What Causes Inner Thigh Chafing?

Chafing is a type of rash that occurs on the skin when it rubs against something for an extended period. When your skin rubs against itself or something else, it generates friction which in turn causes a rash. While it resolves by itself, chafing can be very painful.

While one can experience chafing anywhere in the body, the most common areas include buttocks, groin, armpits, and thighs. Inner thigh chafing generally tends to be quite severe and may form blisters and even bleed if not treated right.

What Does Chafing Look Like?

Chafing generally damages the skin and causes redness and skin irritation. Since the skin in your inner thigh region is soft and delicate, it is more prone to chafing. Chafing may cause a burning sensation, and the chafing may even spread to other areas of your leg.

The most common symptoms of chafing include inflammation, redness, blisters, itching, rash, oozing, pain, swelling, boils, crusting, and hyperpigmentation. It can get even more complicated if bacteria enter through the damaged skin, leading to an infection.

To prevent infection, take care of your chafing and treat it as soon as possible. Keep your rash clean and tidy at all times. If the skin gets infected, you might experience heat radiating from the rash, severe swelling, and tenderness. In case of an injection, visit your doctor immediately.

Causes of Chafing

Chafing can happen to anyone and any region of the body. However, inner thigh chafing is very common in women. Clothes such as dresses and skirts promote chafing as the thighs rub against one another without any protective barrier. At the same time, particular clothing material and underwear can also lead to chafing in your inner thigh region.

Some of the most reasons for inner thigh chafing include:

• Exercise: Exercise can cause severe chafing because not only is the body warming and a state of constant friction. Wearing proper garments while exercising is hence very important. Walking, cycling, or running for long distances may also lead to chafing.
• Climate: Accumulation of moisture and sweat promotes chafing, especially if you live somewhere hot and humid.
• Sanitary Napkins: Menstruating women who wear sanitary napkins experience chafing as the napkin rubs against the soft skin on the thighs.
• Clothing: The type of clothing and the material is an essential factor when it comes to chafing. Wearing poorly fitted clothes, thin leggings, tight underwear, dresses, and skirts promotes chafing. At the same time, fabrics that are rough, sequined, and heavy may also create additional friction. Moisture absorbent material like cotton is also to be blamed.
• Hair Removal: Shaving or using abrasive hair removal techniques can also lead to chafing.

Chafing in your inner thigh region can be treated at home with the use of several home remedies. However, in case of a severe rash, you should visit your doctor. Make sure to rest and wear anti-chafing thigh bands during your daily activities to decrease any chance of further aggravating the affected region. With some care and attention, you will be able to say goodbye to your chafing in no time at all.