Keep Your Skin From Chafing With These Homemade Treatments

Jul 17, 2018

Few sensations are as physically annoying as chafing. Chafing is the excessive rubbing and irritation of patches of skin caused by friction, overheating, and repetitive motion. Chafing is common on areas of the body such as the underarms, groin, nipples, thighs, and other places where repetitive motion and the possibility of skin to skin contact is likely. People who are overweight, as well as those with a passion for physical fitness, are equally affected; chafing is an equal opportunity offender.

Fortunately for you, it is not necessary to run to the five and dime for Vaseline or baby powder just yet. We've found some tried and true home remedies for chafing and irritated skin that you can find in your own cupboards at home. Try these methods out and let us know what you think:

^{iStock.com/Tatomm}

Most minor skin irritations can be quelled by using and applying a cold compress to the affected area. Wrapping up a cold pack or a bag of ice cubes in a light cloth and applying to the skin will minimize redness and inflammation due to chafing.

^{iStock.com/ThitareeSarmkasat}

Most skin chafing occurs as a result of excess moisture on the skin that causes irritation as it is rubbed against another surface. Soaking up a bit of this excess moisture can allow things to move and flow more smoothly. Applying a bit of cornstarch or talcum powder to the affected area will dry the skin and provide a bit of powdery lubricant to stop irritation. As these materials can cause a bit of a mess, the best way to neatly apply to affected areas is to sprinkle a bit on a cloth or handkerchief and apply directly to affected areas.

^{iStock.com/kazmulka}

Studies done on numerous skincare products containing oatmeal showed that very few of them caused skin irritation. The conclusion was that there was something soothing about oatmeal when used to clean and moisturize skin. Using plain oatmeal, either adding it to warm bathwater for a soak or mixing it into a paste that can be applied directly to the skin, reduces redness and irritation quickly and comfortably.

^{iStock.com/AlexRaths}

This combination is power packed with antioxidants that can help speed up the healing and rejuvenation process of the skin. Apply it directly to the skin or pour into bathwater for a therapeutic soak in the tub.

^{iStock.com/Ridofranz}

There's something soothing about that name, and that miracle gel! Aloe Vera is a very potent and soothing gel, providing nourishing vitamins that promote rejuvenation at a cellular level. In addition, it is a fast acting lubricant, helping to protect skin with a slippery barrier as it heals and protects skin from further damage. You may apply the gel directly from the plant or buy aloe vera gel from any pharmacy or department store.

^{iStock.com/eskaylim}

Baking soda has strong anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that make it ideal for healing. When mixed with equal parts water and applied directly to the skin, it reduces inflammation and redness almost instantly. Simply leave on for five to ten minutes and wipe clean with a warm washcloth. For a power-packed super boost of healing, consider mixing baking soda with apple cider vinegar for even better results.

^{iStock.com/mirzamlk}

Turmeric is a "superfood", being highly praised for its use in combating diseases like cancer and heart disease. It can also be mixed into a paste with water and applied directly to the inflamed skin. Let it sit on irritated skin for 30 minutes before rinsing off with warm water.

^{iStock.com/Solstizia}

Tea tree oil is known to treat skin conditions like acne, burns, sunburn, and a host of others. It is effective in treating chafing as well. A little goes a long way--apply a few drops to a wet cotton ball and apply to affected skin, allowing to air dry.

^{iStock.com/dulezidar}

Olive oil is a common ingredient included in some moisturizers, as it traps moisture within the skin and restores balance once more. Its naturally anti-inflammatory nature soothes as it moisturizes, providing more healing bang for your buck.

^{iStock.com/macniak}

There are some things that you can do to prevent chafing altogether. Let's face it, it's better to not experience this painful condition at all than to treat it once it has developed. Follow these tips to remain irritation free, no matter what your activities:

• Stay dry; apply baby powder or talcum powder to soak up extra moisture
• Apply lubrication to areas that rub or stick together
• Dress accordingly; don't wear cotton to the gym, and make sure that areas prone to excess friction are covered adequately

Your health is important to us here at Apost! Our content is created to the best of our knowledge, yet it is of general nature and cannot in any way substitute an individual consultation with your doctor.

Let us know if these remedies worked for you or if you have any additional tips! Share this article to help anyone who is dealing with chafing skin!