Chafing: A Podiatrist’s Guide to Prevention and Relief

Chafing is a common skin irritation caused by repeated friction, particularly when heat and moisture are present. It can affect anyone but is especially common among runners, hikers, cyclists, tradies and people who spend long periods on their feet.

As a podiatrist, I regularly see chafing affecting the feet, toes and ankles, often leading to discomfort that can make everyday activities less enjoyable. Fortunately, there are simple ways to help reduce the risk of chafing and keep your skin comfortable.

What Causes Chafing?

Chafing occurs when skin repeatedly rubs against skin, footwear or clothing. Sweat and moisture increase friction, making irritation more likely.

Common causes include:

Poorly fitting shoes that rub against the heel, toes or sides of the foot. Socks that bunch, slip or retain moisture. Prolonged walking, running or hiking. Hot and humid weather. Skin rubbing against skin, particularly on the inner thighs, under the arms or beneath the breasts. Clothing with seams or rough fabrics that create friction during movement.

Chafing on the Feet

On the feet, chafing often develops into hot spots or blisters if the friction continues.

Repeated rubbing may result in:

Red, tender skin Blisters Broken skin Discomfort when walking

If the skin becomes broken, keeping the area clean is important. If you notice increasing redness, swelling, warmth or discharge, seek medical advice as these may be signs of infection.

How Can You Help Prevent Chafing?

Wear Properly Fitting Footwear

Shoes that fit correctly are one of the best ways to reduce rubbing. Your footwear should feel secure without excessive movement while still allowing enough room for your toes.

Choose Quality Socks

Moisture-managing socks made from technical fibres or merino wool can help keep feet drier during activity. Socks with minimal seams may also help reduce friction.

Use an Anti-Chafing Cream

Anti-chafing creams and balms create a protective layer over the skin to help reduce friction during walking, running and sport.

Products such as Premax Anti-Chafe Cream and Akileïne NOK Anti-Friction Cream are specifically designed to help reduce rubbing in high-friction areas.

Keep Your Skin Dry

Changing damp socks after exercise and allowing footwear to dry thoroughly can help reduce prolonged exposure to moisture.

Look After Your Skin

Keeping dry skin well moisturised may improve comfort and help maintain the skin's natural barrier.

Shop Foot Creams

Looking after dry skin is an important part of maintaining healthy feet.

How to Treat Chafing

If chafing has already occurred:

Clean the Area

Wash gently with lukewarm water and a mild cleanser before patting the skin dry.

Reduce Further Friction

Avoid activities that continue to rub the affected area until it has had time to recover.

Soothe the Skin

A soothing moisturiser or barrier cream may help improve comfort while the skin recovers.

Protect Broken Skin

If the skin has broken, cover the area with an appropriate dressing if needed and monitor it for signs of infection.

Choosing an Anti-Chafing Cream

Anti-chafing creams are designed to reduce friction between the skin, clothing and footwear.

At The Foot Care Shop we stock two popular options:

Premax Anti-Chafe Cream

Premax has a lightweight, non-greasy formula designed to help reduce friction during walking, running and other sporting activities.

Akileïne NOK Anti-Friction Cream

Akileïne NOK is formulated to help reduce rubbing and improve comfort during prolonged activity. It contains shea butter and plant-derived ingredients that help keep skin feeling soft and comfortable.

Both products are suitable for helping reduce friction in areas that are prone to chafing during everyday activities and sport.

When Should You See a Podiatrist?

You should seek professional advice if:

Chafing keeps returning. You develop large or painful blisters. The skin becomes increasingly red, swollen or warm. There is discharge or other signs of infection. Walking becomes painful.

A podiatrist can help identify whether footwear, biomechanics or another underlying issue is contributing to the problem.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I exercise if I have chafing?

If possible, allow the irritated skin time to recover. If you need to remain active, using an anti-chafing cream and reducing friction may help improve comfort.

How do anti-chafing creams work?

They form a protective layer on the skin that helps reduce friction caused by movement between the skin, footwear or clothing.

Can chafing happen in winter?

Yes. Chafing can occur at any time of year whenever friction is present. Winter clothing and prolonged activity can still create rubbing, particularly if moisture builds up inside footwear.

How long does chafing take to improve?

Mild chafing often settles within a few days once friction is removed. More severe cases involving broken skin may take longer.

Is chafing the same as a rash?

Not always. Chafing is caused by repeated friction, while rashes may have many different causes, including allergies, infections or skin conditions.

Can I use a normal moisturiser instead of an anti-chafing cream?

Moisturisers help keep skin hydrated but are not specifically formulated to reduce friction. Anti-chafing creams are designed to provide a protective layer that helps minimise rubbing during activity.

Conclusion

Chafing is a common problem that can affect comfort during everyday activities, work and sport. Wearing well-fitting footwear, choosing appropriate socks and using an anti-chafing cream can help reduce friction and improve comfort.

If chafing becomes persistent or you develop broken skin or signs of infection, seek advice from your podiatrist or healthcare professional.