Jock Itch

Jock itch is a fungal skin infection in the groin that appears as a red, ring-shaped patch with a clear center. It may be itchy and scaly. Jock itch is more common in men but can also occur in women.

Causes

Jock itch is caused by a fungus that lives on the outer layer of the skin. The most common fungi (called dermatophytes) are Trichophyton rubrum, Trichophyton mentagrophytes and Epidermophytes floccosum.  These are the same dermatophytes responsible for most cases of “athlete's foot.”  Heat and moisture contribute to the growth of these fungi and the development of jock itch, so it is more common in the summer.

Self-Care

Jock itch usually clears up in 4 to 6 weeks with self-care.

• Wash the groin daily with a mild soap; rinse and dry thoroughly.

• Apply an over-the-counter antifungal cream (such as Lotrimin, Micatin or clotrimazole cream) to the rash and surrounding area 3 to 4 times a day. Because the fungus can continue to live under the skin even after your symptoms disappear, you should continue to use the antifungal cream for a minimum of 2 weeks or 1 week after the rash clears whichever is longer.

• Apply a body powder to absorb moisture and reduce friction.

• Avoid sharing towels to prevent infecting others with the fungus.