Dry skin rash in the genital area

Sweat, friction, shaving, pads, soaps, wipes, lubricants, and laundry products can irritate delicate skin. Contact dermatitis or atopic dermatitis may cause itch, dryness, and inflamed patches. Intertrigo is more likely in skin folds exposed to moisture and rubbing. Ringworm, scabies, heat rash, psoriasis, or a drug rash can look different and require different treatment. The appearance alone cannot confirm the cause.

Rinse gently with lukewarm water, pat dry, and wear loose breathable underwear. Stop newly introduced fragranced products and avoid scrubbing, douching, shaving over the rash, or applying leftover steroid or antifungal creams without advice. Keep folds dry and avoid scratching. A clinician may need to examine the skin and ask about sexual contact, medicines, exposures, discharge, and symptoms in household members.

Arrange an appointment for a rash that persists, spreads, recurs, or causes marked itch, pain, scaling, sores, discharge, or burning with urination. Seek prompt care for fever, rapidly increasing swelling, severe pain, blisters, open ulcers, or difficulty passing urine. Do not assume a genital rash is an allergy or infection without assessment.

Could this be contact dermatitis, an infection, or another skin condition? Which products should I stop? Do I need an examination or testing, and should a partner or household contact also be assessed?