Chafing is caused by skin-on-skin rubbing or friction from wet clothing rubbing against the skin. If you’re a runner, cyclist or perspire easily, gliding an anti-chafing stick on chafing hotspots will help lubricate the area and reduce friction that causes skin irritation and redness.
The best anti-chafing sticks not only prevent chafing but also feature ingredients that soothe the skin when chafing occurs, such as aloe-infused Megababe Thigh Rescue Anti-Friction Stick.
What to know before you buy an anti-chafing stick
Uses
Most anti-chafing sticks have versatile uses. They can be used by athletes, such as runners or cyclists, who experience chafing around the thigh or groin area. They can be used by adults with sensitive skin and on hot days for chafing on the inner thighs, under the bust or anywhere that skin rubs against itself or against clothing. Lastly, anti-chafing sticks can be used on babies’ bottoms to prevent diaper rash.
Roll-on vs. solid
Anti-chafing balms come in many forms but roll-ons and solids, which look like deodorant, are the most convenient and are less messy to apply. Roll-ons come with a roller ball applicator and dispense a liquid anti-chafing formula that dries clear. Solid sticks look like deodorant and typically dry clear as well, but if you apply too much product they can flake or matte. Unlike regular deodorants, roll-on and solid sticks still allow you to sweat and provide a breathable barrier.
Moisture-wicking ingredients
Look for an anti-chafing stick with ingredients that absorb moisture or create a barrier to protect the skin from chafing. Kaolin clay and cornstarch are both moisture-absorbing ingredients that can absorb sweat and skin oil. Zinc oxide, commonly found in zinc oxide sunscreens, creates a protective barrier on the skin, often in the form of a white paste. Petroleum jelly, silicone, beeswax, shea butter and cocoa butter are also common ingredients used for creating a moisture barrier.
Soothing ingredients
When chafing can’t be entirely prevented, you want an anti-chafing stick that will also heal irritated and rubbed-raw skin. Aloe vera is a popular soothing and anti-inflammatory ingredient in anti-chafing sticks that will cool the skin. Vitamin E is particularly soothing and hydrating. Chamomile, coconut oil and shea butter are calming ingredients that can also be found in anti-chafing sticks.
Anti-chafing stick features
Natural formula
If you have sensitive skin, you may want an anti-chafing stick with a natural formula that’s free of petroleum, mineral oil, lanolin or other potential skin irritants like parabens. These are made from plant-based ingredients like essential oils. Nontoxic formulas are also safe for babies’ skin.
Unscented
Many anti-chafing sticks are unscented or carry a subtle scent because synthetic fragrance is a common skin irritant. If you’re very sensitive to fragrance, look for a fragrance-free or unscented formula.
Body part-specific
Select anti-chafing sticks are formulated for specific body parts. Anti-chafing sticks for thighs are designed for the inner thigh area, a chafing hotspot. Anti-chafing sticks for feet can help prevent blisters on the heels, ankles and toes that occur from rubbing. Anti-chafing sticks designed for women can be used under bras, on thighs or wherever curves cause friction.
Mini sticks
Most anti-chafing sticks are 1.5-2.5 ounces, about the size of a regular stick of deodorant. However, there are mini anti-chafing sticks that are under 1 ounce and can slip discreetly in a pocket. Some mini-sized sticks are formulated for the feet to prevent blisters.
Anti-chafing stick cost
Expect to pay $9-$25 for a regular-sized anti-chafing stick.
Anti-chafing stick FAQ
Are anti-chafing sticks clear?
A. A quality anti-chafing stick should dry clear and not stain clothing. However, not all go on clear and some apply opaque until they’re absorbed into the skin. For some formulas, if you apply too much, they can matte or flake on the skin.
Where does chafing commonly occur?
A. While chafing can happen all over the body, thighs, nipples, underarms and the groin area are the most susceptible to chafing. Prolonged rubbing of the skin on these areas can give your skin a stinging and burning sensation or even a mild red rash. In severe cases, bleeding or swelling can occur.
Which anti-chafing stick should I get?
Best of the best anti-chafing stick
Megababe Thigh Rescue Anti-Friction Stick: available at Amazon and Ulta
Our take: A stick that both prevents friction and hydrates the skin and is formulated for the thighs.
What we like: This popular anti-chafing stick contains soothing aloe, hydrating vitamin E and protective pomegranate seed extract. The plant-based ingredients reduce inflammation and heal the skin. It’s not overly scented like other anti-chafing sticks.
What we dislike: It may not be suitable for sensitive skin as it contains alcohol, which can irritate and dry skin.
Best bang for your buck anti-chafing stick
Body Glide Original Anti-Chafe Balm: available at Amazon
Our take: An affordable and versatile anti-chafing stick you can apply anywhere and everywhere you experience friction.
What we like: This unisex stick is popular with both athletes and non-athletes for everyday wear. It comes in three sizes. The hypoallergenic formula won’t make skin break out. It works well on large areas and creates an effective barrier between your skin and workout clothes.
What we dislike: It may feel thick on your skin in hot weather.
Honorable mention anti-chafing stick
Squirrel’s Nut Butter All Natural Anti-Chafe Salve: available at Amazon
Our take: An all-natural formula that’s safe for the whole family.
What we like: This stick is packed with plant-derived, natural ingredients. The combination of cocoa butter, coconut oil and vitamin E create a water-repellent barrier to protect the skin. The product doubles as a salve for eczema, razor burn, tattoo recovery and diaper rash.
What we dislike: The formula is a little greasy and there are some concerns of it staining. Ana Sanchez is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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