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First Aid For Leg & Other Chafing

2sweed

Natural Camper
Staff member
We all at one time or the other have felt the burn and uncomfortable of chafing, on our legs and in other tender areas of our body where sweating and moisture, or clothing rubs can happen. While prevention is hindsight, it is necessary to apply treatment as soon as the problem starts or regret will set in rapidly.
There are many different products available such as Body Glide and Zinc Oxide, but also other moisture barrier products, like Desitin Paste will work.

What is your favorite brand or product that you have used to prevent chafing?
 

campforums

Founder
Staff member
Zinc Oxide is simply deodorant, no? I like using baby or talcum powder because it keeps the area dry.
 

happyflowerlady

Survivalist
I have found that the heavy ointment that they make for diaper rash works really well for chafed areas, and I think that is my preferred treatment.
I have also used coconut oil, which is really great for healing skin abrasions, and so is aloe gel. Fresh gel from an aloe plant seems to work the best; but it not a likely thing to be carrying out on a camping trip, whereas a small container of commercial gel would be easy to take along.
Another product that works wonders on all kinds of scrapes, burns, or chafed areas is bag balm. Admittedly, it is not the best smelling stuff; but it certainly does a great job of healing something up again. Plus, it is easy to take along and comes in an almost indestructible tin.
 

gracer

Explorer
I also agree that a balm is good for preventing chafing while hiking but I remember my doctor telling me that it is no longer advisable to apply a balm when the chafing is already there. Just like what @happyflowerlady said, I have also proven that the creams and ointments they use for diaper rashes are also very effective in relieving the symptoms of chafing. It could really come in handy to bring one when you're hiking.
 
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