fried scratches are a common condition in sports and exercise, especially when the skin rubs together or with clothes. According to nurse Rachael Zimlich (BSN, RN), this condition often occurs in areas with deep folds such as the inner thighs, armpits, groin or under the chest. To minimize this risk, you can apply the following 5 methods:
Keep your skin clean and dry
Keeping your skin clean and dry is the first step to prevent scratches. Use a mild, unscented soap, dry thoroughly in areas prone to sweating such as the groin, armpits, inner thighs, or under the chest. If you exercise outdoors for long periods of time, you can use an extra straw or sweat-absorbing cloth to keep the skin dry.
Create a protective layer with moisturizer or specialized tape
Moisturizing your skin before exercise helps strengthen the skin barrier, and you can also use protective film products such as Second Skin cream. These products will prevent dirt and bacteria from entering sensitive skin areas. According to Dr. William Truswell (MD), a dermatologist in the United States, maintaining a physical protective layer on the skin will help reduce damage caused by friction.
Improve skin health
Supplementing enough water every day and eating foods containing prebiotics, probiotics and omega-3 can help keep skin healthier, thereby making it more resistant to friction. "A healthy skin is the best armor against minor mechanical damage," Dr. Truswell recommends.
Refined areas prone to friction
You can use anti-esters such as Body Glide, coconut oil, wax or powder to apply to areas such as the inner thighs, armpits, or anywhere that is prone to rubbing during exercise. These products act as a cushion between skin and skin or skin with fabric.
Wear appropriate clothes
tightly fitting, soft fabric, sweat-absorbing and flat sewing will help limit friction. Avoid using clothes that are too tight or made from rough materials. In addition, you need to pay attention to accessories such as backpacks, sports watches or straps that can cause rubbing if not properly arranged.
What to do if your skin is scratched?
You need to rinse the damaged area with warm water and mild soap, dry it and apply antibacterial fat or mineral oil. Then they can fold back to avoid further friction. Applying a cold towel also helps reduce pain and inflammation effectively.
Scratches caused by friction can occur to anyone who exercises regularly. However, with just a few basic steps of care and smart clothing choices, you can easily prevent and treat this condition before it seriously affects you.
