Inguinal ringworm (tinea cruris) is a common fungal infection that develops on the groin, butt, and inner thighs. While it does cause some discomfort and itchiness, it can be easily treated with an over-the-counter product like Sudocrem. This cream is not marketed in Italy, but can be purchased online through the major e-commerce sites. In the United States it is used to treat diaper rashes, but it is also useful against this infection thanks to its antibacterial and antifungal ingredients. It gives immediate relief and maybe you already have it at home, especially if you have small children.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Preparing to Apply Sudocrem
Step 1. Identify the symptoms
Inguinal ringworm typically manifests as a red, circular rash on the groin, underlying areas, inner thighs, and / or bottom. It usually develops in places where the body retains more moisture and sweat.
- The infection is quite common among athletes who sweat profusely in these parts of the body.
- However, you don't have to be a sportsman to be affected. Many studies have shown that overweight patients sometimes suffer from tinea cruris due to sweating.
Step 2. Clean the affected area
If you have a red, sore rash, you may be tempted not to wash it. however, you must cleanse it before applying any ointments. When showering or bathing, apply a mild, moisturizing soap to your affected skin.
- Smear the mild soap on wet skin with your fingertips. Do not use a thick towel or loofah, as they can irritate the wheals and rash.
- Choose a thick, creamy cleanser, such as a cleansing milk or facial product. Gel soaps dry the skin excessively.
- If you've decided to use a bar of soap, you can rub it directly into your skin.
- Do not use products that contain exfoliating agents, such as salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide (typically found in facial cleansers designed for acne). These would irritate the affected skin layer even more.
- Do not shave the area while you cleanse it, as this will cause painful irritation and may transfer bacteria from the razor to your skin.
- Make sure you have rinsed all the soap out of your groin before you get out of the shower.
Step 3. Dry the skin
After you have finished taking a shower or bath, dry the area carefully using a clean towel. Blot gently without rubbing vigorously, as this will make the irritation worse.
- It is essential that the towel is clean and dry. Wet ones often contain mold which makes the rash worse.
- If you can wait a few minutes for the groin to air dry, Sudocrem will be more effective.
Part 2 of 3: Apply Sudocrem on Infected Areas
Step 1. Wash your hands
If you have touched anything other than a clean towel after washing your groin, you need to cleanse your hands again with warm water and an antibacterial soap. Dry them with a clean cloth.
Step 2. Put the product on your fingertips
Sudocrem is sold in tubes or cans. If you bought the latter, you can use a small plastic spatula to take the required amount of cream and put it on your fingers. This way, you reduce the risk of contaminating the rest of the product with bacteria on your hands.
Step 3. Gently massage the cream into the skin
Make circular movements and don't apply too much pressure. Avoid rubbing the skin vigorously, instead give it time to absorb the Sudocrem.
Step 4. Smear a thin, clear layer of product
You need to use enough to cover the rash, but not too much that it won't be absorbed by the epidermis.
- The cream should soak in and you shouldn't notice any white residue. If there is a thick white layer of product left, you have overdosed on the dose.
- Wait a couple of minutes before putting on your underwear; in this way, Sudocrem penetrates completely into the skin. It should form a barrier between the rash and the clothes you wear.
Step 5. Choose loose, clean clothing
It is very important that your clothes are clean, because dirty underwear and pants contain bacteria that only make the situation worse.
Make sure the underwear is made of breathable fabric and that it does not make the groin region sweat even more. Avoid polyester and other tacky materials. Opt for simple boxers or cotton briefs
Step 6. Apply the cream one more time before bed
If you have been sweating during the day, wash the infected area again before applying Sudocrem.
Step 7. Repeat the process until the rash disappears
Most cases of tinea cruris respond well to over-the-counter treatments and resolve within 10 days.
If the problem persists beyond two weeks, ask your doctor for advice to find other treatments. You may need a stronger antifungal product than a non-prescription cream or oral medicine
Part 3 of 3: Preventing Inguinal Ringworm
Step 1. Put on clean clothes
Pathogens that remain in the fibers of trousers, shorts and soiled underwear can cause fungal infections.
- Wash your clothes in the washing machine, use a mild laundry detergent and put them in the dryer. Avoid bleach and fabric softeners, as they can irritate the skin.
- Remember to wash clothes you use at the gym or for sports often, as they trap sweat.
- Make sure your clothing is comfortable and has a good fit, especially underwear. Those that create friction or scratch the skin expose you to infection.
- Do not share clothes, otherwise infections could spread through the fabrics.
Step 2. Keep the crotch area dry
The sweat that remains trapped between the folds of the skin is the main cause of tinea cruris. If you sweat frequently during the day, remember to shower or bathe regularly.
You can also consider keeping antibacterial wipes in the inner thighs and groin area during the day if you sweat a lot. When finished, however, remember to wipe away any moisture left by these products with a dry towel
Step 3. Wash the jockstrap after each use
If you are using a jockstrap or protective shell, wash them often. Follow the instructions on the package to avoid the development of mycosis.
Step 4. Apply antifungal creams regularly
If you suffer from this ailment often, you should apply antifungal cream every day after a shower. If you want to try a product other than Sudocrem, choose one with clotrimazole and hydrocortisone or ask your pharmacist for advice. These active ingredients are designed to control rash and relieve irritation.
Step 5. Be aware of other infections
Sometimes, inguinal ringworm develops in association with other mycoses, such as athlete's foot and dermatophytosis. If you also have these problems, talk to your doctor to best treat them.
