Chafing is an incredibly painful issue that affects so many people every day. Some activities or behaviours, such as wearing tight fitting clothing, makes chafing more likely. Almost every woman wears a bra daily, and these can cause intense chafing which makes everyday life hard. This article will explore a few ways to combat bra chafing and make your life more comfortable.

Wear a well-fitted bra

One of the main causes of bra chafing is your bra fitting incorrectly. If the band is too tight across your back, it digs in and causes excessive friction with each movement. Likewise, if the shoulder straps are too tight, it can cause chafing on your shoulders. To avoid this, ensure that you’re having your bras professionally fitted and adjust the sizing each time you wear them, as this will prevent chafing and give you the best support possible.

Use powders or gels

If you don’t already have chafing but are looking to prevent any in the future, there are some topical treatments that can help. One option is a gel that helps the fabric glide over the skin and prevents friction, though this can wear off during heavier activity or on hot and humid days, unlike undergarments. Another option is applying baby powder to absorb excess moisture that can be irritating to the skin.

Maintain good hygiene

As mentioned above, excess moisture can cause chafing. Make sure that yourself and your bra are clean and dry before each wear to stop sweat and moisture from irritating the skin, turning your bra into chafing underwear. Many sports bras are designed with sweat-wicking technology to keep moisture away from your skin, so if you don’t have one, it would be worthwhile considering investing in one if chafing is a consistent issue for you.

Use an undershirt or other garment

Bras are not the softest materials, and often have many seams, folds and wires that can rub against the skin. If you like the support and fit of your bra but find that it keeps rubbing, consider adding a layer underneath. A soft cotton t-shirt is one option, with another being a specially designed anti chafing garment, which are durable, effective, and far longer lasting than a gel or powder alternative.

Treating bra chafing

While prevention is always better than cure, there are some ways to apply chafing remedies once it has occurred. Keep the skin cool and dry. Wash gently with a mild soap (excessive fabrics will irritate raw skin) and air-dry or pat dry with a soft cloth, ensuring not to rub the effected area. Try to keep tight fabrics such as bras out of contact with the rash and give the skin time to heal. If the skin is very raw and irritated, some over-the-counter topical ointments can provide relief. Ice packs can also provide relief, though do not use them for longer than 20 minutes.

If you have any further questions, or would like to view more of our anti-chafing products, contact our team at No More Chafe and see our collection.