How can someone stop chafing?

A person who wants to stop chafing should keep their skin dry by applying talcum powder to it, according to WebMD. Applying the powder to the areas that chafe prevents sweat from accumulating and making the problem worse.

Other ways to reduce chafing include:

• Add petroleum jelly to the areas that chafe. Although it is a low-cost solution, it is effective at reducing friction, which is a cause of chafing. People who want to use petroleum jelly may need to try a few different brands before finding the right one for them.
• If chafing occurs when exercising and wearing the right kind of clothing can prevent it. For women, this means wearing a well fitting sports bra. People who experience thigh chafing while cycling or running can try thigh compression shorts.
• Avoid wearing cotton in the areas that chafe, especially when engaging in sports. Cotton encourages moisture to stay in the area, which in turn makes chafing worse.

People who do experience chafing can take steps to treat it:

• Clean the water gently with water and pat it dry with a towel.
• Encourage lubrication and keep water away from the skin by applying petroleum jelly to the chafed area.
• If chafing becomes particularly inflamed or becomes crusty, visit a doctor, as they may be able to prescribe an ointment.