Thigh chafing irritation is a common phenomenon that primarily occurs in the summer due to heat and perspiration. Contrary to popular belief, this discomfort is not necessarily exclusive to individuals with a larger body size and/or overweight. It is also a matter of body shape. In this article, discover three steps to alleviate irritated skin resulting from recurrent thigh friction.
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Thighs rubbing together: how to alleviate irritations?
Summary
- Step No. 1: Aloe vera, your best ally
- Step No. 2: Wash with warm water and allow your skin to air dry
- Step No. 3: Apply a plant-based oil with healing properties
Published July 13, 2022,
updated on June 20, 2024,
by
Maylis, Chemical Engineer
—
4 min read
Step No. 1: Aloe vera, your best ally.
Belonging to the Liliaceae family, thealoe vera orAloe barbadensishas prickly leaves with a tough appearance. These leaves contain a transparent gelatinous pulp, which is edible once the aloin-rich latex surrounding it is removed. The pressure of this pulp provides the famous aloe vera gel which contains no less than ahundred active substances, nutrients and other components (polysaccharides, vitamins, trace elements, enzymes and amino acids).
When applied topically, directly onto the irritated skin of the thigh, the aloe vera gel provides a refreshing sensation that soothes pain and burning sensations. It also helps to restore the skin's natural hydration. It contains substances that act as a hydrating shield on the skin, known as glucomannans. Researchers have shown that when Aloe vera gel is applied to the skin, the long-chain mucopolysaccharides polymerise and form a thin semi-permeable film that produces an immediate hydrating effect.
Furthermore, aloe vera will soothe any potential inflammations. Biologically, it exerts its soothing and repairing activity by inhibiting certain mediators of inflammation such as prostaglandin F2, through the degradation pathway of arachidonic acid by acting on cyclooxygenase.
We have formulated a skincare product based on aloe vera and orange blossom. This hydrating gel soothesthe skin and deeply moisturises it. It provides a cooling effect, ideal for calming the skin after recurrent friction. Applying it three times a day should accelerate the repair of the epidermis.
Step No. 2: Wash with warm water and allow your skin to air dry.
Hot water will only exacerbate irritations or even burning sensations that friction may have caused. For cleansing, opt for a gentle and natural cleanser, such as our shower oil with replenishing Vitamin E+F 2.5% + Bitter Almond Extract. As an antioxidant, it restores suppleness to the epidermis and reduces feelings of tightness, while delicately scenting the skin with a light almond fragrance.
Upon exiting the shower, avoid drying your thighs with a towel to prevent any friction. If you wish to speed up the drying process, a hairdryer can potentially be used, provided it is set to a warm or even cool setting.
Step No. 3: Apply a plant-based oil with healing properties.
Some plant oils have shown interesting anti-inflammatory and healing activities. For instance, the hemp oil and more specifically the omega-3 it contains modulate inflammatory responses, by inhibiting the release of pro-inflammatory mediators. This effect thus helps to alleviate skin irritations and redness that can appear on the inner thighs.
Among other soothing vegetable oils, we can mention thecoconut oil, that of St. John's Wort, Helichrysum or even rosehip. The latter is available from Typology. It is organic and accelerates skin regeneration. Even though this treatment is generally recommended for the face, it can still be applied to the inner thighs to alleviate irritations.
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