We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Gentle, soothing, and effective relief when and where you need it. In This Article. The discomfort and irritation from chafing, a skin condition caused by friction and excess moisture, can make any workout a major pain. In addition to wearing moisture-wicking clothes that fit correctly, a lubricating cream or balm can help protect your skin and keep you feeling comfortable.
The best chafing creams form a smooth barrier between skin, clothes, or gear to prevent chafing before it starts. To find the top options, we first consulted board-certified dermatologists and certified personal trainers for advice on which key features to look for.
Then, we tested 20 expert-approved chafing creams from top brands. Our favorites received high scores for ease of use, effectiveness, feel, and overall value. For even more guidance on how to select a gentle but effective chafing cream, we also had a certified personal trainer from our Review Board review this article. Chafing usually occurs in areas of the body that are prone to excessive sweat or moisture, where your skin rubs against itself or clothing, she adds. It can also be triggered by ill-fitting clothing or gear, humidity, or rain.
If you start to feel chafing developing, Yadav recommends taking a break from activity and changing out of your clothes quickly to prevent further irritation. Cleanse the area and apply soothing agents, like petroleum jelly or silicone-based ointment.
Look for moisture-wicking materials avoid cotton and consider wearing longer sleeves or pants to prevent skin-on-skin friction. Before your next workout, try applying one of our top picks. Type: Balm Size: 0. Best for active people like runners who need a convenient and gentle chafing cream. During testing, we were impressed by how well this balm stayed on.
