Read Full Article HereIf you’re jogging in shorts out in the sweaty summer heat, you might notice the skin on your inner thighs feeling a little raw. It may burn, sting, and itch, and a rash may crop up. These are signs of chafing, but doctors say there are ways to prevent it.
Chafing happens when your skin repeatedly rubs against neighboring skin, clothing, or something else, says Dr. Channing Hood, a dermatologist at U.S. Dermatology Partners Golden in Colorado. “This repetitive motion can damage the outer layer of the skin, which leads to inflammation and a red rash.”
While chafing is common on the inner thighs, it can occur anywhere on the body, especially in spots that are typically “warm and moist” or where friction is likely, such as under your arms or breasts, around your nipples, or on your backside or groin.
You may chafe more in the summer because you sweat more, and this moisture increases friction, Green says. Sweat “creates the perfect storm for chafing,” Hood adds; along with increasing friction, sweat softens your skin and breaks down its barrier, and its acidity and saltiness enhance irritation.
How to stop chafing
When you notice these symptoms, you should stop the activity causing it, whether it’s exercising, walking, or gardening, he says. Continuing these movements while you’re chafing will worsen the problem and potentially cause long-term skin damage, like scars or discoloration, Hood adds.
If you know you’re prone to chafing, you can take certain precautions to prevent it.
Wear moisture-wicking clothing
Since sweat is a big contributor to chafing, staying dry is crucial. Khorasani says wearing moisture-wicking clothing and socks can help. Choose fabrics made from 100% cotton or those labeled “moisture wicking,” which are typically spandex, polyester, or nylon.
Change out of sweaty gear as soon as you can, too. Wet clothing can increase friction, and dried sweat and debris can irritate your skin.
Try anti-chafing products
Balms, ointments, powders, and creams: anti-chafing products come in many forms. They work by creating a barrier on your skin’s surface to minimize friction and excessive irritation.
“They either make the skin slippery so it glides or soak up sweat so it stays dry,” Hood explains. “The trick is to put them on before friction starts and reapply during longer activities.”
Look for products with ingredients such as dimethicone (a silicone-based skin protectant), zinc oxide (an ingredient in medicated ointment), or petrolatum (petroleum jelly), Khorasani says, and avoid alcohol-based anti-chafing products, which can worsen the irritation. For the same reason, Hood also suggests avoiding products with fragrance or talc. If any product irritates your skin, stop using it and talk to your dermatologist.
How to treat chafing
Chafing can cause breaks in the skin that could allow bacteria or germs to enter and possibly cause infections, Hood adds. Chronic chafing can lead to scarring and skin discoloration, so it’s important to treat chafed skin.
Start by gently washing the affected skin with mild soap. Pat it dry and coat it with a thick layer of ointment that contains petrolatum or zinc oxide to repair and protect the skin, Hood says.
You can soothe the irritation by applying aloe vera gel, coconut oil, or over-the-counter antibiotic cream, Green says. Hood recommends also using 1% hydrocortisone cream twice a day on chafed skin for a few days to calm the inflammation.
While your skin heals, Hood suggests wearing loose-fitting, breathable clothing.
When to see a doctor
Mild chafing symptoms will usually improve in a few days. But if they don’t get better with at-home treatments, see a dermatologist.
Additional symptoms may suggest an infection, Hood says: if the rash spreads, oozes, or gets more painful or swollen, or if you’re running a fever. In these instances, doctors can prescribe an antibiotic or antifungal cream or oral medication, or a stronger steroid ointment for severe inflammation.
“They can also provide tailored prevention methods based on your lifestyle and activities you enjoy that may contribute to chafing,” Hood says.
