How do I prevent chafing during workouts?

Choose clothes that stay put without digging in

For sweaty workouts, choose smooth, moisture wicking fabrics such as nylon or polyester. Cotton absorbs moisture and dries slowly. Aim for clothes that do not slide repeatedly across your skin or feel tight and restrictive. Athletic tights for running and cycling shorts for biking can separate rubbing skin surfaces. Pay particular attention to underwear and sports bras. Seams and tags can rub too, despite having no useful role in your training plan.1234

What should I put on skin before a workout to prevent chafing?

1. 1Start with clean, dry workout clothes. Dried sweat, dirt and other residue can irritate skin.
2. 2Check the places that usually rub, such as your inner thighs, upper arms or chest. Apply petroleum jelly or a lubricating balm or gel before activity to help skin and fabric slide rather than scrape.
3. 3Cover spots that need a physical barrier with padding or athletic tape intended for skin. For feet, use properly fitted shoes and moisture wicking socks; soft bandages can protect heels prone to blistering.

Can sweat cause chafing?

Friction causes chafing; sweat makes it worse. Moisture makes skin easier to damage, while wet clothes can stick or bunch up and increase rubbing. During exercise, gently pat sweat away with a clean towel rather than scrubbing. Antiperspirant can reduce underarm sweating; deodorant masks odor rather than reducing sweat. In skin folds, trapped sweat and rubbing can cause intertrigo, an inflamed rash that can develop a bacterial or fungal infection.3456

Protect nipples before longer runs

Repeated shirt movement can chafe nipples, especially during longer runs or when a shirt becomes soaked with sweat. A well fitting shirt, supportive sports bra, petroleum jelly or a bandage over each nipple can reduce rubbing. A stiff shirt logo can rub during a run, even if the logo suggests impressive athletic ambitions. Any adhesive you use must be intended for skin; unsuitable tape can irritate skin or be difficult to remove.7

Can moisturizer prevent chafing?

A lubricating cream can help prevent friction, but do not treat every moisturizer as a chafing barrier. Petroleum jelly is a specific option for preventing rubbing before activity. An unscented moisturizer can soothe already irritated skin. For cold outdoor workouts, moisturizer or petroleum jelly can also help protect against chapping and windburn; neither replaces sun protection.23

How do I soothe skin after exercise chafing?

1. 1Stop the rubbing that caused the irritation. Take a break from the responsible activity while the skin heals.
2. 2Remove sweaty clothes and gently clean the area with mild soap and warm water. Pat dry instead of rubbing.
3. 3Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly or an unscented moisturizer.
4. 4Wear loose, breathable clothing that does not rub the damaged area. A bandage can provide a protective barrier.

Minor chafing usually improves within a few days and can heal within a week. Contact a healthcare provider if it worsens or is not improving after a few days. Seek prompt care for pus, a foul smell, marked warmth, or severe pain or itching. Persistent irritation in a skin fold needs assessment rather than assuming it is ordinary workout chafing.246