What is intertrigo: prevention, treatment
Intertrigo, or intertrigo, is a common skin condition characterised by an itchy red rash that forms in skin folds or areas where the skin rubs against clothing due to friction, moisture and skin irritation. Prevention and treatment consist of keeping the affected areas dry and clean, wearing breathable clothing and, if necessary, applying suitable creams or ointments.
The rash associated with intertrigo most commonly occurs:
- in the folds of the neck,
- in the armpits (the risk of intertrigo in the armpits is reduced by using antiperspirants and loose clothing),
- under the breasts or between the breasts (wearing a good-quality bra is recommended),
- in the folds of the abdomen,
- between the buttocks (prolonged sitting, heat and unsuitable clothing contribute to the development of intertrigo on the buttocks),
- in the groin (intertrigo in the groin often occurs in athletes who sweat a lot and wear tight clothing),
- inner thighs,
- genitals (rash on the genitals in adults is mainly caused by a combination of too tight underwear and hot weather),
Prevention of intertrigo:
Keep dry: After showering or bathing, dry your skin thoroughly, especially in skin folds (armpits, groin, under the breasts).
Breathable clothing: Wear loose, breathable clothing made from natural materials such as cotton, which allow air to circulate.
Reduce friction: Prevent skin rubbing against itself, for example by using gauze squares between folds or choosing suitable clothing.
Reduce sweating: On hot days and during physical activity, try to reduce sweating and shower and dry yourself after sweating.
Skin protection: Use creams or ointments containing zinc or panthenol to protect the skin and promote its regeneration.
Treatment of intertrigo:
Keep the affected area dry and exposed to air: Prevent further sweating and irritation.
Cleansing: Gently clean the affected area with soap and water and allow to dry.
Application of creams or ointments: Use creams or ointments containing zinc, panthenol or an antimicrobial ingredient.
Skin protection: Apply a thin layer of cream or ointment to protect the skin from further rubbing and moisture.
Our TIP: To prevent further irritation, apply Dermaguard barrier cream. This will protect the skin until it is time to wash, powder and air the rash again. Dermaguard cream forms an invisible protective shield on the skin against most allergens found in the environment (in this case sweat). Because the allergen or sweat cannot penetrate the skin, it remains unirritated. The protection lasts for around 4-6 hours. The cream also effectively moisturises the skin without leaving it feeling greasy and strengthens the skin barrier. It can be used on any part of the body except the mucous membranes. The cream contains dimethicone, which gradually evaporates from the skin under the influence of sweat acidity. The cream is not perfumed.
How to use herbs for diaper rash
Herbs help relieve inflammation and itching and accelerate skin healing. You can use them to prepare a compress or bath.
Pour boiling water over the selected herb and let it steep (the amount and steeping time may vary depending on the type of herb). Soak gauze in the cooled decoction, wring out the excess liquid and apply the gauze to the affected area for about 5 to 10 minutes. This procedure can be repeated several times a day.
See a doctor: If redness, itching or burning persists after a few days, or if weeping occurs, see a doctor. Your doctor may recommend antifungal medication or other appropriate treatment depending on the cause of the intertrigo.
Important: Remember that intertrigo can also be caused by a fungal or yeast infection, so it is important to see a doctor if symptoms persist.
