Here is a guide for the active, exercise enthusiast, thigh rubbing individuals of India who have been facing skin rashes which they haven’t been able to exactly put a finger on:
What is chafing?
Starting with the basics, what is chafing will help you understand if this is where your problem lies. In simple terms, chafing is the irritation of the skin caused by constant friction. It is usually caused by skin to skin contact, or contact with unnatural or rough fabrics and clothes. Chafing happens in multiple parts of the body. Sweat aggravates the problem by making the skin wet and salty, which more often than not causes the chafed area to sting.
Some common places where the body experiences chafing in– inner thighs and inner glutes (AKA your butt), armpits, and sometimes even the nipples region can also develop chafing.
You do not need to be scared as chafing is not a serious medical issue, however, it can sure leave you inconvenienced, uncomfortable, and immobile for a day or two.
How does it happen?
Speaking specifically of thigh chafing, it is (as the name suggests) caused when your thighs rub against each other, causing friction. It is similar to wearing tight shoes that cause blisters on your feet.
There are a few reasons why you could be experiencing thigh chafing, some being–sweating from either exercise or just daily activities which involves walking or running. Wearing thin leggings, skirts or shorts that don’t provide enough barrier between your thighs. While some fabrics aggravate it too–like wearing cotton or other fabrics that don’t absorb enough moisture. Heat and humidity also contribute to your agony. Last but not least, the trapped moisture between your skin folds also can result in chafing.
What are the methods and means to avoid thigh chafing?
There are ways to avoid chafing, some being:
Garters that actually have some use
These sexy looking lingerie pairs do have some work. They are a non-greasy and easy way to stop your thighs from chafing. Pair them under your short or long dresses and skirts for a chafe-free walk.
Buy it here.
Anti-chafing cream
Some application-based remedies for chafing include an anti-chafing cream. The cream is cooling, soothing, and prevents wetness wherever you put it.
Buy it here.
Light-weight shorts
These light-weight shorts make you feel like you are not wearing anything–that too in a good way. They keep you sweat-proof and chafing-free.
Buy it here.
Anti-chafing powder
This is an antifungal dusting powder which absorbs excess moisture, controls aggravated heat or friction and prevents rashes.
Buy it here.
Anti-chafing balm
Apply this balm stick on your rash-prone sections of the skin before you get dressed and you are now practically safe from chafing!
Buy it here.
How to cure thigh chafing?
All said and done, if you still happen to notice a rash, here is how you can deal with it. Firstly you shouldn’t ignore it. Gently clean the affected area with water and dry it completely. After cleaning, apply a substance like petroleum jelly, say Vaseline.
However, if the area is painful, swollen, bleeding, or crusted, a visit to a doctor is a must who might recommend an antibiotic ointment, in case the area has become affected.
Give your skin ample time to heal from the chafing wound before being active again. Continued friction will only make it more severe, leading to infection.
