Jock Itch
Jock Itch
Fungal infections around the groin are quite common in men. The so called “Jock itch”, also known as tinea cruris is a fungal infection of the skin in the groin. The warm, moist environment is the perfect place for the fungus to grow and anything that enhances that environment puts the person at risk of getting jock itch. Therefore, wearing sweaty, wet clothing in the summer time or wearing several layers of clothing in the wintertime causes an increased incidence of jock itch.
The rash of jock itch starts in the groin fold usually on both sides. If the rash advances, it usually advances down the inner thigh. The advancing edge is redder and more raised than areas that have been infected longer. The advancing edge is usually scaly and very easily distinguished from normal skin. The skin within the border turns a reddish-brown and loses much of its scale. Jock itch is normally treated with topical creams or ointments since the fungus only affects the top layer of skin. If the rash is very red and itchy, especially if it has blisters at the edge, a topical steroid such as hydrocortisone may also be applied. Steroids should not be used in the groin alone without consulting a doctor since steroids alone can make the rash of jock itch much worse.
Jock Itch Prevention
To prevent jock itch from occurring or re-occurring, several measures may be taken
- Wear loose fitting underclothing.
- Avoid sharing clothing and towels or washcloths.
- Allow the groin to dry completely after showering before covering with clothes.
- Antifungal powders or sprays may be used once a day to prevent infection.
DermaSilk in Jock Itch
The DermaSilk fabric fulfils all the requirements for helping to cope with Jock Itch. Firstly, the silk fabric allows the skin to breathe, reducing moisture and temperature traps that encourage the growth of yeasts and fungi. Secondly the Microbe Shield finish deters the growth of both bacterial and fungal contaminants.