Thigh chafing is annoying AF—here's how to prevent it

We’re gathered here today to talk about something that many women will experience in their lives: thigh chafing. You know, the painful, uncomfortable, rash-like thing that you get on your inner thighs. The best (read: worst) part is, it can happen for so. many. reasons. Clothes too tight? Thigh chafing. Too loose? Thigh chafing. Exercising because you’re trying to do a good thing for your body? You guessed it. Thigh chafing.

Basically, when your thighs rub together, this irritates your skin. As anyone who has ever experienced thigh chafing can attest, this sensation is supremely unpleasant—especially if you chafe and then sweat, as the salt in your sweat burns. We talk all the time about how our bodies are miraculous things—seriously, just stop to think about how many things are going on simultaneously to keep you alive—and yet also can’t handle too much external contact. Such is life.

Turns out, there are ways you can prevent thigh chafing. (Cue the praise hands emoji.) Sure, it’d be great if it weren’t one of the hundreds of things we actively had to worry about every day, but hey, luckily these solutions for thigh chafing are pretty simple.

If you notice you experience thigh chafing after you work out, Green says you’re probably not wearing the right workout clothes. Your workout clothes should be made from a material that can absorb moisture, and they shouldn’t be too restrictive.

Also, look to your grooming habits: Your body lotion could be making your skin sensitive, which can exacerbate chafing. And lastly, if you know you’re going to be in a situation where chafing is likely to happen (say, wearing shorts during one of these super hot, sweaty days), use an anti-chafing cream as a preventative measure.

Now that you know how to prevent thigh chafing, read on for our picks that’ll help you do just that.

1Athleta Elation 7/8 Tight

Lightweight, moisture-wicking leggings that have a touch of compression, and—speaking from personal experience—decidedly do not cause thigh chafing.

2Megababe Thigh Rescue

A major step up from putting deodorant between your legs. This stick is super soothing, thanks to a blend of aloe, vitamin E, and grapeseed oil.

3Bodyglide for Her Anti Chafe Moisturizing Balm

A plant-based skin protectant that’s packed with soothing vitamins and is oh-so-easy to apply.

4Sweaty Betty Zero Gravity Leggings

Stretchy, lightweight leggings that are comfy to work out in even when it’s approximately a million degrees out (plus they make your butt look great).

5Skinfix 12 Hour Miracle Ointment

If that fiery thigh burning has already happened, you need a super emollient ointment like this one from Skinfix. It’s got cupuaçu butter plus coconut and jojoba oils to help soothe irritation.

6Bandelettes Onyx Limited Edition

These anti-chafing bands are not only cute AF, but will help prevent any painful rubbing. You can get them in a variety of colors and styles.

Now, arm yourself with these weapons and say goodbye to thigh chafing!