Chafing is not a pleasant thing. It happens when the skin rubs against itself, causing redness, irritation, and discomfort. It can appear between the thighs, in the armpits, on the buttocks, in the groin, on the feet, and even on the nipples, and in severe cases, it may require a doctor's attention, but in mild cases, it can be treated at home for immediate and quick relief. It’s even possible to prevent chafing in advance if you know what to do and how to prepare for it, which is definitely likely to happen in the summer days, and we will teach you all about it here – the signs, home treatments, and prevention methods.
What causes chafing?
Although our skin is quite strong and designed to protect us from many factors that can harm the body, it can break down if it is worn out excessively. Repeated friction combined with moisture can cause chafing, and these are the common factors that lead to it:
- Excess weight: The heavier our body is, the more it expands, and there is a greater chance that the skin will rub against itself, causing chafing.
- Breastfeeding: Breastfeeding mothers may suffer from chafing on their nipples due to the moisture trapped in the bra.
- Running: Chafing tends to affect people who run a lot due to the repetitive motion of running, combined with sweat and clothes rubbing against the skin.
- Cycling: Like running, cycling also involves repetitive motion, and in this case, it’s the friction of the thighs and buttocks against the bike seat.
- Tight clothing: A bra or underwear that is too tight can cause the skin to chafe. Shoes that are too tight or too loose can also cause chafing on the feet.
- Diapers: Babies can suffer from chafing due to diapers that are too small, too tight, or too wet.
These are just a few examples, but chafing can occur due to many other factors that are hard to list entirely – all it takes is a combination of moisture and repeated skin friction to suffer from chafing, which is why it’s a problem that is likely to affect us mainly in the summer.
What does chafing look like?
Chafing can be mild or severe, and each condition has its own symptoms.
Mild chafing:
- Reddish rash
- Bumps on the skin
- A warm sensation in and around the chafed area
- A burning or stinging sensation
- Itching
- Sensitive skin
- Dry, scaly skin
Severe chafing:
- Blisters
- Muscle pain
- Swelling in the chafed area
- Cracked skin
- Bleeding
- Sores
- Secondary infection that may be fungal
How to treat chafing?
The first thing to do is to stop the activity that is causing the chafing. If you don’t avoid it, you will only worsen the symptoms. In the case of severe chafing, you should consult a doctor for medical treatment, but if you have mild chafing, you can use the following home remedies to treat it. Just make sure to clean the area with soap and water and dry it thoroughly before using them.
1. Aloe vera gel
Aloe vera gel can soothe the burning and irritation of the skin, as well as reduce the inflammation caused by chafing. If you have an aloe vera plant at home, you can cut one of its leaves, extract the gel, and apply it directly to the skin. If not, you can buy aloe vera gel at any pharmacy.
2. Vaseline
According to a study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine applying Vaseline (petroleum jelly) to the irritated area can reduce the sensation of irritation and prevent worsening of symptoms. Vaseline is not quickly absorbed by the skin, making it recommended for those who continue activities similar to those that caused the chafing, as it can lubricate the skin for an extended period.
3. Coconut oil
A study published in 2017 showed that coconut oil can reduce inflammation, help wounds heal, and eliminate bacteria living on the skin. What you need to do is apply a small amount of the oil to the chafed skin, but note that it doesn’t tend to stay on the skin for long. If you can apply it frequently, it is possible and recommended to use it.
4. Cornstarch
Talcum powder can help keep the skin dry and prevent sweat and moisture, but you may want to avoid it, as a study published by the American Cancer Society showed that it may be carcinogenic. As a substitute, you can use cornstarch – it does exactly the same thing and absorbs moisture effectively.
5. Shea butter
Shea butter can serve as a moisturizing product full of fatty acids that help soften and nourish the skin. A study from 2012 showed that it also has anti-inflammatory properties, so it can promote skin healing in cases of chafing.
How to prevent chafing?
If you tend to suffer from chafing regularly or are concerned it might happen after an upcoming activity, there are several ways to prevent it in advance. First, choose to wear clothing made of cotton or moisture-wicking fabric, and if you know you’ll sweat a lot, bring spare clothes so you don’t have to stay in wet clothing. Second, apply deodorant if you tend to suffer from chafing in the armpits. Note that not all deodorants prevent sweat, as most only prevent the bad odors caused by it. If you want to prevent chafing, prefer an antiperspirant deodorant.
In summary
Chafing is an unpleasant condition that can happen to anyone. The best thing is to prevent it in advance, and this can be done by reducing skin friction in moist conditions. If any activity is causing you to suffer from chafing, stop it immediately and try one of the home remedies. In cases where the chafing worsens, you will need to consult a dermatologist for a prescription for an antibiotic or antifungal ointment.
