Intertrigo traitement: what to know

Intertrigo is a sore, inflamed rash where skin touches skin, such as the groin, armpit, abdominal fold or area beneath the breast. Heat, sweat and rubbing can weaken the skin surface. Yeast or bacteria may then grow in the damp fold, causing a stronger odour, weeping, small surrounding spots or increasing tenderness. A rash in a fold does not identify its cause by appearance alone; irritation, allergy and infection can overlap.

Wash gently with lukewarm water, pat fully dry and choose loose, breathable clothing. Change damp garments promptly. A clean, dry layer of soft fabric can reduce skin-on-skin contact, but remove it if it becomes moist or rubs. Avoid fragranced products and harsh scrubbing. A clinician or pharmacist may suggest a barrier product for friction or a targeted antifungal when yeast is suspected; see [Topical Antifungal Treatment](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-antifungal-therapy/) for context. Recurrent sweating may need a clinician-guided plan, including [Prescription Antiperspirant](/treatments/medical-dermatology/prescription-antiperspirant/).

Arrange medical advice if the rash is spreading, cracked, very painful, draining, foul-smelling or accompanied by fever. Seek prompt care for rapidly worsening redness, marked swelling or feeling unwell. If careful moisture control does not help, the diagnosis may need checking and treatment may need to change. Read about [Intertrigo](/conditions/intertrigo/) and [Skin Yeast Infection](/conditions/cutaneous-candidiasis/) to prepare for that discussion.

Could this be irritation, yeast, bacteria or another rash? Which product should I use, where should it go, and for how long? What signs mean I should stop self-care and return? How can I reduce moisture if this keeps coming back?