Skin Care

How to Reduce Chafing in Men

Chafing is a common problem among guys who lead an active lifestyle. Chafing is uncomfortable friction that men often experience when walking, running or working out. Sensitive areas rub together while sweating, causing a rash. This rash can cause pain and other unpleasant feelings so it’s important to do everything in your power to minimize its development. The following chafing tips can help reduce friction and keep a rash from forming:

Stay Hydrated

Not drinking enough water can cause salt crystals to form on your skin, which can lead to chafing. Make sure you’re adequately hydrated throughout the day to avoid this issue. Most experts now recommend you drink anywhere from 11-13 glasses of water a day. If you work out, make sure you take a men’s pre-workout supplement and men’s post-workout supplement – these can count toward your water intake and help you perform better during exercise.

Use a Men’s Advanced Body Powder

Men who chafe often or who already have a rash should use a men’s advanced body powder to help reduce irritation. The ideal body powder for men should contain three important ingredients: cornstarch, zinc oxide and kaolin. The cornstarch in an advanced body powder helps absorb moisture and keep skin dry while zinc oxide and kaolin protect the skin from rubbing and friction during physical activity. Together, they offer complete protection from irritation.  Another defense against chafing is a men’s body moisturizer. By keeping skin soft and supple, a men’s moisturizer helps keep friction to a minimum. “Men’s Moisturizer Tips” lists ways to get the most out of your moisturizer.

Invest in Better Workout Clothes

Avoid clothing that is either too tight or too loose, and make sure there aren’t any tags in places that will be uncomfortable. You also don’t want to choose fabrics and clothing that have rough edges. Most importantly, break in your new workout clothes before wearing them for exercise; fabrics that haven’t been worn and washed a few times are harder than broken-in clothes and will be uncomfortable when you go work out. “Solving Sports-Related Skin Problems” mentions how to deal with other exercised-induced skin issues.

Shorten Your Workouts

Many people will find that they begin chafing after increasing the intensity and duration of their workout. Your skin is accustomed to a certain amount of sweat and wear. Changing up your workout routine may also change your skin. Instead of making a big leap in your workout regimen, gradually increase the time and intensity to minimize the likelihood of chafing. You don’t need to work out for hours on end to see results – working out as little for as little as 30 minutes can help create positive changes in body composition as long as your diet is in check. Also, don’t forget to take the best workout supplements for men to achieve faster results, including a men’s creatine supplement and men’s whey protein supplement.

Keep Your Skin Clean

When you’re finished with a workout, take a shower as soon as possible. A men’s body wash with salicylic acid can help remove dirt, sweat and other debris that can clog your pores and contribute to skin problems like men’s acne breakouts. Follow up with a men’s body lotion to lock in moisture and keep chafing at bay. For more tips on maintaining good hygiene, check out “Men’s Grooming Dos and Don’ts