When I was a teenager, I may have had a slight affinity for short things. The shorter the skirt, the more I liked it. The shorter the shorts, the more I loved it! And while modesty is a virtue, I was proud of my legs and full shape.
The only problem? My thunder thighs didn't feel the same level of affection. Missing the memo on the need for full-length jeans, I started developing something that was both troublesome and unsightly: inner thigh bumps.
How did this happen?
Since I was not fortunate enough to flaunt a thigh gap…
...my thighs would rub together every time I walked, and the friction created a set of consequences that were both annoying and painful. I knew that I had to change my tactics once and for all.
If you're like me and dealing with persistent inner thigh acne, keep reading to find out how to stop it for good!
What is Inner Thigh Acne?
So, let's get down to the nitty-gritty. Inner thigh acne is a distant cousin of the OG acne on our face. Mainly involving bacteria, dirt, and sweat, inner thigh acne contains a slightly separate element—friction.
Here is how it works!
For many people, friction is the starting point of inner thigh acne. It contributes by disturbing the hair follicles on the thigh. This can result in inflammation and irritation. So as your legs are bumping and rubbing without any free-flowing air, sweat begins to form which introduces more acne-causing problems.
When a lot of sweat is lingering in one area surrounded by heat, like between our thighs, it can create a breeding ground for bacteria to thrive and multiply. After a while, consistent friction can even cause bacteria to seep into pores. And just like that, the acne storm is set in motion.
The result is anything from small pimples to large, painful acne lesions or cysts under the skin. These can linger for weeks! Your best bet is to get on top of it immediately and lean on the trusty arm of natural solutions!
Pro-tip: In some cases, friction can create a rash between the thighs. This is an entirely different ballpark and should not be treated the same way you treat acne. Consult with your doctor if this is the case.
Could it Be Hidradenitis Suppurativa?
Yes, it is possible that your inner thigh ‘acne’ isn’t acne at all. It could be hidradenitis suppurativa (HS).
HS is a skin condition that takes on many forms. From small to large bumps that can appear as pimples, nodules, or boils, it can be hard to differentiate HS from acne.
Commonly found in the armpits or groin, HS pops up where the skin rubs together. It can gradually become worse over time and affect larger skin-surfaces through tunnel-like formations underneath the skin.
While HS is a real thing and something to consider if your inner thigh acne persists or gets worse, it affects 2 percent of the population. So, consult with your doctor before you jump to any conclusions.
Prevent Inner Thigh Acne
Here are three ways to reverse the inner thigh acne curse!
- Consider wearing loose-fitting clothing- For those of us that love form-fitting jeans, leggings, and even skirts, this can be the cause of reoccurring thigh acne. Often tighter clothes lead to more friction and sweat between the thighs, especially those of us on the curvier side. This combination can also cause dirt circulation that can easily seep into the pores and create further inflammation.
- Stay on top of your hygiene- Since inner thigh acne is largely due to friction, dirt, and sweat, you have to stay vigilant and cleanse regularly. Otherwise, you allow bacteria and dirt to collect daily, which is putting your skin at a greater risk for acne.
- Exfoliate the dead skin and dirt away- Say it with me, "Exfoliating is my friend!" Many people know about exfoliants for your face, but body exfoliants are a real thing too. Your best bet to see clear inner thighs is a natural-based body polish that can remove dead skin, toxins, and dirt. Our Rejuvenating Essence Body Polish has worked for thousands of people struggling with body acne of all kinds. Bonus: It even helps remove dark marks that are left behind after those acne attacks!
Don't you think that your skin deserves the best that you can give it? When it comes to inner thigh acne, you can't cut corners. You owe it to yourself to give your skin the very best defense! Cheers on your acne-free journey!
