These are common, contagious fungal rashes that thrive in warmth and moisture. They often occur together (“two-foot–one-groin” syndrome).
Athlete’s Foot (Feet)
What it looks like
- Itchy, burning, peeling skin between toes (especially 4th–5th toes).
- Dry, scaly “moccasin” pattern on soles/heels.
- Small blisters on the arch in some cases.
- Cracks can sting and invite bacteria.
Why it happens
- Sweaty feet, tight shoes, not drying between toes, walking barefoot in locker rooms.
- Can spread from shared showers or floors.
Home treatment
- Antifungal creams/gels/sprays twice daily for 2–4 weeks: terbinafine or butenafine work quickly; clotrimazole or miconazole also effective.
- Keep feet dry: change socks daily (more if sweaty), rotate shoes, use moisture-wicking socks.
- Dry between toes after bathing; consider a hairdryer on cool.
- Use antifungal powder in shoes.
When to see a clinician
- Not better after 2–4 weeks, very painful cracks, swelling, pus, fever, diabetes, or poor circulation.
- If toenails are thick/yellow/crumbly (nail fungus may need pills or prescription lacquers).
Preventing reinfection
- Wear flip-flops in locker rooms.
- Disinfect shower floors; alternate shoes so they dry 24 hours between uses.
Jock Itch (Groin)
What it looks like
- Itchy, red, ring-shaped rash on inner thighs and groin folds with a well-defined scaly border; often spares the scrotum (scrotum more often involved in yeast).
- Can spread from feet via underwear/towels.
Home treatment
- Same antifungal creams twice daily for 2–4 weeks (terbinafine/butenafine/clotrimazole).
- Keep area dry: loose cotton underwear, change after sweating, use absorbent (talc-free) powders.
- Treat athlete’s foot at the same time to prevent ping-pong spread.
When it might be yeast or eczema instead
- Beefy-red rash with “satellite” bumps in folds suggests Candida; use antifungal like clotrimazole and keep a barrier ointment on top.
- If very itchy with no clear edge, or doesn’t improve, it may be eczema or contact dermatitis—see a clinician.
Key tip
- Keep treating for a week after the rash looks gone to reduce relapse.