The thigh chafing struggle is REAL in the heat
People tend to go crazy during a British heatwave, celebrating the freak weather with lunchtime sunbathing sessions and cheap sausages thrown on disposable BBQs.
But it's not sunbeams and birdsong for all us, especially those who are unfortunate enough to suffer from THE CHAFE.
What is thigh chafing?
Thigh chaffing happens when the thighs rub against each other and cause sore, red patches of irritable skin. Many athletes regular sufferly from chafing, but lots more people feel the burn while wearing skirts and dresses in hot, humid weather.
Skin on skin action can be pretty painful, especially when all we want to do is wear a Bardot dress while sipping a margarita with the girls.
These women know the struggle all too well:
"The summer dresses are cute, the chafing is not"
"Hi just wanted to do a PSA to remind everyone that thigh chafing is the devils work thank you and no a good night to me cause I’ll barely sleep through this pain sos"
"chafing will literally be the death of me"
So, what products and tricks help tackle chafing?
Hot weather advice: What to do about chafing
1 of 6Talcom powder
A simple and cheap way to help minimise chafing is to rub some baby powder onto your thighs before getting dressed. It absorbs moisture and will leave you smelling fresh as a daisy, too.
2 of 6Thigh bands
Invest in a pair of thigh bands to prevent skin to skin rubbing. There are loads of options out there which use a non-slip silicone finish so that they don't slide down the leg when things get a bit sweaty.
3 of 6Petroleum jelly
Another quick fix that you'll probably already have in the house somewhere, is petroleum jelly such as Vaseline. Slather a scoop on in the morning before you get dressed. It lubricates the skin and reduces friction, but it can feel and look a little bit oily. You can use it to soothe the skin before bed as well.
4 of 6Chafing gels and powders
Chafing gels and powders are popular with long distance cyclists and runners, so there is already a mountain of products out there. Check for one that doesn't leave a greasy residue - it might be more costly but it will be totally worth it.
5 of 6Cycling shorts with rash guards
Cyclists know about The Chafe all too well, often relying on specially designed cycling shorts with built-in rash guards. Get yourself a pair and wear under a skirt or dress - no one will see your little trick.
6 of 6Use delicate detergent
Be careful to use washing liquids and powders that won't agitate sensitive skin. Also, use gentle washing products in your daily routine and dab your towel, rather than rub, around the affected area after a shower.