While not necessarily considered a serious medical condition, chafing can be a painful and uncomfortable affliction to deal with. Generally caused by friction, skin on skin or clothing on skin, the top layer of skin is worn away, leaving behind a sore spot, with the underlying layer of skin exposed to the air. The friction is often exasperated by moisture and tight fitting clothing, subjected by constant movement. Care must be taken to help it heal quickly, because constant friction and exposure can cause it to become infected. The following remedies should help you deal until you can get healed.
Stay Dry
When you are out and about, doing chores, exercising or errands, it is vital that you stay cool, and sweat-free. The moisture caused by sweat dampens the clothes, making them cling to the skin. When that happens, every movement you make will cause chafing, continually rubbing the fabric against the skin until the top layer is worn away. Take precautions such as bringing a towel, talcum powder or a cool rag.
Wear Comfortable Clothing
If you know that you will be out of the house for hours, especially during the summer months, make sure that you wear loose, comfortable clothing. Chafing happens most often when you are wearing tight clothes, especially when its hot. Tight clothing will also make you sweat, further escalating the problem. Loose clothes allows the breeze to pass through, and dry your skin.
Stay Hydrated
One of the first signs that you may be succumbing to dehydration is sweating profusely. This is a sign that many people miss, because they often confuse the stage of not sweating with the beginning of dehydration. When you sweat a lot, chafing can occur, so if you know you are going to be working in the heat, be sure to stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water, and stay away from sugary, carbonated drinks.
Don't Overdo It
If the environment you are in is one that is warmer than normal, the best thing you can do to avoid getting chafed is to take breaks, and don't overdo any activity. It is very easy to forget in the heat, and not realize what has happened until the pain starts. Avoid all that by taking breaks, hydrate and cool off.
Quick Treatments
Should all precautions fail, and you still get chafed, there are a few topical treatments that you can do to reduce the pain, and help it heal. Things like baby powder, baby oil and petroleum jelly will soothe the wound, and reduce the inflammation. You can also apply some zinc oxide cream, and it dry and adhere to the wound so that it will help dry it out. Lastly, wrapping the wound after applying these items with an elastic wrap will protect the wound, and prevent it from becoming infected.
