What are the signs of a stomach fold rash. How can intertrigo be treated effectively. What preventive measures can be taken to avoid skin fold irritation. Discover comprehensive insights into managing and preventing intertrigo.

Understanding Intertrigo: The Common Skin Fold Condition

Intertrigo is a prevalent skin condition that develops in areas where skin rubs against skin, particularly in moist, warm environments. This inflammatory rash can occur anywhere on the body but is most common in skin folds. While it may seem daunting, understanding the nature of intertrigo is the first step towards effective management and prevention.

Intertrigo manifests as a reddish rash in skin folds, often accompanied by discomfort, itching, or pain. It’s important to note that while the condition can be irritating, it is not contagious. The rash typically appears on both sides of a skin fold, creating a mirror-like image. Common areas affected include:

• Armpits
• Under and between breasts
• Groin area
• Buttocks
• Between toes

The primary factors contributing to intertrigo development are friction from skin-to-skin contact, moisture accumulation, and elevated temperatures in flexural areas. These conditions create an ideal environment for microorganisms to thrive, potentially exacerbating the rash and its symptoms.

Identifying the Signs and Symptoms of Intertrigo

Recognizing the signs of intertrigo is crucial for prompt treatment and relief. The condition typically begins with redness or small bumps in skin folds. As it progresses, affected individuals may experience:

• Itching
• Discomfort
• Burning sensation
• Prickling feeling
• Pain

Can intertrigo lead to more severe skin issues? In some cases, the affected area may become inflamed and raw, potentially leading to skin cracking, bleeding, oozing, and crusting. If a secondary infection develops, the intertrigo can become more inflamed and may emit an unpleasant odor.

It’s worth noting that intertrigo symptoms often worsen when the affected area comes into contact with bodily secretions such as sweat, urine, or feces. This highlights the importance of maintaining proper hygiene in managing the condition.

Secondary Infections: When Intertrigo Becomes More Complex

While intertrigo itself is not an infection, the warm, moist environment it creates can provide an ideal breeding ground for various microorganisms. These secondary infections can complicate the condition and require specific treatments.

Fungal Infections

Candida, particularly Candida albicans, is the most common fungal infection associated with intertrigo. A Candida rash typically appears bright red and raw, often with raised, scaly lesions called plaques. Pimple-like bumps (papules and pustules) may also be present.

Bacterial Infections

Several types of bacteria can lead to secondary infections in intertrigo cases. These include:

• Staphylococci
• Streptococci
• Pseudomonas
• Corynebacterium

Viral Infections

Although less common, viral infections can also occur in conjunction with intertrigo. The most frequently associated virus families are:

• Poxviridae
• Papillomaviridae (HPV)
• Picornaviridae
• Retroviridae (HIV)
• Herpesviridae
• Togaviridae
• Parvoviridae

How can you differentiate between primary intertrigo and a secondary infection? Secondary infections are more likely to be unilateral and asymmetrical, while inflammatory intertrigo tends to be symmetrical, appearing on both sides of a skin fold.

Risk Factors and Prevalence of Intertrigo

Intertrigo can affect individuals of all ages, but certain factors may increase the likelihood of developing this condition. Understanding these risk factors can help in prevention and early intervention.

Who is most susceptible to intertrigo? According to research, intertrigo is more common in:

• Very young children (often appearing as diaper rash in babies)
• Older adults
• People with weakened immune systems
• Individuals who are incontinent or immobile

Additionally, environmental factors play a role in the prevalence of intertrigo. The condition is more common during hot and humid weather, which creates ideal conditions for skin irritation and microbial growth.

Does body weight affect the risk of developing intertrigo? While not explicitly mentioned in the provided text, it’s important to note that individuals with obesity may be at higher risk for intertrigo due to increased skin folds and potential difficulty in keeping certain areas dry.

Effective Treatment Strategies for Intertrigo

The treatment approach for intertrigo depends on its severity and whether a secondary infection is present. In most cases, a combination of topical treatments and good hygiene practices can effectively manage the condition.

Basic Treatment for Inflammatory Intertrigo

When intertrigo is purely inflammatory with no infection, the treatment is straightforward:

1. Keep the affected area clean and dry
2. Apply recommended topical treatments
3. Follow home remedy suggestions to alleviate symptoms

Topical Solutions for Intertrigo Control

Healthcare providers may recommend various topical solutions to manage intertrigo, including:

• Antiperspirants
• Triple paste (zinc oxide, aluminum acetate, and petrolatum)
• Petroleum jelly
• Talcum powder

Treatment for Infected Intertrigo

If a secondary infection is present, treatment will be tailored to the specific type of infection:

• Bacterial infections: Topical or oral antibiotics may be prescribed
• Fungal infections: Antifungal creams or oral medications might be necessary
• Viral infections: Antiviral treatments may be recommended in some cases

In severe cases, particularly for women experiencing chronic intertrigo under the breasts, breast reduction surgery has been considered as a potential solution. However, this is typically a last resort after other treatments have been exhausted.

Home Remedies and Preventive Measures for Intertrigo

While medical treatments are often necessary for managing intertrigo, there are several home remedies and preventive measures that can help control the condition and prevent recurrence.

Maintaining Proper Hygiene

The cornerstone of intertrigo prevention is keeping affected areas clean and dry. Here are some tips:

• Shower after exercising or sweating
• Pat skin dry gently – avoid rubbing, which can cause irritation
• Use a hair dryer on a cool setting to dry hard-to-reach areas
• Change out of wet or sweaty clothes promptly

Using Barrier Products

Applying barrier products can help reduce friction and moisture in susceptible areas:

• Zinc oxide cream
• Petroleum jelly
• Antiperspirants (in non-sensitive areas)

Wearing Appropriate Clothing

Choosing the right clothing can significantly impact intertrigo prevention:

• Opt for loose-fitting, breathable fabrics
• Avoid synthetic materials that trap heat and moisture
• Consider moisture-wicking underwear and clothing for exercise

Maintaining a Healthy Weight

For individuals who are overweight, losing weight can help reduce skin folds and decrease the risk of intertrigo. This can be achieved through a balanced diet and regular exercise, under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Intertrigo

While many cases of intertrigo can be managed at home, there are situations where professional medical care is necessary. It’s important to recognize these signs to prevent complications and ensure proper treatment.

When should you consult a doctor for intertrigo? Consider seeking medical attention if:

• The rash persists or worsens despite home treatment
• You experience severe pain or itching
• The affected area shows signs of infection (increased redness, swelling, warmth, or pus)
• You develop a fever
• The rash spreads to new areas
• You have a weakened immune system

A healthcare provider can accurately diagnose intertrigo and any secondary infections, prescribe appropriate treatments, and provide guidance on long-term management strategies.

Living with Intertrigo: Long-term Management and Lifestyle Adjustments

For individuals prone to intertrigo, long-term management often involves making lifestyle adjustments to minimize risk factors and prevent recurrence. By incorporating these strategies into daily life, it’s possible to significantly reduce the frequency and severity of intertrigo outbreaks.

Daily Skincare Routine

Establishing a consistent skincare routine is crucial for managing intertrigo. This may include:

• Gentle cleansing of affected areas with mild, fragrance-free soap
• Thorough drying, including the use of a hair dryer on a cool setting for hard-to-reach areas
• Application of barrier creams or powders as recommended by a healthcare provider

Clothing Choices

Selecting appropriate clothing can make a significant difference in preventing intertrigo:

• Choose breathable, natural fabrics like cotton
• Opt for loose-fitting clothes that don’t trap moisture
• Consider moisture-wicking undergarments for exercise or hot weather

Environmental Considerations

Managing your environment can help reduce the risk of intertrigo flare-ups:

• Use air conditioning or fans to reduce sweating in hot weather
• Avoid prolonged exposure to humid environments when possible
• Take breaks to air out skin folds during hot or humid days

Regular Check-ups

For individuals with recurrent intertrigo, regular check-ups with a dermatologist or primary care physician can be beneficial. These visits allow for:

• Monitoring of the condition
• Adjustments to treatment plans as needed
• Early intervention if signs of infection appear

How often should you schedule check-ups for intertrigo management? The frequency of check-ups will depend on the severity and frequency of your intertrigo outbreaks. Your healthcare provider can recommend an appropriate schedule based on your individual needs.

Stress Management

While stress isn’t a direct cause of intertrigo, it can weaken the immune system and potentially increase susceptibility to skin conditions. Incorporating stress-reduction techniques into your routine may be helpful:

• Regular exercise
• Meditation or mindfulness practices
• Adequate sleep
• Engaging in enjoyable hobbies or activities

Nutritional Considerations

While diet isn’t typically a primary factor in intertrigo development, maintaining overall health through proper nutrition can support skin health and immune function. Consider:

• Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Staying hydrated to support overall skin health
• Limiting foods that may exacerbate sweating, such as spicy foods or caffeine, if you find they trigger flare-ups

Can dietary changes help prevent intertrigo? While there’s no specific diet proven to prevent intertrigo, maintaining a healthy weight through balanced nutrition can reduce risk factors associated with the condition.

Educating Family and Caregivers

For individuals who require assistance with personal care, educating family members or caregivers about intertrigo prevention and management is crucial. This may include:

• Proper cleaning and drying techniques
• Recognition of early signs of intertrigo or infection
• Understanding the importance of regular position changes for immobile individuals

Adapting to Seasonal Changes

As intertrigo tends to be more prevalent in hot, humid weather, it’s important to adapt your prevention strategies seasonally:

• Be extra vigilant with hygiene and drying routines during summer months
• Consider using portable fans or cooling towels when outdoors in hot weather
• Adjust clothing choices based on the season to maximize breathability and moisture control

By incorporating these long-term management strategies and lifestyle adjustments, individuals prone to intertrigo can significantly improve their quality of life and reduce the frequency of outbreaks. Remember, consistency is key in managing this chronic condition, and don’t hesitate to consult with healthcare providers for personalized advice and treatment plans.

Treatment, Signs, Pictures, and Prevention

Intertrigo is a skin condition that can occur anywhere on the body where skin touches skin. Medical treatment and at home prevention can help clear the rash and reduce irritation.

Skin conditions commonly affect the folds of the skin, especially when the skin is wet or sweaty. This can lead to irritation, inflammation, and even infection. Intertrigo, a common skin condition that can occur in the folds of the skin, is characterized by red, inflamed skin that may be itchy or painful.

The good news? With some know-how, you can often treat it at home and prevent it from returning. Here’s how to spot an intertrigo rash and what you can do about it at home and with a doctor’s help.

Intertrigo is a reddish rash that appears in skin folds, where your skin surfaces rub against each other. The rash can be itchy or painful, but it’s not contagious.

Bacteria, fungus, and viruses can easily grow in this warm and moist environment and worsen the rash.

The skin areas most often affected include your:

• armpits
• underneath and between breasts
• groin
• buttocks
• between toes

Friction from skin rubbing on skin, moisture, and higher temperature in flexural areas are the main factors in the development of intertrigo.

These areas are often moist, warm, and lack air exposure. This makes them perfect breeding areas for microorganisms. These bacteria or fungi worsen the rash and its symptoms.

Secondary intertrigo infections could include:

Fungi

Candida (a yeast) is the fungus group that’s most commonly associated with intertrigo. About 80% to 90% of all skin yeast infections are caused by Candida albicans (also called thrush).

Most people normally have some Candida albicans present on their skin, so the yeast can easily take advantage of skin breaks to proliferate. A Candida rash is very bright red and raw looking. It may have plaques, which are raised, scaly lesions. Papules and pustules (pimple-like bumps) may be present as well.

Bacteria

Bacteria associated with intertrigo include:

• staphylococci
• streptococci
• Pseudomonas
• Corynebacterium

Viruses

The most common virus families associated with intertrigo are:

• Poxviridae
• Papillomaviridae (human papilloma virus or HPV)
• Picornaviridae
• Retroviridae (HIV)
• Herpesviridae
• Togaviridae
• Parvoviridae

In some cases, intertrigo occurs as a side effect of chemotherapy treatment.

Intertrigo starts as redness or small bumps or spots in skin folds. The rash can feel:

• itchy
• uncomfortable
• burning
• prickly
• painful

The intertrigo often appears on both sides of the skin fold, almost like a mirror image. Infections are more likely to be unilateral and asymmetrical, while inflammatory disorders tend to be symmetrical, appearing, for example, under both arms or both breasts.

The reddish area can quickly become inflamed and raw. The skin may crack, bleed, ooze, and crust over. The surrounding area may become scaly.

If you have a secondary infection from bacteria, fungus, or a virus, the intertrigo becomes more inflamed and can develop a bad smell. Intertrigo with a secondary infection is often asymmetrical (not even or present on both sides).

You may have intertrigo in more than one skin area. Also, smaller skin fold areas, such as behind your ears, around your chin, or on your eyelids, can be affected.

Intertrigo symptoms often get worse when the area comes in contact with your bodily secretions, such as sweat, urine, or feces.

Intertrigo is common and can occur at any age, but according to a 2014 article, it’s more common in the very young and in older people. In babies, intertrigo most often appears as diaper rash.

People with a weakened immune system or who are incontinent or immobile are more likely to have intertrigo. It’s also more common in hot and humid weather.

Treatment for intertrigo is usually a skin cream and a good home hygiene regimen to keep the area clean and dry. The type of topical drug depends on whether bacteria or yeast are involved. In more severe cases, you may need to take oral medication.

When intertrigo is inflammatory only, with no infection, treatment is straightforward: Keep the area clean and dry and follow some of the home remedy suggestions below.

There are also several solutions that may help to control intertrigo. A doctor may suggest:

• antiperspirants
• triple paste with zinc oxide, aluminum acetate, and petrolatum
• petroleum jelly (Vaseline)
• talcum powder

If you have an infection with the intertrigo, the doctor will prescribe specific topical creams.

Your treatment for intertrigo will depend on the cause and the type of infection you have. We’ll go over bacterial and yeast infections below.

In extreme cases, some women have undergone breast reduction surgery to reduce chronic intertrigo.

Keep it clean and dry

The number one rule is to keep the area clean and dry.

If you exercise, shower afterward and pat yourself dry. Don’t rub your skin, as this can cause increased irritation and damage to the skin.

Use anti-chafing or barrier gels

If the intertrigo is inflammatory only, without an infection, use over-the-counter (OTC) creams to create a barrier between the skin folds. Creams or ointments with zinc oxide or petrolatum can be useful. There are also anti-chafing balms that come in stick form.

Block the sweat

Use a mild antiperspirant to stop sweating, including under your breasts.

OTC antifungal creams

If you have a fungal infection, try using use an OTC antifungal cream on the affected area for 2 to 4 weeks.

Create a physical barrier

Depending on the affected area, use a thin cotton or gauze barrier to separate the skin folds.

Wear loose clothing and breathable fabrics

Wear loose cotton clothing next to your skin and avoid synthetic materials that can be irritating.

Topical antifungals used for intertrigo are nystatin (for Candida) and azole drugs, including miconazole (Mitrazol), ketoconazole (Nizoral topical), or clotrimazole (Lotrimin AF cream).

You usually use the cream twice a day for 2 to 4 weeks.

If your rash is very itchy, the doctor may also prescribe an antifungal combined with a low dose corticosteroid.

Depending on the severity of the infection, a doctor may prescribe a systemic antifungal drug that you’d take by mouth.

Topical antibiotics are used for bacterial infections. These include bacitracin or mupirocin (Bactroban).

If the infection is more severe, the doctor may prescribe an oral antibiotic, such as flucloxacillin or erythromycin (Erythrocin).

The doctor may also prescribe a low potency corticosteroid and advise you to use an antibiotic soap.

Intertrigo in babies requires special care because the affected skin area is so delicate. Keep the area clean, wash it gently with mild soap, and pat it dry.

Use an absorbent diaper and wrap it loosely. Consider changing diapers on a schedule to decrease the amount of time your baby is in a wet diaper. OTC creams, such as those with zinc oxide or petrolatum, may be useful.

If the diaper rash looks infected or doesn’t go away in a few days, see a doctor.

If you or your child have a skin rash that doesn’t go away or rapidly gets worse, it’s important to see a doctor. Skin rashes can have many causes and the treatment is often very specific. You should also see a doctor if the rash isn’t getting better with treatment.

Red rashes can have many different causes. The doctor will want to rule out other possibilities, such as psoriasis or allergic reactions.

If they suspect it’s intertrigo and infection, they’ll likely test for a fungal, bacterial, or viral cause. A doctor may take a skin scraping or swab of the rash to send to a lab for a culture. They may also look at it under a microscope or special lamp.

Few scientific studies of intertrigo have measured what preventive care works and what doesn’t. But there are measures you can take that may work for you:

• Keep the skin area clean, dry, and aerated.
• Maintain a skin care routine of cleaning, moisturizing, and applying a skin barrier to protect the area.
• Use fragrance-free soaps and other skin products to minimize irritation.
• Use a powder, such as Zeasorb AF, on the area once or twice a day.
• Minimize exposure to sweat, urine, or feces. If you’re incontinent, use special products to absorb moisture.
• Use a dehumidifier if you live in humid conditions.
• Use an air conditioner to avoid being in high heat.
• If you have diabetes, keep it under control.
• Shower after exercise and dry off completely before dressing.
• Don’t wear tight clothing or shoes that can constrict the affected area. If your toes are affected, wear open-toe shoes.
• Wear loose clothing and breathable fabrics such as cotton.

Intertrigo doesn’t usually cause any complications, but it can lead to more serious infections if it isn’t treated properly.

Bacterial intertrigo can lead to cellulitis, which is a skin infection that can spread to the deeper layers of the skin and the lymph nodes. Cellulitis can be serious and may require hospitalization.

Fungal intertrigo can lead to a more serious infection such as candidemia, a condition in which the yeast infection spreads through the bloodstream. Candidemia can be life threatening.

Intertrigo can also worsen other skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, and dermatitis.

Anyone can get intertrigo, but some conditions can increase your risk. You’re more at risk if:

• you have a weakened immune system
• you have excess skin
• you have diabetes
• you have poor hygiene habits
• you’re immobile
• you’re incontinent
• you wear a splint, brace, or an artificial limb that rubs your skin
• you live or work in high heat and humidity
• you sweat excessively (hyperhidrosis)
• your clothing or shoes are too tight
• you have an inflammatory skin condition

Infants are also at a higher risk because their skin is more sensitive. They also tend to have skin rolling (like the folds of the neck) and are more likely to have damp skin from drooling and from wearing diapers.

Below are some frequently asked questions about intertrigo.

Does poor hygiene cause intertrigo?

Poor hygiene can cause or worsen intertrigo, but you can get intertrigo even if you practice good hygiene habits. It’s important to clean the affected area, but you also need to be careful not to irritate the skin.

What does intertrigo look like?

Intertrigo usually looks like a rash. The affected skin is usually red, inflamed, and moist. It can also be scaly, crusted, or have blisters. The rash often has well defined edges where it meets the surrounding skin.

Can tight clothing cause intertrigo?

Tight clothing can rub the skin and cause or worsen intertrigo. It’s best to wear loose fitting, breathable clothing made from natural fabrics, such as cotton.

Can I use over-the-counter (OTC) treatments for intertrigo?

OTC treatments, such as barrier creams and powders, can help treat intertrigo. But if the rash doesn’t go away after a week or two, or if it gets worse, you should see a doctor. You should also see a doctor if you have any symptoms of a skin infection, such as redness, swelling, pain, pus, or fever.

Intertrigo is a common and treatable condition. People with intertrigo who are otherwise healthy have a good outlook. If a secondary infection is involved, it’s important to treat the cause until the symptoms are gone.

In some cases, intertrigo can become chronic. Maintaining a good skin cleaning and moisturizing routine can help prevent intertrigo from coming back. Talk with a doctor if you have questions about your skin or if the rash doesn’t go away with self-care.

The 9 Best Remedies for Intertrigo, or Rashes Under Fat Folds

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LIVESTRONG.com Creative

A rash or skin irritation can develop anywhere skin folds exist on the body. These fat folds can trap heat, moisture and bacteria inside, and combined with chafing, this leads to a condition called intertrigo.

“Intertrigo” is the term used to describe a rash between any two body faults, says Robin Ashinoff, MD, board-certified dermatologist, member of the American Academy of Dermatology and chief of dermatology and dermatologic, Mohs and laser surgery at Hackensack University Medical Center in New Jersey.

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“Intertrigo is inflammation of the skin folds caused by friction,” adds board-certified dermatologist, Shoshana Marmon, MD, PhD, assistant professor and director of clinical research in the Department of Dermatology at New York Medical College.

The condition commonly develops on the thighs, neck or diaper area in children, and in adults, common areas of the body include under belly fat and breasts or in the armpits. Having any type of overhanging or excess skin puts you at risk for developing intertrigo.

Intertrigo can be uncomfortable, red and itchy, and it can lead to other skin issues, like sores. So if you’re looking to treat intertrigo at home, here’s what dermatologists recommend.

1. Keep the Skin Clean and Dry

The first step when dealing with any type of skin irritation is to keep the area as clean and dry as possible, Dr. Marmon tells LIVESTRONG.com. She recommends first cleaning any affected areas with water and using a gentle soap like Cetaphil Pro Restoraderm Soothing Wash ($15.89, Amazon.com).

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After cleansing the area, pat it dry with a towel — don’t rub! — and if necessary, you can also dry the area with a blow dryer on a cool setting.

2. Apply a Barrier Cream

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One of the ways you can help your skin heal properly — and prevent intertrigo from getting worse — is to create a moisture barrier, Dr. Ashinoff tells LIVESTRONG.com.

After you’ve made sure the affected area is clean and dry, she suggests applying a barrier cream of zinc oxide paste, such as a diaper rash ointment. This helps create a “seal” to block moisture from seeping in and causing irritation.

Dr. Marmon notes that using a barrier cream with zinc oxide or an ointment with petrolatum can also help prevent skin or fat folds from rubbing against each other, which is another source of irritation.

Note that if your doctor has prescribed a treatment cream, you should apply that to your skin first, then, once the infection has cleared up, apply the barrier cream to keep moisture out.

Try These Products

• ​Globe Zinc Oxide Ointment​ ($4.99, Amazon.com)
• ​CeraVe Healing Ointment​ ($12.29, Amazon.com)
• ​Boudreaux’s Butt Paste​ ($14.26, Amazon.com)

3. Protect the Skin With Pads

Along with keeping the skin clean and dry and using a barrier cream, Dr. Marmon says you can help physically keep skin folds apart and prevent them rubbing together by using a physical barrier as well.

For instance, she suggests placing Telfa pads or cotton gauze between the fat folds to keep them separated and eliminate friction.

Try These Products

• ​Telfa Non-Adherent Dressing Pads​ ($10.49, Amazon.com)
• ​Band-Aid Brand Medium Gauze Pads​ ($6, Amazon.com)

4. Use an Anti-Fungal

Sometimes, what you think is just irritation is actually a yeast or fungal infection — usually from a Candida infection — masquerading as a rash. For instance, if you have a rash under your belly fat or a sore under your belly fat, especially one that won’t go away with other treatment, it could be a yeast infection within the folds.

“The moist environment in the skin folds is the perfect breeding ground for yeast, fungus or bacteria, which can worsen the irritation and rash,” Dr. Marmon explains.

A yeast infection under belly fat can be very uncomfortable and itchy, so it’s important to treat it correctly before it gets worse or infected from scratching. It’s always best to have a fungal infection diagnosed by a doctor, but fortunately, Dr. Ashinoff says that if it is a yeast infection, a simple over-the-counter anti-fungal cream like Lotrimin ($8.10; Amazon.com) can be used effectively.

If you have diabetes, Dr. Ashinoff notes that you’re at increased risk for candidal and fungal infections. If you develop a rash, then, you should make sure to take preventive steps — like washing and applying a barrier cream — to keep candidal infections at bay.

5. Protect With a Powder

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Remedy/LIVESTRONG.com Creative

To keep the area dry and help combat a fungal infection, you might want to consider using an anti-fungal powder, Dr. Marmon says.

A powder like Zeasorb ($13.36 for 2, Amazon.com) or Medline Remedy ($9.40, Amazon.com) can help control moisture between skin folds, and the ingredient miconazole nitrate can help stop the growth of yeast.

6. Fix It With Vicks

Anecdotally speaking, some people who have been plagued with under-the-breast skin irritation and yeast infections have found relief from none other than Vicks VapoRub ($7.99, CVS.com).

And there may be some truth to it: A 2011 study in the ​World Journal of Pediatrics​ did find that applying menthol to the skin was an effective treatment for fungal infections between skin folds.

Just be sure to run this remedy by your doctor first, and discontinue use if any additional skin irritation occurs.

7. Combat Itch

Any type of open sore or rash should be evaluated by a doctor, but Dr. Marmon says if you’re mostly dealing with inflammation and itchiness under your belly fat, it can help to add a low-potency steroid cream such as Aveeno Maximum Strength Formula ($9.98, Amazon.com), which contains 1% hydrocortisone.

8. Try a Toner

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Dermatologist Leslie Baumann, MD, CEO of Skin Type Solutions Inc. , tells LIVESTRONG.com that her favorite product for intertrigo or a yeast infection under belly fat is Element 47 Skin Fortifying Mist ($25, SouthLakeDermatology.com).

“It changes the skin’s environment, making it less hospitable for fungi and bacteria,” she notes. “I have had great results with it for intertrigo, and it will help sores heal, too.”

9. Apply Aloe or Argan Oil

For a standalone rash, Dr. Baumann recommends applying argan oil or aloe. Indeed, a January 2019 review in the ​Iranian Journal of Medical Sciences​ of more than 23 different studies found that aloe vera can be effective as a skin-healing aid.

The ​International Journal of Molecular Sciences​ explains that argan oil also has been found to have helpful properties in restoring the skin’s barrier function, as well as hydrating the skin, which can help heal infections.

When to See a Doctor for a Skin Rash

A rash between skin folds could be caused by a number of things, from moisture to bacteria build-up to a fungal infection. The first thing you should do if you develop a skin rash, especially between skin folds, is see a doctor.

Diagnosing the rash can help ensure that you can then treat it appropriately. Throwing a skin cream on what’s actually a fungal rash, for instance, won’t actually do anything, so it is important to get the right type of treatment for the cause behind the rash.

And according to Dr. Ashinoff, seeing a doctor as your first step for a skin rash or intertrigo will most likely save you time, frustration and even money, because a prescription or even an over-the-counter remedy will probably be much more effective than a home remedy.

Dr. Marmon also recommends that you see a dermatologist for any symptoms that include:

• Skin breakdown
• Worsening pain or tenderness
• Increasing redness
• Persistent rash and irritation despite
  treatment
• Foul smell
• Vesicles or blisters in the area that may
  indicate the presence of an infection

⚕ Skin and gastrointestinal rash

When a rash appears on the skin, we go to the dermatologist. But it is worth visiting a gastroenterologist too. After all, the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) and your skin are closely connected, and a rash may be the result of improper functioning of the digestive organs.

How the GIT Affects the Skin

Skin is the largest organ in your body. It not only performs barrier functions, but is also an indicator of the state of internal organs.

The skin has a number of common functions with the gastrointestinal tract – interaction with microflora and the formation of immunity. It is not surprising that when the stomach, liver or gallbladder suffers, the skin immediately reacts to it.

Gastrointestinal problems affecting the skin

A number of gastrointestinal problems can affect your skin.

Among them:

• dysbacteriosis. Violation of the microflora is of great importance. If pathogenic microorganisms are in the stomach, they also affect the skin. Therefore, with dysbacteriosis, a rash is common;
• gastritis. During gastritis, there are often digestive disorders, so toxins enter the bloodstream, and a rash appears on the skin;
• ulcer. The bacterium that causes ulcers, Helicobacter pylori, causes acne and pimples;
• infection and parasites of the stomach. Viruses and worms can poison the body. toxic substances accumulate, which affects the state of health, as well as the skin;
• malabsorption of vitamins and minerals in the intestine. Vitamins and minerals are responsible for the beauty and elasticity of the skin. If they are not absorbed enough, a deficiency occurs, and as a result, unpleasant symptoms from the skin.

Symptoms

See a gastroenterologist not only when a rash appears. The skin can talk about diseases of the gastrointestinal tract with the help of other manifestations:

• excessive dryness and tightness;
• pustules and acne;
• itching;
• discoloration of the skin – age spots, redness;
• hemorrhages, wounds that do not heal well.

On the part of the gastrointestinal tract, against the background of these symptoms, constipation, pain in the stomach, periodic nausea, etc. can be observed.

Rash treatment at Pulse Family Clinic

The problem of rash is very common and has a number of causes. To make a correct diagnosis, you should visit not only a dermatologist. You may be assigned a consultation by the following doctors:

• gastroenterologist;
• allergist;
• endocrinologist.

Be aware that the cause of the rash may be an allergy or hormonal imbalance. Contact the specialists of the Pulse Family Clinic and let your skin shine with health and your stomach not hurt!

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causes and symptoms, diagnosis, treatment and prevention

Beautiful clean skin of the face is not accidentally considered one of the indicators of health. Any tangible changes in the work of organs and systems affect its condition. Often – persistent rash. Cosmetic preparations are powerless in solving an external problem, since it is only a symptom.

Therapist of the highest qualification category, gastroenterologist

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Therapist of the first qualification category, gastroenterologist, head of the diagnostic department

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st. Victory, 17,
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Why EMS Family Clinic

Medicine for the whole family, doctors in more than 30 specialties for adults and children

Integrative Anti-Aging Medicine Approach

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A rash on the face is an inflammation of the sebaceous glands. They secrete a special secret – sebum. Ideally, this is a balanced mixture of various substances produced by the body – fatty acids, steroids, cholesterol, epithelial particles. Such a “lubrication” protects the skin surface from harmful bacteria, serves as an ideal nutrient microflora for it.

Deterioration in the work of organs provokes a change in the qualitative and quantitative composition of the secret, contributes to the violation of its outflow. Sebum from a protector of the skin becomes a focus of infection. And on the face there is the largest number of sebaceous glands (up to 900 in one square centimeter). The largest of them are located in the area of ​​the forehead, chin, cheeks, wings of the nose, nasolabial folds. Not surprisingly, the rash also “loves” these areas.

A dermatologist’s recommendations for effective treatment will definitely include a referral to a gastroenterologist. In some cases, the help of a ENT or endocrinologist is also necessary. But the restoration of the normal functioning of the gastrointestinal tract is the first condition for eliminating the rash.

What internal problems of the body will a rash on the face tell about

Gastroenterologist can draw preliminary conclusions even on the basis of acne localization:

• Chin. One of the reasons may be incomplete absorption of food. This leads to the release of toxins.
• The area of ​​the lips reflects the problems of the entire digestive system (dysbacteriosis, constipation, intestinal colic).
• Nose. A rash in different areas will tell about failures in the hormonal and cardiovascular systems, troubles with the intestines.
• Forehead and nose bridge (T-zone). Rashes can be the result of intoxication caused by malnutrition (passion for sweet, fried and fatty foods, etc.), uncontrolled intake of antibiotics, vitamins and hormones. There may be disturbances in the functioning of the stomach, gallbladder, pancreas, liver. Acne above the eyebrow is a signal that the intestines are irritated.

Thus, the desire to eliminate a visible defect helps to solve much more dangerous and unpleasant problems.

Methods for the treatment of rashes on the face

Modern gastroenterology has an extensive set of means to eliminate the causes of rashes. In each case, accurate diagnosis and treatment is carried out according to individual indications and may include various methods:

• microbiological examination;
• Ultrasound of internal organs;
• diet therapy;
• drug treatment;
• physiotherapy;
• herbal medicine and others.

Our center is uniquely positioned to address any gastroenterological problem. Applications are accepted around the clock. We are ready to provide professional assistance as soon as possible.

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