5 Ways to Stop Runner's Rash Thigh Chafing While Running

Chafing is the runner’s constant companion. No matter what the season, there’s always the risk of runner’s rash. If you have not experienced the irritating effects of chafing while on a run or bike ride, consider yourself lucky. Running rash is a red, irritated, raw-feeling rash, caused by thigh chafing or groin chafing.

While minor chafing may not seem like a big deal, it can turn out to be surprisingly painful and, if ignored, can end up hindering your overall performance. Thankfully, running rash can be easily prevented with sports thigh bands and other precautions. Read on to learn more.

Why Do You Get A Rash From Running?

Runner’s rash between the thighs is the most common chafing area for men and women. Groin chafing and buttock chafing can also be an issue. Running and other exercises often cause thigh chafing. Exercise causes more friction between the skin on the thighs. Running shorts in particular often leave skin more exposed than they would be when wearing other athletic wear styles.

Some people and body types are more prone to thigh rubbing than others. Fortunately, there’s no shortage of solutions to this dreaded issue. Start by staying hydrated while you run. Hydration is not only important for your health but also important for the prevention of thigh chafing. Sweat produces salt crystals that get left behind when you stop sweating and the perspiration dries to become an irritant.

There’s no one elegant solution to thigh chafing, as it’s a highly personal choice. But we’ve put together some of the best anti-chafing products to stop the irritation of your thighs rubbing together while running.

1. Bandelettes To Stop Runner's Rash

Our unisex Bandelettes are a great option to prevent thigh chafing while running. Bandelettes can be worn high up on the leg to protect against groin chafing while running. Our anti-chafing sports bands are made from soft synthetic microfiber. As a result, these bands are perfect for preventing skin irritation caused by friction of skin or even skin against the fabric. Bandelettes won’t slide down your thighs thanks to non-slip silicone. They only cover the area that needs to be covered, making them a more comfortable, breathable option. Sports thigh bands are a great anti-chafing product, especially in warm weather.

Unisex Bandelettes come in a variety of sizes to perfectly fit any thighs.

Available in black, beige, and chocolate, this is the best anti-chafing product for people who want to prevent chafing. Use them while running a marathon or simply running errands!

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2. Proper Running Clothing

All too often, running clothes are at least part of the problem when it comes to irritating thighs. The length of running shorts often leaves more skin exposed so that skin-on-skin contact is more likely. Seams on shorts can rub up against the skin and exacerbate the runner’s rash. If your running shorts are the culprit, try switching to another pair, one that’s a bit longer. If running shorts aren't for you, then as an alternative, you can try wearing a pair of compression shorts, which tend to be a bit longer, under your running shorts. These compression shorts are the best shorts to prevent chafing in the groin area.

If you don't like compression shorts you can also try sports thigh bands. Bandelettes unisex thigh bands for men or women come in a simple black design that's subtle when worn with your traditional running wear. By wearing compression shorts or sports bands you can prevent the skin from skin contact.

As a result, you can easily prevent skin from chafing. Material choice is important, too: Cotton shorts are a bad idea because once they’re wet, they stay wet. Synthetic fabrics with moisture-wicking properties, such as Lycra or Spandex, are a much better option.

3. Lubricants, Gels, And Balms For Runner's Rash

Using a gel-like lubricant on your thighs can ease friction and reduce chafing while running. Petroleum jelly is an inexpensive, widely available anti-chafing cream for thighs that works well. You can also find more specialized products for runners. Some of the most popular anti-chafing products for runners include BodyGlide, Run-Goo (and its sibling product Hike-goo). Another option is Red11 (this was originally meant for nipple chafing, but it can also be used on thighs). While they can help prevent runner's rash, these creams, gels, and lubricants can be a slightly messier solution than other alternatives such as thigh bands.

4. Powder to Prevent Thigh Chafing

If gels and lubricants aren’t to your preference, some powder products can also stop thighs from chafing during your run. Baby powder (or talcum powder) is a simple, no-frills option. More specialized products include Lush’s Silky Underwear or Anti-Monkey Butt powder. These also have a ladies’ variant.

5. Proper After-Care for Runners

Taking care of your legs after a run will also help minimize your discomfort from any running rash. Start by showering as soon as possible in lukewarm water. Hot water and chafed thighs are just a recipe for pain! Pat your skin dry — don’t rub — to minimize irritation. Be sure to follow up by moisturizing your skin with a good lotion, coconut oil or shea butter. If you are dealing with raw, irritated skin, skip the moisturizing step and instead go for a diaper rash cream. Popular brands include Desitin or A+D Zinc Oxide cream. The active ingredient in these creams is zinc oxide, which makes them both antibacterial and soothing.

Let's Recap On Preventing Runner's Rash!

Read our comprehensive guide to learn more about the causes and treatment of thigh chafing and runner's rash! Are you more specifically concerned about thigh chafing? Then check out our products designed specifically to prevent thigh chafing, even for runners!