For me, the typical ride under 100 miles isn't an issue. I've spent many years dialing in my saddles & bibs, and toughening up the skin 'down there'.
When I'm going for century+ rides, I like to apply the cream to my fingers and rub the cream in the known problem areas (rubbing on the bibs is more challenging to be sure you're hitting the right spots).
On the other hand, I find nearly every ride on Zwift (trainer) needs cream ... something about not moving around as much really wears down the same skin the whole time.
Funny note: my support driver on
the DAMn (aka wife) enjoys sharing the fun at check points ... all the riders digging around in their bibs to clean up and reapply
By check point 3 (~186 miles), there's no modesty left.