Jock Itch: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment (2025)

• Introduction
  • What is jock itch?
• Causes
  • What causes jock itch?
• Risk Factors
  • What are risk factors for jock itch?
• Symptoms
  • What are jock itch symptoms?
• Potential to Spread
  • Can jock itch spread to other parts of the entire body?
• When to See a Doctor
  • When should I see a doctor for jock itch?
• Diagnosis
  • Which healthcare professionals diagnose and treat jock itch?
• Doctors Who Treat
  • How do healthcare professionals diagnose jock itch?
• Treatment
  • What is the treatment for jock itch?
• Fungal Jock Itch
  • How do I treat fungal jock itch?
• Bacterial Jock Itch
  • How do I treat bacterial jock itch?
• Best Drug Treatment
  • What is the best drug for jock itch?
• OTC Medications
  • What over-the-counter medications are effective for jock itch?
• Home Remedies
  • How can you get rid of jock itch on your own?
• Fastest Treatment
  • What is the fastest way to cure jock itch?
• Holistic Treatment
  • What holistic jock itch treatments are available?
• Contagious
  • Is jock itch curable? Is jock itch contagious?
• Prognosis
  • What is the prognosis for jock itch?
• Complications
  • What are possible complications of jock itch?
• Prevention
  • How can you prevent jock itch?

What is jock itch?

Jock itch, or tinea cruris, is a term for any rash that occurs in the male groin area.

Jock itch is a common, itchy rash of the groin. It can produce a very intense itch and is associated with a red or pink rash involving the groin folds and genitals. It is primarily a skin condition in men because of anatomic structures unique to males, the male genitalia.

The symptoms and signs of the condition may come and go, and many cases of jock itch resolve spontaneously without any treatment. Tinea cruris is primarily seen in the groin, although it may spread to the inner thighs, genitals (including the penis, scrotum, labia, and vaginal opening), and anus. The condition causes a red or pink rash on the sides of the groin folds. There may be a dry, scaly, well-demarcated skin rash or a collection of small, pinpoint red or pink bumps at each hair follicle. This form of eruption is often called ringworm because of its well-defined red edge with central clearing. The medical term for ringworm of the groin is tinea cruris, and it is caused by a fungal infection.

While tinea cruris is frequently noted in otherwise healthy people, those with diabetes and/or obesity are more susceptible. Possible causes include irritation from tight-fitting or abrasive underwear, excess moisture, sweating, skin rubbing or friction, allergic problems, fungal infection, Candida (yeast) infection, and bacterial overgrowth.

Treatment of fungal-related jock itch may include one or a combination of antifungal creams and, rarely, antifungal medications. Treatment of jock itch that is not caused by fungus involves proper groin hygiene, keeping the genital area clean and dry, and washing frequently with gentle soap and water (especially after sweating or exercise).

What causes jock itch?

Causes of the condition include the following:

• Warmth, skin friction, and moist areas in the groin
• Tight, occlusive clothing and undergarments that trap sweat
• Infections caused by fungus and yeasts: Candida (yeast), Trichophyton, and Epidermophyton (fungal molds)
• Infections by certain types of bacteria

Generally, diet does not seem to affect tinea cruris.

What are risk factors for jock itch?

Jock itch is most common in adult and middle-aged men. Anyone can get it and it is thought to affect nearly all people at some point in their lives.

Certain groups of people may be more prone to the condition. Patients with diabetes, obesity, and those with a compromised immune system such as from HIV/AIDS, hepatitis, chronic illnesses, cancer, systemic chemotherapy, immunosuppressive drugs such as prednisone, and those on biologic immune-system-modifying drugs such as infliximab (Remicade) or etanercept (Enbrel) may be more prone to tinea cruris.

Other risk factors include:

• Male genitalia
• Heat
• Moisture
• Humidity
• Excess sweating
• Exercise
• A weakened immune system
• Tight, occlusive fabrics and undergarments
• Athlete's foot infection or other fungal infections on the body

What are jock itch symptoms?

Jock itch usually begins with mild intermittent itching in the groin. The itching can get worse and become unbearable in some cases. The rash is usually on both sides of the groin and affects the folds.

The rash may become dry, rough, and bumpy, develop pus blisters, or begin to ooze. Sometimes, there is central clearing as the redness of the rash spreads outward to the thighs. The itching and rash can spread to the genitals, including the labia, vagina, scrotum, penis, and anus.

Women may also develop vaginal white discharge and yeast infections. Men may develop infections on the head of the penis (balanitis), especially if they are not circumcised.

Severe cases may be very uncomfortable and develop secondary complications such as breaks in the skin, open sores, ulcers, and rarely cellulitis (bacterial infection of the skin and underlying soft tissues).

Can jock itch spread to other parts of the entire body?

The condition does not affect the entire body. It is usually limited to the groin, inner thigh folds, genitals, and anal area. Itching (pruritus) of the entire body is not typical of tinea cruris.

When should I see a doctor for jock itch?

How long does it take for jock itch to heal? If jock itch persists for one to two weeks despite proper skin care and the use of over-the-counter medications, it may be necessary to schedule an appointment to see a physician. In addition, if the rash worsens despite medical treatment or if any of the following signs of an advancing skin infection (cellulitis) develop, contact a physician.

• Spreading despite treatment
• Increasing pain
• Rapidly spreading rash
• Formation of pus, abscesses, or draining sores
• Red streak(s) extending from the groin (called lymphangitis)
• Fever or chills
• Failing to improve after two weeks of continuous topical treatment

Which healthcare professionals diagnose and treat jock itch?

Most primary care physicians can accurately diagnose and treat tinea cruris. A few other medical conditions may appear just like jock itch and should be examined more closely by a dermatologist.

Other medical conditions can mimic tinea cruris. Some possible mimics include:

• Ringworm, also called tinea
• Contact dermatitis
• Intertrigo
• Erythrasma
• Impetigo
• Diaper rash
• Irritant or contact dermatitis
• Heat rash
• Familial pemphigus
• Inverse psoriasis

Jock itch may be associated with athlete's foot, also called tinea pedis. The same fungus that causes athlete's foot in a person may spread to the groin in some cases. It is important to always check the feet for rashes in people with tinea cruris. The spread of the fungus usually occurs when fungal particles pass onto the crotch while putting on underwear. Any foot infection must be treated to avoid the recurrence of the condition.

How do healthcare professionals diagnose jock itch?

The diagnosis of the condition is usually based on the symptoms and skin appearance. A microscopic examination of skin scrapings covered in a drop of potassium hydroxide will confirm a fungal cause of jock itch. Occasionally, a fungal culture of the skin scrapings may be necessary.

Certain bacteria can produce an eruption in the groin indistinguishable from a fungal infection. An examination with a special ultraviolet light, Wood's light, will enable identification.

Occasionally, a small skin biopsy may be used to help the doctor confirm the diagnosis. Rarely, a skin biopsy (surgically taking a small piece of skin using local numbing medicine) that is examined under a microscope may be necessary in atypical or widespread cases. Sometimes skin biopsies help to exclude other possible diagnoses.

A skin swab or culture may be taken and sent to the lab to detect an infectious cause of the condition. A bacterial culture may be useful to detect bacteria, such as Staphylococcus.

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What is the treatment for jock itch?

There are many treatment options and skin care recipes for treating tinea cruris. Since the two primary causes of the condition are excess moisture and fungal infections, treatment depends on the exact cause of the condition.

• Treatment of tinea cruris associated with skin irritation and excess moisture should address general measures to keep the groin clean and dry along with the use of zinc oxide ointment.
• Treatment of fungal jock itch should include antifungal creams used continuously for two to four weeks. Clotrimazole cream is an effective treatment for both dermatophyte molds and Candida (yeast) and can be purchased without a prescription.

It is important to keep in mind that no therapy is uniformly effective in all people.

How do I treat fungal jock itch?

Keeping the affected areas clean and dry is the mainstay of treatment and prevention of jock itch. Some fungi and bacteria are inhibited by acidic conditions. Patting the area with a solution of 1 part vinegar and 4 parts water and allowing it to dry after washing may inhibit fungi and relieve itching. If sweating is hard to control during an episode of jock itch, the application of drying solutions (astringent) such as vinegar or aluminum acetate (Burow's solution or Domeboro) may be more effective.

Antifungal therapy may also be necessary:

• Mild fungal or yeast jock itch may be treated by the following:
  • washing the groin twice daily with an antifungal shampoo like ketoconazole (Nizoral shampoo) or selenium sulfide (Selsun Blue shampoo).
• Moderate fungal or yeast jock itch is often treated by a combination of the following:
  • washing the groin twice daily with an antifungal shampoo like ketoconazole or selenium sulfide; and
  • using a topical antifungal cream like miconazole (Monistat, Micatin), clotrimazole (Lotrimin, Mycelex), or terbinafine (Lamisil).
• Severe fungal or yeast jock itch is typically treated by a combination of the following:
  • washing the groin twice daily with an antifungal shampoo like ketoconazole or selenium sulfide;
  • using a topical antifungal cream like miconazole, clotrimazole, or terbinafine; and
  • taking an antifungal pill like fluconazole (Diflucan), itraconazole (Sporanox), or terbinafine.

How do I treat bacterial jock itch?

• Mild bacterial jock itch may be treated with the following:
  • antibacterial skin washesand a neomycin-containing ointment.
• Moderate bacterial jock itch may be treated with the following:
  • antibacterial skin washes like chlorhexidine soap twice daily; and
  • twice-daily application of a topical antibiotic like erythromycin lotion or metronidazole (Flagyl) lotion.
• Severe bacterial jock itch may be treated with the following:
  • antibacterial skin washes like chlorhexidine soap twice daily and
  • a 5- to 14-day course of an oral antibiotic like cephalexin (Keflex), dicloxacillin, doxycycline, minocycline (Dynacin, Minocin), or erythromycin.

What is the best drug for jock itch?

What is the best cream for jock itch? Overall, the best jock-itch drug is a topical antifungal cream like miconazole, clotrimazole, or terbinafine, assuming the condition is produced by a fungus. If the condition does not improve within two to three weeks of treatment, then a physician should be consulted. The use of the topical antifungal should be suspended for two weeks before seeing the physician.

What over-the-counter medications are effective for jock itch?

Assuming the condition is not caused by an infectious agent, itching from jock itch can be treated with a short course of one of the following:

• Noncorticosteroid creams should be tried first, such as over-the-counter 1% pramoxine, which relieves itching and is mildly anesthetic (numbing).
• Hydrocortisone cream should be avoided if possible, or given only for as long as needed to reduce inflammation, as they can promote the growth of yeasts.
  • Use a short five- to seven-day course of a mild to medium potency, topical steroid cream like prescription triamcinolone 0.025% once or twice a day for inflamed or itchy areas.
  • Use a short five- to seven-day course of a mild over-the-counter topical steroid cream like 1% hydrocortisone (Cortaid) one to three times a day for itching.

How can you get rid of jock itch on your own?

What are the best home remedies for jock itch? Home remedies for mild jock itch include the following:

• Wash the groin skin two to three times a day.
• Keep the groin area dry.
• Avoid excess groin skin irritation by wearing 100% cotton underwear.
• Avoid fabric softeners, bleaches, or harsh laundry detergents.
• Apply a solution of 1 part vinegar and 4 parts water two to three times a day to the area after washing and allow to dry.
• Apply a mix of over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream and clotrimazole (Lotrimin, Mycelex) cream one to two times a day to the affected area and cover this liberally with zinc oxide ointment.

What is the fastest way to cure jock itch?

The fastest way to cure jock itch involves a combination of good hygiene, over-the-counter antifungal treatments, and sometimes prescription antifungal medications.

• Keep the area clean and dry:
  • Wash the affected area with an antifungal soap and water daily. Dry thoroughly after washing and use an antifungal dusting powder to fight fungal infections caused by sweat and moisture accumulation, as they worsen the infection.
  • Keep the affected area cool. Avoid excessive heat and sweating in the groin area, as it can worsen the jock itch.
• Use over-the-counter antifungal treatments:
  • Apply antifungal creams, powders, or sprays such as clotrimazole, miconazole, or terbinafine as directed on the packaging.
  • Continue using the antifungal treatment for the full recommended duration, even if symptoms improve earlier.
• Wear loose, breathable clothing: Wear loose-fitting, cotton underwear and clothing to keep the area dry and reduce irritation.
• Maintain good hygiene:
  • Change clothes, especially underwear, daily.
  • Wash workout clothes or any clothing that comes in contact with the infected area regularly.
  • Avoid scratching, as it can spread the infection and cause additional irritation.
• Consider prescription medications: If over-the-counter treatments are not effective, consult a doctor. Prescription-strength antifungal creams or oral medications may be necessary.
• Avoid sharing personal items: Do not share towels, clothing, or personal items to prevent spreading the infection to others.

Jock itch is contagious. To prevent the infection from spreading, take precautions such as avoiding intimate contact with others, washing your hands thoroughly after touching the affected area, and covering the area with a clean towel while using communal facilities such as gym showers or changing rooms.

By following these measures and maintaining good hygiene practices, most cases of jock itch can be effectively treated and resolved. If your jock itch isn’t getting better, or if it’s getting worse, see a health care provider.You might need to start a prescription-strength antifungal cream or oral medication to fight off the fungus.

What holistic jock itch treatments are available?

Holistic (nonmedicated) home remedy options for tinea cruris include:

• soaking the affected area daily with a washcloth dipped in dilute white vinegar (1 part vinegar to 4 parts water) and drying the skin; and
• soaking in a bathtub daily or every other day with very dilute Clorox bleach (1-quarter cup of Clorox bleach in a bathtub full of water) and drying the skin.

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Is jock itch curable? Is jock itch contagious?

Most cases of tinea cruris are easily and fully curable. There are very uncommon, long-standing cases of jock itch that may not be cured. Often these more resistant cases may be controlled with proper treatment and tinea cruris medication. The condition sometimes clears completely by itself without treatment.

Although most cases of tinea cruris are not contagious, cases caused by an infection may be transmitted through skin or sexual contact, sharing of swimwear, or towels. It is possible to transmit fungal jock itch to someone else through close skin contact.

Some people are simply more prone to developing jock itch because of their overall health, activity, anatomy, possible altered immune status, exposure history, and other predisposing skin conditions like eczema. People with athlete's foot (tinea pedis) are more prone to developing jock itch.

What is the prognosis for jock itch?

The prognosis for tinea cruris is very good. Overall, the condition tends to be an easily treated and curable skin condition. Commonly, it is a mild, benign, usually noncontagious, and self-limited skin condition. More widespread, atypical cases of jock itch may be embarrassing, chronically disfiguring, and psychologically distressing.

What are possible complications of jock itch?

Complications are infrequent since jock itch is usually a self-limited skin condition. Rarely, the rash may spread past the groin onto the thighs and genitals. Secondary skin infections from scratching or rubbing can uncommonly deepen, causing cellulitis or abscess formation.

Another potential complication includes temporary skin discoloration called post-inflammatory hypopigmentation (lighter than the regular skin color) or hyperpigmentation (darker than the regular skin color). This altered skin color may occur after the rash has improved or after a temporary flare. It usually resolves over several weeks to months with avoidance of sunlight in the area. Permanent scarring is uncommon.

Why is my groin still discolored?

Residual skin discoloration in the groin may persist for weeks to months after more severe forms of jock itch clear. Because it is in an area that is not generally visible, it does not usually require treatment. Eventually, the skin discoloration will return to a more natural color. Sunscreen or avoidance of sunbathing helps to avoid worsening the pigmentation.

How can you prevent jock itch?

Jock itch prevention efforts include good general skin hygiene and keeping the groin clean and dry.

The following steps will help prevent the itchy condition:

• Wash the groin and buttocks with soap and water after exercise and sweating.
• Wash workout clothes, underwear, and swimwear after each use.
• Minimize groin moisture by using white cotton underwear.
• Change underwear frequently, especially after sweating.
• It may be useful to apply petroleum jelly or zinc oxide ointment (Desitin) liberally to the groin creases before physical exercise to minimize friction skin damage.
• Wash clothes, undergarments, and towels in hot soapy water.
• Use loose-fitting cotton underwear and clothing.
• Avoid undergarments with polyesters, nylon, or synthetic fibers.
• Use an antifungal powder like Lamisil or Zeasorb to keep the groin dry.
• Avoid perfumed creams, powders, sprays, or lotions on the groin.
• Do not go barefoot, especially at gyms, schools, and public pools.
• Treat athlete's foot if you have it.
• Cover your feet with socks before you put on your underwear and pants.

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