Intertrigo treatment under the breast

The crease beneath the breast can retain sweat and stay in contact with clothing or nearby skin. Intertrigo there may cause redness, itching, stinging, tenderness, peeling or small cracks. A yeast infection can develop in the moist environment, but irritation from friction, fabric or a product is also possible. A breast-fold rash is separate from a lump or deeper breast symptom, yet a clinician should assess unusual, persistent or severe skin change.

Rinse gently and pat the underside of the breast and chest fold dry. Let the area air-dry before putting on a clean, supportive, breathable bra. Change clothing after sweating and avoid tight, rough or fragranced fabrics. A clean, dry cotton layer may reduce rubbing if it stays dry; replace it when damp. Do not apply perfume, deodorant, lemon, vinegar or concentrated oils to irritated skin. If yeast is suspected, ask about [Topical Antifungal Treatment](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-antifungal-therapy/). Repeated sweating may need a tailored plan, including [Prescription Antiperspirant](/treatments/medical-dermatology/prescription-antiperspirant/).

Arrange an appointment if the rash does not settle, keeps returning, or becomes cracked, weeping, foul-smelling, painful or swollen. Seek prompt care for fever, rapidly spreading redness, marked warmth or feeling unwell. [Intertrigo](/conditions/intertrigo/) and [Skin Yeast Infection](/conditions/cutaneous-candidiasis/) describe related conditions; [Skin Rash](/symptoms/skin-rash/) offers symptom context.

Does this look like intertrigo, yeast or contact irritation? Which cream is suitable beneath the breast? How should I protect cracked skin? Could bra fit, sweating or a product be contributing?