How to Stop Thigh Chafing in Summer: Skin Chafing Causes & Prevention Tips
We spend all winter fantasising about longer days, warmer nights, and sun-soaked afternoons by the beach – but if there’s one blight on summer, it’s skin chafing.
Between humid weather, shorter hemlines, and water-soaked skin, skin chafing is rife during Australian summers. And, if you’ve ever experienced thigh chafing in summer, you’ll know that it’s an instant mood killer – and a big deterrent from ever going outside after breakfast. But there’s no reason why this skin concern should put a dent in your summer plans.
Below, we’re sharing our expert body care tips on how to stop skin chafing between your thighs so you can stroll, swim, and sweat to your heart’s content this summer. Read on!
What is chafing?
Skin chafing is a type of discomfort that results from either skin-on-skin friction, or friction between skin and uncomfortable clothing. Chafing is just a mild surface abrasion that looks like a red rash, though it’s often associated with a stinging sensation.
Thigh chafing in summer is especially common because friction between thighs – combined with excess moisture – triggers a ‘perfect storm’ of discomfort.
What causes chafed skin?
Chafing is the result of friction and moisture, but there’s a confluence of factors that cause this uncomfortable skin concern in summer. These include:
- Weather: Hot, humid days create an unfortunate environment for thigh chafing in summer.
- Extra moisture on the skin: Sweat, ocean water, or pool water can all cling to clothing and increase friction.
- Clothing: Certain materials like cotton absorb and hold onto moisture, which puts you at a higher risk of skin chafing. Tight or restrictive fabric may also be a factor.
- Physical activity: Sweat from exercise can make clothing slicker and more likely to rub against the skin.
- Body shape: Closer-set thighs are more prone to skin chafing.
How do you prevent chafing? 5 tips to stop chafing thighs
It might seem like thigh chafing is synonymous with summer – but it doesn’t have to be.
From clothing choices to sweat-licking strategies, we’re setting you up for a chafe-free Australian summer with five tips for how to prevent thigh chafing – below.
1. Wear breathable, moisture-wicking clothing
The skin between your thighs is very delicate and sensitive, and the best way to reduce friction and minimise skin chafing is to wear comfortable fabrics that won’t feel abrasive against this intimate area.
We recommend breathable clothing that absorbs moisture without clinging to the skin. Natural materials like bamboo are soft, smooth, breathable, and moisture-wicking – so they’re a great option for summer. In terms of synthetic fabrics, look for materials like nylon and polyester – which are known for their ability to draw sweat away from skin. This makes them ideal for working out or going on long walks in the summer heat.
2. Apply a body deodorant
No summer body care routine is complete without a deodorant – but the right formula can also be your secret weapon against skin chafing, too.
Kiehl’s Over & Under Cream-To-Powder Deodorant is an all-over body deodorant that’s gentle enough to use on the delicate skin between your inner thighs. This lightweight cream-to-powder formula helps minimise friction-fuelled discomfort, keeping your inner thighs smooth, fresh, and dry through the blazing Australian summer heat.
3. Keep the skin clean and dry
It’s no secret that moisture contributes to the feeling of thigh chafing in summer, so it’s important to be mindful of excess water on the skin after sweating or swimming of any kind.
Damp clothing exacerbates the look and feel of chafed skin, so be sure to thoroughly pat your skin dry after spending time in water (or working up a sweat).
4. Opt for loose clothing
Tight or restrictive materials – especially non-moisture-wicking fabrics – can increase friction between your skin and clothes. Instead, opt for loose-fitting clothing where you can.
Concerned about skin chafing under a dress or skirt? Slip on a pair of comfortable bike shorts or anti-chafing shorts to prevent your inner thighs from rubbing.
5. Allow time for chafed skin to recover
In a perfect world, we’d be able to avoid skin chafing altogether, but summer is also the season of spontaneity – so there might be days where you can’t avoid that dreaded inner thigh friction. But fear not! You can comfort tender skin with a nourishing body moisturiser to help facilitate a smoother (and speedier) recovery.
Our pick is the Ultra Body Mega Moisture Squalane Cream, which is formulated with the benefits of squalane and ceramides for lasting hydration. This lightweight, fast-absorbing formula is also suitable for all skin types – including allergy-prone skin – making it ideal for your skin chafing aftercare this summer.
Now that you’ve learned how to stop skin chafing in its tracks, find out how to care for the rest of your skin with our summer skincare essentials.
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Ultra Facial Cleanser
A foaming facial cleanser suitable for all skin types, including dry and sensitive. Gently removes excess oil, dirt and debris without drying or stripping the skin.
Ultra Facial Toner
A gentle, alcohol-free facial toner for all skin types.
Midnight Recovery Concentrate Face Oil
A nighttime anti-ageing face oil that visibly restores skin while you sleep.
Ultra Facial Cream with Squalane
Our #1 squalane moisturiser delivers ultra-lightweight, 24-hour hydration and promotes barrier repair for softer, healthier skin.
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