Chafing in the intense Philippine heat? Expert shares causes, treatment, prevention

Given the hot and humid weather in the Philippines, chafing can be unavoidable — and extremely uncomfortable.

Chafing, also known as intertriginous dermatitis, is the irritation that occurs when skin rubs against skin, or other things such as fabric.

Makati Medical Center dermatologist Ma. Margarita Isabel Carlos-Tanchiong, MD, FPDS said that rubbing of warm, moist skin against opposing skin strips its upper layer (stratum coneum).

"Over time, this can lead to the development of moist red patches, sometimes with itching, tenderness, discharge and foul smell, and the impaired skin barrier may be exposed to irritants and pathogens," she told GMA News Online in an exclusive interview.

Who are most commonly affected by chafing?

Chafing commonly happens in areas of the skin that are warm and moist, with absence of air circulation, Dr. Margarita said. These include the intertriginous areas such as the inner thighs, groin, buttocks, underarms, sides of the neck, below the breast, and under the abdomen.

"However, it can also happen in areas of the skin that are in constant friction with other things such as the back of the foot, when we wear new shoes or the breasts or nipples of runners as they rub against clothing," she added.

As humidity causes us to sweat more, it makes everyone vulnerable to chafing.

Those who exercise frequently have likely suffered from it as well.

"In terms of activity level, being more active and perspiring increases moisture, causing worsening of symptoms. If clothing and footwear don’t fit well and if they are made of my synthetic, non-breathable fabrics, moisture builds up," Dr. Margarita said.

That said, there are those more prone to it, such as infants and bedridden adults, who may develop this condition due to their immobility. Diapers can also become a factor.

Additionally, those with metabolic conditions such as diabetes and obesity; people who are overweight; those with hyperhidrosis or increased sweating; and people with urinary incontinence may be predisposed to chafing.

When to see a doctor

Usually, chafing clears up quickly, and heals when friction and moisture are no longer present, Dr. Margarita said.

"But if it isn’t addressed, it can lead to intertrigo where inflammation or skin discoloration is present, or it can lead to either fungal or bacterial skin conditions," she added.

"Allergic or irritant contact dermatitis may result as well when the impaired skin is exposed to allergens (perfumes, preservatives in moisturizers) or irritants (soaps, detergents, urine)," she added.

In some cases, chafing may be a symptom of an underlying issue.

"Since being overweight can predispose one to chafing, metabolic syndrome and/or diabetes may be an underlying issue. It can also be a symptom of urinary incontinence if it happens in the groin area and can be due to hyperhydrosis or excessive swearing," Dr. Margarita said.

"If lesions become red and do not heal on their own despite removing the source of friction, it’s best to see a doctor," she added.

Tips to prevent and treat chafing

Dr. Margarita shared the following do's and dont's to prevent and treat chafing:

DO:

• aerate the skin fold/ affected areas as much as possible
• cleanse daily with a gentle soap free cleanser and pat dry/ air dry
• wear cool comfortable clothing like cotton
• apply a barrier cream or petrolatum on affected areas
• consider weight loss or consultation with endocrinologist if weight is an issue

DON’T:

• add more moisture by applying multiple emollients
• wear synthetic non-breathable clothing like wool or polyester
• use soaps, detergents, fragrances which can worsen initial dermatitis
• self-medicate if you’re not sure of how to treat the condition
• leave it alone

When your skin gets irritated due to chafing, Dr. Margarita advised cleaning the affected area with a gentle cleanser, followed by drying it with a fan or a hair dryer on a cool setting.

If possible, use absorbent clothing such as cotton to separate skin folds or wear athletic clothes with sweat wicking fabric to remove moisture from the skin.

"When in doubt, please consult your board-certified dermatologist for proper care. An anti-fungal cream, an oral antibiotic, antihistamines or other medications may be needed for proper treatment," she added.

Daily management

There's no avoiding heat in the Philippines.

However, chafing can be managed through the right clothes and creams.

Dr. Margarita said cool, cotton fabrics or sweat wicking fabrics are ideal when exercising.

When commuting to and from work, wearing breathable fabrics and changing into uniform in the workplace would reduce friction.

It's best to shower or change after sweating profusely, she added, and a barrier cream containing zinc oxide and or talc may be used to prevent friction. —JCB, GMA News