Cause: Chafing is caused by sweating and rubbing. While some of us wonder if chafing is a signal that it is time to lose weight, in fact even the skinniest walkers, runners, and cyclists experience the same problem. Chafing can occur anywhere, but the groin, underarms and nipples are prime areas.
Prevention: Prevention of chafing falls into four categories: staying hydrated, staying dry, using a lubricant, and wearing appropriate clothing.
Hydration: Drink lots of water before, during, and after your walk. This will allow you to perspire freely so the perspiration doesn't dry into salt crystals which will enhance the chafing.
Staying dry: Go light on the deodorant stick as that can make you stickier. Use talcum powder, cornstarch or potato starch to stay dry. If this method doesn't work, it is time to progress to using a lubricant.
Lubrication: Walkers used all kinds of lubricants to keep the skin areas sliding past each other instead of rubbing raw. Petroleum jelly, bag balm and udder cream are the longtime favorites. Products such as Body Glide, Runners Lube and Sports Slick go on like a deodorant stick and are petroleum-free and non-staining. They can also be used on your feet and toes where you are prone to blister to prevent blisters.
Top Picks for Chafing Preventing Lubricants
Clothing: Loose clothes may feel good on the trail, but to prevent chafing you need a snug fit. Bike shorts are designed to give a skin tight fit that will prevent chafing and are excellent if your trouble is in the lower body or thigh area. For the upper body, polypropylene or lycra tops that fit skin tight will do the trick.
Treatment: Once you are chafed, treat the area like an open wound. Wash and clean with antiseptic to prevent infection and cover with a sterile gauze pad that allows the area to breathe until it is healed.
Next page >> Bra problems
More of this Feature
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Runner's trots
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Stomach upset
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Bladder control
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Urinary frequency
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No toilets
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Menstrual concerns
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Chafing
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Bra problems
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Sore nipples
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Jock itch
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Getting lost
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Itchy legs
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Anxiety and Panic
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