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Comment éviter les irritations provoquées par le frottement des cuisses ?

How to avoid irritations caused by thigh chafing?

Some individuals occasionally suffer from inner thigh irritations due to friction. Most often, these uncomfortable sensations are more pronounced in the summer due to heat and perspiration. Follow our advice to best avoid friction and thus the irritations it causes.

Summary
Published July 13, 2022, updated on June 20, 2024, by Maylis, Chemical Engineer — 5 min read

What causes thigh chafing?

Contrary to popular belief, the rubbing of thighs, and thus thighs that touch, does not only affect overweight individuals. Body shape is also a factor in most cases. Therefore, a person of average build or even a slim person can also be affected by this issue, depending on the shape of their legs.

Under normal circumstances, friction is generally not bothersome. It is only when the temperature begins to rise, during the summer season, that it can cause certain discomforts in the lives of those affected.

Under heat, the friction between the thighs causes increased perspiration, which leads to redness, irritated skin, small pimples, a burning sensation and in the worst cases, even cracks. Walking can then become truly uncomfortable and painful.

But then, how does one keep the inner thighs dry and avoid such discomforts?

How to prevent thigh chafing?

Fortunately, there are various solutions to reduce thigh chafing and thus avoid the risk of irritation.

  • The choice of clothing: adopt the shorty

Don't hesitate any longer! The cycling shorts are the garment to wear under a skirt or dress to ensure comfort throughout the day and prevent thigh chafing. As boy shorts can quickly become warm, it's important to choose a pair made from a lightweight, soft, or even sweat-resistant fabric.

  • Insulating Creams

There are creams designed to minimise friction on the thighs. They are typically quite thick and oily, in order to form a protective layer on the skin. They may also contain restorative and soothing agents that will reduce irritation and redness. Their sometimes heavy texture requires a few minutes of "drying" before dressing.

Applying our nourishing body cream Squalane 10% + Shea Butter in a generous amount to the inner thighs can be relevant to prevent potential irritations related to thigh friction. Formulated with 99% natural origin ingredients and enriched with nourishing actives, it restores the skin's lipid barrier and reduces feelings of tightness.

  • Talc

This mineral powder is recognised as effective in absorbing moisture and excess perspiration. Therefore, it can be effective in cases of thighs that rub and become irritated. However, this compound leaves white, sometimes dirtying, marks on clothing. Moreover, it is widely controversial today. In 2012, ANSES concluded that it was not possible to rule out the presence of asbestos fibres in some talc deposits. Furthermore, studies have demonstrated harmful effects on the respiratory system following the inhalation of talc. Additionally, there is a proven link between talc applied to the female genital area and certain ovarian cancers.

Therefore, even though talc can be of great help when suffering from irritations due to thigh chafing, it should be used sparingly, and as far away as possible from one's intimate area.

  • Some plant-based oils

Some plant oils are particularly rich and occlusive. They allow the thighs to glide more smoothly against each other, thus preventing potential irritations and discomfort. For instance, you could use monoi oil , coconut oil or even rosehip oil .

  • Petroleum Jelly

Vaseline is a highly film-forming polymer that forms a protective barrier on the skin's surface, thereby reducing friction between the thighs. However, this compound is obtained through the synthesis of petrochemical derivatives. As a reminder, according to the current European cosmetic regulation, vaseline is prohibited in cosmetics, except "if the complete refining history is known and it can be demonstrated that the substance from which it is produced is not carcinogenic."

  • Anti-friction strips

There exist elastic bands designed to prevent friction between the thighs. These bands resemble garters that are placed at the top of the thighs, on the parts that touch with each movement. They are made from a breathable fabric to prevent sweat accumulation. They are sometimes sold in pharmacies but also available online.

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