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How Do I Choose the Best Chafing Gel?

A. Rohlandt
A. Rohlandt

The best chafing gel is one that can be used anywhere on the body, even in sensitive areas. You should look for chafing gels that do not cause irritation or stain the clothing but that dry quickly and give the skin a silky after-feel. Chafing gels generally form a protective barrier on the skin with silicone oils, but you should look for a gel that still allows the skin to breathe. It's also best to look for chafing gels that are fragrance free.

Chafing can occur almost anywhere on the body due to the friction on the skin from movement. This is why you should choose a chafing gel that can be used anywhere on the body. The best chafing gel will be suitable for use on sensitive areas, such as the bikini area, and not-so-sensitive areas, such as the stomach.

Chafing gel.
Chafing gel.

A good chafing gel should not cause irritation and should help soothe the skin. The chafing gel you choose should be suitable for use even on sensitive skin or injured skin. It's also best to choose a gel that will help prevent further irritation while allowing the skin to heal naturally.

Some chafing gels contain ingredients that may leave marks on your clothing. Gels that contain ingredients like talcum powder or that leave a slippery residue behind can leave tell-tale marks on fabrics and should be avoided. The residue the gel leaves on the skin should also be clear and shouldn't leave white patches or marks.

Chafing gel.
Chafing gel.

Chafing gel should dry quickly, an important feature to look for as It's preferable for the gel to be completely dry before you get dressed. Some chafing gels do not dry quickly, and some even leave a greasy residue on the skin. These products may not be as effective and could transfer onto your clothing.

A chafing gel works by forming a silky layer on the skin, and this should be what prevents chafing. This layer should be entirely dry and have an almost powder-like feel. This protective layer should not transfer to your clothing or rub off.

Some chafing gels use silicone oils, such as dimethicone, to help form a dry, smooth residue on the skin. This residue is usually breathable, and this may help the skin to heal. If your skin is already irritated or injured because of chafing, look for a gel that will soothe the skin and allow the skin to heal naturally. Gels that use silicone oils can also be used as often as required, without causing irritation.

The best chafing gel will also be fragrance free. This may be more important if you are a man and want to avoid any feminine-smelling products. Added fragrance can also cause irritation on sensitive skin, another reason to choose a gel that does not contain any added fragrance.

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