One of the most frustrating things that you can run into while trail running is chafing. Chafing is most common in the inner thighs with runners, but it can also occur in the armpits, chest, or even the lower back. Wherever your skin makes contact with something, you can have chafing. Chafing causes painful raw areas of flesh that can last several days. If you keep getting chafed in the same spot, it can get infected and cause you a tremendous amount of pain. Thankfully, there are gels and ointments that can help to prevent any kind of chafing.
What To Look For In A Chafing Product
When you look for a chafing product, you will find that there are hundreds to choose from. You will see powders, creams, ointments, and gels. You will want to find one that is reviewed well, and that will last a long time. Powders are not that great of an option for runners because you will need to reapply frequently. Creams are often greasier and do not last long either. Gels and ointments are popular because they can be absorbed by the skin quickly and can create a skin barrier to help to prevent chafing. To find the best one for you, you should sit down and read reviews. Do not go by price alone, as some cheaper chafing products may not work well at all.
Here are our top five anti-chafing products.
1. Lanacane Anti-friction Gel
The Lanacane anti-friction gel will dry as soon as you put it on, and it will provide long-term protection from chafing. It is moisture-proof, fragrance-free, and if you have allergies, this is the perfect gel for you as it is hypoallergenic. Some gels out there may stain clothes, but this one is guaranteed not to stain your clothes at all. This anti-friction gel will prevent your skin from rubbing against your skin and will prevent your skin from rubbing on your clothes.
2. Monistat Anti-Chafing Gel
This anti-chafing gel is very affordable and works well. You will simply put it on the delicate areas of your body that are prone to chafing while running. This includes the area of your inner thighs, underarms, and your breasts. This formula goes on very smoothly and dries quickly. The feeling will be silky and breathable. If you already have chafed skin, this gel can help to calm the skin.
3. Salty Britches Anti Chafing Ointment
Salty Britches anti-chafing ointment is perfect to put on before you go out running. It bonds to the epidermis layer of your skin to protect against skin irritation. You can apply it anywhere you need to. This ointment was created to withstand saltwater chafing, so it will have no problem protecting you. To apply, all you need to do is to put on a thin layer. It does not become mushy, melt off, or rub off. Each application will last for several hours. Some other gels and ointments are lubricants that can easily come off. This kind of gel will not come off at all. It is made in the United States and does not contain any wax or petroleum in the product.
4. CareALL 2oz Zinc Oxide Skin Protectant Barrier Ointment
This ointment creates a barrier that will not allow your clothing or your skin to rub up against each other. The main ingredient in this ointment is zinc oxide, and zinc oxide has been used for many years in ointments and creams to prevent chafing and things like diaper rash. It is very affordable and will last several hours after applying.
5. Salty Britches Skin Barrier Ointment -New Military Blacked Out Edition
The new Military Blacked Out version of Salty Britches ointment will protect you no matter how hard you are exercising. This product is not a lubricant and binds to your skin to create a skin barrier. It will not keep you from moving and does not make your skin slick. This product has a formula of emollient and humectant and will last for a very long time on your skin. This ointment will last for several hours, even after getting wet. If you already have some issues with chafed skin, you can apply this to soothe the chafed skin and prevent any further chafing.
If you want to protect yourself from chafing, you should apply an anti-chafing product before you go on your run. If you are going for a run that is going to last more than a few hours, you may want to bring your chafing gel or ointment with you to reapply. Preventing chafing will help you to avoid this painful skin condition.
