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Thick thighs are a blessing. You may have even heard that they save lives. But during the summer, those blessings can rub together in a way that it is pretty hard to be grateful for.
Summer workouts and summer skirts can be hard on your legs. The trouble is moisture and friction. #Thighgaps may be popular on Instagram, but for most women, they’re not a reality. With that being said, things can get rough pretty quickly when you’ve been walking for some time in the heat. Before you know it, you’re looking for any place to sit to give your legs a break. And we haven’t even talked about the possible scarring from legs that have rubbed together too long and in a harsh manner.
Thankfully, chafing — of any kind — doesn’t have to be a problem. There are lots of ways to prevent it, stop it in its tracks, or fix the damage it has done. So don’t be afraid to put on your walking or running shoes and your shortest skirts and dresses this summer. We’ve got you covered. We gave you five options before, here a few more to ensure you stay chafe-free.
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Baby Powder
Talc-free, of course. Moisture is what causes chafing — that’s why it’s worse during the summer when you sweat. A little baby powder in problem areas can help you forgo painful rubbing.
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Deodorant
If baby powder doesn’t work for you, you’re wearing black, or you don’t have any on hand, try a little deodorant. The extra-strength variety will keep things as dry as they need to be to keep you comfortable.
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Anti-Chafing Balm
When you have a lot of running around (or running to do), try anti-chafing balm. It’s formulated for runners who put a lot of miles on their legs and it’s guaranteed to stick around.
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Bike Shorts
If it’s not too hot, a pair of bike shorts can create a permanent barrier between your thighs without riding up. Plus, you can get versions with moisture-wicking technology to keep you extra dry.
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Boxer Briefs
Don’t like to feel restricted at all? Invest in a pair of men’s boxer briefs. Their longer than boy shorts and have enough elastic in the band to keep them from riding up.
Bandelettes
When you want to look cute and be comfortable, Bandelettes are the perfect answer. They make you look good, stay in place, and you can slide them up wherever you need them to keep your legs from rubbing together in a very painful way.
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Cornstarch
If you’re in a pinch and don’t have any baby powder on hand, this kitchen staple works just as well.
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Petroleum Jelly
Yet another use for Vaseline. It’s small enough to always have on hand and it will keep the glide in your step all day. You can also use it to soothe and protect your skin at night if it’s already chafed.
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Spandex Workout Wear
Loose-fitting shorts and pants have a tendency to bunch up when you workout, and that causes chafing that can get worse during your exercises. Spandex wear, even if it’s covered with shorts and a T-shirt, can give your skin a break.
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Use a Mild Cleanser
A pH neutral, fragrance-free soap is the best to use if your skin is already irritated. Scrubbing or exfoliating body washes will just make the chafing worse.
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Switch to Cotton Pajama Bottoms
The fabric will protect hurting skin and keep you from irritating a sore spot in your sleep. Try to keep your legs separated and the area dry (with a fan if necessary) to speed healing along.
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See a Doctor If Necessary
Chafing skin that doesn’t get better when you give it a break could be infected.
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Baby Your Legs
These natural remedies will soothe your skin and keep the area clean and free of anything that might further bother broken skin.
