Chafing is caused by repeated friction between skin and clothing, skin and shoes, or skin against skin. On the feet, it's the early stage of blister formation — that hot, red, burning sensation that tells you damage is happening before a blister has fully formed. On the body, it commonly affects inner thighs, underarms, and anywhere clothing seams create pressure during movement.
Prevention is simple once you understand the mechanism. Here's what works.
How to prevent chafing on feet
Anti-friction balms and creams
Anti-friction balms create a lubricating barrier between the skin and the source of friction. Applied before activity, they reduce the friction coefficient so the shoe or sock slides over the skin instead of gripping it.
- Sports Akileine NOK Chaffing Cream 75ml — specifically formulated for feet, this anti-friction cream creates a protective barrier that lasts through extended activity. Used by distance runners and hikers.
Friction-reducing patches
For targeted protection at known hot spots (back of heel, ball of foot, toes), friction-reducing patches applied inside the shoe are more effective and longer-lasting than balms.
- ENGO Back of Heel Patches — PTFE patches that stick inside the shoe and last for weeks
- ENGO Oval Patches (6 pack) — for the ball of the foot and other friction zones
Kinesiology tape
Applied directly to the skin at chafe-prone areas, kinesiology tape absorbs friction before your skin does. The RockTape Blister Kit includes pre-cut shapes for common foot chafing zones, or you can cut strips from a RockTape 5cm roll to fit any area.
How to prevent chafing on the body
The same principles apply to body chafing — inner thighs, underarms, nipples (common in male runners), and anywhere clothing seams rub during movement. Anti-friction products create a barrier that prevents skin-on-skin or skin-on-fabric friction.
For body chafing during sport and exercise, Akileine NOK Chaffing Cream works on skin anywhere on the body, not just feet. Apply to inner thighs, underarms, or nipple area before running, cycling, or any extended activity.
Treating chafing that's already happened
If chafing has already broken the skin:
- Clean the area gently with warm water
- Apply an antiseptic to prevent infection
- Cover with a hydrocolloid plaster for moist wound healing
- Avoid further friction until healed
For chafing on the feet that has progressed to blisters, see our complete guide to blister prevention and treatment.