Sometimes, you just can’t avoid it: the awful burn between your thighs that creeps up quickly in the muggy and humid summer weather. Maybe all your chafewear is in the wash or you ran out of your favourite anti-chafing balm. Whatever the case may be, you braved an unprotected walk and are paying the price. No shame in that—we’ve been there, too. But what do you do now that the chub-rub damage is done?
You needn’t be left immobile for days. As it turns out, there are effective ways to care for chafed inner thighs and avoid them in the future. We don’t know about you, but we don’t have time for that this summer. Here, we discuss what inner-thigh chafing looks and feels like, and the best ways to care for your chafed inner thighs, according to dermatologists.
What does inner-thigh chafing look and feel like?
Inner-thigh chafing occurs when your legs rub against one another, causing friction and irritation. It can look like redness, blister-like lesions or boils or a flat rash, and can feel painful, itchy and burning. Regardless of what it looks and feels like, it can really put a damper on a fun day.
How to care for chafed thighs
- Clean the area with a mild cleanser. Wash the area gently with warm water and a pH-neutral soap before thoroughly drying it. Remember: don’t scrub.
- Moisturize. Soothe the area with unscented, zinc-based topical barriers like Vaseline, Desitin, Balmex or Aquaphor. Dermatologist Dr. Mona Gohara recommends using Skin Fix Nourishing Cream as it helps prevent inflammation, moisturize and protect the area.
- Try some at-home remedies. Coconut oil has also been proven to reduce inflammation, encourage wound healing and prevent growth of bacteria. Argan oil helps hydrate and improve skin elasticity, and aloe vera has been used for centuries to treat various skin ailments.
- Consider what you’re wearing. While your inner thighs are healing, you’ll want to wear soft, breathable clothing during the day and while you’re sleeping, dermatologist Dr. Kavita Mariwalla recommends. SImilarly, don’t wear clothing that is too big or baggy, as this can cause further chafing. When exercising, opt for moisture-wicking fabrics, like these versatile shorts .
- Avoid too much movement. It’s suggested to take some time off from being active to avoid further irritating your legs while the skin heals.
- Invest in chafewear. The most fool-proof way of protecting yourself against chub rub is by wearing garments designed for it. Thin, breathable anti-chafe shorts are perfect for wearing underneath skirts or dresses during those hot summer days.
- Visit your doctor. If your chafed thighs aren’t getting any better or have pus bumps, pay a visit to your family doctor or a walk-in clinic. They will likely be able to prescribe you a medicated antibiotic ointment to speed along the healing process.
There are plenty of ways to care for your inner-thighs after they’ve experienced some chafing, but the best method is prevention, especially by using chafewear (like these cooling anti-chafing shorts). Don’t let angry inner thighs get in the way of enjoying your summer.
Note: This is not medical advice. If you need medical assistance, seek formal support from a doctor.
