Part of living in this world as a sweaty person involves chafing. And rather than grinning and bearing it, you’re doing the productive work of searching for the best chafing cream. Good on you!
Aside from the many incredible benefits that you might experience while working out (endorphins, runner’s high, more strength, and an excuse to treat yourself to new activewear), once you start racking up the miles running, walking, cycling, or simply existing as a sweaty person, the unsavory side effects begin to crop up. Namely: angry red chafe marks on your inner thighs, underarms, lower back, and bra lines caused by any combination of moisture, friction, and abrasive fabric. Ugh, don’t you love experiencing what is, essentially, an adult form of diaper rash?
That said, there are plenty of anti-chafe balms, soothing powders, chamois creams, and smoothing shorts to quell inflammation and skin irritation anywhere you experience chafing. Because warm weather and a good sweat session are things to be enjoyed!
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What should you look for when shopping for chafing cream, powder, or clothing?
There are many different product formulations out there to tackle chafing. You’ll find powders, lotions, balms, creams, and, of course, clothing options like bike shorts. As with any product, the first question to ask yourself before buying is: How will I be using it? Consider the types of exercise you do most often, as well as the spots you experience chafing to help you decide which formula to opt for.
When looking at powders, look for one that’s talc-free and stays put once you apply it to your skin. Balms and salves are most convenient when they’re in stick formulations, but several varieties that come in tubes and tins made this list because they’re just that good. These should include ingredients like shea or cocoa butter, oils, vitamin E, and aloe vera, and they should have a non-greasy feel and thick enough formula that they don’t run. Slip shorts and clothing options are ideal for folks who chafe while walking or wearing clothes like dresses and skirts. They should be made with lightweight, breathable, and moisture-wicking fabrics and have sticky bits to stay put.
Ahead, here’s the full list of chafing creams, balms, sprays, and clothing items that come highly recommended by athletes—and thousands upon thousands of reviews.
Source: SELF
