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