In the summer, chafing can seem inevitable if you're an athlete or somebody who likes to spend a lot of time outside. 

Though chafing feels like a minor problem, it can be unexpectedly uncomfortable, and, if left untreated, it may become a painful condition that will significantly reduce your enjoyment and ability as an athlete. 

This does not mean you can't do anything about it, however. So how can you prevent chafing?

What Is Chafing?

Chafing is caused by friction, sweat and humidity, and it usually occurs on areas of the skin that are more sensitive. 

Chafed skin looks red and irritated, much like it does after a sunburn or a bout of heat rash. 

The thighs, groin, underarms and nipples are some of the most common places in the body where chafing can occur.

Chafing can be divided into two categories: fabric-on-skin and skin-on-skin. 

When your shirt, undergarments or bottoms scrape against your skin and irritate it, you are experiencing fabric-on-skin friction. On the other hand, skin-on-skin chafing occurs when your underarms or thighs brush together.

Several factors can lead to chafing, such as:

• Delicate skin
• Loose garments
• Non-breathable fabric
• Extra weight
• Big muscles
• Heat or humidity

Chafing Prevention Tips

Here are a few easy ways to avoid skin chafing:

Wear Clothes That Fit Properly

There's a reason why professional athletes wear tight-fitting uniforms. Clothing that fits snugly is less likely to rub or cause irritation. 

Chafing around the thighs and groin can be reduced by wearing compression shorts or bike shorts that fit properly. Compression sports bras can do the same by providing extra support and a better fit to reduce the risk of chafing. 

Tight, form-fitting running tops are ideal if you suffer from chafing around the chest and nipples.

Avoid Wearing Cotton

Cotton is comfortable for casual wear and relaxing, but as you start to perspire, it won't be long before it starts to irritate your skin and slow to dry. 

Moisture-wicking fabrics are ideal for base layers because they pull perspiration away from the skin and reduce the likelihood of chafing.

Don't Forget To Hydrate

Dehydration raises the salt content of your sweat. Salt can irritate your skin, leading to friction and chafing. 

In order to prevent salt from crystallizing on your skin, it is important to drink plenty of water. Staying hydrated has several advantages, and chafing prevention is just one of them.

Apply Antiperspirants or Lubricants Directly to Affected Areas

Apply petroleum jelly or a lubricant containing aloe vera and vitamin E to problem areas you know may become irritated during running. 

However, petroleum jelly doesn't wash out of neoprene very easily, so avoid using it if you plan on wearing wet swimwear throughout a triathlon. In this case, try using a different product.

You can find products made to prevent chafing that can be used by runners and anyone else. 

The Bottom Line

By giving your skin a little extra attention and care, you can escape the uncomfortable consequences of chafing. 

If you follow these simple tricks, you won't have to suffer through a painful week of skin problems after your run but rather enjoy a relaxing shower afterward.