Homemade chamois lube/butter/cream?

[Catrin]

I didn't know you could make home made chamois lube. Do you have a recipe to share? I currently use Vaseline or KY Jelly and neither are terribly ideal for me. Small digression: Are you really supposed to put chamois lube down there? Won't it cause problems?

Yes, as long as the ingredients doesn't cause discomfort. I have found that applying the lube directly (and to the chamois as well) seems to provide the best results. If I reapply then I apply it directly.

I like the idea of a very simple one or two ingredient lube. I would use pure shea butter or coconut oil if I hadn't found a commercial product that has natural ingredients.

I tried to go without using anything, but had to give that idea up and am much, much happier

[Dogmama]

I've used A&D lotion for years. I think it's typically used for diaper rash.

[ChillyWilly]

Ok, i'm getting the message that these products help make a long ride more tolerable on your skin.

I have absolutely no knowledge of how to use the products and what affect they have on skin and fabric.

Where does it go? Anywhere your skin is rubbing I assume.

How much is enough? Just a dab will do ya?

Is is placed on the fabric too? If so, just in those spots where the rubbin occurs, right?

Does it show through the shorts?

Does it stain the fabric?

Does it wear off after a few miles, or, how long does an application last?

It's purpose is to help skin slide over fabric instead of rub against it, correct?

Have I missed anything?

After 50 miles on a new saddle, I'm in need of something.

Dogmma, thanks for the tip about A&D. I'm hoping to better understand how these products work and the best approach to use them.

Thanks

A Complete Novice Willing to Learn

[indigoiis]

I used water based "down there" gel and it works very well.

[OakLeaf]

Where does it go? Anywhere your skin is rubbing I assume.

Yep.

How much is enough? Just a dab will do ya?

Depends on what you're using. Stuff that soaks in or flies off like Chamois Butt'r, you may need a lot. Stuff like Aquaphor or A&D that will mat your hair, same thing, since you need enough to slide. Shea butter, just a dab.

Is it placed on the fabric too? If so, just in those spots where the rubbin occurs, right?

Yep.

Does it show through the shorts?

Not with black shorts. Can't speak to any other color.

Does it stain the fabric?

Doesn't stain Lycra, but some formulations may leave residue. A&D will stink for decades. Literally. I haven't used any since 1993, but the one pair of shorts I still wear from those days still smells like it, as do all my old jerseys that were stored with those shorts. Shea butter can leave a little bit of residue that will be whitish at room temperature, but once you put them on, your body warmth will melt it and it's no longer visible.

Does it wear off after a few miles, or, how long does an application last?

Again, depends on what you're using. One application of shea butter is good for at least 50-60 miles, but if I have to pee a lot someplace where there's access to toilet paper and it actually gets wiped, then the lube may get wiped off, too. Chamois Butt'r and Beljum Butt'r, probably 30 miles max.

It's purpose is to help skin slide over fabric instead of rub against it, correct?

Exactly, and that's why it's a supplement and not a substitute for shorts and saddles that fit you well.

[Zen]

I use opossum fat, just like my granny did.

[OakLeaf]

Opossum rendering day still stinks up the neighborhood, though.

[OakLeaf]

I miss Zen.

You DC area gals still in touch with her?

[Uforia]

Does it wear off after a few miles, or, how long does an application last?

Read a great tip somewhere: put a glob of whatever you use in a snack size zip-lock. When you stop to refresh, open bag, turn inside out and apply without getting hands greasy. I stuffed a few baggies in my shirt back pocket. Worked wonderfully -- and made ALL the difference in my comfort!!

[linnefaulk]

I use Chamois Buttr. It make a world of difference. Some lubes even have products in there than help fight bacteria.

[zoom-zoom]

Does it wear off after a few miles, or, how long does an application last?

Read a great tip somewhere: put a glob of whatever you use in a snack size zip-lock. When you stop to refresh, open bag, turn inside out and apply without getting hands greasy. I stuffed a few baggies in my shirt back pocket. Worked wonderfully -- and made ALL the difference in my comfort!!

This is really pretty genius!!

[AppleTree]

Does it wear off after a few miles, or, how long does an application last?

Read a great tip somewhere: put a glob of whatever you use in a snack size zip-lock. When you stop to refresh, open bag, turn inside out and apply without getting hands greasy. I stuffed a few baggies in my shirt back pocket. Worked wonderfully -- and made ALL the difference in my comfort!!

I agree, why haven't I thought of this before? Excellent idea!! Especially for touring.

[Helene2013]

I like the ziplock bag idea. Thanks for sharing it.