Jock Itch
What is jock itch?
Jock itch is an itchy rash caused by fungus. It usually shows up as red or dark, dry patches of skin in the groin folds (inguinal folds), often on both sides (though one side can be worse). The rash may extend up onto the lower belly or down onto the inner thighs. In men, jock itch does not affect the scrotum.
One of the easiest ways to recognize it is by the sharp border between normal skin and the rash - edges are often brighter red or darker than the center. If you’re sweaty, the rash can cause damp, peeling skin in the folds. Jock itch often happens in people who also have athlete’s foot.
Why do I have jock itch?
Jock itch often starts from athlete’s foot spreading from the feet. It’s more likely if you:
Sweat a lot
Wear tight, non-breathable clothing in the groin
Are overweight or obese
Stay in wet clothes (like swimsuits or workout gear)
Live in a hot, humid climate
How do I fix jock itch?
Jock itch usually gets better with over-the-counter treatments, though it can take a few weeks and may take a combination of treatments:
1. Use an antifungal cream (first-line treatment).
Apply a thin layer twice a day.
“-afine” creams (usually stronger, more expensive): terbinafine, butenafine.
“-azole” creams (cheaper, still effective): clotrimazole, miconazole.
Tip: Start with an “-azole.” If it’s stubborn, try an “-afine.”
2. If it’s itchy, add a mild steroid ointment.
Apply hydrocortisone ointment after the antifungal cream, twice daily.
Stop the steroid once itching is gone.
⚠️ Never use steroid creams alone—this can make jock itch worse.
⚠️ WARNING: Overuse of topical steroids like hydrocortisone in the groin can cause skin thinning, stretch marks, and easy bleeding or bruising.
3. Keep the skin dry.
Use antifungal powders if you sweat a lot or live in a humid place.
Clinical-strength antiperspirant can also help (see my Sweating page).
4. Try vinegar soaks daily.
Helps clear fungus and bacteria while healing broken or cracked skin.
5. Wear loose-fitting underwear (women) and clothing until clear. Let things breathe down there.
What if my jock itch isn’t getting better?
Most people improve with the steps above, but jock itch often keeps coming back if athlete’s foot isn’t treated at the same time. If you sweat heavily, try a clinical-strength antiperspirant (see my Sweating page). Other conditions can mimic jock itch, such as bacterial infections, psoriasis, or eczema. If over-the-counter treatments aren’t working or the rash keeps returning, see a board-certified dermatologist. Prescription options, including oral antifungal medications, usually clear it well. If you are in or near Utah, see one of my excellent colleagues at the University of Utah or me virtually with Honeydew.
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