Red, itchy, and painful skin in body folds? It could be intertrigo. Let’s take a closer look at the signs and how to treat them!
Skin folds, such as those under the breasts, in the armpits, groin, or between the toes, are areas that tend to become warm and moist easily.
This trapped moisture can trigger a skin condition called intertrigo, also known as intertriginous dermatitis (ITD).
What Is Intertrigo?
Intertrigo is an inflammatory skin condition that appears in body folds. It typically looks as red, itchy, burning, or stinging rashes, sometimes with an unpleasant odor.
While it’s not contagious, it can cause significant discomfort and interfere with daily activities.
What Causes Intertrigo?
The main cause of intertrigo is trapped moisture in skin folds. When skin rubs against skin in a warm and moist environment, friction can damage the skin and lead to irritation.
Common triggers include:
- Excessive sweating that doesn’t evaporate
- Poor air circulation in skin folds
- Constant friction between skin surfaces, especially in individuals with deeper skin folds
- Overgrowth of microorganisms (fungi, bacteria, or viruses) that worsens the inflammation
Intertrigo often appears symmetrically under both breasts or in both armpits, for example. However, if a secondary infection occurs, it can spread unevenly, possibly leading to pus or crusting.
How to Care for and Treat Intertrigo
The key is to keep the area clean and dry. Here are some steps to help manage the condition:
- Gently wash the area with water and mild soap, then pat it dry with a soft towel (don’t rub).
- Avoid using powders or cornstarch, even if they seem to absorb moisture. They can clump and worsen fungal infections.
- Use products that soothe and protect the skin while offering antimicrobial properties.
Recommended Products
- wund+™ Wound Spray: A no-rinse wound spray containing hypochlorous acid (HOCl). It effectively kills bacteria and fungi that cause infection without stinging. Ideal for irritated or mildly infected intertrigo.
- wund+™ Regeneration Cream: A regenerative cream that calms inflammation, promotes healing, and helps maintain the skin’s natural moisture. Safe for use on skin folds.
Preventing Intertrigo from Getting Worse
- Wear loose, breathable clothing that allows sweat to evaporate.
- Dry skin folds thoroughly with a clean towel or tissue after showering or sweating.
- Stay hydrated and maintain a healthy diet.
Support your skin’s healing with the right care! Start treating your skin folds with practical and effective wund+™ products designed to help relieve and prevent intertrigo.
References
Healthline. Accessed in 2025. Intertrigo: Causes, Treatment, and Prevention
Wound Care Education Institute. Accessed in 2025. Wound Care Challenge: Skin Folds and ITD
Leave feedback about this