Jock itch, or tinea cruris, is a form of the fungal infection known as ringworm. Tinea cruris is caused by dermatophytes, fungi that thrive in moist, warm environments such as the groin, inner thighs and buttocks. Jock itch is common for, but not limited to, male athletes as women can get it, too. Jock itch is contagious and can be spread through physical or sexual contact or sharing contaminated clothes or towels. Tinea pedis---athlete's foot---is also caused by fungus and may spread to the groin area by contact, resulting in a case of tinea cruris. The two frequently occur together.
Step 1
Wash the affected area with soap and water. Blot dry with a paper towel and discard the paper towel. If you use a cloth towel, launder it immediately or it may spread the fungal infection to other people or other parts of your body.
Step 2
Remove and discard any dry skin that is flaking away from the rash-affected area. You may find tweezers helpful for this.
Step 3
Spread an antifungal cream, such as Lamisil or Lotrimin, over the entire affected area as well as beyond the edges of the rash. This helps keep the rash from spreading. Your doctor may prescribe such a cream, or you can find a variety of antifungal creams available over the counter.
Step 4
Apply an antifungal powder, such as Zeasorb, on affected areas to help keep them dry.
Step 5
Wear loose clothing that won't rub against, and thus irritate, the affected area.
Tips and Warnings
- Once your jock itch has cleared up, help prevent a recurrence by laundering your workout clothes, underwear, socks and towels after every use, continuing to use antifungal powder on susceptible areas if necessary and wearing shower shoes when using public showers and locker rooms.
- While most jock itch responds readily to home treatment, always see your doctor for an initial diagnosis to determine whether you do, in fact, have jock itch.
