Intertrigo bum crack treatment: what to know

Intertrigo develops where skin surfaces rub together and hold warmth or sweat. In the cleft between the buttocks, wiping, tight clothing, prolonged sitting and stool or urine contact can add irritation. The area may look red, raw, moist, cracked or tender. Burning and itching can occur together. A yeast infection can grow in damaged, damp skin; a clinician may consider this when the rash has a moist edge, small nearby spots or keeps returning. This does not diagnose the cause by appearance alone.

Gently wash with lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance-free cleanser, then pat the cleft completely dry. Change out of damp underwear and choose loose, breathable fabric. Take breaks from sitting when possible and avoid scrubbing, fragranced wipes, deodorants and home bleaching products. A thin protective barrier may reduce contact with moisture, but do not place products inside the anus. If a clinician identifies yeast, use the prescribed or recommended antifungal exactly as directed; see Topical Antifungal Treatment for treatment context. Do not use a steroid cream alone on a suspected yeast rash unless a clinician advises it.

Arrange medical assessment if the area is very painful, rapidly spreading, hot, swollen, draining pus, bleeding repeatedly or accompanied by fever. Prompt care is also sensible when cracks are deep, bowel movements are difficult, diabetes affects healing, or symptoms do not settle after careful drying and gentle care. A clinician can distinguish intertrigo from dermatitis, fungal infection, psoriasis, eczema or an anal condition and choose a suitable treatment.

Could this be yeast, contact dermatitis or another rash? Should I use an antifungal, barrier product or another medicine? How should I protect cracked skin during bowel movements? Would sweat control such as Prescription Antiperspirant be appropriate for my skin?