Reader Dick Railsback wrote:
I have given up on lubricants as well. I now use “Anti Monkey Butt” Anti friction powder with Calamine. It really works well to fight friction. I put it in a container and use a powder 
puff. When putting on your shorts, pull them up to your mid-thigh and then start the process. Most excess goes into the shorts so it is easy and not messy. Then pull up the shorts and jump on the bike. I have used this for all my rides (up to 100 miles+). And a big plus is that it’s much easier to clean the shorts vs. using a lube.
Arthur Alexander wrote:
Had the same problem. Tried the talcum powder. Discovered it was an allergy to nuts when eaten every day. Cut back my handful from daily to every other day and the problem vanished.
Chris Porter (who is a pharmacist in New Zealand) wrote:
I would just like to comment on the use of talcs and sweaty, itchy places.
Most talcs are more about fragrance and not particularly absorbent. There are talcs available on the market that are based on corn starch, which is highly absorbent. I have found these particularly useful both pre- and post-ride to reduce unwanted sweating.
Be careful using creams, particularly steroid-based products, as these can make things worse, particularly if a fungal element is associated with the itch or irritation.
Overuse of soap can make things worse, too. (Soaps are primarily alkaline in type, while skin is naturally acidic to reduce minor infections taking hold – like fungal infections.)
Edward Custer wrote:
Older cyclist here (72). Been experiencing “itchy butt” for the past couple of years. I tried talcum powder, plus numerous lubes and gels. I did a Google search on the topic and read about Gold Bond Extra Strength Medicated Body Lotion. My problem was gone in about a week. I found that the best time to apply was right before bedtime. Probably all those years riding on synthetic chamois dried out my skin. Never had a problem when chamois was real leather.
If you have an idea for a QT, fire away. We’re always looking for good info we can share with fellow roadies. We would love to hear from you with any suggestions you have. Contact us by clicking Quick Tips Ideas.
—John Marsh & The RBR Team
Leave a Reply