Intertrigo is an irritation and rash in skin folds (under breasts, groin, belly folds, between buttocks, between toes). Warmth and moisture allow yeast (Candida) to overgrow, causing a red, sore, often itchy rash. In babies, Candida commonly worsens diaper rash.
Why it happens
- Skin folds trap heat and sweat.
- Friction, tight clothing, obesity, diabetes, and incontinence increase risk.
- In babies, prolonged contact with wet diapers irritates the skin; yeast often joins in.
What it looks like
- Bright red patches with well-defined edges, soreness, and sometimes cracks.
- Small red “satellite” bumps just beyond the main rash are a classic sign of Candida.
- In diaper rash, skin in the groin creases is red and shiny; satellites suggest yeast.
Home care basics
- Keep folds dry: gently clean, pat dry, use a cool hairdryer on low, and apply a protective barrier (zinc oxide or petrolatum).
- Loose, breathable clothing; change out of sweaty clothes quickly.
- For feet: change socks often; dry between toes.
Treatment
- Antifungal creams twice daily for 1–2 weeks (clotrimazole, miconazole, ketoconazole).
- For significant inflammation, your clinician may add a short course of a low-strength steroid cream to ease burning/itch (avoid long-term use in folds).
- For diaper rash:
- Frequent diaper changes; allow diaper-free time to air out.
- Thick barrier paste (zinc oxide) each change; don’t scrub off between changes—just layer more after gently removing soil.
- If yeast is suspected (satellite bumps), add an antifungal cream under the barrier until clear.
When to see a clinician
- If not better in a week, very painful, oozing pus, or you have fever.
- Recurrent or severe rashes (check for diabetes, irritation from products, or other skin conditions).
- In babies: if the rash spreads beyond the diaper area, the child seems ill, or there are blisters/sores.
Prevention
- Daily drying routine in folds; consider absorbent powders (cornstarch-free) or moisture-wicking textiles.
- Manage sweating and weight when possible; treat incontinence-associated dermatitis early.