A friction burn is a form of abrasion caused by friction when a person's skin rubs against a surface. It may also be referred to as "skinning", "chafing," or called by the surface which caused the burn (e.g., "rope burn" or "carpet burn"). As friction also generates heat, extreme cases of chafing may result in genuine burning of the outer layers of skin.
The dermal papillae may be exposed after top layers of the dermis (stratum corneum, stratum granulosum, stratum spinosum and stratum basale) have been removed. This is often uncomfortable and even painful, but rarely results in bleeding.
A person's own skin (or the skin of another person) may be sufficient to act as an abrasive surface to cause friction burn. More commonly, friction with abrasive surfaces, including clothing, carpet, or rope, can lead to a friction burn. Common places at which skin-to-skin chafing can occur are between the thighs and under the armpits.
A risk of friction burns is infection.
Treatments for friction burns usually involve application of an anti-inflammatory cream. Pain relieving medication may also be taken.
One of the underlying factors behind abdominal chafing (inguinal friction) may be obesity, and weight loss may be indicated as a preventive measure.