When your thighs rub together, friction occurs. This friction causes the skin on the inner thighs to become irritated and may lead to a heat rash, which is also known as miliaria. When the skin becomes irritated, the sweat glands may become blocked. This causes red, white or pink raised bumps to occur. The affected area is likely to itch or feel prickly and may feel painful. A heat rash is most likely to occur when you are in a hot or humid environment, but it can occur anytime the thighs rub together.
Move to a cool location. The American Osteopathic College of Dermatology states that heat rash will usually go away within a day of moving into a cool place.
Place a cool compress on your thighs or soak in a cool bath. The cool water will decrease the inflammation and reduce the severity of the bumps.
Wear loose bottoms made of natural fibers or moisture-wicking material to avoid irritating the area. Tight clothing and synthetic fabrics can irritate the bumps causing them to get worse instead of heal.
Apply calamine lotion to the area, recommends DermNet NZ. This will decrease the itching in the area and may help speed healing.
Sprinkle a medicated body powder on your inner thighs. Medicated body powder will reduce friction from the thighs rubbing together. The medications in the powder will help to heal the area and reduce itching.
Warning
Visit your doctor if the bumps on your inner thighs don’t abate with these self-treatment options as the rash may be the result of another dermatological condition. Additionally, if the rash appears to be infected, contact your doctor. Signs of infection include warmth coming from the bumps even after moving to a cool place, pus oozing from the bumps or running a fever.
References
Writer Bio
Casey Holley is a medical writer who began working in the health and fitness industries in 1995, while still in high school. She has worked as a nutrition consultant and has written numerous health and wellness articles for various online publications. She has also served in the Navy and is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in health administration from the University of Phoenix.