Like any other season, there are things about summer that make or break it for us. This particular line from the song Seasons in the sun (Westlife) We had joy, we had fun, we had seasons in the sun…makes absolute sense and can easily be associated with summers.
Sunny weather, cool breeze, reddish-orange like flame goldmohur trees, fresh lemonade, soft cotton clothing and cold coffees/shakes/sherbets are just some of the things that makes summer beautiful as it brings fond memories of childhood and adulthood. Whereas humidity, constant sweating, body odor, indigestion, body rashes, skin issues and the good ol’ thigh chaffs breaks the season for me.
Let’s cut to the chafe here; summers and chub rubs are made for each other. There not goes a summer where your thighs haven’t been roasted by the sun. If roasting wasn’t enough, the irritation born out of repeat skin-on-skin contact feels like your thighs are on fire. Words cannot justify the pain the person endures while their thighs get chafed royally.
People talk of thigh gaps, while the societal perception of it can be dismissed as a silly myth, but how to tackle the literal thigh gap we maintain in order to prevent further chub rubs? Each time your thigh decides to get in touch with your other beloved thigh - there is either constant adjustment of the bottom wear (skirts, pants, panties) or you land up waddling down the streets like each end of a broom have been tied to your ankles or skipping on every third step, all of it just to avoid the mighty burn!
Chafing can happen anywhere from the thighs and armpits to buttocks and even under the breasts. Many home remedies have been tried and have failed miserably. For instance, slathering coconut oil on your thighs and spoiling your favourite dress; wearing cycling shorts of poor quality and still landing up chafed or applying talcum powder and turning your thighs into a joke, but alas, to no relief.
For the benefit of our thighs, here are a few ways to cut chafing short this summer.
Make cotton your best friend
Choose cotton clothing, as it helps your skin breathe freely and also soaks up moisture. Stay away from polyester, nylon or any other fabric that isn’t moisture wicking, especially while working out.
Don’t let thy thighs embrace
Cycling shorts can come to your rescue when wearing dresses or skirts. It acts as a protective layer between your thighs and can reduce friction. Bandelettes (thigh bands) are very useful for preventing chub rubs, as well. They are stretchy lace bonds that keep your thighs from touching, just make sure you buy the correct size.
Don’t miss the holy bath after a workout
As much as your body will dictate you to crash on your bed, don’t give in. Take a bath to get rid of the sweat and cool your chafed skin areas. Also, make sure you towel-dry your thighs after a bath to avoid moist chub rub.
Choose a mild body wash
Chafing can make the skin sensitive, so make sure to use a mild cleanser to wash your thighs. Choose body washes meant for sensitive skin.
Moisturise
Moisturising is the key to healing chafed thighs. Use petroleum jelly/aloe vera gel/creams that can help soothe your thigh burns. Consult with a dermatologist for product recommendations based on your skin type for heavy-duty chafing.