What is Chafing? Tips to Prevent Painful Skin Irritation for Runners

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What is chafing? Chafing is a friction-induced skin injury where the outer layer of skin (epidermis) is rubbed creating microscopic tears, exposing the skin layer below (dermis), which becomes red, raw and irritated. Runners are more susceptible to chafing, along with other endurance athletes, due to repetitive movement, generated through skin-to-skin or clothing-to-skin contact of multiple body parts, combined with sweat. Chafing causes an extremely painful burning feeling, particularly during your post-run shower! What causes chafing? Chafing is exacerbated by: Moisture Excess moisture from sweating, water sports such as a triathlon swim or damp weather conditions will increase the likelihood of chafing. Salt residue from perspiration or seawater will aggravate the situation, acting like sandpaper, grinding and irritating the skin. Poor-fitting clothing Clothing that is too baggy or tight including socks will rub and make you more susceptible to chafing.
What is chafing? Chafing is a friction-induced skin injury where the outer layer of skin (epidermis) is rubbed creating microscopic tears, exposing the skin layer