Spring is finally here. After a long, dark and dreary Winter the warmer months have finally graced us with their presence. Now that we’re into the Summer months, you’ve probably planned numerous activities with friends. From long runs to walks in the park and brunch dates, we are SO ready for a long, hot (pretty please) Summer.
But, if you’re passionate about exercise then you probably experience skin chafing from time to time. This uncomfortable, often painful skin concern often rears it’s ugly head once temperatures rise. So, what is chafing? Keep scrolling to find out what causes chafing and how to avoid it so that you can ditch your jeans and replace it with that Summer outfit you’ve been saving for your big events!
What Is Chafing?
Chafing is a very common skin concern that is cause by a combination of three things; moisture, friction and fabric that causes irritation on the skin. Chafing usually occurs on the thighs and bum, but it can also happen on the groin, feet (blisters), nipples and armpits.
This prolonged friction and rubbing on the skin can cause irritation and can trigger rashes, broken skin and the affected area can become painful, sting or burn. Ouch!
What Causes Chafing?
Remember, our skin is our largest organ so its important that we remember to take care of it properly. Yes, it is strong and flexible, but it can reach its limit and begin to breakdown if it is worked too hard. To prevent chafing, it is vital for the skin to be clean, dry and have the perfect amount of body lotion to help prevent uncomfortable chafing.
Common causes of chafing include:
- Sports, including running and biking. These activities together combine exercise (motion) and sweat on the body and this can trigger running chafing and biking chafing to develop as a result of clothing that rubs on the skin.
- Breastfeeding; it is common for mothers to develop sore, chaffed nipples when breastfeeding. Nipple chafing is also common in runners and athletes who wear tight clothing during exercise.
- Wearing a skirt during hot, humid weather. A lot of people complain of inner-thigh chafing when wearing a skirt.
- Clothes that don’t fit properly. For example, if your bra strap, waistband and sleeves are too tight.
How To Stop Chafing
The easiest thing to do would be to stop all forms of exercise that can trigger chafing. However, being mover and shakers ourselves, we know that exercise is very important to maintain your feel-good vibes and help raise those mood-boosting endorphins.
If you notice that your skin starts to chafe when exercising, if you’re able to, change into some more comfortable clothes to stop the irritation. When you return home, gently cleanse the affected area with water, pat skin dry and apply a healing cream or body lotion (aloe vera gel works well). If you want to prevent chafing completely, try an anti-chafing cream to help protect your skin before you venture off on your activities.
Your Post-Exercise Hydrating Bodycare Routine
We know that working out in hot, humid weather can make you feel a bit…sweaty. So, indulge yourself with an uplifting and energising post-workout shower that cleanses and nourishes the skin whilst awakening your senses.
Our Workout Wonders range will help you achieve strong, fit skin and enhance your healthy lifestyle. Supercharged with plant-based actives and 100% natural essential oils, this cruelty-free bodycare range will leave your skin feeling re-energised and help extend that magical post-workout buzz.
Dive In Body Wash
Rinse away the impurities with our Dive In Bodywash; a refreshing body cleanser that removes sweat, dirt and leaves your skin feeling ultra hydrated and softly scented with super zingy notes of Eucalyptus and Orange essential oils. If you’re a keen swimmer, this gentle body wash will help protect your skin against the drying effects of salt water and chlorine!