Intertrigo: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment & Prevention of Skin Fold Rashes

Intertrigo is a common inflammatory condition that develops in skin folds where skin rubs against skin. Heat, moisture, and friction create a warm, damp environment that leads to redness, soreness, and sometimes secondary bacterial or fungal infection. It frequently affects areas under the breasts, in the groin, armpits, abdominal folds, between the toes, and the diaper area in infants. While uncomfortable, intertrigo is highly treatable once moisture and friction are controlled.

Typical signs include:

• Bright red or reddish-brown patches in opposing skin surfaces
• Moist, macerated (soggy) appearance
• Itching, burning, or tenderness
• Possible swelling, cracking, or weeping
• Unpleasant odor if secondary infection is present

The rash is usually confined to the fold and may mirror on both sides of the skin contact.

Intertrigo is primarily mechanical—skin-on-skin friction plus trapped moisture. Contributing factors include:

• Obesity or deep skin folds
• Excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis)
• Hot, humid climates
• Diabetes or weakened immunity
• Incontinence or prolonged bed rest
• Tight clothing or synthetic fabrics

Secondary yeast (Candida) or bacterial infections commonly complicate the condition.

Successful management focuses on drying the area and reducing friction:

• Keep folds clean, dry, and separated (gauze or soft cloth)
• Apply barrier creams (zinc oxide or petrolatum-based)
• Use absorbent powders or antiperspirants as directed
• Treat secondary infection with topical antifungals or antibiotics
• Short-term low-potency topical steroids for inflammation

Most cases improve quickly once the environment is corrected.

• Wear loose, breathable, moisture-wicking clothing
• Shower and thoroughly dry skin folds after exercise or sweating
• Maintain healthy weight when possible
• Choose open-toed shoes for toe-web intertrigo
• Avoid prolonged exposure to heat and humidity

Seek care if the rash is severe, spreads, develops foul odor, fails to improve with home care, or keeps returning. A dermatologist can confirm the diagnosis and treat any underlying infection

• Is intertrigo contagious? No—it is not spread from person to person.
• Can it become infected? Yes—yeast and bacteria thrive in moist folds.
• Does weight loss help? Reducing skin folds often decreases recurrence.
• Best treatment for under-breast intertrigo? Keep dry, use barrier cream, and treat any yeast promptly.
• Is it the same as diaper rash? Diaper dermatitis is a form of intertrigo in infants.

Intertrigo is preventable and responds well to simple measures plus targeted medical treatment when needed. Our board-certified dermatologists provide accurate diagnosis and effective care for stubborn or recurrent cases. Request an appointment at Palmetto Skin and Laser Center. Call (803) 329-6030 or book online—comfortable, healthy skin folds are achievable.