Surf rash, also called board rash, is skin irritation from friction between your skin, wet fabric and a waxed board. A snug rash guard and a thin layer of anti-chafe balm prevent most of it. If it happens, rinse gently, protect the skin and give it time to heal. Know the signs that need a doctor.
In this guide:
- What surf rash is
- Where it happens and what causes it
- How to prevent it
- How to treat it
- When to see a doctor
- FAQ and sources
What is surf rash (and board rash)?
Surf rash is the common name for chafing caused by surfing. Your skin rubs against a rash guard, boardshorts or the waxed deck of a board, again and again, in salt water. The result is red, sore or stinging skin, and in worse cases raw patches or blisters. Cleveland Clinic describes chafing as skin irritation from rubbing against skin, fabric or other materials, and says friction is always the root cause.
Where surf rash happens
- Chest and sternum: a wet rash guard or bare skin rubbing while you paddle.
- Stomach: skin dragging across the waxed deck.
- Inner thighs and buttocks: boardshorts that bunch or twist.
- Armpits: seams and wet fabric under the arms.
- Knees: kneeling on the deck during the pop-up.
Cleveland Clinic lists the inner thighs, buttocks, armpits and chest among the most common places for chafing.
What causes surf rash
Friction is the cause, and moisture makes it worse. Wet fabric that fits badly, the rough waxed surface of a board and long sessions all add rubbing. Hot, humid weather and sweat raise the risk.
How to prevent surf rash
This table is general guidance. Fit and gear choices vary from person to person, so ask a coach to check your setup.
Rash guard fit
Choose a snug, surf-specific rash guard. Loose fabric shifts and rubs when it is wet. Check that the seams sit flat and that it does not ride up when you paddle.
Shorts and compression
Boardshorts should fit close without twisting. Netting, rough linings and bulky seams can rub. If your inner thighs chafe, wear compression shorts underneath.
Anti-chafe balm
A thin layer of anti-chafe balm or petroleum jelly on risk areas reduces friction. Apply it before you paddle out and again after a long break.
Sun protection
A rash guard covers part of your skin, but exposed areas still need sunscreen or zinc. See our guide to surf zinc.
How to treat surf rash
Clean the skin
- Rinse the area with clean, cool or lukewarm water.
- Wash gently with a mild, unscented soap or cleanser. Do not scrub.
- Pat the skin dry with a clean towel.
The NHS and the American Academy of Dermatology both advise cleaning with water and, for the AAD, a mild soap.
Protect it
- Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly or pure aloe vera gel to keep the skin moist and reduce friction.
- If the skin is broken, cover it with a clean dressing or plaster and change it daily.
- Do not apply antibiotic cream unless a doctor recommends it. The AAD advises against topical antibiotics on minor cuts.
Let it heal
- Stop the rubbing. Skip surfing until the skin has recovered.
- Wear clean, dry, loose clothing. Moisture-wicking fabric helps.
- Check the area each day for the warning signs below.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor or visit a clinic if you notice any of these:
- Pus, or redness, swelling or pain that is increasing.
- A high temperature, or you feel generally unwell.
- Skin that is still dirty after cleaning, or has soil in it.
- Bleeding that does not stop.
- Blistering, cracking or soreness that is severe or is not improving.
These signs come from the NHS, the American Academy of Dermatology and Cleveland Clinic, listed below. In an emergency, contact local emergency services.
Other common surf injuries
Reef cuts and marine stings need different care and are not covered in this guide. Ask a doctor or clinic about any wound that is deep, dirty or not healing.
Surf rash FAQ
What is surf rash?
Surf rash, also called board rash, is skin irritation caused by repeated rubbing against a rash guard, boardshorts or a waxed board. Salt water and wet fabric make the friction worse. It usually shows as redness, stinging or soreness, and can lead to raw skin or blisters if the rubbing continues.
How do you treat surf rash?
Rinse the skin with clean, cool or lukewarm water and a mild soap, then pat it dry. Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly or aloe vera gel, cover broken skin with a clean dressing, and wear loose, dry clothing. Avoid surfing until it heals. See a doctor if you notice signs of infection.
How long does surf rash take to heal?
Mild surf rash usually improves within a few days once the rubbing stops. Broken skin from a minor graze typically heals in about a week or less, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Healing time varies with how raw the skin is. If it is not improving, see a doctor.
How do I prevent board rash?
Wear a snug rash guard, choose close-fitting boardshorts with soft seams, and apply a thin layer of anti-chafe balm to risk areas before you paddle out. Compression shorts help with inner-thigh rubbing. Rinse off salt and sand and change into dry clothes after your session. Skip surfing if your skin is already raw.
Surf with confidence at WaveHouse
The right gear and a good coach make surf days more comfortable. Book beginner surf lessons in Canggu, and check our surf equipment list for what to bring.
Sources
- NHS: Cuts and grazes (accessed 14 October 2026)
- American Academy of Dermatology: How to treat minor cuts (accessed 14 October 2026)
- Cleveland Clinic: Chafing causes, treatment and prevention (accessed 14 October 2026)