What is it?

Although not a medical term, “Jock itch’, or tinea cruris refers to any itching rash in the groin area and is mostly experienced by men, although women (in particular female athletes) can be susceptible to this condition, as well. Jock itch appears when the groin area is left sweaty or wet (such as after a workout or swim), creating a moist, warm environment for fungus to thrive. Jock itch typically affects the upper thighs, genitals and buttocks and the resulting rash is itchy, red and sometimes resembles rings.

How do you get it?

The fungus responsible for jock itch, Trichophyton rubrum, is a microscopic organism normally found in dead skin of the epidermis. When exposed to warmth or moisture, it will grow and multiply, leading to a fungal infection. This same fungus can also affect the feet, causing ”athlete’s foot“ (tinea pedis), or even ringworm on the scalp. Tinea cruris is easily spread from the feet to the groin area, particularly in people who sweat a lot, such as athletes and oftentimes, the original infection can occur from sharing contaminated sporting equipment.

Treatment

While jock itch isn’t a serious condition, and can be treated relatively easily with other-the-counter (OTC) antifungal medications, if you suspect you have this condition, plan a visit to your family doctor to be certain tinea cruris is the culprit. Then, apply a topical anti-fungal cream or ointment to clean, dry skin, extending well beyond the infection site by at least 1 to 2 inches in order to completely kill all fungus. An even better treatment? Prevention. Avoid sharing towels or clothing, especially at the gym and always wear loose-fitting, moisture wicking clothing when exercising.

Our Product Picks

To relieve uncomfortable symptoms like itching and burning, apply an antifungal product such as Stiefel Zeasorb AF Lotion/Powder. With miconazole nitrate 2 percent, an effective antifungal treatment, Steifel Zeasorb goes on like a lotion, then transforms into a powder, reducing friction and wetness on the skin. To dry excess moisture and prevent future infections, choose an absorbent powder like Stiefel Zeasorb Super Absorbent Powder. Dust a light layer of this powder onto affected areas after showering or swimming.

Special considerations

Tinea cruris has a tendency to recur as warmth and moisture encourage the fungus to grow. However, recurrences can be prevented by drying the area thoroughly after bathing, wearing loose cotton under garments, and dusting a bland powder on your groin once or twice daily. Finally, after swimming or outdoor exercise, change out of wet clothes immediately to limit the amount of time skin is exposed to moisture.