How to Avoid Chub Rub: The Fat Girl’s Summer-Friendly Guide
Looking for the best tips on how to avoid chub rub? You’ve come to the right place, girl.
With the weather finally warming up (no more “freeze your butt off” days) and the fireside cozy vibes starting to fade, it’s time to kick off my annual chub rub prevention campaign.
Chub rub isn’t just a “plus size” problem—it’s a universal issue that affects all shapes and sizes. After some extensive research (aka chatting with a few friends), it’s clear: thighs either touch or they don’t. Simple as that.
But here’s the thing—chub rub doesn’t always announce itself right away. One minute, you’re strolling to 7 Eleven on a hot day for a slushie, and the next, you’re limping around for a week, praying for a miracle.
Since I moved to Mexico, chub rub’s become an all-year affair, and let me tell you, I’ve spent many a night (while icing my red, burning thighs, of course—because yes, I’m probably rewatching a ‘90s rom-com on the couch) trying to find solutions. And guess what? I’ve come up with a few promising ish ones.
Are they foolproof? Nah. It only takes a moment of carelessness to ruin it all. But if you’re looking for the best tips to dodge that chub rub this summer season, you’re in the right place!
What is Chub Rub?
Normally, when you see a “What is…” heading in a post, it’s a sneaky move for Google keywords (because hey, I want you to find my fabulous blog). But today, it’s an honest-to-goodness question. I casually mentioned “chub rub” to my mom last summer, and she looked at me like I was speaking a foreign language—despite having the same issue herself.
So here’s the lowdown: Chub rub is that painfully uncomfortable feeling when your legs (or any other patch of skin) rub together and cause irritation. Medically speaking (I think?), it’s just good old-fashioned chafing.
When skin rubs together for long periods, it can cause rashes, blisters, and general discomfort that’s a serious pain in the you-know-what (or in this case, your inner thighs). It usually becomes a bigger issue when the weather heats up and you’re rocking clothes like dresses or shorts.
It’s one of those annoyances that you never want to deal with, especially when it seems to strike at the worst times—like when you’re walking around Disneyland in July, wearing the cutest romper you’ve ever owned.
The good news? There are a few tricks to help prevent it, and I’m here to share them with you!
How to Avoid Chub Rub
1. The Cover Up
When it comes to preventing and treating chub rub, covering up is probably the best method.
The goal is simple—if your skin doesn’t touch, chafing doesn’t happen. But let’s be real, it’s not a perfect solution, especially if you’re working with curves and your clothes tend to ride up.
Luckily, there are plenty of options out there to help us stay chafe-free.
Athletic Shorts
When I’m out running errands in the neighborhood (about 20 minutes away), my go-to is a pair of biker shorts. I love the Old Navy PowerSoft Biker Shorts (with that glorious 8-inch inseam) for their support and comfort. The best part? They hold up like a champ in hot weather—I’ve walked in 90+ degree temps and never had an issue.
These shorts also double as a great base layer under dresses or skirts. I’ll wear them as long as they’re long enough to cover my knees (because I do like my shorts to stay undercover). If you’re wearing something a bit shorter, you can opt for a shorter inseam.
In short (ha, pun intended!), if you’ve got bike shorts lying around, I highly recommend them on those blazing hot days when chub rub is a concern.
Slip Shorts
Now, if athletic shorts feel a little too thick for your liking and you’re after something with a little more airflow, slip shorts are the way to go.
They serve the same purpose but aren’t quite as heavy-duty, which means they won’t give you that extra-thick support. But, heads-up, you’ll want something on top of them—wearing them alone might be a little too revealing.
I personally reserve slip shorts for fancier summer nights when I’m looking to look cute but stay comfy. Perfect for date nights when you still need a layer of protection but don’t want to feel too “layered up.”
Bandelettes
Let’s face it, athletic shorts and slip shorts aren’t always the most appropriate options for every outfit or occasion. If you need something a bit more discreet, enter bandelettes.
I’ll be real, they’re not my absolute favorite choice since I don’t find them as comfortable or secure as I’d like. But if you know exactly where your thighs will touch, they can be a good solution.
Plus, many bandelettes are lacey, which makes them a great sexy alternative—like lingerie that doubles as a practical chub rub solution.
2. The Butter Up
Sometimes, you’re in a situation where you just can’t wear anything over the spot—hello, short romper days. We’ve all been there, right?
Body Glide Stick
In these cases, the Body Glide Stick can be a lifesaver.
I actually picked up a stick of this before moving to Mexico, and I can say it really works. But, here’s the catch—it’s not as long-lasting as they claim.
The idea is to swipe it on like deodorant and expect it to last, but in the heat, you might find yourself reapplying every hour or two to keep things smooth.
To be fair, it’s got that creamy, buttery texture like deodorant, so it doesn’t exactly “dry up” like some other options. But over time, it does lose some of its effectiveness.
It’s perfect for a beach day or a short outing. I wouldn’t rely on it for all-day use, though.
Megababe Thigh Rescue Stick
Another fantastic option is the Megababe Thigh Rescue Lotion Anti-Chafe Stick. This stuff is a game-changer when it comes to preventing chub rub. It’s smooth, easy to apply, and feels lightweight on the skin—not sticky like some other products.
What I love about it is that it’s packed with skin-loving ingredients. It’s infused with pomegranate extract to protect your skin’s outer layer, ginger root to help even out your skin tone, and vitamin E & grapeseed oil to promote overall skin health. All that goodness helps keep your skin feeling smooth and nourished while protecting it from irritation.
While it might not last forever in extreme heat (let’s face it, nothing truly survives that), this stick holds up beautifully for a day of walking or errands.
It’s perfect for everything from casual trips to full-day outings, and if you’re looking for a reliable anti-chafe option, this one’s got your back!
3. The Lather Up
A stick isn’t your only option, creams are also a popular anti chafing products.
Chamois Butt’r
If a stick isn’t your thing, no worries—creams are a popular and effective option for anti-chafing. One standout is Chamois Butt’r.
This non-greasy cream goes on smoothly and is easy to apply—no mess, no fuss. And if you happen to get it on something it’s not supposed to be on (oops), it washes off easily, which is always a plus.
What I love about it? It’s paraben and gluten-free, with no artificial fragrances or colors—just pure relief. Plus-size reviewers rave about how well it works, calling it one of the best anti-chafing creams on the market.
If you’re looking for a reliable lotion for chafing, this is a top contender. Just slap it on, and you’re good to go—whether you’re preventing or treating the problem.
Anti chafing gel
If you want a product that’s half-way between a cream and a balm stick, the KT Tape chafing gel is the answer.
This is an easy-to-apply gel that’s both sweat and water-resistant, and lasts up to 24-hours.
You can apply this anywhere that you get a rash and remain confident that you’ll be protected.
A product like this is great for using while you’re out on the beach, sporting that adorable swimsuit.
Reviewers say this product is a lifesaver, it’s odorless and doesn’t leave any residue behind.
Whether you’re an athlete or you’re just trying to wear a pair of shorts, it’s built for you!
4. The Powder Up
If you’re on the hunt for a powder option to prevent chub rub, Lady Anti Monkey Butt is the real MVP.
I’ve tried the basic, run-of-the-mill powder before, and while it works in a pinch, it’s no match for this stuff when it comes to long-term use. Sure, you’ll need to reapply throughout the day (because, you know, life), but I’ve had pretty good luck with it—especially when I’m just trying to cover the edges of my thighs (you know, the ones that sneak out of my shorts).
What makes this powder stand out? It’s made with calamine, so it not only absorbs sweat but also helps to prevent chafing. It’s a game-changer when you’re looking for quick relief without the bulk of creams or gels.
Chub Rub Remedies & Care
Chafing is a pain in the you-know-what when it happens, but let’s be real—it happens.
When it does, you’ll want to treat it ASAP to avoid any further issues, like infection or irritation.
Here’s what you should do when chub rub strikes:
- Clean the Area Gently: First, make sure to clean the affected area gently but thoroughly. You want to remove any sweat or debris without causing more irritation.
- Apply Healing Products: Next, use something like petroleum jelly or another soothing product to help with healing. This will protect the area while it starts to recover.
- Repeat: Keep up with the routine until the chafing clears up. Patience is key!
If you notice that the skin is cracked, bleeding, or showing signs of infection, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional to avoid complications.
Quick Disclaimer: I’m not a medical professional, so while I can share what works for me, always check with a doctor for more serious concerns.
5. Lotions
Sometimes, something as simple as a good lotion can work wonders when it comes to relieving chub rub.
Aquaphor is a fantastic option for minor skin issues like rashes. While it’s not specifically marketed for chafing, I’ve found that its healing properties can help calm irritation. I often reach for it to relieve that itchy feeling when chub rub starts to rear its head.
The best part? It’s preservative and fragrance-free, making it ideal for sensitive skin. It’s definitely a fan favorite, and for good reason.
Just keep in mind, it’s a bit oilier than you might expect, so be prepared for that extra layer of protection. It goes a long way in soothing dry, irritated skin, making it a solid go-to for your skin care routine.
6. Balms
Balms are another great option when you’re looking for quick relief from skin irritation.
Monkey Movement is one of the top recommendations for treating itchy, cracked, or inflamed skin, and it works nearly instantaneously. Whether it’s from chub rub or just general skin discomfort, it gets the job done fast.
If you’re aiming to prevent chub rub, this balm can give you that extra layer of protection. It’s similar to a cream but with a slightly lighter moisturizing feel and a refreshing citrus scent. Perfect for those hot days when you want something a little more breathable.
Throw it in your beach bag and you’re all set for a day in the sun—whether it’s to prevent chafing or soothe it after a long day.
7. Natural Remedies: Aloe, Coconut Oil Shea Butter
If you’re into natural remedies, there are a few options that people swear by for chub rub relief.
The only one I’ve personally tried is aloe—mainly because I grow it in my garden (and hey, free skincare!). Aloe works well to soothe irritated skin, but here’s the thing: you need a lot to cover the area properly. If you’re not growing your own, you can always grab a pure aloe gel from the store—just make sure it’s as natural as possible for the best results.
Other natural options that often come recommended are coconut oil and shea butter. Both are known for their moisturizing and soothing properties, making them great for keeping skin nourished and calm. Plus, they’re gentle enough for sensitive skin.
What About Deodorant, Does It Help Chub Rub?
Nah, girl, I’d skip the deodorant for this one.
I’m the first to admit, in a pinch, I’ve tried deodorant to prevent chub rub—and spoiler alert—it didn’t do much. It might feel like it’s working at first because it gives your skin a nice smooth layer, but trust me, that feeling doesn’t last long.
Deodorant isn’t designed to reduce skin-on-skin friction for extended periods. It’s made to help manage body odor, not to tackle chafing. So, while it might seem like a quick fix, it won’t stand up to the test when you’re sweating or walking around for hours.
Bottom line? If you’re dealing with chub rub, deodorant is not your friend for the long haul.
How Do I Stop Chafing in Other Areas of the Body
We often focus on thigh chafing when talking about chub rub, and for good reason—it’s a common issue across all body sizes. But if you’ve got a bigger body (or just bigger areas), you might deal with chafing in other places that need attention too.
… Like Between Butt Cheeks!
Sounds gross? Yeah, maybe. But is it a legitimate issue? Absolutely.
The butt crack area is prime real estate for skin-on-skin friction, especially in the summer when your back and butt are sweating up a storm. This can be just as painful as thigh chafing, but it’s a little trickier to manage.
If you’re dealing with chafing between your butt cheeks, I recommend Lady Anti Monkey Butt powder. It’s easy to apply and will help absorb sweat and soothe the area. Aloe Vera is also a natural remedy that could work wonders for discomfort.
When treating chafing back there, just remember to apply your remedies externally, and avoid any, uh, “backdoor action” (if that’s your thing) until things are healed up.
… Or Below The Boobs
I’m no stranger to boob chafing, especially since my boobs are lopsided—thanks, genetics. The larger one often rubs against my skin, which can lead to irritation.
To prevent chub rub here, the goal is twofold: (1) keep the area completely dry, and (2) minimize skin-on-skin contact. Revolutionary, right?
I use a dusting powder to keep things fresh, and while baby powder is always a solid choice, I like to treat myself to some Lush dusting powder on days when I’m feeling a little luxe.
… What About Under The Apron
Apron belly chafing is a year-round struggle, no matter where you live.
If your belly overhangs and rubs against your skin, chafing is bound to happen. The most common culprit isn’t sweat—it’s water left behind after cleaning or showering (though I didn’t cite any official stats for this—just my experience). Here’s what I recommend:
- Invest in a plus-size towel that’s big enough to dry off properly—skip the “large bath towel” sizes, they just don’t cut it.
- After any physical activity (like a walk, or, uh, a sweat session in your living room), give the area a quick rub-down to keep things dry.
- Keep powder on hand to lightly dust the area whenever you can.
- Fancy balms and chafing products work wonders here too, so don’t be afraid to try them out to help prevent chafing.
Chafing under the apron is bound to happen once in a while, even if you’re diligent about it. But be mindful, because it can lead to more serious issues, like a yeast infection (yikes), so self-care and hygiene are extra important in these areas.
Final Thoughts: Preventing Chub Rub
Chub rub is something that affects a lot of people—and you don’t have to be overweight to experience it! When your skin rubs together, especially in the heat and humidity, it can lead to chafing. And let’s be honest, NO ONE likes chafing.
Whether you’re braving Disneyland in July, walking around the farmer’s market, or just out running errands, preventing chub rub is a must, especially during the summer months.
For prevention, I’m all about deodorant-like sticks (some even use regular deodorant!). These are easy to apply before you head out. I’ve also been known to use powder when I’m feeling fancy.
That said, even the best prevention methods aren’t foolproof, and sometimes you still get chub rub. When that happens, relief is key. Balms and lotions are my go-to for calming the discomfort and helping things heal quickly.
Remember, if chub rub isn’t treated promptly, it can lead to more serious issues, like an infection. So, take steps to prevent it, and if you do get it, treat it as soon as possible.
