A Jock Itch Remedy

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Jock itch is a fungal infection found in the inner groin, buttock and genital region. The area becomes red and inflamed. A burning sensation as well as flaking skin may be present. Also know as tinea cruris, jock itch is common in athletes and people who are overweight. The treatment of jock itch is similar to other fungal infections such as athlete's foot and ring worm. A variety of home remedies are available to treat the fungus.

Wash and Dry Area Properly

Take a shower or bath daily and clean area with antibacterial soap. After the shower, use a hair dryer to dry rash. Keep hair dryer on the coolest setting to avoid irritating the rash and cause a person to sweat---which will increase fungal growth.

Apply Over-the-Counter Creams and Sprays

Purchase ointments for relief of jock itch that contain miconazole and clotrimazole. Lotrimine and Micatine are two common creams that can be purchased at most drug and grocery stores in the medication aisle. Lamisil is another product that also comes in powder and spray form.

Baby Powder

Dust the skin in the groin area with baby powder. The powder will absorb any excess moisture or sweat in the groin area. Apply powder daily. Cornstarch can be used if baby powder is not available.

Appropriate Clothing

Avoid tight clothing that will cause you to sweat and keep moisture trapped. Wear clothing and undergarments made of cotton to allow air to circulate. After a workout, immediately change out of wet clothes.

Tea Tree Oil

The oil made from the melaleuca alternifolia plant has antifungal properties. Apply the oil to the infected area as needed. The oil may be diluted with carrier oil such as olive oil.

Julie Hampton

About this Author

Freelance writer Julie Hampton has worked as an artist, writer and event planner for over eight years. She also served a brief stint in the military as a nurse specializing in geriatrics. Hampton has an associate’s degree in journalism, and studied public relations at The University of West Florida.

Last updated on: 10/27/09

Article reviewed by Amy Raymond

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