The cause of jock itch, crotch itch, crotch rot (dhobi itch, or scrot rot in British English) is Trichophyton rubrum, a fungus that breeds in warm moist places. The groin, in both males and females, meets these parameters any time of year.
In summer, heat, humidity, sweating, swimming in public pools and wearing wet or tight clothing create an upsurge of jock itch cases.
Winter doesn’t lessen the incidence of this itchy problem; it may even increase it! Wearing layers of clothing that do not allow for proper ventilation or clothing that rubs (like a jock strap), playing sports indoors and using crowded locker rooms all add to the issue. Winter’s dry flaky skin, brought about when skin loses moisture from indoor heating and hot showers, is the perfect breeding ground for “winter itch”.
Even gaining weight if/when you lessen the amount of exercise you did in summer is a factor. Heavier people are more prone to getting this rash than their thinner counterparts.
Is jock itch contagious?
YES. You can get it from intimate contact with a partner or with towels or clothing that harbor the fungus. Jock itch (tinea cruris) can also spread from another Tinea infection on your body, like ringworm or athletes’ foot.
Conventional treatment involves the use of an anti-fungal cream, spray or powder.
Natural cures for jock itch include poultices of peppermint, oregano, or lavender. Tea tree oil, diluted with a carrier oil of almond oil can be applied to the rash several times per day. Washing with the diluted juice of a freshly squeezed lemon can help dry up the rash.
How can you avoid getting this rash?
1. Remove sweaty underwear and clothing after exercising.
2. Avoid sharing clothing, towels or washcloths.
3. Allow groin and inner thigh area to dry completely before getting dressed after a shower.
4. Change underwear, clothes or athletic garments regularly. Loose-fitting, cotton underwear is recommended.