How Is Intertrigo Treated?

Heat, moisture, and rubbing can irritate touching skin surfaces under the breasts, in the groin, between abdominal folds, or in the armpits. The rash may sting, itch, crack, or ooze. A clinician checks its appearance and may look for a secondary yeast infection, such as cutaneous candidiasis, or another cause of a fold rash.

Treatment depends on what is found. A barrier product can protect rubbing skin, while an antifungal treatment may be used when yeast is contributing. Steroid products are not suitable for every rash and can worsen some infections if used without guidance.

Wash gently, rinse away cleanser, and pat the fold completely dry rather than rubbing. Loose, breathable clothing can reduce heat and friction. Change damp clothing promptly and use a clean, dry cloth barrier between touching surfaces if advised. Avoid fragranced products on broken skin and do not share towels.

If sweating is a major trigger, a clinician may discuss treatment for excessive sweating, including prescription antiperspirant. Use any prescribed antifungal or anti-inflammatory product for the instructed course, even if the surface begins to look calmer.

Book an assessment if the rash is spreading, painful, cracked, foul-smelling, or not improving with careful drying. Prompt medical care is needed for fever, rapidly increasing redness, pus, or marked swelling, because these features can indicate a more serious infection.

Ask what is causing the fold rash, whether yeast is involved, which barrier or antifungal product is appropriate, and how to manage sweating or friction that keeps returning.