Chafing is an irritation of the skin caused by repeated friction against skin, hair, or fabric. When swimming, this friction is intensified by moisture and the abrasive properties of common water irritants. In the ocean, evaporating saltwater leaves behind gritty salt crystals, which can microscopically abrade the skin. In pools, chlorine and other chemicals can weaken the skin’s barrier, making it more susceptible to friction damage. This combination of repetitive motion, wetness, and irritants quickly breaks down the skin’s protective outer layer, leading to the burning, stinging sensation swimmers know as chafing.
Steps for Immediate Relief
The moment you exit the water, the first action is to stop the friction and cleanse the affected area to prevent further damage. Gently rinse the irritated skin with lukewarm, fresh water to remove all traces of salt, chlorine, or sand, which act as ongoing abrasives. Avoid using harsh, fragranced soaps, which can sting and strip the skin of its natural oils, worsening the irritation.
After rinsing, the area must be dried with extreme care; never rub the skin, as this will exacerbate the damage. Instead, use a soft, clean towel and pat the skin lightly until it is completely dry. Once dry, immediately apply a barrier ointment to soothe the burning and shield the raw skin from contact with clothing. Petroleum jelly or a zinc oxide cream are excellent choices as they create a thick, protective layer.
Accelerating Skin Repair
Once the initial irritation is soothed, the focus shifts to repairing the damaged skin barrier and promoting cellular regeneration. Healing ointments containing specific compounds can help restore the skin’s integrity faster than leaving it exposed. Look for products that include panthenol, a derivative of Vitamin B5, which helps to moisturize and support the regeneration of the skin’s outermost layer.
Ingredients like lanolin or specific healing balms enriched with Vitamin E can also support the healing process by providing deep moisture and anti-inflammatory properties. For spots where the skin is broken or severely irritated, a hydrocolloid dressing can be applied to create a moist healing environment, which is scientifically proven to accelerate wound repair and reduce scarring. To prevent further irritation, avoid any topical products that contain alcohol, fragrances, or harsh exfoliants during the entire recovery period.
If the chafing is mild, allowing the skin to air out, perhaps by wearing loose, breathable clothing, can also aid recovery. However, when moving around, maintaining a protective barrier with a fragrance-free ointment is necessary to prevent a relapse.
Preventing Future Irritation
The most effective strategy for the regular swimmer is proactive prevention, which focuses on creating a physical barrier and managing moisture and friction. Before entering the water, apply a specialized anti-chafing balm or stick to areas prone to rubbing, such as the neck, armpits, inner thighs, and under swimsuit straps. These products are formulated to be water-resistant, creating a long-lasting, slick layer that allows skin and fabric to glide past each other.
Choosing the right swimwear material and fit is equally important to minimize skin-to-fabric friction. Opt for suits made from smooth, quick-drying synthetic materials like nylon or spandex, and strictly avoid cotton, which absorbs water and holds it against the skin. Ensure your suit is snug but not overly tight, as excessively loose material can bunch up, and overly tight material can restrict movement, both increasing the likelihood of chafing.
Pay close attention to where seams lie on your body, as a poorly placed seam can become a persistent source of irritation, especially around the neck or under the arms. Immediately after swimming, the post-routine should involve showering with a gentle cleanser to remove all chemical and salt residue. Changing out of the wet suit immediately into dry, loose clothing is a crucial step to prevent the prolonged exposure to moisture that exacerbates chafing.
Recognizing Signs of Infection
While mild chafing heals quickly with home care, broken skin creates an entry point for bacteria, making infection a possibility. It is important to monitor the area for any signs that the irritation is worsening instead of improving. You should seek medical attention if the redness begins to spread outward from the original site of irritation.
Other clear warning signs include increasing pain or tenderness, the presence of pus or a cloudy discharge, or if the skin feels noticeably warm to the touch. A fever or red streaks extending away from the chafed area are also indicators of a spreading infection and require immediate medical consultation.