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Medically Reviewed

By

Chrysoula I. Liakou

MD, PhD, Internal Medicine Specialist and
Cancer Immunology Researcher.

What is Intertrigo?

Intertrigo is a skin condition resulting from bacterial, fungal, or viral infections, leading to a rash typically occurring in areas such as the neck folds, groin, finger and toe creases, underarm regions, and behind the ears.

 Several factors can contribute to the development of intertrigo, including regions where skin folds create elevated temperatures, sweating unable to dissipate due to clogged pores, and friction caused by movement. Managing intertrigo can be pretty uncomfortable and painful in daily life.

Symptoms of Intertrigo

Intertrigo is a skin condition that occurs in warm, moist areas where skin rubs together. The symptoms can be mild at first but may worsen if left untreated.

Common signs include:

  • Red or brown rash that looks sore or irritated
  • Shiny or cracked skin that feels sensitive
  • Itching or burning that gets worse with heat or sweat
  • Bad smell if bacteria or yeast grow in the area
  • Pain or soreness when skin folds rub together
  • Small bumps or blisters in more serious cases
  • Oozing or crusting, which may mean infection

Intertrigo usually appears in places such as:

  • Under the breasts
  • Between the thighs
  • In the armpits
  • Around the groin
  • Between the toes

The rash can be uncomfortable and may make it harder to move or exercise. If the skin becomes painful or does not get better, it can lead to an infection.

Symptom

Description

Red or brown rash

Looks sore or irritated

Shiny or cracked skin

Feels sensitive or raw

Itching or burning

Worsens with heat or sweat

Bad smell

Caused by bacteria or yeast growth

Pain or soreness

Happens when skin folds rub together

Small bumps or blisters

Seen in more serious cases

Oozing or crusting

May be a sign of infection

Intertrigo Causes

Intertrigo happens when skin folds rub together and stay warm and damp. This causes the skin to become sore and provides germs with an opportunity to grow. The leading causes include:

  • Friction: skin rubbing against skin or clothing
  • Moisture: sweat or dampness trapped in skin folds
  • Heat and humidity: hot weather or exercise that makes sweating worse
  • Overweight or obesity: extra skin folds that hold sweat and moisture
  • Tight clothing: clothes that do not let the skin breathe
  • Bacteria or yeast: germs that grow in warm, moist places
  • Poor airflow: skin covered for long periods with little chance to dry

Intertrigo is most common in places such as under the breasts, the groin, the armpits, between the thighs, and between the toes.

Anyone can develop intertrigo, but it is more likely to occur if you sweat excessively, are overweight, or spend time in hot and humid conditions.

Cause

How It Leads to Intertrigo

Friction

Skin rubbing against skin or clothing

Moisture

Sweat or dampness trapped in folds

Heat and humidity

Increases sweating and irritation

Overweight or obesity

More folds, more trapped moisture

Tight clothing

Prevents skin from breathing

Bacteria or yeast

Germs thrive in warm, damp areas

Poor airflow

Covered skin does not dry properly

Intertrigo Treatment

Intertrigo treatment focuses on soothing the rash, protecting the skin, and stopping infection. The proper treatment depends on the severity of the rash; however, daily skin care plays a significant role in both healing and preventing it from returning.

Here are the most common treatments:

  • Keeping the skin dry: wash gently with mild soap and water, then pat the skin dry. Avoid rubbing, as this can worsen the rash.
  • Using barrier creams or powders creates a thin layer on the skin that protects against moisture and friction.
  • Wearing loose clothing: light, breathable fabrics like cotton help reduce sweat and keep the skin cool.
  • Managing weight: losing excess weight, if necessary, can help reduce skin folds and lower the risk of irritation.
  • Antifungal or antibacterial creams: a doctor may prescribe these if germs are causing the rash to spread.
  • Medicated ointments: stronger creams may be needed for swelling, redness, or pain.

Mild cases often get better once the skin is kept clean, dry, and protected. Staying cool, changing sweaty clothes quickly, and using absorbent materials can also help.

If the rash becomes very painful, spreads to other areas, or starts to ooze, it may indicate that an infection is present. In this case, medical treatment is needed.

Treatment

How It Helps

Keeping the skin dry

Reduces moisture that irritates skin

Barrier creams or powders

Protect against friction and dampness

Loose clothing

Keeps skin cool and reduces sweating

Weight management

Fewer folds mean less irritation

Antifungal or antibacterial creams

Treat infections caused by germs

Medicated ointments

Reduce swelling, redness, and pain

Intertrigo Prevention

Preventing intertrigo is often easier than treating it. The key is to keep skin folds clean, dry, and protected. Simple daily habits can lower the chance of irritation and infection.

Here are easy ways to prevent intertrigo:

  • Keep skin dry: After a shower or exercise, gently pat the skin dry, especially in areas with folds. A soft towel or cool hair dryer can help remove moisture.
  • Wear light clothing: choose loose, breathable fabrics like cotton. Avoid tight clothes that trap heat and sweat.
  • Use powders or creams: a thin layer of protective cream or powder can stop rubbing and moisture build-up.
  • Stay cool: spend time in cooler places when it’s hot and drink plenty of water to prevent excessive sweating.
  • Maintain a healthy weight: fewer skin folds mean less friction and sweat, which lowers the risk of rashes.
  • Change sweaty clothes quickly: avoid wearing damp workout clothes or wet swimwear for too long.

Anyone can get intertrigo, but people who sweat a lot, are overweight, or live in hot weather are more likely to have it. By taking these simple steps, you can protect your skin and avoid painful rashes.

If redness or irritation starts, book an online consultation with Mobi Doctor. A doctor can examine your skin early and provide advice to prevent intertrigo from worsening.

Mobi Doctor makes it easy to get help for intertrigo without leaving your home. If you have a painful rash, a doctor can assess your symptoms through an online consultation and recommend the appropriate treatment. This may include creams, ointments, or advice on how to keep the skin dry and protected. Appointments are available every day from 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., so you can speak with a licensed doctor at a time that works for you. With prompt medical support, you can begin healing sooner and prevent the rash from worsening.

FAQ

Yes, you can get intertrigo treatment online through Mobi Doctor. A licensed doctor will review your symptoms in an online consultation, provide medical advice, and prescribe antifungal or antibacterial creams if needed.

During an online consultation for intertrigo, the doctor will ask about your symptoms, check the affected areas, and recommend the best treatment. You may receive prescriptions for medicated creams or advice on how to manage the rash at home.

Yes, an online doctor can prescribe medicine for intertrigo if required. This may include antifungal creams, antibacterial ointments, or stronger medicated treatments to reduce redness, swelling, and discomfort.

Yes, intertrigo treatment online is safe and effective. Mobi Doctor connects you with qualified doctors who can provide accurate diagnoses, recommend treatment, and prescribe medicines if necessary, all from the comfort of your home.

If your intertrigo keeps coming back, an online doctor consultation can help identify the cause. They may suggest long-term solutions, such as lifestyle changes, weight management, or stronger creams, to prevent the rash from recurring.

Yes, you can treat intertrigo at home by keeping the skin clean, dry, and protected. However, if the rash becomes painful, spreads, or shows signs of infection, you should book an online consultation for proper treatment.

The benefits of intertrigo treatment online include fast access to a doctor, expert advice without leaving home, and prescriptions when needed. It also helps you manage symptoms early before the rash worsens.


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