Exercising is one of those things it's all too easy to make excuses for: For one, there’s the time it’ll take. For another, there’s the actual physical exertion, not to mention the pain it might cause — including the ever-present (and eternally painful) nipple chafing problem.
Anyone who’s exercised for a long period of time knows two things often ensue: muscle aches, and chafed, irritated skin. Preventing nipple chafing is absolutely vital for making sure that if you're trying to exercise, you have one less excuse in the morning. So, why do they sometimes feel like they’re on fire at the end of your workout? Nipples are made of softer, more sensitive skin with tons of nerve endings (in both for men and women), so they need to be adequately protected when they’re going to be in prolonged contact with fabric and sweat.
Thankfully, the whole ordeal really comes down to three basic nipple chafing-preventative steps: The first is to make sure that they’re covered with something that won’t shift or slide while you’re moving. The second is to make sure that you know how to lubricate nipples to prevent chafing; and the third is to choose a fabric that’s especially easy on your skin. Here are some of the most genius, tried-and-true hacks to keep your nipples from chafing so you can keep your heart pumping no matter what.
Use A Waterproof Solution For Surfing And Mud-Runs
GurneyGoo Anti-Chafe, $20, Amazon
When it comes to moisture-heavy activities, like surfing and mud runs, you’re going to need something that won’t wash off in the first 10 minutes. GurneyGoo Anti-Chafe was developed by Steve Gurney, who’s won Coast to Coast New Zealand nine times over, and it’s an easy-to-apply cream that stops chafing in its tracks. It’s especially good for nipples because it’s made of gentle ingredients that help to fight infection, like beeswax and tea tree oil. It even smells especially fresh, and reviewers say it’s one of the most effective ways to prevent excess rubbing, scrapes, and infections.
Cover Nipples With These Hypoallergenic Protectors
Nipple Concealers and Protectors, $15, Amazon
If you’re looking for something thin, subtle, and effective, these nipple concealers and protectors are great for both men or women. They’re water-resistant and hypoallergenic, and because they’re two inches in diameter, one size fits most. They stick on for long periods of time to prevent rubbing and irritation, and when it’s time to remove them, they come off without any pain or redness. Reviewers love them for long-distance marathons because they’re reliable and comfortable, but some even use them for low-cut or thin clothing that doesn’t lend itself well to a bra.
Sweat Doesn’t Stand A Chance Against These Nipple Pads
For something that’s versatile enough for everyday workouts and day-long marathons alike, NipEaze pads are some of the best anti-chafing solutions there are, and they stand up especially well to moisture, so they’re great for surfers in wetsuits, too. They come with a durable adhesive, and the material itself is soft, sweat-resistant, and discreet. They come in two different sizes to fit over just the areola, and because they stay on all day and can be easily removed afterwards, some people report that the sensitive-nip problem has been entirely fixed. One reviewer even stated that he’s got a particularly hairy chest, and NipEaze was the only thing that ever fully stuck to it.
Glide Along With This Chest-Friendly Anti-Chafe Balm
Bodyglide Original Anti-Chafe Balm, $7, Amazon
Bodyglide Original Anti-Chafe Balm remains one of the best anti-chafing solutions for every body part there is, but it’s especially effective when it comes to nipples. Simply apply it on your chest before you get dressed, and this long-lasting, no-mess formula lubricates skin without leaving any greasy residue on your fabrics. It’s made with allergen-free ingredients that are derived from plants and natural sources, it won’t clog pores, and because it comes in a convenient balm stick, it’s easy to apply on the go or right before a workout.
For On-The-Go Application, Get A Non-Greasy Anti-Chafe Spray
Skin Strong Anti-Chafing Spray , $11, Amazon
When it comes to on-the-go application, sprays can be a complete life-saver. Skin Strong's anti-chafe spray provides long-lasting protection with the convenience of a non-greasy and non-staining mist, which makes it awesome for camping, hiking, mountain biking, and quick breaks in between marathons. There’s no need to rub — just spray it on and keep moving. Reviewers love it because it’s especially effective in hot and humid conditions, and the spray feels much more sanitary than heavier formulas.
Especially Sensitive? Try This Entirely Organic Balm
The Honest Company Nipple Balm, $10, Amazon
For individuals who break out in a rash with anything synthetic, The Honest Company's nipple balm is a definite go-to. Everything in it is certified USDA organic and food-grade, like sunflower oil, coconut oil, aloe, beeswax, shea butter, and olive oil. It’s ultra-moisturizing and nourishing, and while it was originally created for mothers who were breastfeeding, its healing ingredients mean that it’s a great solution for any part of the body that’s chafing, chapped, or dry.
Use A Lightweight Fabric That’s Moisture-Wicking
Zensah Racey Running Sports Bra (Sizes S-L), $29-$85, Amazon
Heavy and abrasive fabrics absorb sweat, create excess friction, and can entirely ruin your workout. Zensah Racey Running sports bra fits comfortably and gives you loads of adequate support, all while preventing irritation. It doesn’t have any seams or tags, and because the fabric is moisture wicking, antimicrobial, and fits snugly, chafing becomes a thing of the past. This workout bra comes in five different colors and three different sizes, and because of its light mix of polyester, nylon, and spandex, reviewers say this bra is breathable, lightweight, stays dry, and best of all, protects their skin from painful rubbing.
For Men, Go For Soft, Flexible, & Form-Fitting
Compression Sleeveless Sports Tee (Sizes S-XL), $18-$20, Amazon
For guys looking for full tank coverage, this compression sleeveless sports tee made from high quality performance fabric has flat lock seam stitching to prevent excess rubbing and chafing, and because it’s lightweight, soft, anti-bacterial, flexible, and form-fitting, skin stays protected instead of becoming irritated. This shirt is particularly high quality, comes in four different sizes from small to extra large, and because it’s made for everyone from golfers to runners, it’s gotten wonderful reviewers from men who have tried just about every sports tee there is and finally settled on this one.
Bustle may receive a portion of sales from products purchased from this article, which was created independently from Bustle's editorial and sales departments. Images: Skeeze/Pixabay; Amazon (8)
