisture. Other ingredients, like aloe and lavender, can cool, soothe and have antibacterial properties.

Manage Boob Sweat

Antiperspirants work by temporarily plugging your sweat glands, so they are very effective at preventing sweat. Many of us use antiperspirants for underarm sweat (though people increasingly switch to natural deodorants for various health reasons connected with aluminum - the chief ingredient used to plug those glands). 

But whether you are for or against them, antiperspirants can offer an effective solution to sweat. And you can use antiperspirant on other body parts too. 

Does Chafing Ever Require a Doctor?

You might also wonder if you need to visit the doctor. Most often, the answer to this is ‘no.’ However, there are some exceptions and times when you should definitely seek out medical advice:

• A wound opens up around the chafed area and doesn’t scab over in a few days (assuming it’s not further exacerbated)
• You notice blood or pus coming from a chafing wound or cracked skin
• The skin is very hot or swollen
• Redness spreads beyond the point of chafing

We hope you found this post informative — but remember: we’re not doctors and this post is not medical advice! While all posts are fact-checked and well researched, we always recommend you chat with your doctor about any questions or concerns you might have regarding a medical condition. We’re here to support and educate, but never with the aim of disregarding professional medical advice you’ve been given. Phew, now that that’s out of the way, you can go on living unapologetically free.

However, if you have a body part that undergoes continuous cycles of chafing and healing, you may notice some scarring or skin discoloration that stays permanently. This often takes the form of darker skin (especially common on the inner thighs), and it is perfectly normal and is not considered medically concerning.

However, it still bothers some people. Before we explore treatments for it, let’s take a minute to better understand what causes chafing (and, therefore, chafing scars.)

What Causes Chafing & Chafing Scars?

Chafing is caused by friction, usually when skin rubs on delicate areas of skin. That rubbing can be skin-on-skin, as is the case with inner thigh chafing or chafing between skin folds. Or it can be caused by rough materials or fabrics rubbing against the skin, as is the case with the chafing a starched collar or seatbelt might cause on the neck.

While the primary cause of chafing is friction, some things can make chafing worse, including:

Sweat or Excess Moisture

Sweat creates a damp, sticky skin surface that is more likely to ‘drag’ when it rubs. This means your skin won’t glide over the surface of whatever is causing the chafing. Instead, it pulls. 

As if that wasn’t bad enough, sweat contains salt. And salt can be irritating to inflamed skin. In fact, that’s often where a lot of the burning sensation of chafing comes from. Those tiny salt crystals can also cause micro-tears to the skin, and while they might not be individually visible to the eye, they will cause red skin and inflammation.

So, on days when you’re sweaty, skin chafing is more likely to occur. This is why it’s such a concern for athletes.

Stubble

Remember when we said that chafing is like ultrafine sandpaper rubbing against the skin? Well, if you add stubble into that mix, you might upgrade that sandpaper. Depending on the body part, hair removal will mean hair regrowth, and that regrowth is often coarse to the touch. On body parts like the armpits, inner legs and crotch, stubble can make chafing all the more irritating.

Dry or Irritated Skin

Healthy, moisturized, and strong skin is no guarantee that you won’t experience chafing. But if your skin is already rough and dry or even irritated, you’ll definitely speed up the chafing process and be at greater risk of skin infection.

Chafing Scars & the Inner Thigh Chafing

Chafing scars occur when chafing is not treated immediately, and the chafed skin hardens. Discoloration can occur, often characterized by darker skin. This is especially common on the inner thighs for women since this area is especially prone to friction and the skin of the inner thighs is very delicate.

How to Treat Chafed Skin (Immediately)

Treating chafed skin right away is key to avoiding chafing scars.

1. Make Sure to Clean the Chafed Skin ASAP

The first thing you should do is get out of those sweaty and wet clothes and throw them in the laundry hamper. Hop in the shower and wash all that sweat away.

When it comes to washing, this is a time to keep the temperature lower. Cool water will probably feel really nice against your hot, inflamed skin and will immediately start to reduce the swelling. Also, choose a mild soap (scent-free, hypoallergenic if possible) and lather it up with your hands instead of using abrasive scrubbers like sponges or loofahs. Being gentle is key.

And ‘gentle’ carries on outside the shower too. Pat your skin dry instead of rubbing the skin aggressively. 

2. Apply (and Reapply) Healing Creams on the Inner Thighs or Affected Areas

The following products work in a few ways:

• They help prevent further damage: They protect the skin from further rubbing by helping it glide (indeed, some can also be used to prevent chafing in the first place)
• Healing: They help add moisture back into the skin, which will help the skin barrier begin to repair itself
• Pain management: They have other properties, like cooling, anti-inflammatory, and even numbing properties, that will help reduce pain.

You have a lot of options here (even a good basic moisturizer is better than nothing). Here are some popular choices that can soothe chafed skin:

• Aloe vera gel (aloe vera is known for its cooling properties, especially when used on sunburn)
• Argan oil (nutrient-rich and has anti-inflammatory properties)
• Coconut oil (coconut oil reduces inflammation and helps heal wounds)
• Shea butter (contains vitamins A, E, and F, antioxidant vitamins that promote circulation and healthy skin cell growth)
• Diaper rash cream (serves as a barrier cream)
• Petroleum jelly, aka Vaseline (petroleum jelly keeps the skin slick to prevent further rubbing)
• Medicated ointment

Whichever you choose, reapply it at regular intervals so that the skin doesn’t dry out.

Avoid heavily scented lotions or creams that might aggravate your raw skin. Also, avoid lotions with acids like AHAs, lactic acid, or fruit acids, as these will likely cause a burning sensation on inflamed and raw skin.

3. Consider Your Clothing or Nightwear 

Chafed skin needs a break from the movements that caused friction. If you can, now is a good time to chill out.

But you can also treat chafing by thinking about what you wear. Here are some good considerations:

• Create a physical barrier around the chafed skin: To prevent further skin-on-skin chafing, make sure the skin is encapsulated in soft, fitted clothing. For example, if you have inner thigh-chafing, minimize friction between your thighs by choosing fitted clothing that will create a physical barrier while the skin heals. This will also prevent the skin rubbing against itself.  Leggings are a good choice for daywear, or try some shorts like our Thigh Savers. If you’re turning in for the night, opt for pajamas rather than a night dress.
• Sweat-wicking materials are key: If you’re going back outside or will be moving around, sweat-wicking materials will keep the skin dry. Athletic leggings and fitted athleisure tops are usually made of this material. This will prevent salty sweat from agitating the skin, thereby giving it a chance to heal. Try our Leakproof Thigh Savers that absorb up to around 1 regular tampon of sweat and are great for light period spotting too! 
• Choose soft materials: Cotton, modal cotton, and soft sweat-wicking materials will feel cool and comfortable next to the skin. Avoid anything hard or scratchy, like thick denim that hasn’t yet been broken in or wool.
• Watch out for seams: Athleisure wear usually has offset seams to prevent the seams from causing chafing. But thick protruding seams (on joggers, jeans, and bulky sweaters) may only aggravate chafing further. So, look for products that are seam-free or have offset seams. 

4. A Step Further: Ice packs, Painkillers, Possibly a Visit to Your Doctor

We all have different pain thresholds, and if you’re in sincere pain, you can absolutely consider taking an over-the-counter painkiller (always follow the dosage guidelines.)

Ice packs can also bring additional relief; just make sure you’re wrapping the ice pack in something (an old tea towel or pillowcase is ideal) before pressing it against the skin.

You might also wonder if you need to visit the doctor. Most often, the answer to this is ‘no.’ However, there are some exceptions, and here are some clear signs you might want to have a doctor take a look:

• A wound opens up around the chafed area and doesn’t scab over in a few days (assuming it’s not further exacerbated)
• You notice blood or pus coming from a chafing wound or cracked skin
• The skin is very hot or swollen
• Redness spreads beyond the point of chafing

That said, chafing does not usually require medical attention, and it’s simply a matter of giving the skin time to heal. 

Preventative Measures: Take Steps to Prevent Further Skin Chafing

Chafing can take a bit of time to heal, and to avoid chafing scars forming over time; it’s best to take steps to prevent it going forward. You can help prevent chafing with anti-chafing products. A large part of prevention involves choosing what you wear to prevent skin chafing before it even gets started (or what underwear you wear to help prevent chafing of the inner thighs).

Also, think about choices that will minimize sweat and moisture, which we saw can really exacerbate skin chafing. Look for:

• Clothes (like our Leakproof Thigh Savers) that are moisture and sweat-wicking
• Non-talc anti-chafing powders that can be applied to absorb moisture naturally and reduce friction
• Anti-chafing cream - there are lots of options out there designed to help the skin 'glide,' and your trusted petroleum jelly can even work!
• Antiperspirants and deodorants that can be applied places other than the armpits

It takes a little bit of foresight, but you might save yourself a tonne of trouble if you plan ahead in the case of skin chafing! 

How to Treat Chafing Scars (Medium and Long Term)

If you already have chafing scars, you may wonder if anything can be done to reduce or remove them. There are no guarantees here: We all have different skin tones and heal differently. Some people have surgical cars that completely disappear, and some never fully fade.

Scars are a natural part of life, and there’s nothing wrong with scars, stretch marks, or skin discoloration caused by chafing. 

But if they really bother you, you can also explore the following:

Stick to a Basic Skin Care Routine

Keeping skin smooth and supple will help reduce scars and discoloration. While you want to be gentle with chafed skin when it’s healing, once it’s healed, you can resume regular healthcare. This includes:

• Exfoliation: Regular exfoliation will help skin shed old skin and renew itself. You can use a body brush or gentle scrubs. Don’t go for anything too scratchy—scrubs with oats or sugar are good options.
• Moisturizer: Keeping skin moisturized will help reduce scarring. A lot of the ingredients in the products used to treat chafing immediately will continue to soothe and heal the skin. Top picks include aloe vera, coconut oil, or Vitamin E oil. 

Always Practice Sun Protection

If the skin is discolored, it’s important to protect it from further sun damage. Always wear an appropriate SPF (30 or higher is best) on the affected area. Avoiding the sun altogether is also a good option.

Try Products That Address Hyperpigmentation

Many over-the-counter products make claims to reduce pigmentation. According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association, “these ingredients can fade existing dark spots. In some cases, the ingredient can also slow down the production of melanin, which is what causes the dark spots and patches.”

• Azelaic acid
• Glycolic acid
• Kojic acid
• Retinoid (retinol, tretinoin, adapalene gel, or tazarotene)
• Vitamin C

Always patch-test these products before applying them on a large surface area. If you are applying these products to your inner thighs, be careful that you don’t get them close to your vulva, as they may irritate this delicate area and disrupt your pH balance.

See a Dermatologist

It’s worth emphasizing again that scars and discoloration are natural and not something you should feel bad about. However, if you are really hung up on these things, it might be worth talking to a dermatologist. 

They’ll be able to assess the skin and recommend products and procedures beyond over-the-counter creams. Some options may include the following:

• Laser treatments
• Stronger retinoids

Your dermatologist will also advise you regarding ongoing skincare and prevention of further chafing. 

Whatever course you decide to follow, you have options!

FAQs on Chafings Scars

How Do You Get Rid of Chafing Marks?

You can get rid of pesky chafing marks by applying healing creams like aloe vera or petroleum jelly, prevent repeated rubbing of the skin by wearing soft, sweat-wicking material, and use ice packs and painkillers as necessary to manage any pain. Consider using products for hyperpigmentation like azelaic acid or Vitamin C, and seek medical advice if the chafing marks are severe. Consistent care and attention to the affected area can help diminish chafing marks and promote skin healing.

How Do You Get Rid of Dark Spots From Chafing?

To get rid of chafing spots, apply ointments like petroleum jelly or aloe vera to soothe the skin and form a protective barrier to prevent further irritation. Avoid activities that cause chafing and reduce friction by encapsulating the skin in soft, fitted clothing. Use ice packs or try an over-the-counter pain relief if you're in a lot of pain.

How Long Does It Take for Chafing to Go Away?

Chafing can take one to two days to heal if treated promptly and appropriately. Immediate treatment, such as cleaning the affected area, applying a lubricating substance like petroleum jelly, and taking steps to prevent further chafing, can help speed up the healing process. 

—

We hope you found this post informative — but remember: we’re not doctors and this post is not medical advice! While all posts are fact-checked and well researched, we always recommend you chat with your doctor about any questions or concerns you might have regarding a medical condition. 

We’re here to support and educate, but never with the aim of disregarding professional medical advice you’ve been given. Phew, now that that’s out of the way, you can go on living unapologetically free.

Like any skin irritation, healing times can differ person-to-person depending on the general health of the individual and their skin. Some people may heal overnight, and some may take longer.

The body part and severity of the chafing also factor into healing times. But there are some steps you can take to encourage the healing process to happen faster. Let’s explore.

How to Speed Up Healing of Chafed Skin

While there are no guaranteed ways to heal chafing overnight, you can certainly help (or hinder) the healing process by taking some easy steps. You’ll probably have everything you need at hand too—either in your medicine cabinet or your pantry.

1. Reduce Friction: Stop the Motion that Caused Chafing

Chafing can happen to anybody. It is caused by repeated rubbing, which creates friction. That rubbing can be:

• Skin-on-skin rubbing: This happens when limbs rub together (like the inner thighs rubbing when you walk or run) or because there are folds in the skin which create friction when you move.
• Material-on-skin chafing: A chafing rash can also be caused by materials rubbing against the skin. It could be a starched collar on the neck, a thick seam on ill-fitting clothes, or a too-tight waistband. 

Chafing can also happen almost anywhere on the body, though there are some body parts with sensitive skin where chafing commonly occurs. These include:

• The heels and toes (often caused by stiff shoes that haven’t been broken in. Sometimes, you'll have to treat blisters as a result of this kind of chafing)
• Inner thigh chafing (caused by the friction when the thigh skin rubs together and often exacerbated by groin sweat or stubble from bikini hair removal)
• Beneath the boobs (often caused by too-tight or too-loose underwire bras that rub against the rib cage; can also be exacerbated by boob sweat)
• The collar or neck (often caused by a stiff, starched collar or even a seatbelt or cross-body purse strap for some people)
• Nipple-chafing (often happens to male athletes who may experience chafing when the fabric of their running vest rubs against the nipples. Less common in women as sports bras are usually worn)
• Inner arm or armpit chafing (another area where the skin is delicate and friction can easily happen between the skin folds)

No matter where your body is chafed, the essential first step is to remove the source of friction. This usually means you have to stop the motion that is causing the repeated rubbing. While athletes may find this hard to do (especially mid-competition), for the rest of us, this usually means getting indoors and canceling plans for the rest of the day.

2. Clean the Chafed Skin

Once you get indoors, you’ll likely want to plonk yourself down on the sofa to cool down. Depending on where the chafing is, every step might cause pain. Sorry — but you’re going to have to do a few things first, or else the chafing will continue to irritate you and could even become infected!

Sweat and chafing go hand-in-hand. 

• First, sweat creates a damp, sticky skin surface that is more likely to ‘drag’ when it rubs. This means your skin won’t glide over the surface of whatever is causing the chafing. Instead, it pulls. 
• Second, sweat contains salt. And salt can be irritating to inflamed skin. In fact, that’s often where a lot of the burning sensation of chafing comes from. Those tiny salt crystals can also cause micro-tears to the skin, and while they might not be individually visible to the eye, that will cause red skin and inflammation.

So, first: Remove your sweaty and wet clothes and throw them straight in the laundry hamper. Then take yourself to the shower. You need clean skin before you do anything else, and a cool/lukewarm shower will actually offer some relief to your hot, inflamed skin.

Stay away from harsh and scented cleaners and scrubbers/loofahs/sponges. Instead, simply lather some mild soap (preferably scent-free and hypoallergenic) with your hands and gently clean the affected area. Rinse well.

3. Gently Dry the Skin

When you emerge from the shower, you will want to avoid inflicting further friction on the affected area. So, instead of a vigorous towel-dry, simply pat the area dry. If even that much touch feels too much, you can lounge on top of a towel until you air dry.

4. Apply (and Reapply) Healing Cream, Ointment, or Balm

Odds are you have some products at hand that will help chafing begin to heal. These products work in a few ways:

• Prevention of further damage: They protect the skin from further rubbing by helping it glide (indeed, some can also be used to prevent chafing in the first place)
• Healing: They help add moisture back into the skin, which will help the skin barrier begin to repair itself
• Pain management: They have other properties, like cooling, anti-inflammatory, and even numbing properties, that will help reduce pain.

You have many options here (even a good basic moisturizer is better than nothing). Here are some popular choices:

• Aloe vera gel (aloe vera is known for its cooling properties, especially when used on sunburn)
• Argan oil (nutrient-rich and has anti-inflammatory properties)
• Coconut oil (coconut oil reduces inflammation and helps heal wounds)
• Shea butter (contains vitamins A, E, and F, antioxidant vitamins that promote circulation and healthy skin cell growth)
• Diaper rash cream (serves as a barrier cream)
• Petroleum jelly, aka Vaseline (petroleum jelly keeps the skin slick to prevent further rubbing)
• Medicated ointment

Whichever you choose, reapply it at regular intervals so that the skin doesn’t dry out.

Word to the wise: Avoid heavily scented lotions or creams that might aggravate your raw skin. Also, avoid lotions with acids like AHAs, lactic acid, or fruit acids, as these will likely cause a burning sensation on inflamed and raw skin.

5.  Consider Your Clothing

Chafed skin needs a break from the movements that cause friction. If you can, now is a good time to chill out.

But you can also treat chafing by thinking about what you wear. Here are some good considerations:

• Create a physical barrier around the chafed skin: To prevent further skin-on-skin chafing, wear clothes that are soft and fitted and encapsulate the affected skin. For example, if you have inner thigh-chafing, you need to minimize friction between your thighs at this point, so choose fitted clothing that will create a physical barrier to prevent the thighs from rubbing together. Leggings are a good choice for daywear or try some anti-chafing underwear. On your period? Try our Leakproof Thigh Savers. They can absorb around 3 tsp of blood, urine, or sweat. If you’re turning in for the night, opt for pajamas rather than a night dress.
• Sweat-wicking materials are key: If you’re going back outside or will be moving around, sweat-wicking materials will keep the skin dry. Athletic leggings and fitted athleisure tops are usually made of this kind of material. This will prevent salty sweat from agitating the skin, thereby giving it a chance to heal.
• Choose soft materials: Cotton, modal cotton, and soft sweat-wicking materials will feel cool and comfortable next to the skin. Avoid anything hard or scratchy, like thick denim that hasn’t yet been broken in or wool.
• Watch out for seams: Athleisure wear usually has offset seams to prevent the seams from causing chafing. But thick protruding seams (on joggers, jeans, and bulky sweaters) may only aggravate chafing further. So, look for products that are seam-free or have offset seams. 

6. Stay Cool, Rest Up, and Rehydrate

Chafing usually happens when your body is hot and sweaty, so try to stay cool for the rest of the day and even the following days. Rest up and allow your body to heal. If you must move around, make sure you’re wearing clothes that will minimize friction.

Also, don’t forget that the body needs to be well-hydrated for the skin to heal and retain moisture, so drink plenty of water.

Does Chafing Ever Require Medical Attention?

If you’re in serious pain, you can absolutely consider taking an over-the-counter painkiller (always follow the dosage guidelines.) Ice packs can also bring additional relief; just make sure you’re wrapping the ice pack in something (an old tea towel or pillowcase is ideal) before pressing it against the skin.

You might also wonder if you need to visit the doctor. The answer to this is usually ‘no.’ However, there are some exceptions, and here are some clear signs you might want to have a doctor take a look:

• A wound opens up around the chafed area and doesn’t scab over in a few days (assuming it’s not further exacerbated)
• You notice blood or pus coming from a chafing wound or cracked skin
• The skin is very hot or swollen
• Redness spreads beyond the point of chafing

That said, chafing does not usually require medical attention, and it’s simply a matter of going easy while the skin heals.

Factors That Make Chafing Worse & Lengthen Healing Time

We already discussed the role that sweat plays in chafing. But there are other factors that make chafing worse and could mean a longer healing time:

Stubble (Inner Thighs and Armpits)

Depending on the body part, hair removal will mean hair regrowth, and that regrowth is often coarse to the touch. On body parts like the armpits, legs, and crotch, stubble can make chafing all the more irritating.

Dry or Irritated Skin (All Body Parts)

Healthy, moisturized, and strong skin is no guarantee that you won’t experience chafing. But if your skin is already rough and dry or even irritated, you’ll definitely speed up the chafing process and be at greater risk of skin infection.

We all tend to be hard on our skin, exposing it to the elements, harsh products, scrubbing, and chemicals. Remember to give your skin some love too!

It’s Easier to Prevent Chafing in the First Place

Chafing can take a bit of time to heal, so it’s often a case of learning the hard way that it’s better to avoid it in the first place. Good news: You can help prevent chafing with clothes like our Thigh Savers and Leakproof Thigh Savers (no need for undies; they can be worn commando!).

Also, think about choices that will minimize sweat and moisture, which we saw can really exacerbate skin chafing. Look for:

• Clothes like our Leakstrong Leakproof Thigh Savers help absorb moisture and light period spotting 
• Non-talc anti-chafing powders that can be applied to absorb moisture naturally and reduce friction
• Anti-chafing cream - there are lots of options out there designed to help the skin 'glide,' and your trusted petroleum jelly can even work!
• Antiperspirants and deodorants that can be applied in other places than the armpits

It takes a little bit of foresight, but you might save yourself a tonne of trouble if you plan ahead in the case of skin chafing! 

FAQs on Chafed Skin 

How Do You Heal Chafing Fast?

To heal chafing quickly, clean the affected area, apply lubricating substances like petroleum jelly or aloe vera, wear moisture-wicking clothing, and prevent further friction. These steps help create a protective barrier, reduce irritation, and promote faster healing of chafed skin.

Does Chafing Go Away on Its Own?

Chafing can heal within a couple of days if the problem is addressed promptly and the necessary steps (removing any friction-causing clothes, adding a moisturizer or lubricant, and keeping the area clean and dry). However, if left untreated, chafing can worsen and take longer to heal, potentially leading to more severe symptoms like bleeding, blistering, or infections.

What Are the Stages of Chafing?

Chafing typically progresses through stages starting with redness and pain, followed by a burning sensation and potentially flaky and red spots as it heals. In severe cases, chafing can lead to swelling, blistering, bleeding, or crusting.

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We hope you found this post informative — but remember: we’re not doctors and this post is not medical advice! While all posts are fact-checked and well researched, we always recommend you chat with your doctor about any questions or concerns you might have regarding a medical condition. 

We’re here to support and educate, but never with the aim of disregarding professional medical advice you’ve been given. Phew, now that that’s out of the way, you can go on living unapologetically free.

Lucky us: There are many products you can use (like our Thigh Savers) and tips you can follow to avoid chafing altogether. And with a little advance planning, you’ll be able to enjoy those hot and humid days without the associated burn of skin chafing.

7 Steps to Prevent Chafing by Protecting Sensitive Skin

1. Prevent Inner Thigh Chafing with Thigh Savers

One of the most common areas to experience chafing in the summer months is between the inner thighs. You may hear it referred to as ‘chub rub.’ And chafing in this area can quickly go from minor irritation to burning pain if you don’t take precautions. But you can help prevent thigh chafing of the inner thigh and groin area with a simple product.

Products like our Thigh Savers work to help prevent chafing by creating a physical barrier between your thighs. Usually, they’re light shorts that are form-fitting, and you can also look for styles (like our Leakproof Thigh Savers) that help absorb groin sweat. The upside is that you can wear light summer clothes like dresses and still protect the delicate skin of your inner thighs from painful thigh chafing. 

Of course, many of us are dealing with more than just chafing. Whether you're on your period or you experience light bladder leaks, we've got a product that will help along with keeping you chafe-free. Introducing Leakproof Thighsavers. They'll absorb blood, sweat, or pee and help keep you chafe-free. 

2. Light Layers of Fitted Clothing Will Stop Skin Rubbing

While shorts are great for protecting the inner thighs, some areas prone to chafing don’t have dedicated products aimed at chafing. Indeed, chafing can happen on almost any body part. In addition to the inner thighs, common areas chafing may occur include:

• The heels and toes (often caused by stiff shoes that haven’t been broken in)
• Beneath the boobs (often caused by too-tight or too-loose underwire bras that rub against the rib cage. Can also be exacerbated by boob sweat)
• Nipple-chafing (often happens to male athletes who may experience chafing when the fabric of their top rubs against the nipples. Less common in women as sports bras are usually worn)
• Inner arm or armpit chafing (another area where the skin is delicate and friction can easily happen between the folds of the skin)

You want to add a physical barrier to protect your bare skin from skin-on-skin contact and to reduce friction.

For example, a sports bra can protect your nipples from chafing. Or moisture wicking socks can protect the delicate skin on your feet from severe chafing and reduce friction from shoes or trainers (and if you want that sockless look, there are more and more invisible socklets to choose from.) If you experience chafing along your inner arms, try a fitted tee rather than a tank top. 

There are usually workarounds that still let you wear pretty much whatever you want. And if you absolutely don’t want to adjust what you’re wearing, try some of the topical products in the next section!

3. Look for Clothes With Sweat-Wicking Properties

In addition to fitted clothes that form a protective barrier, look for garments that wick moisture to prevent chafing. This is because sweat makes chafing worse in two ways:

1. First, it creates a damp, sticky skin surface that is more likely to ‘drag’ when it rubs. This means your skin won’t glide over the surface of whatever is causing the chafing. Instead, it pulls. And when this happens repeatedly? You’ve got yourself some skin chafing.
2. Second, we all know that sweat contains salt. And salt can be irritating to inflamed skin. In fact, that’s often where a lot of the burning sensation of chafing comes from. Those tiny salt crystals can also cause micro-tears to the skin, and while they might not be individually visible to the eye, they will cause red skin and inflammation.

So, to avoid this, look for clothing that wicks moisture and sweat from the skin surfaces. You’ll usually find most athletic or athleisure clothing has some degree of moisture-wicking these days.

But also pay attention to the fit of your clothes. Clothes that fit the body snugly (like leggings) with minimal seams don’t tend to move a lot, so this means there’s less friction of them rubbing against your skin. And because they fit snugly, they also mean your skin is encapsulated, so there’s less skin-on-skin friction.

However, if your clothes are too tight, those tight seams and bands (like waistbands or bra bands) can dig into the skin and cause irritation. So look for products with that perfect second-skin feeling rather than that sausage-like, too-tight encapsulation.

4. Try Anti-Chafing Creams That Form a Skin Barrier

There are many anti-chafing products hitting the market to help prevent friction and combat (and treat) skin chafing. Some of these include anti-perspirant, and some are more balm-like. Often packaged like deodorant sticks, these products are designed to create a barrier that sits on top of the skin and helps the skin “glide” past other skin rather than it rubbing and creating friction.

It might take some trial and error to find a skin lubricant or product you like, but they might be worth trying. Some notes to consider: 

• These anti-chafe products might rub off on or stain clothing, and
• Of course, they will run out and need to be replenished!

If you don’t have these products handy, you can even try good old petroleum jelly (aka Vaseline) to create a skin barrier, and it’s worth noting that petroleum jelly can also be used to treat chafing if it does happen.

5. Absorb Excess Moisture with (Non-Talc) Powders

If sweat is a major source of bother, moisture-absorbing powders can keep you dry by absorbing excess moisture. Look for non-talc all-natural products with ingredients like kaolin or cornstarch to absorb moisture. Other ingredients, like aloe and lavender, can cool, soothe and have antibacterial properties.

In general, we prefer the physical barrier (clothing) approach rather than talcs or creams. This is mostly because these products can get messy, stain clothing, and sometimes need repeated reapplication.

Note: According to research, talcum powder may increase the risk of ovarian and uterine cancer, so avoid using this type of powder in the genital area.

6. Try Antiperspirants or Deodorants

While we usually think about our armpits when it comes to sweat, you have sweat glands all over your body, including your boobs, groin, back, and thighs. Factors that impact how much you sweat include:

• How many sweat glands you have (the average person has 3 million, but it can range between 2 million and 4 million. The more glands, the more sweat).
• Gender
• Genetics
• Age
• Fitness level
• Environment

Antiperspirants work by temporarily plugging your sweat glands, so they are very effective at preventing sweat. Many of us use antiperspirants for underarm sweat (though people increasingly switch to natural deodorants for various health reasons connected with aluminum - the chief ingredient used to plug those glands). 

But whether you are for or against them, antiperspirants can offer an effective solution to sweat. And you can use antiperspirant on other body parts too. That said, the skin around your groin and inner thighs may be more sensitive. You should also avoid putting product around your vulva, where it may cause irritation and even infection.

7. Keep Your Skin Clean and Dry (but Moisturized)

If your skin is already irritated, red or inflamed, chafing can happen more easily. There are certain body parts where the skin is just naturally more delicate. These include:

• The skin of the inner thighs and vulva
• The breasts and nipples (and beneath the breasts)
• Inner arms and armpits

Always make sure that you are treating the skin gently. This includes not scrubbing too hard in the shower nor drying too aggressively (pat dry rather than rubbing harshly.) It also includes the kinds of products you choose: Products with scrubbing particles or acids (like lactic acid, fruit acid, or AHAs) may irritate, as might products with a strong fragrance. Also, consider the temperature of the water you’re bathing in: Hot showers and baths can irritate sensitive skin. 

If your skin is sensitive (or is already a chafed area), gentle washing with a scent-free shower gel is ideal. Pat the skin dry and moisturize it with a light lotion.

While gentle cleaning is best, it is also worth noting the importance of staying clean and dry. If you work up a sweat, don’t sit around with wet skin in damp and sweaty workout clothes. If it’s a steamy hot day, you might want to change your underwear even after a short stroll. Those damp conditions can easily aggravate the skin (as well as creating a breeding ground for bacteria that can cause skin infections, UTIs, or yeast infections!)

So shower and change often to keep the skin clean and dry. But treat it gently so you don’t cause any irritation!

If Chafing Occurs, Don’t Panic

If you already have chafed skin, you may be in quite a bit of pain. But don’t panic; although it may feel otherwise, chafing is usually considered a minor irritation. Read detailed steps about how to heal chafing. In summary:

• Clean any broken skin with cool or lukewarm water and a scent-free, gentle cleanser
• Pat the skin dry with a clean towel (avoid vigorously rubbing it)
• Apply a balm or cream like Vaseline, aloe vera gel, or argan oil to the irritated skin
• Let the skin rest: Try to minimize the movement that caused the chafing
• Sleep in clothes that encapsulate the area: That burning sensation may really bother you at night. If your inner thighs are affected, try sleeping in leggings or shorts so the thighs don’t continue to rub against each other
• See a doctor if the chafing doesn’t clear up in a few days or:
• A wound opens up and doesn’t scab over in a few days (assuming it’s not further exacerbated)
• You notice blood or pus coming from a chafing wound
• The skin is very hot or swollen
• Redness spreads beyond the point of chafing

More FAQs about Chafing

How Do I Stop My Inner Thighs From Chafing?

When your thighs rub together, shapewear (like Thigh Savers) is your friend. Slather petroleum jelly or apply skin lubricant on sensitive skin areas, or use powders like talc to keep things dry. The key here is to keep your inner thighs as dry as possible. Less moisture means less irritation.

What Is the Best Thing to Prevent Chafing? 

If you want to prevent chafing, make sure you're wearing comfortable and breathable fabrics. Also, try to dodge activities that rub your skin the wrong way. Consider using anti-chafing products like petroleum jelly or specialized lubricants. They work wonders in reducing friction and keeping things smooth. Keep those areas prone to chafing clean and dry.

How Do I Stop Chafing Down There?

You can stop chafing in sensitive spots like your inner thighs, groin, or underarms by using anti-chafing balms and powders, opt for breathable clothing, and choose products like Thigh Savers to stop skin rubbing in the first place.

Does Vaseline Prevent Chafing?

Yes, Vaseline can help prevent chafing. It forms a protective barrier that resists sweating and keeps the skin lubricated and moisturized, reducing friction and irritation. Additionally, Vaseline All-Over Body Balm Jelly Stick can be applied to the inner thighs before exercising or walking to effectively protect against chafing. 

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We hope you found this post informative—but remember: we’re not doctors and this post is not medical advice! While all posts are fact-checked and well researched, we always recommend you chat with your doctor about any questions or concerns you might have regarding a medical condition.

We’re here to support and educate, but never with the aim of disregarding professional medical advice you’ve been given. Phew, now that that’s out of the way, you can go on living unapologetically free.

Chafing is incredibly common. It can happen to different body parts, to men and women. And while it is considered a “minor” skin irritation in medical terms, it can hurt a whole lot. So, if you’re experiencing chafing, you’ll be relieved to know that there are things you can do to soothe your irritated skin and help it heal.

5 Steps to Soothing Chafed Skin

Chafed skin will usually present as angry, red, and inflamed skin. It will feel tender or painful to touch, and you may even find movement painful. So, you’ll definitely want to seek immediate relief. 

The good news is that there are no elaborate steps or products here. Chafing is a bit like a mild sunburn; it will generally heal on its own. But there are also steps you can take to help that healing process.

1. Make Sure to Clean the Chafed Skin

Chafing generally happens when the skin is hot and sweaty, so we’re more susceptible to it in the summer months or when working out. Sweat worsens chafing because it makes the skin sticky, and this means the skin is more likely to ‘drag’ when it’s moving, thereby creating friction.

But sweat also contains salt, and we all know the adage about rubbing salt in a wound. Indeed, the salt in your sweat can be responsible for a lot of the skin irritation associated with chafing.

Damp, clammy skin can also be a breeding ground for bacteria, which can cause yeast infections and other skin infections. So, the first thing you should do is get out of those sweaty and wet clothes and throw them in the laundry hamper. Hop in the shower and wash all that sweat away.

When it comes to washing, this is a time to keep the temperature lower. Cool water will probably feel really nice against your hot, inflamed skin and will immediately start to reduce the swelling. Also, choose a gentle soap (scent-free, hypoallergenic if possible) and lather it up with your hands instead of using abrasive scrubbers like sponges or loofahs. Gentle is key.

And ‘gentle’ carries on outside the shower too. Pat your skin dry instead of rubbing the skin aggressively. 

2. Apply Petroleum Jelly, Aloe Vera Gel, or Another Soothing Product to Help Healing

Dry, clean skin will heal over time by itself. But there are a number of products that can be applied to:

• Offer immediate relief (cooling, anti-inflammatory, and even numbing properties)
• Help the skin heal faster
• Form a protective barrier to prevent chafing

There are lots of options here, and you probably already have one or two of these in your medicine cabinet or even your pantry. Petroleum jelly is a really popular option, but here’s a full list of products to consider for treating chafed skin:

• Aloe vera gel (aloe vera is known for its cooling properties, especially when used on sunburn)
• Argan oil (nutrient-rich and has anti-inflammatory properties)
• Coconut oil (coconut oil reduces inflammation and helps heal wounds)
• Shea butter (contains vitamins A, E, and F, antioxidant vitamins that promote circulation and healthy skin cell growth)
• Diaper rash cream (serves as a barrier cream)
• Petroleum jelly, aka Vaseline (petroleum jelly keeps the skin slick to prevent further rubbing)
• Medicated ointment

Chafing can happen in lots of different places on the body (we’ll cover that in the next section), so do think about what product is appropriate for what body part. If you have skin chafing around the groin, for example, always be mindful of using products on genitalia that might disrupt the pH balance of that area.

You’ll likely have to reapply whatever product you choose every few hours to soothe the friction burn caused by skin chafing.

3. Consider Your Clothing or Nightwear

Chafed skin needs a break from the movements that cause friction. If you can, now is a good time to chill out.

But you can also treat chafing by thinking about what you wear. Here are some good considerations:

• Create a physical barrier around the chafed skin: To prevent further skin-on-skin chafing, make sure the skin is encapsulated in soft, fitted clothing. For example, if you have inner thigh-chafing, you need to minimize friction between your thighs at this point, so choose fitted clothing that will create a physical barrier to prevent the thighs from rubbing together. Leggings are a good choice for daywear or try some anti-chafing underwear or Leakproof Thigh Savers. If you’re turning in for the night, opt for pajamas rather than a night dress.
• Sweat-wicking materials are key: If you’re going back outside or will be moving around, sweat-wicking materials will keep the skin dry. Athletic leggings and fitted athleisure tops are usually made of this kind of material. This will prevent salty sweat from agitating the skin, thereby giving it a chance to heal.
• Choose soft materials: Cotton, modal cotton, and soft sweat-wicking materials will feel cool and comfortable next to the skin. Avoid anything hard or scratchy, like thick denim that hasn’t yet been broken in or wool.
• Watch out for seams: Athleisure wear usually has offset seams to prevent the seams from causing chafing. But thick protruding seams (on joggers, jeans, and bulky sweaters) may only aggravate chafing further. So, look for products that are seam-free or have offset seams. 

4. Take a Rest

Want an excuse to Netflix ‘n’ chill? You got one! Staying still for a bit will allow the skin to do its thing and heal up. Don’t forget that when your body is hot and sweaty, you need to rehydrate. So, get plenty of fluids and lie low for a bit if you possibly can. 

5. If That’s Not Cutting it: Icepacks, Painkillers, Possibly a Visit to Your Doctor

We all have different pain thresholds, and if you’re in sincere pain, you can absolutely consider taking an over-the-counter painkiller (always follow the dosage guidelines.)

Icepacks can also bring additional relief; just make sure you’re wrapping the icepack in something (an old teatowel or pillowcase is ideal) before pressing it against the skin.

You might also wonder if you need to visit the doctor. Most often, the answer to this is ‘no.’ However, there are some exceptions, and here are some clear signs you might want to have a doctor take a look:

• A wound opens up around the chafed area and doesn’t scab over in a few days (assuming it’s not further exacerbated)
• You notice blood or pus coming from a chafing wound or cracked skin
• The skin is very hot or swollen
• Redness spreads beyond the point of chafing

That said, chafing does not usually require medical attention, and it’s simply a matter of giving the skin time to heal. 

Inner Thighs, Nippes, Feet: Skin Chafing Can Happen to Different Body Parts

Skin chafing can occur almost anywhere on the body, but it’s always delicate and sensitive skin that will chafe more readily (and will hurt the most.) 

Skin-on-skin chafing occurs where the skin folds or comes into contact with other skin. But skin-on-material chafing can happen pretty much any time something repeatedly rubs against your body. This could be clothing, but it might also be an object you’re carrying (for example carrying heavy boxes could cause chafing along the inner arms). Or it could be something like a seatbelt or purse strap rubbing against the side of your neck.

The effect of skin chafing is like that of ultrafine sandpaper. If you rub ultrafine sandpaper against a surface once, you won’t really notice an impact, but do it 1000 times, and you’ll transform the surface. But, there are some body parts where chafing occurs more commonly. These include:

• The heels and toes (often caused by stiff shoes that haven’t been broken in. Sometimes, you'll have to treat blisters as a result of this kind of chafing)
• Inner thigh chafing (caused by the friction when the thigh skin rubs together and often exacerbated by groin sweat or stubble from bikini hair removal)
• Beneath the boobs (often caused by too-tight or too-loose underwire bras that rub against the rib cage. Can also be exacerbated by boob sweat)
• The collar or neck (often caused by a stiff, starched collar or even a seatbelt or cross-body purse strap for some people)
• Nipple-chafing (often happens to male athletes who may experience chafing when the fabric of their running vest rubs against the nipples. Less common in women as sports bras are usually worn)
• Inner arm or armpit chafing (another area where the skin is delicate and friction can easily happen between the skin folds)

Skin Chafing’s Co-Conspirators: Stubble, Sweat, Dry Skin

While chafing is caused by repeated rubbing (either skin-on-skin or other materials on the skin), it doesn’t have some co-conspirators that can make it worse when the skin rubs. Those include:

Sweat or Excess Moisture

Sweat creates a double-whammy of problems. First, it creates a damp, sticky skin surface that is more likely to ‘drag’ when it rubs. This means your skin won’t glide over the surface of whatever is causing the chafing. Instead, it pulls. And when this happens repeatedly? You’ve got yourself some skin chafing.

Second, we all know that sweat contains salt. And salt can be irritating to inflamed skin. In fact, that’s often where a lot of the burning sensation of chafing comes from. Those tiny salt crystals can also cause micro-tears to the skin, and while they might not be individually visible to the eye, they will cause red skin and inflammation.

So, on days when you’re sweaty, skin chafing is more likely to occur. This is why it’s such a concern for athletes.

Stubble

Remember when we said that chafing is like ultrafine sandpaper rubbing against the skin? Well, if you add stubble into that mix, you might upgrade that sandpaper. Depending on the body part, hair removal will mean hair regrowth, and that regrowth is often coarse to the touch. On body parts like the armpits, legs, and crotch, stubble can make chafing all the more irritating.

Dry or Irritated Skin

Healthy, moisturized, and strong skin is no guarantee that you won’t experience chafing. But if your skin is already rough and dry or even irritated, you’ll definitely speed up the chafing process and be at greater risk of skin infection.

As we’ve said, if the skin is already chafed, you’ll want to treat it gently. But when skin is healed, make sure to regularly exfoliate and moisturize and generally keep skin in tip-top condition to avoid irritations. If you have other skin irritations, it’s worth seeing a dermatologist, as there are lots of treatment options and best practices available. 

We all tend to be hard on our skin, exposing it to the elements, harsh products, scrubbing, and chemicals. Remember to slow down and give it some TLC!

In the Future: Take Steps to Prevent Chafing and Skin Irritation

In this article, we’ve focused a lot on treating chafing and how to soothe chafed skin. We've also tried to better understand what chafing is, why it happens and what makes chafing worse.

But there are also ways to avoid chafing altogether. Indeed, a lot of the steps outlined above can also reduce friction and help prevent the skin rubbing that causes thigh chafing. In particular, carefully choosing what you wear can prevent skin chafing before it even gets started (or what underwear you wear to prevent chafing of the inner thighs).

Also, think about choices that will minimize sweat and moisture, which we saw can really exacerbate skin chafing. Look for:

• Clothes and anti-chafe underwear (or leakproof anti-chafing underwear) that are moisture and sweat-wicking
• Non-talc anti-chafing powders that can be applied to absorb moisture naturally and reduce friction
• Anti-chafing cream - there are lots of options out there designed to help the skin 'glide', and your trusted petroleum jelly can even work!
• Antiperspirants and deodorants that can be applied on areas other than the armpits

Finally, remember that chafing can happen to anybody. If you experience it, don’t feel embarrassed. It is not necessarily a signal that you have a weight problem or that there’s something wrong. Indeed, many high-performance athletes struggle with chafing too. But do give yourself the time to heal and recover and think about how you can prevent it next time!

We hope you found this post informative — but remember: we’re not doctors and this post is not medical advice! While all posts are fact-checked and well researched, we always recommend you chat with your doctor about any questions or concerns you might have regarding a medical condition. We’re here to support and educate, but never with the aim of disregarding professional medical advice you’ve been given. Phew, now that that’s out of the way, you can go on living unapologetically free.

So, what can you do to get rid of inner thigh chafing? Good news: While it’s majorly irritating, chafing is usually considered a minor skin irritation, and with some rest from friction and some gentle, loving treatment, your skin should be right again in no time!

Why We Get Chafed Skin on the Inner Thighs in the First Place

The skin of the inner thighs is thin and fragile, which makes it more susceptible to chafing. Additionally, the inner thighs are protected a lot of the time, which keeps the skin delicate (unlike other body areas where the skin toughens up due to exposure.) 

But in summer, as the temperature soars, we all make different clothing choices. Shorts, dresses, and skirts leave our thighs exposed. And as we walk, run and hike, the delicate skin of the inner thighs rubs together. It’s this friction from repeated rubbing that causes chafing. 

While friction from repeated rubbing is the main cause of thigh chafing, it is exacerbated by the following:

Sweat

When it’s hot out, we all sweat more. And while sweating is a perfectly normal bodily function, it can also agitate delicate skin. This is because sweat contains salt, and when salt comes into contact with irritated skin, it can cause a burning sensation.

But sweat is a culprit for another reason; it makes the skin sticky. And that means if there are body parts rubbing together, sweat can create more drag and pull, which can worsen the friction and the chafing it causes. So, staying dry is one way to minimize or avoid chafing.

Stubble

We all know that stubble isn’t exactly soft. It can be prickly, and regrowth can cause its own irritation (red bumps, ingrown hairs, etc.) So if you remove the hair on your inner thighs and bikini lines, the stubble can definitely contribute to chafing. It might even cause additional tears to the skin that can quickly turn chafing into a significant skin irritation and even (in severe cases) cause skin infection.

7 Steps to Treat Thigh Chafing 

We don’t want to be alarmist; chafing is usually a minor and common skin irritation that will heal relatively quickly. However, when it happens along your inner thighs, you don’t want to dawdle. 

This is because broken, irritated skin + dampness can quickly become a breeding ground for bacteria. And this is not something you want happening in your groin area, where bacteria can lead to UTIs, yeast infections, or skin infections.

So, don’t freak out, but do act quickly if your skin has become chafed and especially if the skin is broken. But rest assured, the steps are straightforward, and you probably have everything you need at hand to treat chafing and prevent further irritation.

1. Always Start With Clean Skin

Once you get home, make sure those sweaty, wet clothes you’re wearing go right in the laundry hamper. Don’t be tempted to wear them again; start with a clean slate.

This applies to the skin, too; there’s no point applying anything until you’ve cleaned the skin. So into the shower you go. If you choose a lower temperature, this should actually feel nice and bring some immediate relief to the skin. This is not a time for a hot steamy shower or bath. Instead, choose lukewarm water and let it run gently over your chafed skin.

You’ll want to clean the skin with soap, and again, gentleness is key. Choose a shower gel that is mild and unscented, and lather it in your hands rather than using loofahs or sponges. Make sure to lather up your thigh and groin area to wash all that sweat away.

2. Avoid Vigorous Rubbing

You may love an invigorating towel dry when you step out of the shower, but this is not the time for that. Remember: Friction is what got you here in the first place, and rubbing with a towel (no matter how soft!) will only create more friction. Instead, gently pat the skin dry with a clean towel. If you are in significant pain, you could also just lay on a towel and let yourself air dry.

3. Apply (and Reapply) a Healing Ointments on the Skin Irritation

Now comes the soothing part of the skin treatment: Reach for a healing cream, balm, or salve to treat thigh chafing. There are lots of options here, but we recommend staying away from heavy scents and lotions with acids (AHAs, lactic acid, or fruit acids) as these might further irritate the skin. If it's all you have, petroleum jelly even works!

Popular choices of topical products to soothe chafing include:

• Aloe vera gel (aloe vera is known for its cooling properties, especially when used on sunburn)
• Argan oil (nutrient-rich and has anti-inflammatory properties)
• Coconut oil (coconut oil reduces inflammation and helps heal wounds)
• Shea butter (contains vitamins A, E, and F, antioxidant vitamins that promote circulation and healthy skin cell growth)
• Diaper rash cream (serves as a barrier cream)
• Petroleum jelly, aka Vaseline (petroleum jelly keeps the skin slick to prevent further rubbing)
• Medicated ointment

When treating the inner thighs, do be mindful of anything that gets too close to the vulva. Anything that enters the vagina can disrupt the pH balance and cause irritations or a UTI (urinary tract infection), so make sure you don’t slather on products too generously.

Instead of a more-is-more one-off approach, reapply the product every few hours, so the skin stays hydrated without being weighed down by product.

4. Choose What You Change Into Carefully

Okay — once you’re clean and dry, you can get dressed. Whether that means changing into nightwear or daywear, here are some rules of thumb:

• Create a physical barrier around the chafed skin: To prevent further skin-on-skin chafing, make sure the skin is encapsulated in soft, fitted clothing. For example, if you have inner thigh-chafing, minimize friction between your thighs by choosing fitted clothing that will create a physical barrier while the skin heals. This will also prevent the skin rubbing against itself.  Leggings are a good choice for daywear, or try some shorts like our  Thigh Savers. If you’re turning in for the night, opt for pajamas rather than a night dress.
• Sweat-wicking materials are key: If you’re going back outside or will be moving around, sweat-wicking materials will keep the skin dry. Athletic leggings and fitted athleisure tops are usually made of this material. This will prevent salty sweat from agitating the skin, thereby giving it a chance to heal. Try our Leakproof Thigh Savers that absorb up to around 1 regular tampon of sweat and are great for light period spotting too! 
• Choose soft materials: Cotton, modal cotton, and soft sweat-wicking materials will feel cool and comfortable next to the skin. Avoid anything hard or scratchy, like thick denim that hasn’t yet been broken in or wool.
• Watch out for seams: Athleisure wear usually has offset seams to prevent the seams from causing chafing. But thick protruding seams (on joggers, jeans, and bulky sweaters) may only aggravate chafing further. So, look for products that are seam-free or have offset seams. 

5. Rest & Rehydrate

While it’s not always possible to spend the rest of the day on the sofa, that’s really ideal. Even when you follow the first four steps, some amount of friction is inevitable. Remember: When the thighs rub, you're adding to the friction that caused inner thigh chafing in the first place. So if you can stay still and allow the skin to cool and heal, that will really speed up your recovery.

Also, don’t forget that when your body is hot and sweaty, you need to rehydrate. So, get plenty of fluids and lie low for a bit if you possibly can. (This would be an ideal time to binge-watch something on Netflix.)

Speaking of rest, this is not a time for hanky panky with your significant other either—that’s yet another form of friction, and it will probably yield some discomfort. A night off is probably best.

6. Ice Packs Can Also Help

If all of this seems trivial compared to the pain you’re enduring, you can also try an over-the-counter painkiller (always follow the guidelines.)

And if the burning sensation just won’t stop, you can reach for an ice pack and hold it against the skin. Always wrap the ice pack in something first (an old tea towel or pillow sham is ideal.)

7. Do You Need Medical Attention for Skin Chafing? Know the Signs 

Most chafing does not require medical attention. We know it hurts like hell, but your doctor will probably advise you to follow the steps outlined above. 

However, there are rare exceptions when chafing can become something more serious. Secondary skin infections can occur as a complication of chafing when the skin is vulnerable to bacterial or fungal infections. Here are the pretty unmistakable signs:

• A wound opens up around the chafed area and doesn't scab over in a few days (assuming it's not further exacerbated)
• You notice blood or pus coming from a chafing wound or cracked skin
• The skin is very hot or swollen
• Redness spreads beyond the point of chafing

Next Time: Prevent Thigh Chafing Before it Happens

Hopefully, you’re well on the road to recovery now. 

But wouldn’t it be even better if you could have avoided skin chafing altogether? Well, you can prevent chafing! Indeed, a lot of the steps outlined above can also reduce friction and help prevent the skin rubbing that causes thigh chafing. In particular, carefully choosing what you wear (like Thigh Savers) can prevent skin chafing before it even gets started.

Also, think about choices that will minimize sweat and moisture, which we saw can really exacerbate skin chafing. Look for:

• Clothes (like our Leakproof Thigh Savers) that are moisture and sweat-wicking
• Non-talc anti-chafing powders that can be applied to absorb moisture naturally
• Antiperspirants and deodorants that can be applied places other than the armpits

When it comes to your groin/crotch area, you do want to be mindful of what products you put down there that might disrupt the pH levels in the vagina. But if you focus on the inner-thigh area rather than the groin, you have options.

There are also topical anti-chafe creams that prevent chafing (and good ole Vaseline or petroleum jelly works well, too) by creating a skin barrier that helps the thighs glide past each other rather than drag. But you may find these to be messier solutions than simply choosing different underwear or clothing.

Finally, remember that thigh chafing can happen to anyone (and almost anywhere on your body) so don’t be ashamed or embarrassed if you experience it. Know there are many options for both treating thigh chafing and avoiding it going forward. So you can still enjoy your favorite summer activities, just without the burn.

FAQs on Thigh Chafing

How Do You Heal Chafed Thighs Fast?

To heal chafed thighs quickly, gently clean the area and consider applying an over-the-counter thigh chafing cream. Moisturizers like petroleum jelly, aloe vera gel, or lotions can help soothe the skin and promote healing. Keeping the area dry, wearing loose-fitting clothing, and using products like anti-chafing products can also aid in the healing process.

How Long Does Thigh Chafing Last? 

Thigh chafing typically takes a week to heal, though it depends on how severe the skin is chafed and if you are resting and treating the skin. In order to reduce friction and help heal the skin, keep the thighs dry and apply lubricating creams like petroleum jelly.

Why Are My Inner Thighs Chafing?

Thigh chafing occurs due to friction between the inner thighs, which can be exacerbated by factors like sweat, wetness, heat, humidity, exercise, and skin rubbing against rough or wet clothing. This friction and moisture combination can lead to skin irritation, inflammation, and rawness on the inner thighs. 

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We hope you found this post informative — but remember: we’re not doctors and this post is not medical advice! While all posts are fact-checked and well researched, we always recommend you chat with your doctor about any questions or concerns you might have regarding a medical condition. 

We’re here to support and educate, but never with the aim of disregarding professional medical advice you’ve been given. Phew, now that that’s out of the way, you can go on living unapologetically free.

Chafing between the legs (inner thighs, groin) is caused by a mix of friction caused by repeated skin-on-skin rubbing and perspiration. Stubble may also exacerbate the irritation. 

But how to treat chafing in the groin area? The good news is there are options. But, first, let’s explore a little more about what chafing is and why it happens ‘down there.’

Skin Chafing Happens When the Skin Rubs Against Itself

You can experience chafing almost anywhere on the body, but there are some body areas where it’s more common than others. 

Chafing can be:

• Skin-to-skin contact: Usually occurs where there are skin folds, such as beneath the breasts or around the groin or the armpits, or where one body part comes into frequent contact with another part, like the inner thighs rubbing against each other when you walk.
• Material-on-skin rubbing: Chafing can also be caused by materials, like a starched stuff collar chafing your neck or a shoe chafing your heels. It can even be a thick seam chafing delicate skin.

Chafing Can Be Exacerbated by Any of the Following

While skin rubbing is the major cause of chafing, sweat definitely is its partner in crime. Sweat makes us sticky and creates ‘drag’ as the skin rubs, making 'friction burn' even worse.

Sweat also contains salt, and that salt will further irritate skin that is already getting hot and red. Salt crystals can also cause small micro-tears in the skin. And it’s often the salt in your sweat that will cause that burning sensation (you know what they say about rubbing salt in wounds!)

But it’s not the only thing that exacerbates chafing. Watch out for:

1. Stubble 

Chafing sometimes occurs on areas of the body where you have removed hair, like the armpits, bikini line, or inner thighs. The regrowth of hair (aka stubble) can be coarse, and when that stubble is part of the equation when the skin rubs, it can add to the friction of skin-on-skin chafing.

2. Heat or Humid Weather

When temperatures soar, we all tend to shed some layers of clothing. This might mean that delicate skin that is usually encapsulated in clothes is suddenly exposed. For example, you might wear tights and leggings or jeans all winter, and then suddenly, when the mercury climbs, you shed those layers and opt for floaty dresses or skirts. This means your inner thighs are more likely to chafe when it’s hot out.

3. Any Pre-Existing Skin Irritations

If you have sensitive skin, you can react to many things, from ingredients in certain products to the sun. Or you may have dry skin that is itchy, flaky, or cracked and broken skin. Any of these pre-existing irritations can make painful chafing all the more painful. 

Is it Normal to Sweat ‘Down There’?

Now that we understand the role sweat plays in chafing, you may be asking yourself if it’s normal to sweat in your groin. Yes, it is. We all sweat wherever we have sweat glands, which include the vulva and inner thighs. Of course, we don’t all sweat the same amounts. Indeed there is no rule about how much sweating is ‘normal.’ 

Factors that impact how much you sweat include:

• How many sweat glands you have (the average person has 3 million, but it can range between 2 million and 4 million. The more glands, the more sweat).
• Gender
• Genetics
• Age
• Fitness level

And because we all sweat, we can all experience chafing. It’s also worth noting that a person of size and shape can experience thigh chafing. But if you are a larger person, you may have more skin-on-skin rubbing, and that can make chafing worse. Perhaps, for this reason, chafing is sometimes called ‘chub rub.’ But it is an experience that many people, from pro athletes to every shape and size, may have.

How to Treat Chafed Skin

If your skin is chafed, you’re probably in quite a bit of pain or discomfort, so it’s worth following these steps to allow the skin to heal as quickly as possible.

Step 1: Try to Restrict Movement

If you can rest up and minimize movement, that will reduce or eliminate the recurring friction which has caused the chafing. Now, we get it: this may not be possible. If you’re mid-hike or out-and-about, you have no choice but to keep moving. But once you get home, try to give yourself a rest and let the skin cool and relax, at least overnight.

Step 2: Into the Shower, You Go!

You’ll want to wash away sweat which can become a breeding ground for bacteria, which can cause skin infection. Make sure those wet and sweaty clothes go straight in the laundry hamper.

A cool shower will probably feel good right about now. Don’t go full blast on the water pressure, though. Let the water gently run over the area of chafed skin, and you should feel immediate relief. Choose an unscented, hypoallergenic shower gel (no harsh soaps) to clean the area, but stay away from loofahs, sponges, and scrubs. 

When you step out of the shower, don’t be tempted to rub yourself dry vigorously. Instead, gently pat the skin dry with a clean and soft towel. 

Step 3: Soothe Chafed Skin With Balms, Oils, and Creams

A cooling and moisturizing lotion or balm will both offer relief and help the skin start to heal. It will also form a protective barrier to protect the skin from further irritation. You can choose a number of different products, such as:

• Aloe vera gel (aloe vera is known for its cooling properties, especially when used on sunburn)
• Argan oil (nutrient-rich and has anti-inflammatory properties)
• Coconut oil (coconut oil reduces inflammation and helps heal wounds)
• Shea butter (contains vitamins A, E, and F, antioxidant vitamins that promote circulation and healthy skin cell growth)
• Diaper rash cream (serves as a barrier cream)
• Petroleum jelly, aka Vaseline (petroleum jelly keeps the skin slick to prevent further rubbing)
• Medicated ointment

Generally, you can use whatever you have on hand, even a regular body lotion, but stay away from heavy scents and lotions with acids (AHAs, lactic acid, or fruit acids.)

You should reapply whatever product you choose a few times throughout the day while you’re healing. 

Note: The vulva is a sensitive area, so apply creams sparingly here and do not allow creams to enter the vagina unless they're designed for this area.

Step 4: Stay Hydrated

Chafing usually occurs when your body is hot and perspiring, so you may have lost a lot of water while chafing was occurring. Make sure to replenish that hydration by drinking lots of water. This will help your body cool, regulate its temperature and heal.

Step 5: Rethink What You Wear to Reduce Friction

After you have treated your skin, think about using clothing to form a physical barrier to protect yourself from further skin irritation. 

Here are some suggestions for chafing in different body parts:

• Thigh Savers, Leakproof Thigh Savers or leggings can protect the inner thighs from rubbing together
• Socks can prevent shoes from rubbing your feet (band-aids can help too!)
• Longer, fitted sleeves can protect the inner arms and armpits from chafing
• Changing into a wireless bra or a bra with wider straps (or a better-fitting bra) can minimize chafing around the bust area
• Changing out of any too-tight clothing for something that fits you better will always help

Step 6: Use Ice Packs on Chafed Skin

If your skin is really chafed, an ice pack can bring relief to irritated skin. Now’s a good time to marathon something good on Netflix and let an ice pack cool and reduce swelling. Note: You should never apply an ice pack directly to the skin. Instead, wrap it in a soft cloth and press that gently against the skin. 

Step 7: When to See a Doctor About Chafed Skin

Skin chafing does not usually require a visit to the doctor. If you’re still experiencing pain or irritation days later, or you experience any of the following, it might be worth a trip to the doctor:

• A wound opens up around the chafed area and doesn’t scab over in a few days (assuming it’s not further exacerbated)
• You notice blood or pus coming from a chafing wound
• The skin is very hot or swollen
• Redness spreads beyond the point of chafing

But generally, a little bit of rest and TLC, and you should be back to normal in a few days!

Going Forward: Prevent Chafing from Recurring or Worsening

Now that you’ve survived chafing, why not prevent it from happening again? Here are some tips.

Prevent Chafing of the Inner Thighs With Thigh Savers

You can prevent thigh chafing and groin chafing with a simple product. Anti-chafing underwear works by creating a physical barrier between your thighs. Usually, they’re light shorts that are form-fitting, and you can also look for styles (like our Thigh Savers or Leakproof Thigh Savers) that include moisture-wicking properties to help manage sweat. 

Explore Anti-Chafing Cream to Prevent Chafing

There are many anti-chafing products that help prevent friction and combat (and treat) skin chafing. These products are designed to create a barrier that sits on top of the skin and helps the skin “glide” past other skin. If you don’t have these products handy, you can even try good old petroleum jelly (aka Vaseline) to create a skin barrier (yes, petroleum jelly is good for both treating chafing and preventing it!)

Minimize Excess Moisture and Sweat With (Non-Talc) Powders

We now know all about the sweat-chafing connection, so it’s also good to think about products that will minimize and absorb sweat and help prevent chafing. Look for non-talc all-natural products with ingredients like kaolin or cornstarch to absorb moisture. 

Dress in Sweat-Wicking Leggings or Bottoms

Look for clothing that wicks moisture and sweat from the skin surfaces to prevent skin chafing. You’ll usually find most athletic or athleisure clothing has some degree of moisture-wicking these days.

However, if your clothes are too tight, those tight seams and bands (like waistbands or bra bands) can dig into the skin and cause irritation. So look for products with that perfect second-skin feeling.

Preventing chafing does require a little bit of forward-thinking, but it definitely pays off!

We hope you found this post informative — but remember: we’re not doctors and this post is not medical advice! While all posts are fact-checked and well researched, we always recommend you chat with your doctor about any questions or concerns you might have regarding a medical condition. We’re here to support and educate, but never with the aim of disregarding professional medical advice you’ve been given. Phew, now that that’s out of the way, you can go on living unapologetically free.

What Can You Apply to Soothe Chafed Skin?

Chafed skin is often hot to the touch, red, and inflamed. You may even experience some small tears in the skin that cause a little bleeding. And chafing is painful. It is caused by repeated rubbing, so any further skin rubs can make chafing worse and feel like a form of medieval torture.

You’re probably keen to understand what you can apply to the skin to help soothe this pain and calm the skin, but before you go applying anything, you’ll want to take the following steps:

1. Hop in the Shower to Clean the Skin

You’re probably wearing some hot and sweaty clothes, so start by tossing those wet clothes in the laundry hamper.

Your skin will be sensitive to the touch when it’s chafed, and this might make you want to avoid the water pressure of a shower. But if you opt for low-pressure and lukewarm water, you may actually find a shower reduces some of the heat and inflammation.

But more than that, a shower will wash away sweat which can agitate chafing because it contains salt. And it will also keep your irritated skin clean, which helps protect you from skin infection.

Some notes on how to shower:

• If you can control the water pressure, put it on the gentlest setting
• Choose lukewarm or cool water over hot water
• Avoid heavily fragranced products; opt for fragrance-free, hypoallergenic shower gel or soap and lather it in your hands, applying with the gentlest care
• Avoid loofahs, sponges, or any other scrubbing tools—while it’s great to exfoliate when skin is chafed, you want to let it heal rather than adding more friction

2. Pat the Skin Dry (Oh So Gently!)

Hopefully, the shower helped, and if you have minor chafing, you may already feel a lot better. But don’t forget that your skin still needs a little TLC. So, no aggressive towel rubbing (no matter how invigorating it may feel)—that is simply another form of friction that will worsen your chafing and hurt like hell!

Instead, gently pat the skin dry with a clean towel. Or, if you have the time, lounge a bit and let your skin air dry so you have minimal touching.

3. Apply (and Reapply) Your Pick of the Following Products

A cooling and moisturizing lotion or balm will both offer relief and help the skin start to heal. It will also form a barrier to protect the skin from further irritation. You can choose a number of different products, such as:

• Aloe vera gel (aloe vera is known for its cooling properties, especially when used on sunburn)
• Argan oil (nutrient-rich and has anti-inflammatory properties)
• Coconut oil (coconut oil reduces inflammation and helps heal wounds)
• Shea butter (contains vitamins A, E, and F, antioxidant vitamins that promote circulation and healthy skin cell growth)
• Diaper rash cream (serves as a barrier cream)
• Petroleum jelly, aka Vaseline (petroleum jelly keeps the skin slick to prevent further rubbing)
• Medicated ointment

Generally, you can use whatever you have on hand, even a regular body lotion. You will likely want to reapply whatever product you choose a few times throughout the day while you’re healing. Many of these products will help the skin barrier repair. 

However, stay clear of products that are heavily fragranced or contain acids (fruit acids, lactic acid, AHAs) as they will likely feel burning on your raw skin.

4. Try to Rest and Stay Hydrated

Chafing usually occurs when your body is hot and perspiring, so you may have lost a lot of water while chafing was occurring. Make sure to replenish that hydration by drinking lots of water. This will help your body cool, regulate its temperature and heal.

But really, the very best treatment is rest. If you can, chill on the sofa and watch some TV for the rest of the day, or read a book. Simply staying still will reduce friction and allow the chafed skin a chance to begin healing, whereas continued movement will only exasperate it further

5. If Pain Is Severe, Reach for Ice-Packs

Depending on how sensitive your skin is and how long you were moving (or causing repeated rubbing), chafing can be minor or more severe. And, of course, we all have different pain thresholds.

So, you be the judge: If the pain is distracting and keeping you from normal tasks, you might want to take a painkiller or apply ice packs to the affected area to treat chafing.

Note: You should never apply an ice pack directly to the skin. Instead, wrap it in a soft cloth (a tea towel is perfect - not too thick and generally pretty soft) and hold that gently against the skin. It helps to have two ice packs on standby so that you can swap them out as one starts to warm up.

6. If You Must Move Around, Consider Your Clothing

Clothing can be your friend or your foe when it comes to chafing. 

Foe: Either there is no clothing forming a protective barrier between the skin (e.g., inner thigh chafing when you’re wearing a summer dress.) Or the clothing itself is the source of chafing (e.g., a pair of shoes that’s rubbing your heel raw.)

Friend: Think about using clothing to form a physical barrier to reduce friction and protect the skin from further irritation. Here are some suggestions:

• Thigh Savers can protect the inner thighs from rubbing together
• Socks can prevent shoes from rubbing your feet (band-aids can help too!)
• Longer, fitted sleeves can protect the inner arms and armpits from chafing
• Changing into a wireless bra or a bra with wider straps (or a better-fitting bra) can minimize chafing around the bust area
• Changing out of any too-tight clothing for something that fits you better will always help

Do You Ever Need to See the Doctor Regarding Skin Chafing?

Chafed skin can be exceptionally painful, but that doesn’t necessarily mean you need to rush to the doctor. Indeed, skin chafing does not usually require a visit to the doctor. If you’re still experiencing pain or irritation days later, or you experience any of the following, it might be worth a trip to the doctor:

• A wound opens up around the chafed area and doesn’t scab over in a few days (assuming it’s not further exacerbated)
• You notice blood or pus coming from a chafing wound
• The skin is very hot or swollen
• Redness spreads beyond the point of chafing

But generally, a little bit of rest and TLC, and you should be back to normal in a few days!

Next Time: Prevent Chafing From Happening Altogether

So now you know what to put on skin chafing. But did you know you could probably have avoided chafing in the first place?

Intrigued? Want to know more? Read on to learn how to prevent chafing:

Protect Your Inner Thighs With Anti-Chafe Shorts

You can prevent thigh chafing and groin chafing with a simple product. Anti-chafing underwear works by creating a physical barrier between your thighs. Usually, they’re light shorts that are form-fitting, and you can also look for styles (like our Thigh Savers and Leakproof Thigh Savers) that include moisture-wicking to help manage sweat. 

Explore Anti-Chafing Products and Creams That Stop the Skin Rubbing

There are many anti-chafing products that help prevent friction and combat (and treat) skin chafing. These products are designed to create a barrier that sits on top of the skin and helps the skin “glide” past other skin. If you don’t have these products handy, you can even try good old petroleum jelly (aka Vaseline) to create a skin barrier (yes, petroleum jelly is good for both treating chafing and preventing it!)

Minimize Excess Moisture and Sweat With (Non-Talc) Powders

We now know all about the sweat-chafing connection, so it’s also good to think about products that will minimize and absorb sweat, like moisture-absorbing powders. Look for non-talc all-natural products with ingredients like kaolin or cornstarch to absorb moisture. Other ingredients, like aloe and lavender, can cool, soothe and have antibacterial properties.

Dress in Sweat-Wicking Clothes

Look for clothing that wicks moisture and sweat from the skin surfaces. You’ll usually find most athletic or athleisure clothing has some degree of moisture-wicking these days.

Clothes that fit the body snugly (like leggings) with minimal seams don’t tend to move a lot, so this means there’s less friction of them rubbing against your skin. And because they fit snugly, they also mean your skin is encapsulated, so there’s less skin-on-skin friction.

However, if your clothes are too tight, those tight seams and bands (like waistbands or bra bands) can dig into the skin and cause irritation. So look for products with that perfect second-skin feeling.

The good news is that chafing has become a real personal hygiene conversation in the last few years, and so there are more and more products to help address it (particularly thigh chafing.) This means that chafing is no longer an experience we have to tolerate in shame: With effective treatments and preventative products, we can all enjoy those hot summer days!

We hope you found this post informative — but remember: we’re not doctors and this post is not medical advice! While all posts are fact-checked and well researched, we always recommend you chat with your doctor about any questions or concerns you might have regarding a medical condition. We’re here to support and educate, but never with the aim of disregarding professional medical advice you’ve been given. Phew, now that that’s out of the way, you can go on living unapologetically free.

In this article, we’ll run down some of the most popular products for preventing chafing in the groin area. But, first, we’ll spend some time better understanding what chafing is and why it often occurs in the groin area and inner thighs.

What Is Thigh Chafing or Groin Chafing?

It is called many things: chub rub, thigh chafing, sweat rash, groin rash, etc. But no matter what you call it, chafing of the groin and inner thighs is a painful experience. But what is it, and why does it happen?

Groin and inner thigh chafing occur when delicate skin between the thighs or around the skin folds of the groin rub together, or when other materials repeatedly rub across the skin. These repeated movements can cause the skin surface to become irritated.

Chafing is a common skin irritation caused by something repeatedly rubbing against the skin. This rubbing can be:

• Skin to skin contact: This occurs when skin repeatedly rubs against other skin, like when the inner thighs rub against each other when you walk or run. Anywhere the skin comes in close contact or where there are natural folds in the skin, you can experience skin-on-skin contact and, therefore, chafing.
• Material-on-skin: Chafing can also occur when fabric or other materials rub against the skin repeatedly. This could be an awkwardly placed seam, a too-tight waistband or underwire, or even the stiff leather of a new pair of shoes.

It could be as simple as a dog walk on a hot summer day or as hardcore as competitive running. The repeated rubbing starts to create heat between the skin, which quickly turns to irritation and can even lead to small tears and considerable pain.

But while chafing is caused by repeated rubbing, other things come into play too. These include:

1. Stubble 

Chafing sometimes occurs on areas of the body where you have removed hair, like the armpits, bikini line, or inner thighs. The regrowth of hair (aka stubble) can be coarse, and when that stubble is part of the equation when the skin rubs, it can add to the friction of skin-on-skin chafing.

2. Heat or Humid Weather

When temperatures soar, we all tend to shed some layers of clothing. This might mean that delicate skin that is usually encapsulated in clothes is suddenly exposed. For example, you might wear tights and leggings or jeans all winter, and then suddenly, when the mercury climbs, you shed those layers and opt for floaty dresses or skirts. This means your inner thighs are more likely to chafe when it’s hot out.

3. Sweat or Excess Moisture

Obviously, when the temperature climbs, we all perspire more, and that sticky dampness of the skin or wet clothing can cause ‘drag’ as the skin moves, which results in that friction. But the problem of sweat goes beyond dampness alone. 

Sweat also contains salt, and that salt will further irritate skin that is already getting hot and red. Salt crystals can also cause small micro-tears in the skin. And it’s often the salt in your sweat that will cause that burning sensation (you know what they say about rubbing salt in wounds!)

4. Any Pre-Existing Skin Irritations

If you have sensitive skin, you can react to many things, from ingredients in certain products to the sun. Or you may have dry skin that is itchy, flaky, or cracked and broken skin. Any of these pre-existing irritations can make painful chafing all the more painful. 

Nipple Chafing, Armpit Chafing & More: It Can Happen in Other Body Parts Too!

Chafing can happen almost anywhere on the body, but it will always impact sensitive skin more. Some common areas skin chafing occurs:

• The heels and toes (chafed skin is often caused by stiff shoes that haven’t been broken in)
• Inner thighs (caused by the friction of thighs rubbing together and often exacerbated by groin sweat or stubble from bikini hair removal)
• Beneath the boobs (often caused by too-tight or too-loose underwire bras that rub against the rib cage. Can also be exacerbated by boob sweat)
• Nipple-chafing (often happens to male athletes who may experience chafing when the fabric of their vest rubs against the nipples. Nipple chafing is less common in women as sports bras are usually worn)
• Inner arm or armpit chafing (another area where the skin is delicate and friction can easily happen between the folds of the skin)

How to Prevent Chafed Skin on the Inner Thigh & Groin Areas

The good news is there are many products that minimize skin rubbing and prevent chafing. So, next time the sun comes out and you swap your jeans for a flowy dress, turn to the following products to prevent skin chafing:

Help Protect the Inner Thighs With Thigh Savers

A simple product can prevent thigh and groin chafing. Our Thigh Savers work by creating a physical barrier between your thighs. They’re light, form-fitting shorts, and you can also look for styles (like our Leakproof Thigh Savers and Leakproof High Rise Shaper Short) that absorb moisture, especially in the groin area. 

Prevent Chafing with Anti-Chafing Cream

There are many anti-chafing products that help prevent friction and combat (and treat) skin chafing. These products are designed to create a barrier that sits on top of the skin and helps the skin “glide” past other skin. If you don’t have these products handy, you can even try good old petroleum jelly (aka Vaseline) to create a skin barrier (yes, petroleum jelly is good for both treating chafing and preventing it!)

Minimize Excess Moisture and Sweat With (Non-Talc) Powders

We now know all about the sweat-chafing connection, so it’s also good to think about products that will minimize and absorb sweat, like moisture-absorbing powders. Look for non-talc all-natural products with ingredients like kaolin or cornstarch to absorb moisture. Other ingredients, like aloe and lavender, can cool, soothe and have antibacterial properties.

Try Antiperspirants or Deodorants

Antiperspirants work by temporarily plugging your sweat glands, so they are very effective at preventing sweat. Many of us use antiperspirants for underarm sweat (though people increasingly switch to natural deodorants for various health reasons connected with aluminum — the chief ingredient used to plug those glands). 

But whether you are for or against them, antiperspirants can offer an effective solution to sweat. And you can use antiperspirant on other body parts too. That said, the skin around your groin and inner thighs may be more sensitive. You should also avoid putting product around your vulva, where it may cause irritation and even infection.

Dress in Seamless Clothing

Clothes that fit the body snugly (like leggings and other athleisure options) with minimal seams don’t tend to move a lot, so this means there’s less friction of them rubbing against your skin. Our LeakStrong Leakproof Leggings absorb moisture like groin sweat, and can be good for heavy period days and even light bladder leaks!  And because they fit snugly, they also mean your skin is encapsulated, so there’s less skin-on-skin friction.

When It’s Too Late: How to Treat Chafing

Sometimes, thigh chafing sneaks up on you. Perhaps you didn’t realize how hot the day would be, or it’s early in the summer, and you forgot about this pesky irritation altogether! Whatever the reason chafing occurs, take the following steps to treat chafing.

1. Clean the Affected Skin

Sweaty, torn skin can become a breeding ground for bacteria, which could turn that inflammation into a skin infection—you definitely don’t want that! So get out of those sweaty, wet clothes and hop in the shower.

We recommend lukewarm or cold water. Not only will it feel good against the hot skin, it will also start to calm the irritation and redness.

Clean the chafed skin gently with some hypoallergenic, scent-free shower gel applied gently with the hands (no loofahs or sponges as they will cause further friction and abrasion). Rinse well.

2. Gently Pat the Skin Dry

This is not the time for an invigorating towel dry. Instead, pat the chafed skin dry gently. Remember: friction from repeated rubbing got you here in the first place, so you need to avoid anything that creates additional friction, or it will further exasperate and irritate your already sensitive skin.

3. Apply Aloe Vera, Petroleum Jelly, or Another Healing Lotion to the Chafed Skin

A cooling and moisturizing lotion or balm will both offer relief and help the skin start to heal. It will also form a barrier to protect the skin from further irritation. You can choose a number of different products, such as:

• Aloe vera gel (aloe vera is known for its cooling properties, especially when used on sunburn)
• Argan oil (nutrient-rich and has anti-inflammatory properties)
• Coconut oil (coconut oil reduces inflammation and helps heal wounds)
• Shea butter (contains vitamins A, E, and F, antioxidant vitamins that promote circulation and healthy skin cell growth)
• Diaper rash cream (serves as a barrier cream)
• Petroleum jelly, aka Vaseline (petroleum jelly keeps the skin slick to prevent further rubbing)
• Medicated ointment

You’ll want to reapply your chosen product repeatedly while the skin is healing and to prevent further movement from making chafing worse.

Note: While you can use a basic body lotion if you have nothing else on hand, it is best to stay away from products that are highly fragranced, as they may cause further irritation. Similarly, avoid products with acids, like AHAs, fruit acids, or lactic acid, as they may burn the raw skin.

4. If it’s Really Bad: Ice Packs and Painkiller

If your skin chafing is particularly painful, you might want to pop an anti-inflammatory (aspirin) or another painkiller. As always, follow medical advice when taking any medication. You can also try applying an ice pack to the chafed area to help cool the skin and reduce inflammation.

Chafed skin can be exceptionally painful, but that doesn’t necessarily mean you need to rush to the doctor. Indeed, skin chafing does not usually require a visit to the doctor. If you’re still experiencing pain or irritation days later, or you experience any of the following, it might be worth a trip to the doctor:

• A wound opens up around the chafed area and doesn’t scab over in a few days (assuming it’s not further exacerbated)
• You notice blood or pus coming from a chafing wound
• The skin is very hot or swollen
• Redness spreads beyond the point of chafing

But generally, a little bit of rest and TLC, and you should be back to normal in a few days.

FAQs

How do you stop groin chafing?

To stop groin chafing, apply a lubricating product like petroleum jelly or an anti-chafing balm to the affected area to reduce friction and protect the skin. Try products like our Thigh Savers to minimize skin-on-skin contact in the groin area.

Use powders like cornstarch or talc-free powders to absorb excess moisture and further reduce friction. If the chafing is severe, see a doctor, as they may prescribe a topical antibiotic or corticosteroid to help the skin heal.

Why does groin chafing happen? 

The sensitive skin in the groin area is prone to irritation when it repeatedly rubs against itself or against clothing, especially when sweat is present. The friction and moisture can disrupt the skin barrier, leading to redness, irritation, and pain. Factors that can exacerbate groin chafing include body hair, tight-fitting clothing, and prolonged physical activity.

How do I stop my private area from chafing?

Apply a lubricating product like petroleum jelly or an anti-chafing balm to the affected area to reduce friction and protect the skin. Try products like our Thigh Savers to minimize skin-on-skin contact in the groin and genital area.

Use powders like cornstarch or talc-free powders to absorb excess moisture and further reduce friction. Keep the area clean and dry - take a bath or use a clean damp cloth to cleanse the area after sweating or activity.

Can I use Vaseline for groin chafing?

Yes, you can use vaseline to help prevent and treat groin chafing. 

—

We hope you found this post informative — but remember: we’re not doctors and this post is not medical advice! While all posts are fact-checked and well researched, we always recommend you chat with your doctor about any questions or concerns you might have regarding a medical condition. 

We’re here to support and educate, but never with the aim of disregarding professional medical advice you’ve been given. Phew, now that that’s out of the way, you can go on living unapologetically free.

The result of this repeated rubbing is a nasty kind of skin irritation. And while chafing, generally, isn’t a medical concern, it can still cause distracting pain levels that interrupt your day and even might keep you from a sound sleep.

Let’s look more closely at some of the causes of chafing. And then we’ll dive into some ways to prevent it and some ways to heal it when it does occur.

What Is Chafing & Why Does it Occur

Most of us have experienced chafing. It could be the universal experience of a new pair of shoes chafing your heel. Or clothing that is just too tight, causing chafing around your waistband. Or your thighs rubbing together when you’re wearing a summer dress.

Because the skin is such a delicate organ, it is very susceptible to irritation. A little bit of dryness, too much sun, or a sudden onslaught of friction, can cause all manner of irritation. 

While it may seem like no big deal for the skin to rub a seam or against other skin, when these movements are rapid and repeated, they can cause the skin to warm up and become inflamed and angry. 

Plus, several things can exacerbate or worsen chafing:

1. Stubble 

Chafing sometimes occurs on areas of the body where you have removed hair, like the armpits, bikini line, or inner thighs. The regrowth of hair (aka stubble) can be coarse, and when that stubble is part of the chafing equation, it can add to the friction of skin-on-skin chafing.

2. Heat or Humid Weather

When temperatures soar, we all tend to shed some layers of clothing. This might mean that delicate skin that is usually encapsulated in clothes is suddenly exposed. For example, you might wear tights and leggings or jeans all winter, and then suddenly, when the mercury climbs, you shed those layers and opt for floaty dresses or skirts. This means your inner thighs are more likely to chafe when it’s hot out. The same applies to foot chafing—we tend to forgo socks more in the summer.

3. Sweat or Excess Moisture

Connected with heat is sweat. Obviously, when the temperature climbs, we all perspire more, and that sticky dampness of the skin or wet clothing can cause ‘drag’ as the skin moves, which results in that friction. But the problem of sweat goes beyond dampness alone. 

Sweat also contains salt, and that salt will further irritate skin that is already getting hot and red. Salt crystals can also cause small micro-tears in the skin. And it’s often the salt in your sweat that will cause that burning sensation (you know what they say about rubbing salt in wounds!)

4. Any Pre-Existing Skin Irritations

Generally, you never want to further irritate already-irritated skin. If you have sensitive skin, you can react to many things, from ingredients in certain products to the sun. Or you may have dry skin that is itchy or flaky. Any of these pre-existing irritations can make chafing all the more painful. 

Inner Thighs, Neck, Feet—Where Does Chafing Typically Occur?

Chafing can happen almost anywhere on the body, but it’s always delicate and sensitive skin that will chafe more readily (and will hurt the most.) 

Skin-on-skin chafing can occur anywhere the skin folds or comes into contact with other skin. But skin-on-material chafing can occur pretty much any time something repeatedly rubs against your body. This could be clothing, but it might also be an object you’re carrying (for example carrying heavy boxes could cause chafing along the inner arms). Or it could be something like a seatbelt rubbing against the side of your neck.

That said, there are some body parts where skin rubbing more commonly occurs. These include:

• The heels and toes (often caused by stiff shoes that haven’t been broken in. Sometimes, you'll have to treat blisters as a result of this kind of chafing)
• Inner thigh chafing (caused by the friction when the thighs rub together and often exacerbated by groin sweat or stubble from bikini hair removal)
• Beneath the boobs (often caused by too-tight or too-loose underwire bras that rub against the rib cage. Can also be exacerbated by boob sweat)
• The collar or neck (often caused by a stiff, starched collar or even a seatbelt or cross-body purse strap for some people)
• Nipple-chafing (often happens to male athletes who may experience chafing when the fabric of their running vest rubs against the nipples. Less common in women as sports bras are usually worn)
• Inner arm or armpit chafing (another area where the skin is delicate and friction can easily happen between the skin folds)

Who Does This Skin Irritation Happen to?

Chafing can happen to anybody. Sometimes it is portrayed as a challenge for those over a certain weight, but really anybody can experience this form of skin irritation. Indeed, if you research chafing, you will see it often afflicts professional or performance athletes, which makes total sense. After all, they’re often repeating the same movements over and over again, which would cause a lot of friction. They often wear minimal clothing, which would leave more skin exposed to rub against. And because they’re working out at the next level, they are sweating too.

But the rest of us mere mortals can experience chafing without that kind of intense workout regime. My body doesn’t tolerate the heat well, and I have very delicate skin. So on a hot day, I can feel the skin on my legs start to irritate simply walking my dog. The more delicate your skin, the easier it will be to irritate it. Case in point: Babies experience chafed skin that can result in diaper rash (again exacerbated by excess moisture).

And, of course, because chafing can happen almost anywhere on the body, it has a lot less to do with size and a lot more to do with how delicate your skin is and what you’re exposing it to. Wear thick, stiff leather shoes on bare feet, and you’ll discover NOBODY is immune to chafing!

How to Prevent Chafing

You can find a detailed answer to how to prevent skin chafing here, but below are some of the main highlights:

1. Prevent Thigh Chafing with Thigh Savers

One of the most common areas to experience chafing in the summer months is between the inner thighs. And it can quickly go from minor irritation to a burning pain if you don’t take precautions to reduce friction. But you can prevent chafing of the thigh and groin chafing with a simple product.

Anti-chafing underwear works by creating a physical barrier between your thighs to prevent skin-to-skin contact. Usually, they’re light shorts that are form-fitting, and you can also look for styles (like our Thigh Savers and Leakproof Thigh Savers ) that include moisture-wicking to help manage sweat. 

2. Choose Moisture Wicking Clothes With a Snug Fit

Because sweat is such a major contributor to the irritation caused by chafing, wearing moisture-wicking clothing will help prevent chafing by trapping sweat away from your skin.

Clothes that fit the body snugly (like leggings) with minimal seams don’t tend to move a lot, so this means there’s less friction of them rubbing against your skin. And because they fit snugly, they also mean your skin is encapsulated, so there’s less skin-on-skin friction.

However, if your clothes are too tight, those tight seams and bands (like waistbands or bra bands) can dig into the skin and make chafing worse. So look for that perfect fit.

3. Explore the Balms and Anti-Chafing Creams on the Market

There are many anti-chafing products hitting the market to help prevent friction and combat (and treat) skin chafing. Often packaged like deodorant sticks, these products are designed to create a barrier that sits on top of the skin, so the skin “glides” rather than the skin rubs.

If you don’t have these products handy, you can even try good old petroleum jelly (aka Vaseline) to create a skin barrier, and it’s worth noting that petroleum jelly can also be used to treat chafed skin.

4. Stay Dry with (Non-Talc) Powders

If sweat is a major source of bother, moisture-absorbing powders can keep you dry by absorbing excess sweat moisture. Look for non-talc all-natural products with ingredients like kaolin or cornstarch to absorb moisture. Other ingredients, like aloe and lavender, can cool, soothe and have antibacterial properties.

How to Treat Skin Chafing 

You can read more in-depth about how to treat chafing here. But some summary suggestions include:

• Clean and dry the skin gently (lukewarm water, fragrance-free cleansers, and pat dry). Avoid scrubbing or vigorously rubbing the chafed area
• Apply whichever of the following is your tried and trusted treatment for skin irritation (or is just at hand) repeatedly until the skin heals:

• Aloe vera gel (aloe vera is known for its cooling properties, especially when used on sunburn)
• Argan oil (nutrient-rich and has anti-inflammatory properties)
• Coconut oil (coconut oil reduces inflammation and helps heal wounds)
• Diaper rash cream (serves as a barrier cream)
• Apply petroleum jelly, aka Vaseline (petroleum jelly keeps the skin slick to prevent further rubbing)
• Medicated ointment

• If the chafing is particularly painful, you can try applying an ice pack wrapped in cloth

Should You See Your Doctor About Skin Chafing?

Good news: Skin chafing does not usually require a visit to the doctor, whether it’s thigh chafing or another kind of chafing rash. If you’re still experiencing pain or irritation days later due to severe chafing, it might be worth a trip to the doctor:

• A wound opens up around the raw skin of the chafed area and doesn’t scab over in a few days (assuming it’s not further exacerbated)
• You notice blood or pus coming from the damaged skin around a chafing wound
• The skin is very hot or swollen
• Redness spreads beyond the point of chafing

But generally, a little bit of rest and TLC, and you should be back to normal in a few days!

We hope you found this post informative — but remember: we’re not doctors and this post is not medical advice! While all posts are fact-checked and well researched, we always recommend you chat with your doctor about any questions or concerns you might have regarding a medical condition. We’re here to support and educate, but never with the aim of disregarding professional medical advice you’ve been given. Phew, now that that’s out of the way, you can go on living unapologetically free.

The “Chafe” Verb Can Be Used Literally But Also Figuratively

The word “chafing” can also be used less literally to refer to anything that makes your feel irritated or impatient. For example, you might say that you find a certain person or behavior “chafing” or you might find yourself chafed by constant interruptions. For example, I might say “the dripping faucet chafed my nerves.”

But, in this article, we’re going to focus on the skin irritation known as chafing. We’ll look at:

• What chafing is and why it happens
• What body parts are most susceptible to chafing
• Why chafing can happen to anybody
• Some ways of treating chafing when it occurs
• When chafing becomes medically concerning

Inner Thighs Chafed? Collar Chafed? What Body Parts Are Most Susceptible to Chafing

Chafing can occur happen almost anywhere on the body, but anywhere you have more sensitive skin will chafe more easily and more quickly. Chafing is more common on certain body parts, including:

• The heels and toes (often caused by stiff shoes that haven’t been broken in)
• Inner thigh (caused by the friction of thighs rubbing together and often exacerbated by groin sweat or stubble from bikini hair removal)
• Beneath the boobs (often caused by too-tight or too-loose underwire bras that rub against the rib cage. Can also be exacerbated by boob sweat)
• The collar or neck (often caused by a stiff, starched collar or even a seatbelt or cross-body purse strap for some people)
• Nipple-chafing (often happens to male athletes who may experience chafing when the fabric of their running top rubs against the nipples. Less common in women as sports bras are usually worn)
• Inner arm or armpit chafing (another area where the skin is delicate and friction can easily happen between the skin folds)

Why Chafing Can Happen to Anybody

Chafing is sometimes called “chub rub,” and the implication is that it’s a problem that bigger people experience more. This may be true to some extent; greater body mass may lead to more folds in the skin and more skin surface area that comes into contact with other skin.

The fat activist community lovingly coined the phrase “chub rub” to normalize and destigmatize talking about chafing. However, thigh chafing (and chafing in general) can happen to anybody. For example, you could be an athlete who has significant muscle bulk and experience chafing. Or sometimes, just the shape of our body means our legs or other body parts come into contact at certain points. 

But chafing can also be caused by materials like shoes, waistbands, purse straps, and even seams. And if you have particularly sensitive skin, you’ll become agitated more quickly.

Because sweat is an exacerbator of chafing, people who perspire more may also be more susceptible to chafing. Indeed, there is no rule about how much sweating is ‘normal.’ 

Factors that impact how much you sweat include:

• How many sweat glands you have (the average person has 3 million, but it can range between 2 million and 4 million. The more glands, the more sweat).
• Gender
• Genetics
• Age
• Fitness level
• Environment

So generally, there are many variables that contribute to chafing, and at the end of the day, size is no guarantee that you either will or will not experience skin chafing.

Some Ways of Treating Chafing When It Occurs

There are steps you can take to prevent chafing. There are anti-chafing balms and creams on the market that can be topically applied to help the skin ‘glide’ and thereby reduce friction. You can also try products like Thigh Savers (including Leakproof Thigh Savers)  to protect delicate skin from excess friction. More generally, choosing form-fitting, seamless and moisture-wicking materials will help encapsulate the skin in a protective barrier (athleisure clothing often falls into this category.)

But when chafing does occur, there are also treatment options. You can read more in-depth about how to treat chafing here. But some summary suggestions include:

• Clean and dry the skin gently (lukewarm water, fragrance-free cleansers and pat dry). Avoid scrubbing or vigorously rubbing the chafed area.
• Apply whichever of the following is your tried and trusted treatment for skin irritation (or is just at hand)
• Aloe vera gel (aloe vera is known for its cooling properties, especially when used on sunburn)
• Argan oil (nutrient-rich and has anti-inflammatory properties)
• Coconut oil (coconut oil reduces inflammation and helps heal wounds)
• Diaper rash cream (serves as a barrier cream)
• Apply petroleum jelly, aka Vaseline (petroleum jelly keeps the skin slick to prevent further rubbing)
• Medicated ointment
• If the chafing is particularly painful, you can try applying an ice pack wrapped in cloth

When Chafing Becomes Medically Concerning

Good news: Skin chafing does not usually require a visit to the doctor. If you’re still experiencing pain or irritation days later due to severe chafing, it might be worth a trip to the doctor:

• A wound opens up around the raw skin of the chafed area and doesn’t scab over in a few days (assuming it’s not further exacerbated)
• You notice blood or pus coming from the damaged skin around a chafing wound
• The skin is very hot or swollen
• Redness spreads beyond the point of chafing

But generally, a little bit of rest and TLC, and you should be back to normal in a few days!

We hope you found this post informative — but remember: we’re not doctors and this post is not medical advice! While all posts are fact-checked and well researched, we always recommend you chat with your doctor about any questions or concerns you might have regarding a medical condition. We’re here to support and educate, but never with the aim of disregarding professional medical advice you’ve been given. Phew, now that that’s out of the way, you can go on living unapologetically free.

We’re going to look more closely at how to help heal skin chafing. And then, we’ll dive into how to prevent it from happening again in the future. But first, let’s make sure we understand what chafing is and why it happens!

Wait: Is it Skin Chafing or Another Irritation?

If you have sensitive skin, you may be used to irritation. Allergic reactions to certain products, bug bites, or even just dry skin. So when your skin flares up, it may not be obvious what’s causing it.

Chafing is a common skin irritation caused by something repeatedly rubbing against the skin. This rubbing can be:

• Skin-on-skin: This occurs when skin repeatedly rubs against other skin, like when the inner thighs rub against each other when you walk or run. Anywhere the skin comes in close contact or where there are natural folds in the skin, you can experience skin-on-skin contact and, therefore, chafing.
• Material-on-skin: Chafing can also occur when fabric or other materials rub against the skin repeatedly. This could be an awkwardly placed seam, a too-tight waistband or underwire, or even the stiff leather of a new pair of shoes.

Chafing happens more often on hot days, and this is for a few reasons:

• Heat/Humidity: When it’s already hot outside, the skin will naturally warm up. This means friction can quickly cause excess heat and irritation. If it’s muggy, you’ll also have dampness to contend with, and that can make your skin clammy and sticky, which will create more ‘drag’ as it rubs together.
• Sweat: Sweat contains salt, and we all tend to sweat more in hot weather. You have sweat glands all over your body. So sweat can bead and pool around your breasts, groin, back, legs, etc. And if you’re already starting to chafe in those areas, your sweat will add salt to that mix. Ever heard the adage about rubbing salt in a wound? That’s quite literally what happens, and the salt in your sweat will make the chafing sting and burn even more and even cause tears in the skin.

Chafing is characterized by red, raw, burning, and irritated skin. It can happen almost anywhere on the body, but anywhere you have more sensitive skin will chafe more easily and more quickly. Chafing is more common on certain body parts, including:

• The heels and toes (often caused by stiff shoes that haven’t been broken in)
• Inner thigh (caused by the friction of thighs rubbing together and often exacerbated by groin sweat or stubble from bikini hair removal)
• Beneath the boobs (often caused by too-tight or too-loose underwire bras that rub against the rib cage. Can also be exacerbated by boob sweat)
• Nipple-chafing (often happens to male athletes who may experience chafing when the fabric of their clothing rubs against the nipples. Less common in women as sports bras are usually worn)
• Inner arm or armpit chafing (another area where the skin is delicate and friction can easily happen between the skin folds)

How to Treat Chafing When it Occurs

Chafing can happen quickly on a hot day, so it’s not always easy to anticipate and prevent it. It definitely worsens the more continuous the friction, so the more quickly you simply stop whatever movement or rubbing is causing the chafing, the more quickly it will heal up.

1. Start With Clean Skin

You also don’t want sweaty, torn skin to sit unclean as it could become a breeding ground for bacteria, and that inflammation could turn into a skin infection—you definitely don’t want that! So get out of those sweaty, wet clothes and hop in the shower.

This is not a time for a steaming hot shower, bath, or hot tub—they can make chafing worse. But you do want to clean the skin, and some cold or lukewarm water will actually feel really soothing (just don’t blast the water pressure.) 

Clean the chafed skin gently with some hypoallergenic, scent-free shower gel applied gently with the hands (no loofahs or sponges as they will cause further friction and abrasion). Rinse well with more cool water.

2. Gently Pat the Skin Dry

This is not the time for an invigorating towel dry. Instead, pat the chafed skin dry gently. Remember: friction from repeated rubbing got you here in the first place, so you need to avoid anything that creates additional friction, or it will further exasperate and irritate your already sensitive skin.

3. Apply Aloe Vera, Petroleum Jelly, or Another Healing Lotion to the Chafed Skin

Once the skin is dry, help the healing process along with a healing lotion. You might reach for Polysporin or another medicated ointment. Or perhaps you prefer a natural remedy like aloe vera gel, which has anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties too. You can also try coconut oil, argan oil, good old petroleum jelly (aka Vaseline), shea butter, or even diaper rash cream to soothe chafed skin.

Chafing can dry out the surface of the skin, so adding moisture will soothe it immediately but also help to replenish your ‘sanded’ skin. One note of caution: Avoid moisturizers that contain acids (lactic acid, fruit acids, AHAs) or that are heavily fragranced, as these might only further irritate your skin. 

You’ll want to reapply your chosen product repeatedly while the skin is healing.

4. If it’s Really Bad: Ice Packs and Painkiller

If your skin chafing is particularly painful, you might want to pop an anti-inflammatory (aspirin) or another painkiller. As always, follow medical advice when taking any medication. You can also try applying an ice pack to the chafed area to help cool the skin and reduce inflammation.

5. Change What You’re Wearing to Reduce Friction

Clothing is a huge factor when it comes to chafing. Either there is no clothing forming a protective barrier between the skin (e.g. inner thigh chafing when you’re wearing a summer dress.) Or the clothing itself is the source of chafing (e.g. a pair of shoes that’s rubbing your heel raw.)

Whatever the answer, chafing is a sure sign that it’s time to slip into something different. After you have treated your skin, think about using clothing to form a physical barrier to protect the skin from further irritation. 

Here are some suggestions:

• Thigh Savers or compression shorts can protect the thighs where the skin rubs together. On your period? Try Leakproof Thigh Savers
• Socks can prevent shoes from rubbing your feet (band-aids can help too!)
• Longer, fitted sleeves can protect the inner arms and armpits from chafing
• Changing into a wireless bra or a bra with wider straps (or a better-fitting bra) can reduce friction and minimize chafing around the bust area
• Changing out of any too-tight clothing for something that fits you better will always help

Next Time Around: Prevent Chafing From the Get-Go!

Wouldn't it just be easier if chafing didn't happen at all? Absolutely! And good news: You can prevent chafing from happening in the first place with some simple steps.

Protect the Inner Thighs from Skin Rubbing With Thigh Savers

You can prevent thigh chafing and groin chafing with a simple product. Anti-chafing underwear works by creating a physical barrier between your thighs. Usually, they’re light shorts that are form-fitting, and you can also look for styles (like our Thigh Savers) that include moisture-wicking to help manage sweat. 

Try Anti-Chafing Cream or Petroleum Jelly to Prevent Skin Chafing

There are many anti-chafing products that help prevent chafing and combat (and treat) skin chafing. These products are designed to create a barrier that sits on top of the skin and helps the skin “glide” past other skin. If you don’t have these products handy, you can even try good old petroleum jelly (aka Vaseline) to create a skin barrier (yes, petroleum jelly is good for both treating chafing and preventing it!)

Absorb Sweat With Anti-Chafing Powders

We now know all about the sweat-chafing connection, so it’s also good to think about products that will minimize and absorb sweat, like moisture-absorbing powders. Look for non-talc all-natural products with ingredients like kaolin or cornstarch to absorb moisture. Other ingredients, like aloe and lavender, can cool, soothe and have antibacterial properties.

Does Chafing Ever Require a Doctor’s Visit?

Good news: Skin chafing does not usually require a visit to the doctor. If you’re still experiencing pain or irritation days later due to severe chafing, it might be worth a trip to the doctor:

• A wound opens up around the raw skin of the chafed area and doesn’t scab over in a few days (assuming it’s not further exacerbated)
• You notice blood or pus coming from the damaged skin around a chafing wound
• The skin is very hot or swollen
• Redness spreads beyond the point of chafing

But generally, a little bit of rest and TLC, and you should be back to normal in a few days!

We hope you found this post informative — but remember: we’re not doctors and this post is not medical advice! While all posts are fact-checked and well researched, we always recommend you chat with your doctor about any questions or concerns you might have regarding a medical condition. We’re here to support and educate, but never with the aim of disregarding professional medical advice you’ve been given. Phew, now that that’s out of the way, you can go on living unapologetically free.

In this article, we’ll dive deep into some of the solutions you can explore to stop thigh chafing, as well as some of the ways to treat it if it is too late and you’re already suffering from thigh chafing. But first, we’ll explain why thigh chafing occurs in the first place.

Why Are The Inner Thighs Prone to Chafing?

The skin along the upper inner thighs is very soft and delicate (similar to the skin on your upper inner arms), and this means it can irritate more easily. The sensitive skin of the thighs also often comes in contact with each other with the repeated movement of walking, running, or cycling, when the thighs rub together.

Most of the year, our inner thighs are protected as we usually wear leggings, jeans, or pantyhose, which form a protective barrier between the thighs. But in the summer months, we often switch up our wardrobe, favoring light floaty skirts and dresses or shorts. This means the skin of the thighs can rub together repeatedly when we’re moving, and it’s this friction that causes chafing.

Summer exasperates inner thigh chafing for another reason, too: In summer, we sweat more. All sweat contains salt. And these small crystals of salt can further irritate and exasperate any chafing. The salt in our sweat is also a big contributor to the burning sensation often associated with chafing—we’re literally rubbing salt in the wounds as we move.

It’s worth noting that a person of size and shape can experience thigh chafing. But if you are a larger person, you may have more skin-on-skin rubbing, and that can make chafing worse. Perhaps, for this reason, chafing is sometimes called ‘chub rub.’ But it is an experience that many people, from pro athletes to every shape and size, may have.

But good news: You can prevent skin chafing, and you can treat it too. So this is definitely not an experience you need to resign yourself to.

How to Prevent Thigh Chafing

Prevention is almost always better than the cure, so we definitely advise taking proactive steps to prevent chafing altogether. Inner thigh chafing has become much more a part of mainstream beauty conversations in recent years, and this means there are many products to choose from to prevent thigh chafing. Let’s explore:

Discover Anti-Chafing Shorts

You can prevent thigh chafing and groin chafing with a simple product. Anti-chafing underwear works by creating a physical barrier between your thighs. Usually, they’re light shorts that are form-fitting, and you can also look for styles (like our Thigh Savers or Leakproof Thigh Savers) that include moisture absorption to help manage sweat.

Knix’s 4-inch and 6-inch mid-thigh shorts come in a range of nude and neutral shades and in sizes ranging from XS to XXXXL. They eliminate chafing, sweat, and having to sit on anything gross when you're in a dress. As one customer, Sofia, said in her review:

“Completely solved the “summer thighs” issue! No sweat, no chafing, cool to the touch! I would wear the undies everyday they are so comfortable!”

There are also products like thigh bands or compression shorts that work pretty much the same way, just have a different design.

Our leakproof anti-chafing shorts go a step further: They double-duty as leakproof underwear and thigh savers.

Explore Anti-Chafing Creams

There are many anti-chafing products that help prevent friction and combat (and treat) skin chafing. These products are designed to create a barrier that sits on top of the skin and helps reduce friction by letting the skin “glide” past other skin. If you don’t have specialty anti-chafing products handy, you can even try good old petroleum jelly (aka Vaseline) to create a skin barrier (yes, petroleum jelly is good for both treating chafing and preventing it!)

Minimize Excess Moisture and Sweat With Anti-Chafing Powder

We now know all about the sweat-chafing connection, so it’s also good to think about products that will minimize and absorb sweat, like moisture-absorbing powders. Look for non-talc all-natural products with ingredients like kaolin or cornstarch to absorb moisture. Other ingredients, like aloe and lavender, can cool, soothe and have antibacterial properties.

Try Anti-Perspirants or Deodorants

Antiperspirants work by temporarily plugging your sweat glands, so they are very effective at preventing sweat. Many of us use antiperspirants for underarm sweat (though people increasingly switch to natural deodorants for various health reasons connected with aluminum - the chief ingredient used to plug those glands). 

But whether you are for or against them, antiperspirants can offer an effective solution to sweat. And you can use antiperspirant on other body parts too. That said, the skin around your groin and inner thighs may be more sensitive. You should also avoid putting product around your vulva, where it may cause irritation and even infection.

Dress in Sweat-Wicking Clothes

Look for clothing that wicks moisture and sweat from the skin surfaces. You’ll usually find most athletic or athleisure clothing has some degree of moisture-wicking these days.

Clothes that fit the body snugly (like leggings) with minimal seams don’t tend to move a lot, so this means there’s less friction of them rubbing against your skin. And because they fit snugly, they also mean your skin is encapsulated, so there’s less skin-on-skin friction.

However, if your clothes are too tight, those tight seams and bands (like waistbands or bra bands) can dig into the skin and cause irritation. So look for products with that perfect second-skin feeling.

The good news is that chafing has become a real personal hygiene conversation in the last few years, and so there are more and more products to help address it (particularly thigh chafing.) This means that chafing is no longer an experience we have to tolerate in shame: With effective treatments and preventative products, we can all enjoy those hot summer days!

When It’s Already Too Late: How to Treat Thigh Chafing

Sometimes chafing just creeps up on you. The day turns suddenly hot, or you end up having to walk farther than you planned… Suddenly, you feel your skin start to tingle. Too quickly, it turns into a burning feeling. And, yup, you’ve got yourself some thigh chafing.

Don’t panic: Here’s what to do to calm and cool the situation.

Whatever You’re Doing to Create Friction: Stop

If you just keep going, the chafing will only get worse and worse. This can lead to further irritation, but it can also lead to a skin infection. So, get in a cab, hop on a bus, or take a break in a coffee shop with some AC. Basically, give your skin a rest and allow it to cool slightly.

If you can get home (and that’s ideal), quickly get out of those sweaty and wet clothes and allow your skin to start to relax and cool. 

Clean the Chafed Skin Gently

We get it: Everything feels too hot to touch. But you don’t want to let sweat sit on the chafed skin because the salt in your sweat is responsible for a lot of that irritation. So hop in a cool shower and gently run cool or lukewarm water over your thighs. This should actually feel soothing as the coolness of the water will begin to reduce inflammation and redness.

If you use soap, stick with a hypoallergenic, scent-free variety. No harsh cleansers whatsoever. And no scrubbing either; simply lather the soap or shower gel in your hands and gently apply it. When you’re done, pat the skin dry with a clean towel. Again, no harsh rubbing (that’s just adding more friction, which is what got you here in the first place).

Help the Healing Process With Balms, Oils, and Creams

A cooling and moisturizing lotion or balm will both offer relief and help the skin start to heal. It will also form a barrier to protect the skin from further irritation. You can choose a number of different products, such as:

• Aloe vera gel (aloe vera is known for its cooling properties, especially when used on sunburn)
• Argan oil (nutrient-rich and has anti-inflammatory properties)
• Coconut oil (coconut oil reduces inflammation and helps heal wounds)
• Diaper rash cream (serves as a barrier cream)
• Petroleum jelly, aka Vaseline (petroleum jelly keeps the skin slick to prevent further rubbing)
• Medicated ointment

Generally, you can use whatever you have on hand, even a regular body lotion. You will likely want to reapply whatever product you choose a few times throughout the day while you’re healing. Many of these products will help the skin barrier repair. 

However, stay clear of products that are heavily fragranced or contain acids (fruit acids, lactic acid, AHAs) as they will likely feel burning on your raw skin.

Netflix and Chill (and Stay Hydrated)

If you can hang out at home for a bit and just let the skin relax and cool, that’s ideal. Letting the air circulate around your skin will help, so just chill on your bed or the couch for a while.

It’s also important to rehydrate. Remember: Chafing usually occurs when your body is hot and perspiring, so you may have lost a lot of water while chafing was occurring. Make sure to replenish that hydration by drinking lots of water. This will help your body cool, regulate its temperature and heal.

Consider What You Wear

If you do have to get dressed, make sure you’re wearing something that keeps the thighs encapsulated without causing further irritation.

I like shorts or leggings that have a second-skin fit (usually made of modal cotton or something similarly soft). Baggy tracksuits or jeans may have seams or loose fabric that exacerbates the chafing, but more fitted clothes are usually fairly seamless. 

If you need to go out: Leggings are your best bet to reduce friction and prevent chafing from worsening. Not only will they protect your thighs from rubbing together, but most athleisure has moisture-wicking properties, so you’ll stay dry and cool too.

There’s Usually No Need for a Doctor

We get it: Chafing can be P-A-I-N-F-U-L. But if you give your irritated skin a break and follow the steps above, you should heal up in a couple of days. 

But, if you notice any of the following, it is worth checking in with your healthcare provider:

• A wound opens up around the skin irritation and doesn’t scab over in a few days (assuming it’s not further exacerbated)
• You notice blood or pus coming from a chafing wound
• The skin is very hot or swollen
• Redness spreads beyond the point of chafing

That said, it’s rare that chafing needs treatment beyond what we’ve outlined above. And remember: Always take steps to prevent chafing from happening in the first place!

We hope you found this post informative — but remember: we’re not doctors and this post is not medical advice! While all posts are fact-checked and well researched, we always recommend you chat with your doctor about any questions or concerns you might have regarding a medical condition. We’re here to support and educate, but never with the aim of disregarding professional medical advice you’ve been given. Phew, now that that’s out of the way, you can go on living unapologetically free.

First, What Is Skin Chafing?

Skin chafing happens when skin is repeatedly rubbed against something. That something could be other skin (skin-on-skin chafing) or another material (such as shoes or clothing.)

This rubbing motion acts almost like sandpaper, rubbing the skin raw and making it irritated and inflamed. Skin-on-skin chafing can be further exasperated by body hair, and some methods of hair removal may leave stubble that can worsen the friction.

Chafing can happen almost anywhere on the body, but it will always impact sensitive skin more. Some common areas you may experience skin chafing include:

• The heels and toes (chafed skin is often caused by stiff shoes that haven’t been broken in)
• Inner thighs (caused by the friction of thighs rubbing together and often exacerbated by groin sweat or stubble from bikini hair removal)
• Beneath the boobs (often caused by too-tight or too-loose underwire bras that rub against the rib cage. Can also be exacerbated by boob sweat)
• Nipple-chafing (often happens to male athletes who may experience chafing when the fabric of their clothing rubs against the nipples. Less common in women as sports bras are usually worn)
• Inner arm or armpit chafing (another area where the skin is delicate and friction can easily happen between the folds of the skin)

Chafing is more likely to happen in hot weather. This is because:

• You’re more likely to have skin exposed, wearing sleeveless tops, shorts or skirts, and dresses without tights underneath
• The weather is warmer, which contributes to skin heat and friction
• You’re more likely to be perspiring—as we’ll see, sweat can really exacerbate chafing

But chafing isn’t exclusively a summer problem. It can also occur when delicate skin rubs against a thick seam or if your underwear is too tight. And if you’re prone to perspire more, it can also be irritated by sweat year-round.

How to Treat Skin Chafing

So, now you understand what has caused your skin irritation, you’re probably keen to treat it. The good news is that treating chafing is a relatively simple process. You won’t usually need medical attention, and the skin will usually heal up in a few days (even quicker if the chafing is minor.)

The bad news: The best thing you can do is give the skin a break from the repeated motion that caused the chafing in the first place. This may mean a few days of taking it easy (or carefully choosing clothing that will minimize the friction.) 

If you’re an athlete and are in training or competing in events, it may simply not be possible to rest completely to allow the skin to heal. Don’t despair: You can still help the skin heal while taking steps to prevent chafing from worsening.

Step 1: Rest Your Chafed Skin

As mentioned, the best treatment is to rest. It’s ideal if you can take the rest of the day gently and allow the skin to heal overnight. But that’s not always possible.

Still, some kind of break to stop skin rubbing is absolutely necessary. Use that time to think about which of the following steps can be introduced to help the skin withstand any future movement. 

Step 2: Keep Chafed Skin Clean and Dry

Sweat, heat, and chafing go hand in hand. So to give the body a chance to heal, you really want to help the skin cool down. You also want to wash away sweat which can become a breeding ground for bacteria, which can cause skin infection. So: Out of those wet or sweaty clothes!

This is not a time for a long hot soak in the tub—that will likely only aggravate your already hot skin. Instead, opt for a cool shower. Let the water gently run over the area of chafed skin, and you should feel immediate relief. Choose an unscented, hypoallergenic shower gel (no harsh soaps) to clean the area, but stay away from loofahs, sponges, and scrubs. 

When you step out of the shower, don’t be tempted to rub yourself dry vigorously. Instead, gently pat the skin dry with a clean and soft towel. 

Step 3: Help the Healing Process With Balms, Oils, and Creams

A cooling and moisturizing lotion or balm will both offer relief and help the skin start to heal. It will also form a barrier to protect the skin from further irritation. You can choose a number of different products, such as:

• Aloe vera gel (aloe vera is known for its cooling properties, especially when used on sunburn)
• Argan oil (nutrient-rich and has anti-inflammatory properties)
• Coconut oil (coconut oil reduces inflammation and helps heal wounds)
• Diaper rash cream (serves as a barrier cream)
• Petroleum jelly, aka Vaseline (petroleum jelly keeps the skin slick to prevent further rubbing)
• Medicated ointment

Generally, you can use whatever you have on hand, even a regular body lotion. You will likely want to reapply whatever product you choose a few times throughout the day while you’re healing. Many of these products will help the skin barrier repair. 

However, stay clear of products that are heavily fragranced or contain acids (fruit acids, lactic acid, AHAs) as they will likely feel burning on your raw skin.

Step 4: Stay Hydrated

Chafing usually occurs when your body is hot and perspiring, so you may have lost a lot of water while chafing was occurring. Make sure to replenish that hydration by drinking lots of water. This will help your body cool, regulate its temperature and heal.

Step 5: Rethink What You Wear to Reduce Friction

Clothing is a huge factor when it comes to chafing. Either there is no clothing forming a protective barrier between the skin (e.g., inner thigh chafing when you’re wearing a summer dress.) Or the clothing itself is the source of chafing (e.g., a pair of shoes that’s rubbing your heel raw.)

Whatever the answer, chafing is a sure sign that it’s time to slip into something different. After you have treated your skin, think about using clothing to form a physical barrier to protect the skin from further irritation. 

Here are some suggestions:

• Thigh Savers can protect the inner thighs from rubbing together
• Socks can prevent shoes from rubbing your feet (band-aids can help too!)
• Longer, fitted sleeves can protect the inner arms and armpits from chafing
• Changing into a wireless bra or a bra with wider straps (or a better-fitting bra) can minimize chafing around the bust area
• Changing out of any too-tight clothing for something that fits you better will always help

Step 6: Turn to Ice Packs

If your skin is really chafed, an ice pack can bring relief to irritated skin. Now’s a good time to marathon something good on Netflix and let an ice pack cool and reduce swelling. Note: You should never apply an ice pack directly to the skin. Instead, wrap it in a soft cloth (a tea towel is perfect - not too thick and generally pretty soft) and press that gently against the skin. It helps to have two ice packs on standby so that you can swap them out as one starts to warm up.

Step 7: Know When to See a Doctor

Skin chafing does not usually require a visit to the doctor. If you’re still experiencing pain or irritation days later, or you experience any of the following, it might be worth a trip to the doctor:

• A wound opens up around the chafed area and doesn’t scab over in a few days (assuming it’s not further exacerbated)
• You notice blood or pus coming from a chafing wound
• The skin is very hot or swollen
• Redness spreads beyond the point of chafing

But generally, a little bit of rest and TLC, and you should be back to normal in a few days!

Going Forward: Prevent Chafing from Recurring or Worsening

Skin chafing is a truly unpleasant experience, so it’s natural to want to prevent it from ever happening again. But it’s also likely you’ll need to be up and about before the chafing has fully healed. So here are some steps that you can use going forward to both prevent chafing from happening, and to stop existing skin chafing from flaring up again.

Protect the Inner Thighs With Thigh Savers

You can prevent thigh chafing and groin chafing with a simple product. Anti-chafing underwear works by creating a physical barrier between your thighs. Usually, they’re light shorts that are form-fitting, and you can also look for styles (like our Thigh Savers) that include moisture-wicking to help manage sweat. 

Explore Anti-Chafing Cream

There are many anti-chafing products that help prevent friction and combat (and treat) skin chafing. These products are designed to create a barrier that sits on top of the skin and helps the skin “glide” past other skin. If you don’t have these products handy, you can even try good old petroleum jelly (aka Vaseline) to create a skin barrier (yes, petroleum jelly is good for both treating chafing and preventing it!)

Minimize Excess Moisture and Sweat With (Non-Talc) Powders

We now know all about the sweat-chafing connection, so it’s also good to think about products that will minimize and absorb sweat, like moisture-absorbing powders. Look for non-talc all-natural products with ingredients like kaolin or cornstarch to absorb moisture. Other ingredients, like aloe and lavender, can cool, soothe and have antibacterial properties.

Try Anti-Perspirants or Deodorants

Antiperspirants work by temporarily plugging your sweat glands, so they are very effective at preventing sweat. Many of us use antiperspirants for underarm sweat (though people increasingly switch to natural deodorants for various health reasons connected with aluminum - the chief ingredient used to plug those glands). 

But whether you are for or against them, antiperspirants can offer an effective solution to sweat. And you can use antiperspirant on other body parts too. That said, the skin around your groin and inner thighs may be more sensitive. You should also avoid putting product around your vulva, where it may cause irritation and even infection.

Dress in Sweat-Wicking Clothes

Look for clothing that wicks moisture and sweat from the skin surfaces. You’ll usually find most athletic or athleisure clothing has some degree of moisture-wicking these days.

Clothes that fit the body snugly (like leggings) with minimal seams don’t tend to move a lot, so this means there’s less friction of them rubbing against your skin. And because they fit snugly, they also mean your skin is encapsulated, so there’s less skin-on-skin friction.

However, if your clothes are too tight, those tight seams and bands (like waistbands or bra bands) can dig into the skin and cause irritation. So look for products with that perfect second-skin feeling.

The good news is that chafing has become a real personal hygiene conversation in the last few years, and so there are more and more products to help address it (particularly thigh chafing.) This means that chafing is no longer an experience we have to tolerate in shame: With effective treatments and preventative products, we can all enjoy those hot summer days!

We hope you found this post informative — but remember: we’re not doctors and this post is not medical advice! While all posts are fact-checked and well researched, we always recommend you chat with your doctor about any questions or concerns you might have regarding a medical condition. We’re here to support and educate, but never with the aim of disregarding professional medical advice you’ve been given. Phew, now that that’s out of the way, you can go on living unapologetically free.

In this article, we’ll give you a detailed breakdown of how to immediately bring some relief to chafed skin. And then we’ll also give you some tips on how to prevent chafing from happening ever again!

How to Treat Chafed Skin

Chafing is a common skin irritation that happens when the skin rubs against itself (skin-to-skin contact) or something else (e.g., clothing) and becomes red and inflamed from repeated rubbing. It can happen almost anywhere on the body, but some areas are more prone to chafing than others. Common areas chafing happens include:

• The heels and toes (often caused by stiff shoes that haven’t been broken in)
• Inner thighs (caused by the friction of skin-on-skin contact from the thighs rubbing together and often exacerbated by groin sweat or stubble from bikini hair removal)
• Beneath the boobs (often caused by too-tight or too-loose underwire bras that rub against the rib cage. Can also be exacerbated by boob sweat)
• Nipple-chafing (often happens to male athletes who may experience chafing when the fabric of their top or tee rubs against the nipples. Less common in women as sports bras are usually worn)
• Inner arm or armpit chafing (another area where the skin is delicate and friction can easily happen between the folds of the skin)

If any of these areas is chafed, you will feel a burning, irritated sensation that you’ll want to immediately find relief for. So here's how to soothe chafed skin:

Reduce Friction: Rest Up to Stop Further Skin Rubbing

When chafing happens, your number one goal is to reduce friction. So stop the motion that causes friction. This means getting to a place where you can rest and treat the chafing, allowing the skin to cool down.

Taking the repeated rubbing out of the equation will allow your body a chance to heal instead of constantly exasperating the chafing with further rubbing. On the flip side, if you keep up the repeated rubbing, you risk making the chafing worse, causing further irritation and even skin infection.

Clean & Dry the Skin (Gently)

While rest is important, don’t simply lie around in sweaty, wet clothes with damp irritated skin. Sweat is often a major contributing factor to chafing. Because sweat contains salt, it can really make your skin burn (just like rubbing salt in a wound.) 

Taking a gentle shower in cool or lukewarm water will help reduce skin irritation and cool the skin. It will also wash away the sweat and salt that may be causing a burning sensation.

We recommend choosing a fragrance-free gentle soap and simply applying it with your hands. No scrubbing or loofahs (that would just be more friction. And when you step out of the shower, gently pat the skin dry rather than rubbing aggressively.

Treat Chafing With Soothing Lotions or Balms

A cooling and moisturizing lotion or balm will both offer relief and help the skin start to heal. It will also form a barrier to protect the skin from further irritation. You can choose a number of different products, such as:

• Aloe vera gel (aloe vera is known for its cooling properties, especially when used on sunburn)
• Argan oil (nutrient-rich and has anti-inflammatory properties)
• Coconut oil (coconut oil reduces inflammation and helps heal wounds)
• Diaper rash cream (serves as a barrier cream)
• Petroleum jelly, aka Vaseline (petroleum jelly keeps the skin slick to prevent further rubbing)
• Medicated ointment

Generally, you can use whatever you have on hand, even a regular body lotion. You will likely want to reapply whatever product you choose a few times throughout the day while you’re healing. Many of these products will help the skin barrier repair. Skin barrier repair affects the feeling of pain and irritation, lessening it as the skin heals.

However, stay clear of products that are heavily fragranced or contain acids (fruit acids, lactic acid, AHAs) as they will likely feel burning on your raw skin.

Change Into Clothes That Protect Your Skin

Clothing can be a cause or contributing factor to skin chafing. Thick seams or rough materials can cause friction that results in chafing (though skin-on-skin chafing is also common.) 

So you’ll want to make sure you’re wearing clothes that don’t rub against sensitive skin and that protect the chafed skin. If you’re going to bed, you may want to wear leggings or shorts and a fitted top to protect the chafed skin. Look for soft materials like modal cotton. This will especially apply to inner thigh chafing, which is a very common form of chafing. 

If it’s daytime still, consider athleisure clothes that will wick sweat away from the body. These clothes are also usually fitted so you won’t have more skin-on-skin chafing. Even if it’s daytime and you wear clothes that protect your skin, you’ll still want to take it easy if you can to really let the skin start to heal on its own.

If You’re in Pain, Try an Ice Pack

If your skin chafing is particularly painful, you might want to pop an anti-inflammatory (aspirin) or another painkiller. As always, follow medical advice when taking any medication. You can also try applying an ice pack to the chafed area to help cool the skin and reduce inflammation.

Severe Chafing

Skin chafing does not usually require a visit to the doctor. If you’re still experiencing pain or irritation days later, or you experience any of the following, it might be worth a trip to the doctor:

• A wound opens up and doesn’t scab over in a few days (assuming it’s not further exacerbated)
• You notice blood or pus coming from a chafing wound
• The skin is very hot or swollen
• Redness spreads beyond the point of chafing

But don’t panic; chafing doesn’t typically require medical attention. A little bit of rest and TLC, and you should be back to normal in a few days!

With Skin Chafing: Prevention Is Better Than the Cure

So now you know how to treat chafed skin. But wouldn’t it be better if it never happened at all! Let's explore how to prevent skin chafing altogether!

Prevent Chafing on the Inner Thighs with Thigh Savers

One of the most common areas to experience chafing in the summer months is between the inner thighs. This is so common it’s got its own nickname: ‘chub rub.’ And it can quickly go from minor irritation to burning pain if you don’t take precautions. But you can prevent thigh chafing and groin chafing with a simple product.

Products like our Thigh Savers works by creating a physical barrier between your thighs. Usually, they’re light shorts that are form-fitting, and you can also look for styles (like our Thigh Savers) that include moisture-wicking to help manage sweat. So you can wear light summer clothes like dresses and still protect the delicate skin of your inner thighs from painful chafing. 

Of course, many of us are dealing with more than just chafing. Whether you're on your period or you experience light bladder leaks, we've got a product that will help along with keeping you chafe-free. Introducing Leakproof Thighsavers. They'll absorb blood, sweat, or pee and keep you chafe-free. 

Explore Anti-Chafing Sticks

There are many anti-chafing products hitting the market to help prevent friction and combat (and treat) skin chafing. Often packaged like deodorant sticks, these products are designed to create a barrier that sits on top of the skin and helps the skin “glide” past other skin rather than rub and create friction.

It might take some trial-and-error to find an anti-chafe balm or product you like, but they might be worth trying. If you don’t have these products handy, you can even try good old petroleum jelly (aka Vaseline) to create a skin barrier (yes, petroleum jelly is good for both treating chafing and preventing it!)

Stay Dry with (Non-Talc) Powders

If sweat is a major source of bother, moisture-absorbing powders can keep you dry by absorbing excess moisture. Look for non-talc all-natural products with ingredients like kaolin or cornstarch to absorb moisture. Other ingredients, like aloe and lavender, can cool, soothe and have antibacterial properties.

Try Antiperspirants or Deodorants

As we’ve discussed, sweat is a major contributor to skin-chafing. While we usually think about our armpits when it comes to sweat, you have sweat glands all over your body, including your boobs, groin, back, and thighs. 

Factors that impact how much you sweat include:

• How many sweat glands you have (the average person has 3 million, but it can range between 2 million and 4 million. The more glands, the more sweat).
• Gender
• Genetics
• Age
• Fitness level
• Environment

But if you sweat more, you are more susceptible to chafing. So deodorants or antiperspirants can help. 

Antiperspirants work by temporarily plugging your sweat glands, so they are very effective at preventing sweat. Many of us use antiperspirants for underarm sweat (though people increasingly switch to natural deodorants for various health reasons connected with aluminum - the chief ingredient used to plug those glands). 

But whether you are for or against them, antiperspirants can offer an effective solution to sweat. And you can use antiperspirant on other body parts too. That said, the skin around your groin and inner thighs may be more sensitive. You should also avoid putting product around your vulva, where it may cause irritation and even infection.

Choose Moisture Wicking Clothes

If you’re looking to prevent chafing, look for clothing that wicks moisture and sweat from the skin surfaces. You’ll usually find most athletic or athleisure clothing has some degree of moisture-wicking these days. 

Because sweat is such a major contributor to the irritation caused by chafing, sweat-wicking clothes will help prevent chafing by trapping sweat away from your skin.

But also pay attention to the fit of your clothes. Clothes that fit the body snugly (like leggings) with minimal seams don’t tend to move a lot, so this means there’s less friction of them rubbing against your skin. And because they fit snugly, they also mean your skin is encapsulated, so there’s less skin-on-skin friction.

However, if your clothes are too tight, those tight seams and bands (like waistbands or bra bands) can dig into the skin and cause irritation. So look for products with that perfect second-skin feeling rather than that sausage-like, too-tight encapsulation.

As with all bodily functions, treating and preventing chafing is also about finding what works for YOU. It may take some trial and error to find the products that work for you. But the good news is there are lots of solutions out there, and chafing should not be an experience that ruins your summer months! 

FAQs on Chafing

How Do You Heal Chafed Thighs Fast?

To heal chafing overnight, wear breathable clothing, apply healing ointments like Vaseline or aloe vera before bed, avoid irritants, use protective covers if needed, consider anti-chafing products, and keep the affected area dry and cool. These steps can help soothe the skin and promote healing while you sleep.

How Do I Stop My Inner Thighs From Chafing?

When your thighs rub together, shapewear (like Thigh Savers) is your friend. Slather petroleum jelly or apply skin lubricant on sensitive skin areas, or use powders like talc to keep things dry. The key here is to keep your inner thighs as dry as possible. Less moisture means less irritation.

Does Vaseline Get Rid of Chafing? 

Yes, Vaseline can help prevent chafing. It forms a protective barrier that resists sweating and keeps the skin lubricated and moisturized, reducing friction and irritation. Additionally, Vaseline All-Over Body Balm Jelly Stick can be applied to the inner thighs before exercising or walking to effectively protect against chafing. 

—

We hope you found this post informative — but remember: we’re not doctors and this post is not medical advice! While all posts are fact-checked and well researched, we always recommend you chat with your doctor about any questions or concerns you might have regarding a medical condition. 

We’re here to support and educate, but never with the aim of disregarding professional medical advice you’ve been given. Phew, now that that’s out of the way, you can go on living unapologetically free.

That said, there are some things you can do to give your body a helping hand so that you can get back to living your life the very next day without the agonizing pain of chafing or the fear that you’ll make a bad situation even worse.

But the key to understanding how to heal chafing is understanding what chafing is and why it happens. So let’s spend a moment there before we jump to those healing tips!

What Is Skin Chafing and Where Does it Occur?

Chafing occurs when friction from repeated rubbing causes the skin to become red, irritated, and inflamed. Irritated skin is not usually considered a medical problem, but like blisters on the feet or papercuts, that doesn’t mean it can’t hurt a whole lot.

What’s the source of this friction? Usually, it’s one of two things:

1. Skin to skin contact caused by body parts rubbing against each other. A common example of this is chafing in the armpit or between the inner thighs
2. Skin-on-material friction caused by tougher materials repeatedly rubbing against delicate skin. Common examples of this are too-tight waistbands, stiff leather shoes rubbing against bare feet or the inner arms becoming chafed rubbing against a rough seam.

Chafed skin can happen almost anywhere on the body (especially any areas with excess skin), but areas of delicate, sensitive skin are more susceptible to chafing. These include:

• The heels and toes (often caused by stiff shoes that haven’t been broken in)
• Inner thighs (caused by the friction of thighs rubbing together and often exacerbated by groin sweat or stubble from bikini hair removal)
• Beneath the boobs (often caused by too-tight or too-loose underwire bras that rub against the rib cage. Can also be exacerbated by boob sweat)
• Nipple-chafing (often happens to male athletes who may experience chafing when the fabric of their top rubs against the nipples. Less common in women as sports bras are usually worn)
• Inner arm or armpit chafing (another area where the skin is delicate and friction can easily happen between the folds of the skin)

Chafing can make the skin feel like it has been rubbed with sandpaper. It can feel rough, hot, red, and exceptionally sensitive. It’s natural to want to heal it up as quickly as possible.

Can Chafed Skin Be Cured Overnight? How to Treat Chafing...

It’s difficult to say how long it will take to cure chafed skin. Sometimes it will be too severe to heal overnight. Plus, we all have different degrees of skin sensitivity. But nighttime is a good time to allow the skin to calm and soothe since you won’t be moving as much (and, therefore, won’t exacerbate the chafing with more movement and friction.)

That said, don’t strip off your sweaty and wet clothes and just jump into bed and hope the chafing resolves itself overnight. Take the following steps to treat chafing and encourage your body to heal!

1. Start With Clean Skin

Chafing is characterized by a burning sensation, so it’s not unusual to want to avoid touching the skin for fear of further pain. But you also don’t want sweaty, torn skin to sit unclean as it could become a breeding ground for bacteria, and that inflammation could turn into a skin infection—you definitely don’t want that!

Your instincts are right: This is not a time for a steaming hot shower, bath, or hot tub—they can make chafing worse. But you do want to clean the skin, and some cold or lukewarm water will actually feel really soothing (just don’t blast the water pressure.) 

Clean the skin gently with some hypoallergenic, mild soap applied gently with the hands (no loofahs or sponges as they will cause further friction and abrasion). Rinse well with more cool water, and that’s it! Hopefully, your skin is already starting to feel a little cooler and calmer with all that salty sweat washed away.

2. Pat Dry (No Vigorous Skin Rubbing)

Some of us love a good scrub and vigorous towel dry. It can feel energizing on a sluggish morning. But this is not the time. Gently as you can, pat the skin dry. You can even just lounge on the bed and let yourself air dry. 

Remember: keep your skin dry. Wet skin can make chafing worse or even be a breeding ground for bacterial infections. Use talc powders to prevent areas from getting sweaty and sticky. 

3. Apply Aloe Vera, Petroleum Jelly, or Another Healing Lotion to the Chafed Skin

Once the skin is dry, help the healing process along with a healing lotion. You might reach for Polysporin or another medicated ointment. Or perhaps you prefer a natural remedy like aloe vera gel, which has anti-bacterial properties too. You can also try coconut oil, argan oil, good old petroleum jelly (aka Vaseline), or even diaper rash cream.

Chafing can dry out the surface of the skin, so adding moisture will soothe it immediately but also help to replenish your ‘sanded’ skin.

One note of caution: Avoid moisturizers that contain acids (lactic acid, fruit acids, AHAs) or that are heavily fragranced, as these might only further irritate your skin. 

You might want to reapply your chosen product a few times throughout the night to make sure the area doesn’t dry out, or the lotion doesn’t just rub off on your nightwear or sheets.

4. Choose Your Sleepwear Carefully

When your skin is burning with irritation, clothes can be a real irritant. Every seam has the potential to further irritate. So, when you have chafing, think about what you wear to bed.

Generally, we recommend opting for pajamas over nightdresses, so your skin is encapsulated in a protective barrier. If you have inner thigh chafing, I would choose snug leggings or shorts that won’t move around too much. Soft materials like modal cotton are ideal.

5. If it’s Really Bad: Ice Packs and Painkiller

If your skin chafing is particularly painful, you might want to pop an anti-inflammatory (aspirin) or another painkiller. As always, follow medical advice when taking any medication. You can also try applying an ice pack to the chafed area to help cool the skin and reduce inflammation.

The Next Day (and Following Days): Keep Up Your Care Routine!

Hopefully, you wake up with skin that’s a lot calmer and cooler. But it’s unlikely that skin chafing will completely clear up overnight. So keep up the steps listed above, especially reapplying the ointment (petroleum jelly, aloe vera, or coconut/argan oil) to keep the skin hydrated.

It’s harder to stay still during the day, so carefully consider what you wear. Look for clothing that wicks moisture and sweat from the skin surfaces. You’ll usually find most athletic or athleisure clothing has some degree of moisture-wicking these days.

Because sweat is such a major contributor to the irritation caused by chafing, sweat-wicking clothes will help prevent chafing by absorbing excess moisture and trapping it away from your skin.

But also pay attention to the fit of your clothes. Clothes that fit the body snugly (like leggings) with minimal seams don’t tend to move a lot, so this means there’s less friction of them rubbing against your skin. And because they fit snugly, they also mean your skin is encapsulated, so there’s less skin-on-skin friction.

However, if your clothes are too tight, those tight seams and bands (like waistbands or bra bands) can dig into the skin and cause irritation. So look for products with that perfect second-skin feeling rather than that sausage-like, too-tight encapsulation.

If you have inner thigh chafing, there are also specialty products that will prevent skin chafing: products like our Thigh Savers work by creating a physical barrier between your thighs. Usually, they’re light shorts that are form-fitting, and you can also look for styles (like our Leakproof Thigh Savers that absorb moisture to help manage sweat. You can also try topical anti-chafing products like anti-chafing sticks. 

While shorts are great for protecting the inner thighs, some areas prone to chafing don’t have dedicated products aimed at chafing. But really, what you want to do is add a physical barrier to protect your bare skin from skin-on-skin contact and to reduce friction.

For example, a sports bra can protect your nipples from chafing. Or socks can protect the delicate skin on your feet from severe chafing and reduce friction from shoes or trainers (and if you want that sockless look, there are more and more invisible socklets to choose from.) If you experience chafing along your inner arms, try a fitted tee rather than a tank top. 

When to Seek Medical Advice

Within a few days, you should be healed up. And going forward, you can take steps to prevent chafing from happening in the first place.

If you’re still experiencing pain or irritation days later, or you experience any of the following, it might be worth a trip to the doctor:

• A wound opens up and doesn’t scab over in a few days (assuming it’s not further exacerbated)
• You notice blood or pus coming from a chafing wound
• The skin is very hot or swollen
• Redness spreads beyond the point of chafing

But don’t panic; chafing doesn’t typically require medical attention. A little bit of rest and TLC, and you should be back to normal in a few days!

Next Time: Prevent Chafing Before it Happens

Well, you can stop chafing before it begins! Indeed, a lot of the steps outlined above can also reduce friction and help prevent the skin rubbing that causes thigh chafing. In particular, carefully choosing what you wear (like our Thigh Savers) can prevent skin chafing before it even gets started.

Also, think about choices that will minimize sweat and moisture, which we saw can really exacerbate skin chafing. Look for:

• Clothes (like our Leakproof Thigh Savers) that absorb moisture and is good for spotting
• Non-talc anti-chafing powders that can be applied to absorb moisture naturally
• Antiperspirants and deodorants that can be applied places other than the armpits

When it comes to your groin/crotch area, you do want to be mindful of what products you put down there that might disrupt the pH levels in the vagina. But if you focus on the inner-thigh area rather than the groin, you have options.

There are also topical anti-chafe creams that prevent chafing (and good ole Vaseline or petroleum jelly works well, too) by creating a skin barrier that helps the thighs glide past each other rather than drag. But you may find these to be messier solutions than simply choosing different underwear or clothing.

Finally, remember that thigh chafing can happen to anyone (and almost anywhere on your body) so don’t be ashamed or embarrassed if you experience it. Know there are many options for both treating thigh chafing and avoiding it going forward. So you can still enjoy your favorite summer activities, just without the burn.

—

We hope you found this post informative—but remember: we’re not doctors and this post is not medical advice! While all posts are fact-checked and well researched, we always recommend you chat with your doctor about any questions or concerns you might have regarding a medical condition.

We’re here to support and educate, but never with the aim of disregarding professional medical advice you’ve been given. Phew, now that that’s out of the way, you can go on living unapologetically free.

While this is the most sensible action, it’s not always an option. If you’re running a race, you won’t want to stop halfway because chafing starts. Or, if you’re walking or hiking, you’ll still need to get home. So rather than wait for chafing to start, you might take steps to prevent it from happening in the first place.

In this article, we’ll cover what chafing is as well as steps to both prevent and treat it. Read on!

Why Does Chafing Happen in the First Place

Before we get into how to make chafing stop, it’s worth understanding why it happens in the first place, as this is key to understanding how to prevent it and to stop it from progressing if it’s already started.

Remember that old trick where you rub two sticks together to make a fire? When you rub those dry pieces of wood back and forth against each other very quickly and repeatedly, it starts to generate heat. And because wood is so flammable that heat can quickly ignite a fire.

The same principles apply when you experience chafing. When you make any repetitive movement, the skin repeatedly rubs against itself. Over time, this creates friction which generates heat. And if the skin is delicate, it can cause irritation, small micro-tears, and even infection.

Chafing can happen anywhere on the body where there is skin-on-skin friction. But it can also occur when fabric from your clothes (especially rough seams or waistbands) rubs against your skin. Some of the more common areas to experience chafing include:

• The heels and toes (often caused by stiff shoes that haven’t been broken in)
• Inner thighs (caused by the friction of thighs rubbing together and often exacerbated by groin sweat or stubble from bikini hair removal)
• Beneath the boobs (often caused by too-tight or too-loose underwire bras that rub against the rib cage. Can also be exacerbated by boob sweat)
• Nipple-chafing (often happens to male athletes who may experience chafing when the fabric of their top rubs against the nipples. Less common in women as sports bras are usually worn)
• Inner arm or armpit chafing (another area where the skin is delicate and friction can easily happen between the folds of the skin)

Things That Make Chafing Worse

Chafing more often happens in the summer, and that’s generally because more of our skin is exposed when we wear lighter layers of clothes. But summer also adds two exacerbating factors into the mix:

• Heat/Humidity: When it’s already hot outside, the skin will naturally warm up. This means friction can quickly cause excess heat and irritation. If it’s muggy, you’ll also have dampness to contend with, and that can make your skin clammy and sticky, which will create more ‘drag’ as it rubs together.
• Sweat: Sweat contains salt, and we all tend to sweat more in hot weather. You have sweat glands all over your body. So sweat can bead and pool around your breasts, groin, back, legs, etc. And if you’re already starting to chafe in those areas, your sweat will add salt into that mix. Ever heard the adage about rubbing salt in a wound? That’s quite literally what happens, and the salt in your sweat will make the chafing sting and burn even more and even cause tears in the skin.

What to Do to Make Chafing Stop

Okay, so if chafing is happening (or if you’d rather take proactive steps to avoid it), here are some things you can do:

Change Out of Sweaty Clothes and Clean the Affected Skin

As soon as you can, get home and take off those sweaty or wet clothes. They should go straight into the laundry.

Then hop in the shower, but the key here is to be GENTLE. Keep the water temperature mild (you might even enjoy the feeling of cold or lukewarm water on your chafed skin.) And use gentle soaps (preferably fragrance-free so there are no additional irritants.) Gently apply the soap with your hands. No scrubbing, no exfoliators, no rough tugging or scratching. 

When you emerge, don’t rub the wet skin vigorously with towels; simply pat your skin dry and then just allow it to cool with some air. Hang out on your bed for a minute and let the skin calm.

Let the Skin Rest

The last thing your chafed skin needs is more rubbing or friction-causing movement, so if you can stay still for a bit and let it calm down, that’s ideal. Stay indoors for a bit and let the cool air start to calm your skin and reduce any inflammation.

Apply a Balm to Soothe the Skin

You can also reach for various products, from specialty chafing lotions to the tried and trusted petroleum jelly (aka Vaseline.) Products like coconut oil, argan oil, and aloe vera gel also have various calming, healing, and cooling properties that might soothe and calm the skin-chafing.

The best product is the one you have handy, and even a trusted moisturizer might help. But do avoid lotions with AHAs or other acids or that are heavily fragranced, as these might only further agitate your skin chafing.

Adding a moisture barrier will also help reduce friction if you do need to move around again, as the oil in these products will help the skin glide across itself rather than creating more friction, thereby helping you avoid chafing.

Wear Shorts Protect Your Inner Thighs if That’s Where You’re Chafing

If you must move around again, we suggest adding a layer around the skin-chafing where the skin rubs against itself.

As we’ve seen, one of the most common areas to experience chafing in the summer months is between the inner thighs. Thigh chafing is so common that it’s got a nickname: ‘chub rub.’ And it can quickly go from minor irritation to burning pain if you don’t take precautions. 

Anti-chafing underwear works to reduce friction by creating a physical barrier between the sensitive skin of your thighs. Usually, they’re light shorts that are form-fitting, and you can also look for styles (like our Thigh Savers) to help manage sweat. 

If you're on your period or are prone to experiencing light bladder leaks, discover Leakproof Thigh Savers. They're one of those superhero products that combines a double-whammy of benefits all the while keeping you cool, dry and chafe-free.

If chafing has already started, you should be able to stop it from progressing by wearing some thigh savers. But remember: The skin also needs a rest to heal, so try to make sure you’re giving it that chance.

…Or Add a Protective Barrier Between Your Skin and Chafing Sources

The same principle as thigh savers applies to other areas of your body that might experience chafing. After you’ve applied some soothing creams or oils, think about protecting the chafed skin from further irritation. 

For feet, this can be as simple as applying a band-aid. A sports bra can protect your nipples from chafing. Or socks can protect the delicate skin on your feet from severe chafing and reduce skin rubbing from shoes or trainers. If you experience chafing along your inner arms, try a fitted tee rather than a tank top. 

If you must keep moving, make sure the fabrics you choose are moisture-wicking or sweat-wicking to help keep the area as dry as possible.

Stay Dry with (Non-Talc) Powders

And if you’re in a race or on a hike, you can try moisture-absorbing powders that can keep you dry. While they won’t necessarily help treat existing chafing, they can absorb the sweat that might cause further irritation.

Look for non-talc all-natural products with ingredients like kaolin or cornstarch to absorb moisture. Other ingredients, like aloe and lavender, can cool, soothe and have antibacterial properties.

Note: Talcum powder may increase the risk of ovarian and uterine cancer, so avoid using this type of powder in the genital area. (source)

Sleep in Snug Clothes That Form a Skin Barrier

Bedtime can give chafed skin an opportunity to heal, but nighttime might also be when that burning sensation really kicks in and even keeps you awake. To minimize the pain, make sure you sleep in nightwear that keeps you from exacerbating chafing overnight. 

Choose leggings or shorts instead of a nightdress if you’ve got chafed thighs, for example. This will help keep the thighs from rubbing together while you sleep.

Looking to Treat Chafing or Prevent Chafing? Follow the Same Steps!

All of the steps listed above can also be used to prevent skin chafing from happening in the first place too. Indeed, it is easier always to prevent chafing than to heal it (because healing always takes time.) 

Remember that a snug protective barrier will really help prevent skin-on-skin contact and reduce friction that causes chafing. The skin barrier can also be protected by choosing materials that wick moisture. Sweat-wicking materials will absorb excess moisture and keep it away from the skin.

You can also explore the various ‘glide’ products like petroleum jelly, anti-chafe balm, or anti-chafing creams out there and see if they work for you. However, it is worth noting that these will need to be reapplied and can be messy, so sometimes adding a clothing layer is simply a more practical option.

When to See a Doctor

While painful, a little bit of chafing is generally nothing to worry about and will heal itself if not further exacerbated. 

However, keep an eye on the irritated skin because there’s always a risk of infection when skin is torn. Here are some signs that you might want to schedule a doctor’s visit:

• A wound opens up and doesn’t scab over in a few days (assuming it’s not further exacerbated)
• You notice blood or pus coming from a chafing wound
• The skin is very hot or swollen
• Redness spreads beyond the point of chafing

The good news is that chafing rarely warrants a visit to the doctor, and now that you know how to prevent chafing in the first place, you’ll hopefully avoid a repeat incident. 

We hope you found this post informative — but remember: we’re not doctors and this post is not medical advice! While all posts are fact-checked and well researched, we always recommend you chat with your doctor about any questions or concerns you might have regarding a medical condition. We’re here to support and educate, but never with the aim of disregarding professional medical advice you’ve been given. Phew, now that that’s out of the way, you can go on living unapologetically free.

The skin is a delicate organ, after all, and sometimes it is easily irritated by the friction caused by skin rubbing against skin or skin rubbing against another material.

Chafing and other skin irritations are often exacerbated by heat and sweat. This is because sweat contains salt, and if you sweat on irritated skin, you’re literally rubbing salt in the wound. Those tiny salt crystals can cause tiny tears and further irritate the skin, making the chafing worse.

While chafing occurs all the time, wouldn't it be better if you could avoid chafing altogether? Well, good news: There are steps you can take to prevent it from happening!

Nipple Chafing, Inner Thighs: Where on the Body Does Chafing Occur?

Chafing can occur almost anywhere on the body where something repeatedly rubbing against the skin causes heat and irritation. Here are some areas where chafing commonly occurs:

• The heels and toes (often caused by stiff shoes that haven’t been broken in)
• Inner thighs (caused by the friction of thighs rubbing together and often exacerbated by groin sweat or stubble from bikini hair removal)
• Beneath the boobs (often caused by too-tight or too-loose underwire bras that rub against the rib cage. Can also be exacerbated by boob sweat)
• Nipple-chafing (often happens to male athletes who may experience chafing when the fabric of their top rubs against the nipples. Less common in women as sports bras are usually worn)
• Inner arm or armpit chafing (another area where the skin is delicate and friction can easily happen between the folds of the skin)

Skin-on-skin friction often happens where there are folds in the skin, which may mean the skin rubs together with repeated movement. But skin-on-fabric friction usually happens where there are seams and waistbands or tougher materials meet delicate skin.

Basically: Any person can experience chafing almost anywhere. But here's how to prevent chafing:

1. Prevent Inner Thigh Chafing with Thigh Savers

As we've seen, one of the most common areas to experience chafing in the summer months is between the inner thighs. This is so common it's got its own nickname: ‘chub rub.' And it can quickly go from minor skin irritation to burning pain if you don't take precautions. But you can prevent thigh chafing and groin chafing with a simple product.

These products work by creating a physical barrier between your thighs (usually, they're light shorts). While these are form-fitting, you can look for styles (like our Thigh Savers Shorts) that help manage sweat.

Bike shorts (like our Leakstrong Leakproof Short) or leggings (like our Leakstrong Leakproof Leggings), for example, are designed to be form-fitting, cushioned, have offset seams and are designed to absorb sweat and even period leaks. Even if you’re not a hardcore athlete, you might want to up the ante on your workout clothes to minimize chances of irritation, and ensure you actually enjoy your activity!

On your period or experiencing light bladder leaks? Look no further than our Leakproof Thigh Savers. Or, if you're looking for extra coverage, check out our Leakstrong Leakproof Short with a built-in liner that absorbs about 6 tsp worth of blood, sweat, and pee.

You can also try High Rise Leakproof Thigh Shaper Shorts that are designed to smooth and shape the waist and tummy, as well as help protect the inner thighs from chafing. It can also absorb sweat, blood or urine. Most importantly, it locks that moisture away from the body to help control irritation, and discomfort.

2. Choose Moisture Wicking Clothes that Fit Snugly (Not Tightly)

If you’re looking to prevent chafing on other areas of the body, look for clothing that absorbs moisture and sweat from the skin surfaces. For example, our Leakstrong Leakproof Leggings not only absorb sweat but also about 6 tsps worth of blood and pee.

Because sweat is such a major contributor to the irritation caused by chafing, clothes that absorb moisture help prevent chafing by trapping sweat away from your skin.

But also pay attention to the fit of your clothes. Clothes that fit the body snugly (like leggings) with minimal seams don’t tend to move a lot, so this means there’s less friction of them rubbing against your skin. And because they fit snugly, they also mean your skin is encapsulated, so there’s less skin-on-skin friction.

However, if your clothes are too tight, those tight seams and bands (like waistbands or bra bands) can dig into the skin and cause irritation. So look for products with that perfect second-skin feeling rather than that sausage-like, too-tight encapsulation.

3. Add a Protective Barrier Between Your Skin and Chafing Sources

While shorts are great for protecting the inner thighs, some areas prone to chafing don’t have dedicated products aimed at chafing. But really, what you want to do is add a physical barrier to protect your bare skin from skin-on-skin contact and to reduce friction.

For example, a sports bra can protect your nipples from chafing. Or socks can protect the delicate skin on your feet from severe chafing and reduce friction from shoes or trainers (and if you want that sockless look, there are more and more invisible socklets to choose from.) If you experience chafing along your inner arms, try a fitted tee rather than a tank top. 

There are usually workarounds that still let you wear pretty much whatever you want. And if you absolutely don’t want to adjust what you’re wearing, try some of the topical products in the next section!

4. Explore the Balms and Creams on the Market

There are many anti-chafing products hitting the market to help prevent friction and combat (and treat) skin chafing. Some of these include antiperspirant, and some are more balm-like. Often packaged like deodorant sticks, these products are designed to create a barrier that sits on top of the skin and helps the skin “glide” past other skin rather than it rubbing and creating friction.

It might take some trial-and-error to find an anti-chafe balm or product you like, but they might be worth trying. Some notes to consider: 

• These anti-chafe products might rub off on or stain clothing, and
• Of course, they will run out and need to be replenished!

If you don’t have these products handy, you can even try good old petroleum jelly (aka Vaseline) to create a skin barrier, and it’s worth noting that petroleum jelly can also be used to treat chafing if it does happen.

5. Stay Dry with (Non-Talc) Powders

If sweat is a major source of bother, moisture-absorbing powders can keep you dry by absorbing excess moisture. Look for non-talc all-natural products with ingredients like kaolin or cornstarch to absorb moisture. Other ingredients, like aloe and lavender, can cool, soothe and have antibacterial properties.

Note: According to research, talcum powder may increase the risk of ovarian and uterine cancer, so avoid using this type of powder in the genital area.

6. Try Antiperspirants or Deodorants

As we’ve discussed, sweat is a major contributor to skin-chafing. While we usually think about our armpits when it comes to sweat, you have sweat glands all over your body, including your boobs, groin, back, and thighs. 

Factors that impact how much you sweat include:

• How many sweat glands you have (the average person has 3 million, but it can range between 2 million and 4 million. The more glands, the more sweat).
• Gender
• Genetics
• Age
• Fitness level
• Environment

But if you sweat more, you are more susceptible to chafing. So deodorants or antiperspirants can help.

Antiperspirants work by temporarily plugging your sweat glands, so they are very effective at preventing sweat. Many of us use antiperspirants for underarm sweat (though people increasingly switch to natural deodorants for various health reasons connected with aluminum — the chief ingredient used to plug those glands). 

But whether you are for or against them, antiperspirants can offer an effective solution to sweat. And you can use antiperspirant on other body parts too. That said, the skin around your groin and inner thighs may be more sensitive. You should also avoid putting product around your vulva, where it may cause irritation and even infection.

7. Treat Sensitive Skin Gently: Keep Clean and Dry (but Moisturized)

Chafing can happen more easily (or thoroughly) if you already have irritated or broken skin. There are certain body parts where the skin is just naturally more delicate. These include:

• The skin of the inner thighs and vulva
• The breasts and nipples (and beneath the breasts)
• Inner arms and armpits

Always make sure that you are treating the skin gently. This includes not scrubbing too hard in the shower nor drying too aggressively (pat dry rather than rubbing harshly.) It also includes the kinds of products you choose: Products with scrubbing particles or acids (like lactic acid, fruit acid, or AHAs) may irritate, as might products with a strong fragrance. 

Also, consider the temperature of the water you’re bathing in: Hot showers and baths can irritate sensitive skin. If your skin is sensitive (or is already a chafed area), gentle washing with a scent-free shower gel is ideal. Pat the skin dry and moisturize it with a light lotion.

While gentle cleaning is best, it is also worth noting the importance of staying clean and dry. If you work up a sweat, don’t sit around with wet skin in damp and sweaty workout clothes. If it’s a steamy hot day, you might want to change your underwear even after a short stroll. 

Those damp conditions can easily aggravate the skin (as well as creating a breeding ground for bacteria that can cause skin infections, UTIs, or yeast infections!). So shower and change often to keep the skin clean and dry. But treat it gently, so you don’t cause any irritation.

Too Late? If Your Skin is Chafed, Follow These Steps…

So, you have chafed skin. You’re probably in quite a bit of pain. What can you do right now to offer relief? Try these steps:

• Clean the affected area with cool or lukewarm water and a scent-free, gentle cleanser
• Pat it dry
• Apply a balm or cream like Vaseline, aloe vera gel, or argan oil to the affected area
• Let the skin rest: Try to minimize the movement that caused the chafing
• Sleep in clothes that encapsulate the area: That burning sensation may really bother you at night. If your inner thighs are affected, try sleeping in leggings or shorts, so the thighs don’t continue to rub against each other
• See a doctor if the chafing doesn’t clear up in a few days, or:
• A wound opens up and doesn’t scab over in a few days (assuming it’s not further exacerbated)
• You notice blood or pus coming from a chafing wound
• The skin is very hot or swollen
• Redness spreads beyond the point of chafing

Chafing is usually highly irritating but not medically concerning. Follow the steps outlined above, and you’ll hopefully be able to avoid it altogether!

FAQs

How Do I Stop My Inner Thighs From Chafing?

When your thighs rub together, shapewear (like Thigh Savers) is your friend. Slather petroleum jelly or apply skin lubricant on sensitive skin areas, or use powders like talc to keep things dry. The key here is to keep your inner thighs as dry as possible. Less moisture means less irritation.

What Is the Best Thing to Prevent Chafing?

If you want to prevent chafing, make sure you're wearing comfortable and breathable fabrics. Also, try to dodge activities that rub your skin the wrong way. Consider using anti-chafing products like petroleum jelly or specialized lubricants. They work wonders in reducing friction and keeping things smooth. Keep those areas prone to chafing clean and dry.

How Do I Stop Chafing Down There?

You can stop chafing in sensitive spots like your inner thighs, groin, or underarms by using anti-chafing balms and powders, opt for breathable clothing, and choose products like Thigh Savers to stop skin rubbing in the first place.

Does Vaseline Prevent Chafing?

Yes, Vaseline can help prevent chafing. It forms a protective barrier that resists sweating and keeps the skin lubricated and moisturized, reducing friction and irritation. Additionally, Vaseline All-Over Body Balm Jelly Stick can be applied to the inner thighs before exercising or walking to effectively protect against chafing.

—

We hope you found this post informative—but remember: we’re not doctors and this post is not medical advice! While all posts are fact-checked and well researched, we always recommend you chat with your doctor about any questions or concerns you might have regarding a medical condition. 

We’re here to support and educate, but never with the aim of disregarding professional medical advice you’ve been given. Phew, now that that’s out of the way, you can go on living unapologetically free.

In this article, we’ll cover:

• What is chafing
• Why it happens to so many people ‘down there’
• How to prevent it from happening
• How to treat it if it does happen

Let’s go!

What Is Skin Chafing?

Chafing is a form of skin irritation caused by the friction of skin rubbing against skin or skin rubbing against other material.

Skin repeatedly rubbing against other skin is just part of how we naturally move. It could be the skin of your inner arms rubbing against your torso or the skin of your inner thighs rubbing against each other. Basically, anywhere the skin folds, it can result in chafed skin. But when you move repeatedly and delicate skin rubs against other skin, it can cause heat and friction, which can give way to a nasty and irritating rash. 

Chafing is more likely to happen in hot weather. This is because:

• You’re more likely to have skin exposed, wearing sleeveless tops, shorts or skirts, and dresses without tights underneath
• The weather is warmer, which contributes to skin heat and friction
• You’re more likely to be perspiring—as we’ll see, sweat can really exacerbate chafing

But chafing isn’t exclusively a summer problem. It can also occur when delicate skin rubs against a thick seam or if your underwear is too tight. And if you’re prone to perspire more, it can also be irritated by sweat year-round.

Why Does Chafing Happen on the Inner Thighs and Groin?

We all sweat wherever we have sweat glands, including around the vulva and thighs. Of course, we don’t all sweat the same amounts. Put two people through a workout on a hot day, and there can be extreme differences in how much they will sweat. Indeed there is no rule about how much sweating is ‘normal.’ 

Factors that impact how much you sweat include:

• How many sweat glands you have (the average person has 3 million, but it can range between 2 million and 4 million. The more glands, the more sweat).
• Gender
• Genetics
• Age
• Fitness level
• Environment

How to Prevent Skin Irritation and Chafing?

You know what they say: A pound of prevention is better than the cure. So prevent skin chafing in the first place by trying the following:

Stay Clean & Fresh!

When you’re trying to prevent irritated skin and chafed skin, it’s important to stay clean and fresh. This means showering regularly with a mild soap, changing your underwear daily, and washing clothes that have become sweaty (especially workout clothes) after each wear. However, it does not mean aggressively scrubbing or using drying or agitating skin products. Gentle is best!

Use Antiperspirants to ‘Plug’ Sweat Glands

Antiperspirants work by temporarily plugging your sweat glands, so they are very effective at preventing sweat. Many of us use antiperspirants for underarm sweat (though people increasingly switch to natural deodorants for various health reasons connected with aluminum—the chief ingredient used to plug those glands). 

But whether you are for or against them, antiperspirants can offer an effective solution to sweat. And you can use antiperspirant on other body parts too. That said, the skin around your groin and upper thighs may be more sensitive. You should also avoid putting product around your vulva, where it may cause irritation and even infection.

Use Powders (Not Talc!) to Minimize Moisture

If sweat is a major source of bother, moisture-absorbing powders can help keep the groin and thighs dry. Look for non-talc all-natural products with ingredients like kaolin or cornstarch to absorb moisture. Other ingredients, like aloe and lavender, can cool, soothe and have antibacterial properties.

Note: Talcum powder may increase the risk of ovarian and uterine cancer, so avoid using this type of powder in the genital area. (source)

Wear Breathable & Loose Clothing

Loose, breathable clothing and underwear made of natural fibers (cotton, linen, hemp, etc.) will help your body stay cooler and will help sweat more quickly evaporate, thereby helping to prevent chafing. Tight, synthetic clothing that traps any moisture close to the skin can exacerbate a feeling of dampness and even exacerbate odor. 

Use Specialty Products to Help the Skin ‘Glide’

There are specialty products or a general anti-chafing cream to help the skin ‘glide’ and thereby prevent skin chafing. These range from petroleum jelly or coconut oil (beloved by some of my most devout running friends) to specialty products like anti-chafing sticks, like Super Glide.

Like any topical product, it may take some time to find the one that’s right for you. It’s worth noting that not all of these products will be suitable for the sensitive groin area — stick with the thighs.

...Or Moisture-Wicking Clothing

If you’re doing any athletic activity and are prone to sweating and/or chafing, it’s worth looking into specialty workout gear. This is where the ‘loose clothing’ rule can be broken as you opt for fitted, performance fabrics.

Bike shorts or leggings, for example, are designed to be form-fitting, cushioned, have offset seams, and are moisture wicking. Even if you’re not a hardcore athlete, you might want to up the ante on your workout clothes to minimize chances of irritation and ensure you actually enjoy your activity!

Simply Switch Up Your Underwear

Anti-chafing underwear works by creating a physical barrier between your thighs (usually, they’re light shorts). You can look for styles (like our Thigh Savers) that include moisture wicking to help manage sweat. 

The upside is that you can wear light summer clothes like dresses and still protect the delicate skin of your inner thighs from chafing. Simply switch from regular underwear to anti-thigh chafing shorts and wear all your favorite things!

On your period or experience light bladder leaks? No need to double up—try Leakproof Thigh Savers and you get all the benefits of leakproof underwear and chafing shorts combined! 

You can also try Leakproof Underwear, it absorbs moisture to help limit irritation, and discomfort.

Avoid Pads and Panty Liners

If you’re experiencing sweat around your thighs and groin, it might feel natural to reach for a panty liner or pad to absorb the moisture. But that will actually be counterproductive. These products are often lined with synthetic backs. This means that the sweat will not evaporate but be trapped against your skin, where it can cause odor, itching, irritation, and discomfort.

How to Treat Chafed Skin

It's not always possible to prevent chafing, and if you’ve got some skin chafing on the sensitive skin around your thighs or groin area? Here are some things you can do about it: 

Gentle Is Key: Use Mild Cleansers &  Pat Dry

First, you’ll want to clean the skin to make sure sweat and bacteria (which can cause skin infection) get washed away. However, avoid scalding hot water and aggressive cleaning. Instead, shower in cooler water and use a gentle cleanser. Pat the skin dry gently too. You don’t want to further aggravate the chafed skin.

Soothe Chafed Skin with Petroleum Jelly (e.g., Vaseline) Or Coconut Oil

Once your skin is dry (and hopefully feeling a little cooler), apply some lubricant. Petroleum jelly (like Vaseline) is something most of us have handy in our medicine cabinets. Some people also have success with baby’s diaper rash creams. 

One friend of mine prefers coconut oil to Vaseline or petroleum jelly and swears it is more effective at keeping the skin moisturized without feeling excessively greasy. You could also try argan oil or aloe vera gel. There are lots of choices here, but the key is some form of moisture that will help soothe. If the cream has anti-inflammatory properties, that will also help soothe thigh chafing.

Stay away from moisturizers with fruit acids, AHAs, or strong scents as they may cause further irritation.

Take a Break From Any Exercise or Movement That Caused the Chafing

Obviously, we’re not here to advocate for not exercising, but you certainly don't want to make the chafing worse. There are also times when your body needs a break, and if you have chafed skin, it’s a good idea to give your skin a chance to heal. We’re not suggesting you stop moving altogether, but be sensible and gentle for a few days.

We get it - it’s unlikely you can sit still until skin chafing is completely healed. So make sure you’re not worsening it when you do need to be up and about. You can swap into clothing that creates a physical barrier between your thighs. So, try wearing anti-chafing shorts or leakproof thigh savers during the day, so you don’t further exacerbate the irritation.

We hope you found this post informative — but remember: we’re not doctors and this post is not medical advice! While all posts are fact-checked and well researched, we always recommend you chat with your doctor about any questions or concerns you might have regarding a medical condition. We’re here to support and educate, but never with the aim of disregarding professional medical advice you’ve been given. Phew, now that that’s out of the way, you can go on living unapologetically free.

Skin repeatedly rubbing against other skin is just part of how we naturally move. It could be the skin of your inner arms rubbing against your torso or the skin of your inner thighs rubbing against each other. But when you move repeatedly and delicate skin rubs against other skin, it can cause heat and friction, which can give way to a nasty and irritating rash. 

Chafing is more likely to happen in hot weather. This is because:

• You’re more likely to have skin exposed, wearing sleeveless tops, shorts or skirts, and dresses without tights underneath
• The weather is warmer, which contributes to skin heat and friction
• You’re more likely to be perspiring—as we’ll see, sweat can really exacerbate chafing

But chafing isn’t exclusively a summer problem. It can also occur when delicate skin rubs against a thick seam or if your underwear is too tight. And if you’re prone to perspire more, it can also be irritated by sweat year-round.

Where on the Body Does Chafing Occur?

Chafing can occur almost anywhere on the body where something repeatedly rubbing against the skin causes heat and irritation. Some of the more common areas to experience chafing include:

The Heels of the Feet

Even broken in new shoes or worn your trainers without socks and felt the skin on your heel become red hot and irritated? That’s chafing caused by the material of your shoes repeatedly rubbing against the thin skin on your heels. Indeed, footwear that isn’t broken in can chafe your feet in other places too, which is why new shoes can be such a curse to wear! Very soon, every step feels like a form of medieval torture!

When you get new shoes, it’s advisable to wear them for shorter periods until they take on the shape of your foot. Wearing socks or socklets will also help form a physical barrier between your feet and your shoes, as will trusty band-aids. I’m sure we’ve all experienced heel chafing quickly turning into angry and broken skin. So this is one where a little bit of prevention goes a long way.

Inner Thighs

In winter, our thighs are usually tightly encapsulated in jeans or leggings. If we wear dresses or skirts, we often wear tights or pantyhose with them. But in summer, many of us love to throw on a floaty summer skirt or dress and enjoy the feeling of the sun and air against our skin.

Sounds ideal, right? It conjures days of picnics and beach walks in sweet floral prints. But beneath that pretty image, there’s often a whole lot of irritation besetting our inner thighs caused by repeated rubbing. 

No matter what your weight, the thighs often rub against each other when you walk. And when this is bare skin on bare skin in summer, that can cause a whole lot of friction. Add some sweat, and you’re literally adding salt to the mix, and while those tiny crystals of salt may not be visible to the eye, they can cause tiny tears that further the irritation. If you shave ‘down there,’ stubble can also add to the friction.

Basically, it’s a recipe for a whole lot of hot, throbbing pain that will keep you awake later that night. Thankfully, there are products on the market to address inner thigh chafing (which you’ll sometimes hear referred to as ‘chub rub.’) 

Beneath Your Boobs

Another area where the skin is super soft and delicate is around the breasts. And if you have an ill-fitting bra (especially an ill-fitting underwire bra), you may find that your bra causes friction and irritation, particularly beneath the breasts. Nipple chafing is also a common complaint in male and female athletes, though a good sports bra will certainly help prevent prolonged rubbing of fabrics against the nipples.

Like all chafing, sweat can exacerbate skin chafing beneath the breasts, and boob sweat is something many of us experience (especially on hot days) that can make chafing worse. So it’s possible that a bra that never gave you one iota of trouble in the winter suddenly starts to chafe in the summer months when your body temperature and rate of perspiration climb. 

Again good news: A proper-fitting bra made of sweat-wicking materials will help you. If you’re shopping for a bra, consider a wireless one as it will be less constrictive and can expand and move with your body.

The Inner Arms / Armpits

Same principle here: The inner arms and armpits have really soft, delicate skin but also can rub against the sides of your body or against seams of clothing to cause irritation. The armpits are also known for sweat, so it’s no surprise that this delicate skin can sometimes be susceptible to irritation. 

Who Does This Skin Irritation Happen to?

Chafing can happen to anybody. Sometimes it is portrayed as a challenge for those over a certain weight, but really anybody can experience this form of skin irritation. Indeed, if you research chafing, you will see it often afflicts professional or performance athletes, which makes total sense. After all, they’re often repeating the same movements over and over again, which would cause a lot of friction. They often wear minimal clothing, which would leave more skin exposed to rub against. And because they’re working out at the next level, they are sweating too.

But the rest of us mere mortals can experience chafing without that kind of intense workout regime. My body doesn’t tolerate the heat well, and I have very delicate skin. So on a hot day, I can feel the skin on my legs start to irritate simply walking my dog. The more delicate your skin, the easier it will be to irritate it. Case in point: Babies experience chafed skin that can result in diaper rash (again exacerbated by excess moisture).

And, of course, because chafing can happen almost anywhere on the body, it has a lot less to do with size and a lot more to do with how delicate your skin is and what you’re exposing it to. Wear thick, stiff leather shoes on bare feet, and you’ll discover NOBODY is immune to chafing!

What Can You Do to Prevent Chafing?

So, if anybody can experience skin chafing, what can be done to prevent it? Good news: there are more and more products to help address chafing in different parts of the body.

In general, you want to think about 2 things when trying to prevent chafing:

1. Minimizing sweat / excess moisture: This can be done by wearing sweat-wicking materials, changing often, or applying topical products like anti-perspirant or various powders 
2. Creating a physical barrier between the skin to reduce friction: Okay, I know we all want to wear less in hot or humid weather, but a tight layer will help protect your delicate skin and reduce friction. There are more and more products to protect your delicate skin without adding bulky layers - like Thigh Savers or Leakproof Thigh Savers! (Note: You do still want to avoid irritating fabric with thick seams, which may also cause chafing on the skin surface.)

There are also products (like lubes and gels and even good old petroleum jelly) designed to help the skin glide and prevent friction and skin breakdown. These are often sold as athletic products, and while they may be effective, to me, it just sounds like a messy thing to apply (and reapply) petroleum jelly on the affected areas. (Side note: However, if you do experience chafing, petroleum jelly (aka Vaseline) can help treat chafing.)

Thigh Chafing Can Be Prevented by Wearing Thigh Savers

Anti-chafing underwear works by creating a physical barrier between your thighs. Usually, they’re light shorts that are form-fitting, and you can also look for styles (like our Thigh Savers and Leakproof Thigh Savers) that include moisture-wicking to help manage sweat. 

The upside is that you can wear light summer clothes like dresses and still protect the delicate skin of your inner thighs from chafing. Simply switch from regular underwear to anti-thigh chafing shorts and wear all your favorite things while avoiding chafed skin! Plus, you’ll never get that feeling of sitting down on a gross subway seat or park bench again!

Stay Fresh and Clean!

Severe chafing can lead to skin tears which cause painful irritation and even skin infection. So staying clean and fresh is a must.

Discomfort from skin chafing can definitely accumulate, and a lot of the side effects (chafing, odor, risk of infection, etc.) become worse with time, so it’s important to stay clean and fresh. Good skin health means showering regularly with a mild soap, changing your underwear daily, and washing wet or sweaty clothes (especially workout clothes) after each wear.

Remember to always treat sensitive skin delicately (you can cause skin chafing by rubbing too aggressively in the shower or with a towel when drying.) Gently pat the skin dry instead. And keep the water temperature reasonably cool, too - searing hot water will make it easier to irritate the skin. 

And if you already have chafed skin on your thighs or elsewhere, check out the tips over here on how to reduce some of that heat, pain, and inflammation.

Sweating is a completely normal body function, so as much as possible, let your body do its thing. But know that if it becomes a source of irritation or discomfort, you have options!

We hope you found this post informative — but remember: we’re not doctors and this post is not medical advice! While all posts are fact-checked and well researched, we always recommend you chat with your doctor about any questions or concerns you might have regarding a medical condition. We’re here to support and educate, but never with the aim of disregarding professional medical advice you’ve been given. Phew, now that that’s out of the way, you can go on living unapologetically free.

On the same chat boards, it’s often people who have recently given birth citing this startling occurrence. And clearly, nobody has warned them that this might be a side effect. Here’s a typical account:  “I felt a small hush of very warm water come out of me. It didn’t feel like I was peeing, but it definitely wasn’t something I could control.”

If you’ve wandered here because you’ve experienced something similar, we’re going to try to clear up the mystery.

Be Sure You’re Leaking Water, Not Urine (& Not Amniotic Fluid)

Leaking water has a relatively straightforward explanation, but if you’re pregnant and experience this sensation, it could be your water breaking (that’s not water, that’s amniotic fluid.) 

When amniotic fluid leaks, it usually “gushes” for a sustained time. Any presence of white waxy or dark green substance also indicates it is amniotic fluid. So, if you’re pregnant, err on the side of caution and check in with your doctor to make sure your water hasn’t broken.

The other possible thing any woman can leak is urine. Learn more about all kinds of light bladder leaks here. They’re especially common in women who have given birth.

You’ll usually be able to tell the difference between water or amniotic fluid and pee by the smell. Amniotic fluid is odorless, while urine smells, well, like urine (an ammonia-like odor). It’s also possible that you might be confusing a water leak with vaginal discharge. However, most of us are familiar enough with our own discharge to recognize what’s ‘normal’ for our bodies.

It Can Happen With Any Water—From Swimming Pool Water to Bathwater

Keep note of when you’ve been swimming or bathing to see if there’s a temporal correspondence between leaking water and being submerged in water. This will help rule out other explanations. If you’ve been submerged in water (pool, ocean, or bathwater) and are leaking water, here’s your explanation:

It’s Called ‘Vaginal Entrapment’ of Water & Here’s Why This Happens

It’s pretty easy to identify vaginal entrapment of water because it will happen in close time correlation to some form of submersion (like being in a pool, bath, or swimming in the ocean.) As the term ‘vaginal entrapment’ suggests, 

According to a study published in the Canadian Urological Association Journal, “There is very little in the literature regarding whether fluid enters the vagina during bathing or swimming.” However, there are two cases cited in the same report (a prepubertal and a pre-menopausal female.)

Moreover, if those chat boards are anything to go by, this is an experience more common than the medical research might indicate. It’s highly possible that this is something many women do not report to their doctors. We already know, for example, that urinary incontinence is dramatically under-reported.

So, vaginal entrapment of water - where water becomes trapped in the vagina (usually when submerged, often horizontally) - is something that can happen. And it seems to be gravity that causes the release of it later (either gradually or in a sudden burst.)

The same study also mentioned that the pre-menopausal woman, who had experienced vaginal childbirth, managed her occurrence of vaginal entrapment by manually evacuating the water from her vagina. “This is done by inserting a digit [i.e., finger] in the vagina and pulling laterally.”

However, before you consider taking matters into your own hands (so to speak), we do recommend talking with your doctor about this experience. Self-diagnosis and treatment based on reading an internet article is not always the best course of action!

It Seems Common After Childbirth

The study cited above explored two patients—a prepubertal and a pre-menopausal female. However, on the chat boards we researched, more people noted that this was something that only happened to them after childbirth and may indeed have self-resolved over time.

Childbirth can definitely cause weakened pelvic floor muscles (this is also one reason why women can experience temporary stress urinary incontinence after childbirth.) So it is possible that there’s a connection between weakened pelvic floor muscles and vaginal entrapment of water.

Allowing the pelvic floor muscles to recover and doing pelvic floor exercises should help.

What Are the Pelvic Floor Muscles?

The pelvic floor muscles do an important job; they support the bladder, bowels, and reproductive organs. Especially as we age, these organs can exert increasing downward pressure on our bodies. This can be caused by things like:

• Childbirth: For women who have had children, childbirth can weaken the pelvic floor muscles or cause injury. Later in life, this can make incontinence and even prolapse more likely.
• Surgery: Any abdominal surgery (e.g., hysterectomy) can disrupt how the organs sit together and support each other, putting more strain on your pelvic floor muscles.
• Constipation/straining: Regular straining on the toilet caused by constipation can put stress on the pelvic floor muscles too.
• Aging/gravity: As we age, our skin thins and muscles weaken. The effects of gravity can start to show. Pure and simple, gravity pulls things downwards over time and if muscles are not strong enough to provide support.

So in order to prevent incontinence or organ prolapse, your pelvic floor muscles must be strong.

Who Should Do Kegel Exercises?

Doctors will often start talking to women about Kegel exercises during pregnancy or later in life. This is because these events are most associated with an increased risk of incontinence and prolapse.

However, women of all ages can benefit from doing Kegel exercises. They don’t just help prevent (or manage) urinary incontinence; they also are good for your general wellbeing.

Kegel exercises can also enhance your sexual health by helping you control your vaginal muscles, which allows your vagina to be more open (this is also helpful during pelvic exams). Moreover, the exercises increase blood circulation in the pelvic area, which can increase arousal.

Doing them when healthy can have myriad benefits, both present and preventative:

• Helps prevent urinary incontinence
• Preventing involuntary gas or fecal incontinence
• Improve symptoms of prolapse
• Orgasm improvement
• Maintaining overall pelvic floor strength

How to Do Pelvic Floor Exercises

If you’re unsure how to do pelvic floor muscle exercises (or Kegel exercises), your doctor or physiotherapist can help you. But basically, it’s like pretending you have to urinate and then holding it. You relax and tighten the muscles that control urine flow.

One way to learn the pelvic floor muscles you should activate is to pay attention when you pee: Start to pee and then stop. You should feel the muscles in your vagina, bladder, and anus get tight and move up. These are the pelvic floor muscles. 

If Vaginal Entrapment Is Connected With Childbirth, You Should Recover…

Good news: After childbirth, the body generally recovers. So if vaginal entrapment of water is connected with childbirth. Just like postpartum incontinence, these issues related to pregnancy in women usually resolve about 6 weeks after you give birth. You should track your experience of vaginal entrapment and/or incontinence after childbirth and chat with your doctor if the condition worsens or shows no signs of abating in that time period.

What If It Has Nothing to Do With Childbirth?

Beyond childbirth, the pelvic floor muscles can be weakened by:

• Surgery
• Constipation/straining
• Aging/gravity

It’s also possible that the shape of your vulva and vagina just allows water to enter more easily. It’s definitely worth talking to your doctor to better understand what’s happening. 

Should You Avoid Swimming Pools Altogether?

If water is easily entering your vagina, your doctor may advise you to shower rather than take baths, for example (dirty bathwater entering the vagina may lead to infections, including yeast infections.) They may also guide you to try wearing a tampon while swimming to see if that helps prevent water from being trapped inside the vaginal wall.

Remember there are also many benefits to exercise like swimming. So they may also give you common-sense advice like to:

• Carefully dry the vaginal area (no rough scrubbing, though)
• Not hang out too long in your wet swimsuit
• Shower after swimming to wash chlorine away that may interfere with the pH balance of your vagina
• Try leakproof underwear 

But these are all potential conversations to have with your doctor. So don’t be embarrassed to book that appointment and seek a full explanation and solution.

We hope you found this post informative — but remember: we’re not doctors and this post is not medical advice! While all posts are fact-checked and well researched, we always recommend you chat with your doctor about any questions or concerns you might have regarding a medical condition. We’re here to support and educate, but never with the aim of disregarding professional medical advice you’ve been given. Phew, now that that’s out of the way, you can go on living unapologetically free.