How To Prevent Chafing

With hot weather on the horizon, now's the time to stop chafing coming between you and your style. Check out our top anti-chafing solutions below, and take your style back into your own hands.

What Is Chafing?

Chafing is a skin irritation caused by continuous rubbing against the skin. Certain areas of the body are more prone to chafing; typically the inner thigh, underarms and feet are the most susceptible. It happens most in summer, intensified by moisture, sweat, heat and repetitive movement like running and walking.

How To Prevent Chafing

Anti-Chafing Shorts

When it comes to thigh chafing, the obvious answer is to create a physical barrier between the thighs. Enter: anti-chafing shorts. Usually stopping mid-thigh, most are made from a stretch fabric for a flexible feel, and have a close fit to look seamless under your clothing. Not just perfect for preventing discomfort, they're practical under dresses and skirts on windy days, too. They can even be a replacement for your usual running gear, or a great year-round base layer when you want extra warmth.

Chafing can be worsen during pregnancy. So how about trying out some maternity anti-chafing shorts? In addition to the usual features, most have a few comfy upgrades like a high waisted and stretch belly panel to support and accommodate your growing bump. Some are also made from cooling fabrics, so there’s no reason not to enjoy them in your postpartum wardrobe.

Anti-Chafing Balm

We don’t want to cause friction. Can’t bear to be without your summer denim shorts?, Go for a subtler solution: an anti-chafing balm. Usually as a stick or roll-on, just apply it directly to the skin to help create an anti-friction barrier. Bonus: it's small, so just chuck it in your bag for top-ups throughout the day.

Wear Seamless Clothing

It’s often assumed chafing only happens with skin-on-skin contact, but that’s not the case: some fabrics can also be problematic. Itchy seams can increase the chances of chafing, so it’s worth switching to seamless picks where possible to feel safe from the chafe. Not to mention seamless sets are a chic add for any activewear wardrobe...

Try Moisture-Wicking Fabrics

The right fabrics can also make a big difference. Prone to chafing? We recommend you go for breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics to help keep your body dry. You can pick synthetic fabrics, like nylon and polyester, or keep it natural with wool and bamboo: all fibers that absorb moisture without weighing you down.

Avoid Moisture

Easier said than done, right? Whether hitting the beach or breaking out in a sweat just thinking about heatwaves, it’s impossible to avoid moisture in summer. So this is more about keeping areas that tend to chafe as dry as possible. An example: make sure you dry thoroughly with a soft beach towel after getting out of the ocean or pool to avoid additional irritation.

What Else Can I Do To Stop Chafing?

Wear Seamless Clothing

It’s often assumed chafing only happens with skin-on-skin contact, but that’s not the case: some fabrics can also be problematic. Itchy seams can increase the chances of chafing, so it’s worth switching to seamless picks where possible to feel safe from the chafe. Not to mention seamless sets are a chic add for any activewear wardrobe...

FAQs

Do You Wear Undies With Anti-Chafing Shorts?

Whether you wear underwear with anti-chafing shorts is a personal preference. The shorts themselves can act as an undies, so it’s totally okay to go underwear-free for ease or wear with briefs.

How Do You Wear Shorts Without Chafing?

There are lots of ways to help stop chafing thighs without giving up shorts. One of the best ways to wear shorts without chafing is to apply anti-chafing balm or anti-chafing cream. You can used them on your inner thighs or any other areas where you get chafed. Other options: stick deodorant, anti-chafing underwear and thigh bands, which are stretchy accessories that cover the top of your thighs.

Does Putting Deodorant Between Your Thighs Help With Chafing?

Yes, you can use deodorant to help with chafing. The best part? You probably already have it at home, so it's a convenient solution. Stick deodorants will be more effective than aerosols and roll-ons when tackling chafing due to their ingredients.

Are Anti-Chafing Shorts Worth It?

Anti-chafing shorts are definitely worth it (they’re pretty much the best pick). They're an easy physical barrier under skirts and dresses to minimize thigh chafing, or as an extra layer when it's chilly out. As long as you find the right pair for you, they can be a solution you depend on again and again.