Chafing: how to prevent and soothe thigh and underarm rub
Why chafing happens on thighs, underarms and under the breasts, which balms, powders and clothes help prevent it, how to soothe sore skin, and signs of infection.
Written by the Glowpedia team · not yet reviewed by our dermatologist
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Chafing is irritation that happens when skin rubs against skin, clothing or another material. It can make skin red, sore, stinging or raw, and it is most common on the inner thighs, underarms, under the breasts, the groin and the nipples, especially in hot weather and during exercise.
Quick answer: Chafing comes from rubbing, and moisture makes it worse. Prevent it by keeping skin dry, wearing smooth, breathable clothes or a layer between the thighs, and applying a protective balm or powder before you move. If skin is already sore, wash it gently, pat it dry, apply petroleum jelly or a zinc oxide cream, and rest it. Red, itchy patches with small spots around them can be a yeast infection.
Why does chafing happen?
- Friction between skin and skin, or between skin and seams, straps and fabric. This is the main cause.
- Moisture. Sweat softens skin and makes friction worse. As sweat dries, the salt left behind can irritate the skin.
- Heat and long periods of movement, such as walking in a dress, running, cycling or hiking.
- Dirt or dried sweat on clothing. MedlinePlus notes that these can irritate skin too.
Chafing happens at every body size. Weight is only one of several factors. Heat, sweat, clothing and the amount of movement matter just as much.
Where it happens and what helps
| Area | What helps |
|---|---|
| Inner thighs | Anti-chafe balm or stick, smooth slip shorts or bike shorts under skirts and dresses, thigh bands, a drying powder |
| Underarms | Smooth, well-fitting tops without rough seams, a balm along the sleeve line, keeping the area dry |
| Under the breasts | Drying the fold fully after washing, a well-fitting bra in a breathable fabric, a drying powder |
| Nipples (common in runners) | A well-fitting top or sports bra, a balm, or soft adhesive covers |
| Feet | Shoes that fit, socks that keep feet dry, a balm or soft pad on hot spots |
Anti-chafe products
- Balms and sticks. Many are based on petrolatum (petroleum jelly), wax or dimethicone, a silicone that feels silky. These form a slippery barrier that reduces friction. Skin-care scientists group them as occlusives, which means they sit on top of the skin. Apply to clean, dry skin before you start your activity.
- Zinc oxide creams. DermNet lists creams with zinc oxide or petrolatum as barriers that reduce friction between touching skin.
- Drying powders. Cleveland Clinic and MedlinePlus both mention powders as a way to keep skin dry and reduce rubbing. Apply them to dry skin, keep them away from the face and avoid breathing them in. Some people prefer talc-free powders.
- Antiperspirants. DermNet notes that antiperspirant cream or powder can reduce sweating in skin folds. A deodorant or antiperspirant should not be used on broken, raw or very irritated skin.
Clothes that help
Look for smooth seams and soft, breathable fabrics. MedlinePlus suggests soft natural fabrics such as cotton against the skin, and activity-specific clothing, such as athletic tights for running. Many people also like moisture-wicking sports fabrics for exercise. Either way, change out of damp clothes as soon as you can, which Cleveland Clinic lists as a way to reduce rubbing. A thin layer between your thighs, such as slip shorts, makes a big difference under dresses and skirts.
How to soothe chafed skin
- Rinse the area gently with lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance-free cleanser.
- Pat dry. Do not rub.
- Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly, a zinc oxide cream or an unscented moisturizer. These protect the area while it heals.
- Wear loose, breathable clothes. If the skin is raw, a soft bandage over the area can protect it.
- Rest the area. MedlinePlus advises limiting the activity that causes the chafing, if you can.
A cool, damp cloth may ease stinging. Let the skin heal fully before you return to the activity, and protect it with a balm the next time.
What to avoid on chafed skin
- Scented lotions, body mists and fragranced products, which can sting and irritate.
- Alcohol-based products on raw skin.
- Scrubs, peels and exfoliating products until the skin has healed.
- Shaving over sore skin. Wait until it has healed, then look at shaving products that are made for sensitive skin.
- Popping blisters, which can lead to infection.
How long does it take to heal?
Mild chafing often settles in a few days if you protect the skin and avoid more rubbing. Raw or blistered skin takes longer. Repeated irritation can sometimes leave the skin darker for a while. If that bothers you, read about darker skin on underarms, knees and elbows.
Chafing or an infection?
Skin folds are warm and moist, so chafing there can turn into a rash called intertrigo. Heat, moisture and friction are the causes. A yeast (Candida) infection can then settle on the sore skin. DermNet describes it as itchy, moist, red patches with small bumps or pustules around the edge, often under the breasts, in the groin and in the armpits. The usual first treatment is an antifungal cream, which a pharmacist or doctor can recommend.
To reduce the chance of it coming back, dry skin folds completely after exercise and bathing. DermNet suggests a cool setting on a hairdryer for under the breasts and the armpits. Heavy sweating and conditions such as diabetes make yeast infections in skin folds more likely, and a doctor can help you manage these risk factors.
When to see a doctor
- Bright red, itchy, spreading patches with small spots around the edge, which may be a yeast infection that needs an antifungal.
- Pus, yellow crusts, increasing pain, warmth, swelling, red streaks or a fever. These can be signs of a skin infection.
- Raw skin that does not improve after a few days of care.
- Chafing or rashes in skin folds that keep coming back despite prevention.
- Chafed skin if you have diabetes or a weakened immune system.
FAQ
Is baby powder good for chafing?
Powders can help keep skin dry and reduce rubbing. Apply to dry skin, avoid breathing in the dust, and choose a talc-free one if you prefer. Do not use powder on raw, weeping skin.
Is petroleum jelly better than a powder?
They work in different ways. Petroleum jelly forms a slippery barrier, while powder absorbs moisture. Many people use a balm for long activity and a powder for sweat.
Can I use deodorant on my thighs?
Some people use an antiperspirant to reduce sweat in skin folds, but it should not go on broken or irritated skin, and fragranced products may sting.
Does chafing leave marks?
Mild chafing usually fades. Repeated irritation may leave the skin darker for a time, so protecting it early helps.
Can I exercise with chafed skin?
It is best to let the skin heal first. Rubbing a sore area again will delay healing.
Sources
- Chafing: Causes, Treatment & Prevention (Cleveland Clinic)
- Chafing (MedlinePlus, NIH)
- Intertrigo (DermNet)
- Candidiasis of skin folds (DermNet)