We love summer and all of the awesome outdoor activities like cycling, running and tennis. What we don’t like so much is the sweating. Worse still, the chafing from said sweating. You know, when your thighs rub together, against your clothing over and over again until your skin hurts, looks red and irritated and may even burn or have a heat rash or blisters. It’s a super common problem that isn’t solely associated with your weight or activity and has everything to do with friction, moisture (a.k.a: sweat) and irritating fabric. Here’s what Nick Heraldson from SwampButt Underwear says you need to know to make it stop.
Does everyone chafe if they exercise in the summer?
Yes and no. It truly depends on how sweaty you are (and if you are sweaty your chances for chafing increase) and what you’re wearing. Some clothing, like cotton has a higher propensity for chafing because it absorbs moisture. “People who sweat excessively will benefit from wearing a garment that wicks away and dries sweat,” adds Heraldson.
Will chafing only occur on your thighs?
No, although the thighs are the most common area. Some men experience the relentless rubbing on their chest, around their neck and under their arms as well, particularly when they’re wearing a restrictive uniform or suit and tie from nine to five. “If you’re bundling up to go outside, drive to work, the gym or wherever, you can get overheated,” says Heraldson. “It is tough to cool down while wearing business/work attire and often challenging to justify opening a window or cranking the A/C at the office.”
How can I prevent chafing?
Believe it or not, applying a thin layer of deodorant like Dove Men+Care Extra Fresh Odour Protection Deodorant Stick (from $4 each, available at Walmart), to the body areas you experience chafing before you run your 5K can help. Rubbing on a body lotion like Live Clean Sensitive Skin Fragrance Free Body Lotion ($7.79, available online at well.ca) every day can create a moisture barrier on your skin, while wearing a pair of SwampButt Original Performance Brand (from $10 each, available online at swampbutt.com), can help wick sweat away you’re your skin. “Our underwear removes the cause of chafing in the first place,” says Heraldson.
How to ease the chafing pain:
Stop the activity that’s causing the chafing immediately and let your skin breathe and heal over night. “Leave the area exposed to the air while you sleep,” adds Heraldson. “ If there is an abrasion or blistering on the surface apply petroleum jelly and a light gauze bandage to the area.” And then go see your doctor.
