How to avoid irritations caused by thigh chafing?

Contrary to popular belief, the rubbing of thighs, and thus thighs that touch, does not only affect overweight individuals. Body shape also plays a significant role in most cases. Therefore, a person of average build or even a slim person can also experience this issue, depending on the shape of their legs.

Under normal circumstances, friction is usually not bothersome. It's only when the temperature starts to rise, during the summer season, that it can cause certain discomforts in the lives of the affected individuals.

Under heat, the friction between the thighs causes increased perspiration, which leads to redness, irritated skin, small bumps, a burning sensation, and in the worst cases, even cracks. Walking can then become truly uncomfortable and painful.

But then, how can we keep the inner thighs dry and avoid such discomforts?

Fortunately, there are various solutions to reduce thigh chafing and thus avoid the risk of irritation.

• Clothing Selection: Embrace the Boyshorts

Don't hesitate any longer! The bike short is the garment to wear under a skirt or dress to stay comfortable throughout the day and prevent thigh chafing. As boy shorts can quickly become warm, it's important to choose one made from a lightweight, soft, or even sweat-wicking fabric.

• Insulating Creams

There are creams designed to reduce friction on the thighs. They are typically quite thick and oily, in order to form a protective layer on the skin. They may also contain healing and soothing agents that will alleviate irritations and redness. Their sometimes heavy texture requires a few minutes of "drying" before putting on clothes.

Applying our nourishing body cream Squalane 10% + Shea Butter in a generous amount to the inner thighs can be beneficial in preventing potential irritations caused by thigh friction. Formulated with 99% natural origin ingredients and enriched with nourishing actives, it restores the skin's lipid barrier and reduces feelings of tightness.

• Talc

This mineral powder is recognized for its effectiveness in absorbing moisture and excess perspiration. Therefore, it can be effective in cases of thighs that rub and become irritated. However, this compound leaves white, sometimes dirtying, traces on clothing. Moreover, it is widely controversial today. In 2012, ANSES concluded that it was not possible to exclude the presence of asbestos fibers in certain talc deposits. Additionally, studies have demonstrated harmful effects on the respiratory system following talc inhalation. Furthermore, there is a proven link between talc applied to the female genital area and certain types of ovarian cancer.

Therefore, even though talc can be a great relief when suffering from irritations due to thigh chafing, it should be used sparingly, and as far away as possible from one's intimate area.

• Some vegetable oils

Some plant-based oils are notably rich and occlusive. They allow the thighs to glide more smoothly against each other, thereby preventing potential irritations and discomfort. For instance, you can resort to using monoi oil , coconut oil, or even rosehip oil .

• Petroleum Jelly

Vaseline is a highly film-forming polymer that forms a protective barrier on the skin's surface, thereby reducing friction between the thighs. However, this compound is synthesized from petrochemical derivatives. As a reminder, according to the current European cosmetic regulation, vaseline is prohibited in cosmetics, except "if the complete refining history is known and it can be demonstrated that the substance from which it is produced is not carcinogenic."

• Anti-friction strips

There exist elastic bands designed to prevent friction between the thighs. These bands resemble garters that are placed at the top of the thighs, on the parts that touch with each movement. They are made from a breathable fabric to prevent sweat accumulation. They are sometimes sold in pharmacies but also available online.