The medical term for jock itch is tinea cruris. It’s a fungal infection that affects the skin. Like other fungal infections of the same type, it’s caused by mold-like fungi called dermatophytes. These are microscopic fungi which can live in hair, skin, and nails.
Generally, infections of this type are harmless, however, they can multiply rapidly and thrive in damp, warm areas. This is why jock itch is most common in the groin, inner thighs, and buttocks.
The condition is most common in teenage boys and men and can cause a rash that itches or creates a burning sensation. It can also cause the affected skin to become red, scaly or flaky.
Getting the infection treated as quickly as possible is generally the best way to reduce your symptoms and stop the infection from spreading.
# Practice Proper HygieneMaintaining good hygiene is one of the best and most effective ways of preventing jock itch. It can also help treat existing jock itch infections. Make sure you wash the infected area thoroughly with warm soapy water, rinse and dry properly.
# Keep it DryFungal infections thrive in damp conditions so it’s crucial that you keep any vulnerable areas dry. Make sure you dry yourself thoroughly after bathing the area.
# Wear Loose ClothingWearing loose cotton clothing and underwear will help to improve the circulation of air to the affected area. This will help reduce the risk of the area becoming moist and make it harder for the fungus to thrive.
# Change Clothes and Underwear DailyChanging your underwear and clothing each day is key to maintaining good hygiene and helps to keep the affected area clean.
# White VinegarWhite vinegar is a great home remedy for jock itch. Soak a washcloth in a little-diluted vinegar and dab the affected area gently. Once you’ve swabbed the area all over make sure you dry yourself properly. The acidity of the vinegar may sting a little.
# Apple Cider VinegarApple cider vinegar is another type of vinegar which makes a good home remedy for jock itch. This is because apple cider vinegar has a natural antifungal quality and also helps to dry out the area. You can use it in much the same as you would white vinegar.
Gently warm a few drops of vinegar in some water and soak a washcloth in the warmed and diluted vinegar. You can then place the washcloth on the infected area for five to ten minutes then remove the cloth and dry the area thoroughly.
# Baking SodaBaking soda will also help to soothe and dry out an area of skin affected by jock itch. It can also help to neutralize the affected areas pH which will reduce the infection. Use this home remedy by mixing a tablespoon of baking soda with some water to make a paste. You can then apply this paste to the infective area and leave it to sit for fifteen minutes. After that, you can wipe the area clean and dry it thoroughly. You should do this twice a day to see an improvement.
# Rubbing AlcoholRubbing alcohol helps to keep infected areas dry, creating an unsuitable area for the fungus so that it eventually dies. Simply dip a cotton pad or ball into some rubbing alcohol and gently wipe the infected skin. You can then let the area dry without needing to rinse.
# CornstarchCornstarch is another great home remedy for jock itch. It’s great for sensitive skin and will help to absorb any excess moisture, making it difficult for the infection to thrive. It’s super easy to use too! Just sprinkle and little cornstarch on the area and let it sit. Repeat the application a few times across the day and this should help the fungus to clear up.