Intertrigo: Causes, Treatments & Prevention Guide

What is Intertrigo?

Intertrigo is a skin condition caused by inflammation in warm, moist areas where skin rubs together. It's most commonly found in places like the groin, underarms, under the breasts, or between abdominal folds.

While it starts as irritation, it can become worse when infected by yeast or bacteria. That’s why early treatment is key.

Learn more about how to protect sensitive skin in our EjaGuard skincare guide.

What Causes Intertrigo?

The main causes of intertrigo include:

• Heat and moisture buildup

• Friction between skin folds

• Poor hygiene or tight clothing

• Excess sweating (hyperhidrosis)

These conditions create a perfect environment for fungus and bacteria to grow.

Other risk factors include obesity, diabetes, and a weakened immune system.

See tips for staying dry and irritation-free in our blog on managing sweat and body odor.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

What does intertrigo look like? Here are common symptoms:

• Red or brown patches in skin folds

• Itchy, raw, or burning skin

• Unpleasant odor in affected area

• Cracks, weeping, or oozing

• In some cases: pus or open sores (if infected)

Doctors usually diagnose intertrigo through visual inspection and may swab the area to check for infection.

Where It Appears on the Body

Intertrigo thrives in skin folds and moist areas. Most commonly:

• Groin area (intertrigo in groin)

• Under the breasts

• Armpits

• Between thighs

• Neck folds (especially in infants)

• Abdominal folds

The more moisture and friction, the more likely intertrigo is to develop.

Explore hygiene tips for high-sweat zones in our post on groin and underarm care.

Intertrigo vs Candida Infection

Wondering if it’s just skin irritation or a yeast infection?

Intertrigo often starts as plain irritation but can become infected by Candida, a common yeast found on the skin.

For fungal-prone skin, try our EjaGuard antifungal-friendly creams that help soothe irritated areas naturally.

Key Differences:

If you notice white spots or spreading rash, candida might be involved, and antifungal treatment will be needed.

How to Treat Intertrigo

1. Keep the Area Dry

Moisture is your biggest enemy. Gently pat the area dry with a soft towel.

Use a fan or cool setting on a blow dryer for hard-to-reach places.

2. Apply Intertrigo Cream

Use a gentle, soothing cream that reduces inflammation and protects the skin.

Look for ingredients like:

• Zinc oxide

• Clotrimazole (for fungal infections)

• Hydrocortisone (for inflammation)

Avoid strong steroids without medical advice—they can thin your skin over time.

3. Wear Breathable Clothing

Choose cotton underwear and loose-fitting clothes to reduce sweat and friction. Avoid synthetic fabrics.

4. Practice Good Hygiene

Wash gently with mild soap and avoid scrubbing. Dry thoroughly.

5. Antifungal or Antibacterial Meds

If the rash is infected, your doctor may prescribe:

• Antifungal creams or powders

• Oral antifungal pills

• Topical antibiotics

Never self-prescribe antibiotics—see a doctor if you suspect infection.

Home Remedies for Intertrigo

Prefer natural solutions? Here are safe intertrigo home remedies:

1. Coconut Oil

Naturally antibacterial and soothing. Apply a thin layer to calm irritation.

2. Apple Cider Vinegar

Mix 1 part ACV with 2 parts water. Dab gently to restore pH balance (avoid broken skin).

3. Cornstarch or Baby Powder

Helps keep the area dry. Apply lightly after cleansing.

4. Aloe Vera Gel

Cools inflammation and promotes healing. Use pure aloe (no added alcohol).

💡 Always patch test new remedies on a small area first.

How to Prevent Intertrigo

Once you’ve healed, here’s how to keep intertrigo from returning:

• Keep skin dry—especially after showers

• Use body powder or moisture-wicking fabrics

• Lose weight if skin folds are deep

• Wear breathable clothing—especially during workouts

• Dry off completely before dressing

• Use barrier creams if you're prone to flare-ups

Making a few simple lifestyle tweaks can go a long way in preventing recurrence.

When to See a Doctor

Don’t wait if your symptoms:

• Worsen despite home treatment

• Show signs of infection (pus, odor, spreading rash)

• Keep coming back

Persistent or severe intertrigo may need prescription medication or testing for underlying issues like diabetes or immune conditions.

FAQs

What is intertrigo?

Intertrigo is a red, inflamed skin rash that appears in body folds due to moisture, friction, and heat.

How do I know if it's fungal or just irritation?

If the rash has white patches or spreads quickly, it might be fungal (Candida). Try an antifungal cream or see your doctor.

Can I use baby powder for intertrigo?

Yes, lightly dusting the area with talc-free baby powder or cornstarch can help absorb moisture.

What’s the best intertrigo treatment?

A combo of drying the area, barrier creams, and antifungal treatment (if needed) works best.

Is intertrigo contagious?

No, it’s not contagious. But infections like Candida that develop in intertrigo can be under certain conditions.

Final Thoughts & CTA

Intertrigo may look harmless at first, but if ignored, it can get uncomfortable fast.

The good news? It’s highly treatable and even easier to prevent with the right habits.

For those prone to intertrigo, try EjaGuard's all-natural, skin-safe barrier creams to protect against moisture buildup and irritation.