Chamois Cream for Cycling: Application and Ingredients

Former professional cyclist Rudi Altig once said: “A racing cyclist must look after their backside better than their face.” Naturally, this also applies to women! If you’ve ever been on a bike tour and afterwards found it hard to sit because everything was rubbed raw or pimples started to appear on your bottom, you’ll be nodding in agreement right now. We show you which types of seat cream (sometimes called “butt cream”) exist and what you should pay attention to when choosing and applying it.

What is the Purpose of Chamois Creams?

When cycling, friction inevitably occurs between your skin, the chamois pad and the saddle. On short rides this is hardly noticeable, but the longer you sit in the saddle, the more sensitive your skin becomes. Heat, moisture and sweat salts weaken the skin barrier and make it easier for bacteria to spread. Skin irritation, sore spots, small pimples or inflamed hair follicles are therefore common among frequent riders. Chamois creams can help in a simple but effective way: they create a lubricating film between your skin and your shorts (or skin on skin), reducing friction and protecting the skin.

Modern Chamois Creams: Antibacterial, Cooling, or simply Anti-friction. What suits you best?

This is why most pro riders use modern, purpose-developed products to reduce chafing. Many chamois creams work in a similar way to Vaseline. Some are also mineral-oil based, while others rely on plant-based fats such as shea butter or sunflower oil, combined with herbal ingredients like witch hazel, calendula or aloe vera. These not only reduce friction, but can also have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects, while providing moisture to the skin. They also tend to absorb faster. However, plant extracts can trigger allergies or irritate sensitive skin. Other creams include menthol, offering a cooling effect.

If animal-derived ingredients are fine for you, products containing deer tallow may also work well. They protect the skin like a second layer and help prevent blisters and skin tears. Creams containing tallow often have a relatively thick consistency – great for long rides. However, removing the cream from your chamois or skin afterwards may require a bit of patience.

Before the Ride: How to Apply Chamois Cream correctly

When you’re getting dressed for your ride, that’s the perfect moment to apply chamois cream with clean (!) hands. You can apply the cream directly to your cycling shorts – specifically to the chamois and seams in the seat area – or you can apply it directly to your skin. For long rides, we recommend applying the cream directly to your skin, plus an additional thin layer on the chamois. Focus on the pressure and friction points: your sit bones, perineal or genital area, and inner thighs. Don’t be afraid to be generous with the amount you use. Whether you prefer applying it to skin or shorts is entirely personal – both methods work effectively.

By the way: It’s also a good idea to use chamois cream on the indoor trainer, as you’ll sweat more due to the lack of airflow.

After the Ride is Before the Ride: Care for Skin and Shorts 

Even if it sounds absolutely obvious: Wash your cycling shorts after every ride! This ensures no residues of sweat or chamois cream linger, which could irritate your skin. Follow the care instructions from the clothing manufacturer and preferably use specialized liquid detergents for sports apparel. 

Not just your cycling shorts need a wash and care after a ride, but your bum does too. This is particularly important if you plan on cycling the next day. Meaning: shower, or if there’s no shower available on your tour, wash off sweat and chamois cream residues with water and mild soap and dry thoroughly. When you hop on your bike the next morning, both you and your bib shorts will be clean – this prevents germs from spreading. Speaking of germs: Remember to apply chamois cream with washed hands only. 

FAQ: Chamois Cream

How much chamois cream should I use?

Use an amount about the size of a hazelnut to a walnut. The goal is a thin, even glide film – not a thick layer. For longer rides (over four hours) or very sensitive skin, you can apply a bit more. Over time, you will develop a feel for the perfect amount.

Should I apply the cream to my skin or directly onto the chamois?

It’s best to apply the cream directly to your skin. This ensures it’s exactly where you need it. Many pros also apply a very thin layer to the chamois to maximise lubrication.

How long does chamois cream last? Do I need to reapply on long rides?

High-quality chamois creams are designed to last several hours. Most will hold up for 4–6 hours. If you’re planning a 200 km brevet or a full day on the bike, it can be useful to take a small travel-size tube to reapply halfway through. In wet weather, reapplying may also make sense depending on the product.

What is the best time to apply chamois cream? Right before I start?

Ideally, apply the cream 15–30 minutes before getting on the bike. This allows it to absorb slightly into the top layer of skin and create a protective barrier instead of remaining only on the surface and being absorbed by the fabric straight away.

Do I need chamois cream for short rides (under 1 hour)?

Not necessarily. Many riders only use cream for rides longer than 1.5–2 hours. If you have very sensitive skin or are new to cycling and your skin isn’t used to the stress yet, a thin layer can increase comfort even on short rides.

What about riding in the rain? Will chamois cream still work?

Yes – that’s exactly what it’s made for! High-quality chamois creams create a water-repellent barrier. In wet conditions, friction increases due to softened skin and damp clothing, so cream is especially important. On long rides, you may want to reapply along the way.

I sweat a lot. Do I need to look for anything specific?

Heavy sweating increases the risk of skin irritation. Choose a cream described as particularly long-lasting or “waterproof”. Even more important, though, is the right cycling short: pick one with a breathable chamois that wicks moisture away from the skin quickly.