How to Stop Wetsuit Chafing or Neck Rubbing: The Complete Guide

Do you know how to stop wetsuit chafing or rubbing neck irritation? Or how to prevent the painful rash that comes with long hours in the water? We’ve got you covered! Wetsuit chafing, especially around the neck, is a common issue faced by surfers, swimmers, triathletes, and divers. Not only can it be uncomfortable, but it can also cut your water activities short. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the causes of wetsuit chafing, and most importantly, how to prevent and treat it so you can stay in the water longer, rash-free.

Stop Wetsuit Chafing Quickly: A Simple Solution

The fastest and most effective way to stop wetsuit chafing is by using specialized anti-chafing products like Body Glide Anti-Friction Balm. This easy-to-apply balm creates an invisible barrier on your skin that helps reduce friction. Simply apply it to the areas that get rubbed, such as the neck, armpits, and thighs, and you’ll feel the difference instantly.

Body Glide was specifically designed for athletes and water enthusiasts. Whether you’re surfing, swimming, or scuba diving, it works by reducing the friction that causes wetsuit chafing, preventing those painful rashes that can ruin a fun day in the water.

Why Wetsuit Chafing Happens

Wetsuit chafing occurs when moisture and friction combine. Your skin rubs against the wetsuit, which causes irritation, redness, and, eventually, painful rashes. The neck, armpits, shoulders, and inner thighs are the most common areas to experience chafing due to the constant movement and pressure in these regions. Chafing is worsened by saltwater, sweat, and the repetitive motion of swimming, surfing, or paddling.

Key Causes of Wetsuit Chafing

• Friction between the wetsuit and skin, especially in high-motion areas.
• Moisture from water or sweat increasing friction.
• Saltwater exacerbating skin irritation and dryness.
• Ill-fitting wetsuits that are either too tight or too loose.

Products That Prevent Wetsuit Chafing

Thankfully, there are various products designed to prevent wetsuit chafing. The most popular and effective ones include anti-chafing balms, creams, and sprays. These products are designed to minimize friction and provide a protective barrier on your skin, preventing the wetsuit from rubbing harshly.

Best Products to Prevent Wetsuit Chafing

Product	Pros	Cons
Body Glide Anti-Friction Balm	Waterproof and long-lasting protection. Non-greasy formula, easy to apply. Plant-based ingredients that are safe for the environment and wetsuits. Specifically designed for athletes and water sports.	Relatively expensive compared to other solutions. May require reapplication during longer water sessions.
Vaseline Petroleum Jelly	Widely available and very affordable. Provides immediate relief from chafing.	Can damage wetsuit material, especially neoprene. Greasy texture that might stain clothing or gear.
TriSlide Anti-Chafe Spray	Easy to apply with spray bottle. Non-greasy and water-resistant. Designed for triathletes, prevents wetsuit neck chafing.	More expensive than other products. Can be less effective on extremely sensitive skin.

How to Apply Anti-Chafing Products Correctly

To maximize the effectiveness of your anti-chafing product, it’s essential to apply it correctly. Here are some tips to make sure you get the best results:

• Identify problem areas: These are the places on your body that experience the most friction, such as your neck, armpits, and inner thighs.
• Apply before putting on your wetsuit: Make sure your skin is dry before applying the product. This ensures the balm or spray adheres properly to your skin.
• Reapply as needed: For long sessions in the water, reapply the product every few hours, especially if you’re in and out of the water frequently.

How to Prevent Wetsuit Chafing in Different Water Sports

Wetsuit chafing isn’t limited to one type of water activity—it can affect surfers, swimmers, divers, and more. Here’s how different athletes can prevent chafing:

For Surfers:

• Surfers often experience chafing around the neck and stomach due to the rubbing of the wetsuit and surfboard.
• Using an anti-chafing balm like Body Glide can help reduce friction in these areas.
• Wear a rash guard underneath your wetsuit to add a protective layer.

For Triathletes:

• Triathletes are at high risk for chafing due to their long hours in the water and on the bike.
• Body Glide is a popular choice for triathletes because it’s waterproof and long-lasting. Apply it before the swim to prevent neck and armpit chafing.
• For additional protection, consider using it on areas that may chafe during the cycling portion, such as the inner thighs.

For Divers:

• Divers often wear thicker wetsuits, which increases friction. Body Glide can be applied easily without removing the wetsuit.
• Applying the balm to problem areas, such as the neck and wrists, can help prevent chafing during long dives.

Preventing Neck Chafing Specifically

Neck chafing is one of the most common types of wetsuit irritation. Here’s how you can prevent it:

The best way to stop neck chafing is by applying an anti-chafing balm like Body Glide directly to your neck before putting on your wetsuit. The product creates a protective layer that reduces friction and stops irritation before it starts.

In addition to using an anti-chafing product, it’s crucial to ensure your wetsuit fits properly around the neck. A loose wetsuit will allow water and sand to get in, increasing friction, while a tight wetsuit can create too much pressure, leading to irritation. Finding the right fit is key.

Additional Tips to Prevent Wetsuit Chafing

• Wear a rash guard: Rash guards act as a barrier between your skin and the wetsuit. They are particularly useful for preventing chafing in the neck and shoulder areas.
• Use talcum powder: Applying talcum powder to your skin before putting on your wetsuit can help absorb moisture and reduce friction.
• Rinse off regularly: After spending time in the water, rinse off with fresh water to remove salt and sand from your skin, which can increase irritation.
• Ensure proper fit: A well-fitting wetsuit is less likely to cause chafing. Make sure your wetsuit is snug but not too tight.

FAQs

1. How often should I apply anti-chafing products?

Most anti-chafing products, like Body Glide, last several hours. However, if you’re in the water for extended periods or doing high-intensity activities, reapplying every 2-3 hours is recommended for continuous protection.

2. Can I use household items like Vaseline for wetsuit chafing?

While Vaseline may provide short-term relief from chafing, it is not recommended for use with wetsuits. While it can reduce friction, it is greasy and can break down the neoprene material of wetsuits, causing long-term damage. For that reason, it’s better to use a product like Body Glide, which is specially formulated to protect your skin and your wetsuit.

3. Will wearing a rash guard stop wetsuit chafing completely?

Wearing a rash guard can significantly reduce chafing because it creates a barrier between your skin and the wetsuit. However, it may not stop chafing entirely, especially in high-friction areas like the neck. For best results, combine a rash guard with an anti-chafing product like Body Glide.

Conclusion

Preventing wetsuit chafing and neck rubbing is crucial for enjoying your time in the water without discomfort. With the right combination of anti-chafing products, proper wetsuit fit, and techniques like wearing a rash guard, you can keep your skin protected from friction. Body Glide Anti-Friction Balm stands out as one of the best solutions, offering long-lasting, waterproof protection without damaging your wetsuit. So, whether you’re surfing, swimming, diving, or competing in a triathlon, a little preparation goes a long way in keeping your skin rash-free and your adventures fun.