Intertrigo rash on the buttocks: what to know

The area may look red, raw, shiny or cracked, with stinging, itching or tenderness. Sweat, tight clothing, prolonged sitting, skin-on-skin contact and difficulty keeping the cleft or nearby folds dry can all contribute. A yeast infection such as cutaneous candidiasis can complicate an irritated fold; a spreading rash, drainage or marked pain needs assessment because other skin conditions or infection can look similar.

Gently wash with lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance-free cleanser, then pat dry rather than rubbing. Change out of damp underwear or exercise clothing promptly and choose breathable, loose-fitting fabric. Keep the fold separated and dry with clean, soft material; avoid fragranced wipes, harsh scrubbing and steroid creams unless a clinician has advised them. A clinician may recommend an antifungal when yeast is suspected; see Topical Antifungal Treatment for context.

Arrange medical advice if the rash is worsening, recurrent, painful, cracked, oozing or foul-smelling, or if you develop fever or feel unwell. Seek prompt care for rapidly spreading redness, swelling, severe tenderness, pus or darkening skin. A clinician can examine the location and choose treatment for irritation, yeast, bacteria or another cause.

Could this be intertrigo, cutaneous candidiasis or another rash? Should I use a barrier product or an antifungal? How can I keep the buttock fold dry without further irritation?