Tips to avoid chafing and basic treatment

Chafing is basically skin irritation caused by friction, with some component or piece of clothing and sometimes also by skin-on-skin rubbing. It is one of the most uncomfortable ailments for runners and can leave us "sidelined" without necessarily being serious; it is very annoying and painful.

Tips to avoid chafing when Running

The first thing is to use appropriate technical clothing.

If something distinguishes these technical garments from others, it is the fact that they are precisely designed to avoid these "ills."

A technical garment, made with appropriate fabrics and seams, light and designed to breathe well, will prevent the dreaded chafing.

Daily or weekly physical and sports activity must be carried out under minimal conditions of comfort and convenience, and that is why one must avoid garments that, although they may be cheaper, are simple copies of those specifically designed for each activity.

• Technical garments have a special cut that meets the requirements for the development of each sport.
• Synthetic compounds usually yield better results than cotton, as cotton retains more sweat moisture.
• Lycra garments usually work better to prevent chafing, and make sure the seams don't have too much relief.
• Look for garments with flat seams or seams that are covered and protected.
• Also keep in mind that they should not be too loose.

Chafing treatment

You must avoid contact between the clothing that caused problems and your skin.

• If it's too late to prevent them, apply petroleum jelly or talcum powder to sensitive areas to prevent further irritation.
• If this irritated area is very advanced, you should cover it with some type of bandage until it heals.
• For nipples, there are countless special gels, creams, and lubricating oils that protect this delicate area.

You should not invent quick and homemade solutions because the result can be worse.

Consult your specialized running store and let a professional advise you.

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