Chafing and skin-fold rash (intertrigo)

Overview

Heat, moisture, and rubbing break down the skin.

Yeast often grows in it, causing a bright red rash with small spots.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Rash or rawness where skin rubs or folds

Less common

• Itching
• Odor

Look up a symptom: Itching · Rash

When to get medical care

Causes

Moisture, heat, and friction.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• Obesity
• Diabetes
• Hot weather

Possible complications

• Cellulitis

Diagnosis

A healthcare professional can tell by looking.

The exam

A skin check.

Treatment

Dry and protect the skin.

Self-care

• Wash and dry folds well
• Wear loose, breathable clothes
• Use a barrier cream or anti-chafing balm
• Put a cotton cloth in skin folds

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Prevention

To prevent it:

• Keep folds dry

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to a dermatologist (skin doctor).

Back to school, work, or sports

• Most people keep up normal school and work. Rest when you need to.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Some skin medicines, like isotretinoin and retinoid creams, aren't safe in pregnancy.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Clears with care.

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Chafing and skin-fold rash (intertrigo)