Do you suffer from rashes in the folds of your skin that make it painful to touch? Intertrigo is an inflammatory skin condition that can occur anywhere on the body where skin to skin contact happens. Because of the inflammation, the skin can become itchy or painful. The good news is, you can usually treat it naturally at home and prevent it from coming back.
In this blog post, you’ll find everything you need to know about intertrigo rash treatment, including:
- How do I know I have intertrigo?
- Complications of intertrigo
- Best treatments for intertrigo
Read on to learn everything you need to get started on treating your intertrigo at home.
What is Intertrigo?
Intertrigo is an inflammatory condition caused by skin rubbing together. This is why we most commonly see it occur in the folds of skin. The friction causes inflammation that looks like a red, bumpy rash. The most common areas of the body you may experience this rash are:
- Armpits
- Underneath and between breasts
- Genital area
- Abdomen
Causes and Symptoms of Intertrigo
Other than friction from skin to skin contact, moisture and heat also greatly contribute to the development of intertrigo. Trapped moisture, which is usually due to sweating, causes the surfaces of your skin to rub together in your skin folds. Fungi or bacteria can then grow in these warm moist areas worsening the rash and your symptoms.
So what does intertrigo look/feel like?
- Red or reddish-brown painful rash
- Itchy or oozing skin
- Cracked/crusty skin
- Bad odour
- Diaper rash in infants
- Burning or prickly feeling
You are more likely to get intertrigo if you have a weakened immune system, are an infant, have poor hygiene, are immobile, are a person with excess skin, or if you live/work in a hot environment.
While intertrigo itself is not an infection, it can often lead to a fungal or bacterial infection. Candida, a type of yeast or fungus, is most commonly associated with intertrigo. If the infection is not treated, it can lead to more severe complications. It is important to always consult your doctor or a medical professional when dealing with a worsening intertrigo rash.
At-Home Intertrigo Treatment
Keep the Area Clean and Dry
The most important thing you can do for intertrigo is to keep your skin clean and dry. Because the area is already sensitive and painful, it's necessary to avoid products with fragrance and alcohol that will further inflame the skin. Use a gentle cleanser that is free from fragrance and irritating products, like this natural Coconut and Sunflower Oil Soap Bar. This cleanser is made with nourishing coconut and sunflower oil that will leave skin feeling soft and soothed.
It is also important to shower after exercise/excessive sweating and pat yourself dry. Rubbing the skin can cause increased irritation.
Use a Natural Emollient
A natural emollient can soothe the area and protect it from drying out. It also creates a layer of protection over the rash. We highly recommend this Organic Manuka Skin Soothing Cream. It’s safe to apply anywhere on the body because it’s made with only 6 wholesome ingredients, including manuka honey to soothe and heal the rash.
Wear Breathable Fabrics
Wear loose cotton clothing next to your skin and avoid harsh materials that can be irritating. Remedywear is an even better choice because the gentle garments were specifically designed for those with sensitive skin. The unique fabric is made from TENCEL fabric with zinc-embedded fibers which helps soothe irritated skin and reduce inflammation while you wear it. The fabric will also allow the skin to breath and not retain unwanted moisture.
Here are some great options that you can wear either during the day underneath regular clothing or alone at night:
Remedywear Long Shirt for Adults
Start relieving your skin today
Use these helpful tips as the first step to soothing and preventing uncomfortable intertrigo rashes.
