Chuffed

Never used it but recently started getting some chafing between the top of my thigh and a smaller delicate spherical type pouch located in that area

If I start using Chamois Cream are there any side effects i.e. hardens skin?

kindablue

As far as my experience goes nope. The stuff is pretty "natural" (assos at least).

sparker

Try better fitting shorts... well worth the price. Ive never liked the Chamois cream. It made me feel like I was going to slide off the seat.

Caymem

I will not and can not ride without chamois cream. The only brand I've tried is Chamois Butter from Paceline. They have a tube and jar, I like the jar better. It has a little menthol in it...

dstrong 

I use Chamois Buttr on rides over 25 miles. I haven't had any issues with side effects. I apply it directly to the areas where I'm most likely to chaffe, not to the chamois.

*edit* oh...on rides over about 40 miles, I also put a small amount between my toes to help stop blisters.

FLvector

Yes, especially if your spouse applies it for you.

roadiejorge 

I haven't had the need to use chamois cream even on long rides so maybe there's an issue with either your shorts or how you're positioned on the saddle.

coasting 

i hear that with all the friction it is like churning butter. it might just get a bit dairy down there.

v70cat

I use a little dznuts front and back. I find it a must, to reduce friction in the front. You only need a small amount and it lasts all day.

kleinboogie

The cream is good. I stopped using it on a couple long rides and wish I hadn't. Back on the sauce and I'm not going back.

graphs

I think if there were common side effects they would be well documented by now. Hardening of skin from moisturizing it seems pretty unlikely.

Chandne

Assos is good. It basically just coats your skin and forms a slick layer. I don't use a lot of it and do not notice it at all. Everyone is built differently but it certainly helps those who do have chafing problems or can get saddle sores.

achoo

I sweat a lot and I find that Assos starts breaking down on me on long rides. So I've started to use petroleum jelly in addition to the Assos.

Sprocket Man

When I was using Chamois Buttr, I was experiencing frequent nausea and upset stomach. Then one day I happened to read the label and was surprised because it said "For External Use Only". Didn't have any more problems after that, other than having to eat dry toast.

gbg

Doesn't petroleum jelly destroy shorts and clog pores? Cycling specific Creams are designed not to.
Luckily I never needed Creams, and the thought of using them just rubs me the wrong way (no pun intended).

vantassell

+1

Chandne

I don't sweat much so the Assos works well but I have found that Friction Zone/ Brave Soldier has more of a petroleum jelly consistency so you may prefer that. It is definitely not as water soluble.

rangerdavid

chamois butt'r or assos cream. no side effects.

halfspeed

Yes. It makes you cranky so you won't wave at freds.

Val23708

I use the cheap PBK branded stuff... sometimes.

achoo

No and no.

As for the shorts, it either washes out or doesn't. Worst case it just sits in the chamois waiting to help on your next ride. Petroleum jelly doesn't rot, it doesn't stink, it doesn't eat your chamois, and bacteria don't grow in it.

And it doesn't clog your taint pores any worse than the dead skin that the friction of riding rolls around down there when your pedalling away anyway.

Like everything seat-related, though, what works for someone else may be death on your nether regions.

And never forget that petroleum jelly does lack the ego-boosting powers of Assos creme, what with it being something like 50 times less expensive...

NickDavid

I never understood the point of chamois cream until I started putting in solid mileage. The only side effect is an extremely comfortable ride. Some guys need this regularly and some do not. If you're getting sores, give it a shot!