People all over the world suffer from jock itch, which is not only an uncomfortable condition but also a bit of an embarrassing one. This fungal infection is easy to contract and spread but can be difficult to eliminate, so it is important to understand as much about this common condition as possible.
Treatments for Jock Itch
There are many trusted treatments for jock itch, including anti-fungal creams, zinc oxide ointment, and hydrocortisone.
Anti-fungal Creams
Perhaps the most popular remedy for jock itch is a basic anti-fungal cream, such as Clotrimazole. This cream can be used for 2-4 weeks or until symptoms fully disappear. This can be purchased over the counter and doesn’t require a prescription. [1]
A fresh glass of juice. Photo Credit: Shutterstock
Zinc Oxide Ointment
This is a popular option for athletes, as the ointment will help to keep certain areas of the skin dry, namely the groin and other perspiration-prone spots on the body. This ointment is also widely available from pharmacies and big box stores. [2]
Hydrocortisone
Similar in effect to an antifungal cream, this is a topical steroid cream that can work slightly faster and may be more concentrated. This can lead to faster recovery, but also a higher likelihood of side effects, albeit minor ones.
Home Remedies for Jock Itch
While the treatments outlined above can be fast and effective, many people turn to at-home solutions for jock itches, such as improving hygiene, avoiding certain detergents, wearing proper undergarments, using apple cider vinegar, oatmeal baths, essential oils, onion juice, aloe vera, mouthwash, and lemon juice.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, apple cider vinegar also has drying qualities and anti-fungal properties, making it an ideal solution. Simply dilute the vinegar with water and use a washcloth to gently apply the mixture to the affected areas. Do this 2-3 per day for best effects, until the symptoms disappear. [3]
Hygiene
One of the most important parts of preventing jock itch is to keep those areas clean and make it inhospitable for fungal infections to take hold. By regularly washing all of the cracks and crevices where sweat accumulates, particularly in the groin and thigh region. Showering at least once per day, specifically right after intense physical activity, is highly recommended for people who have jock itch. [4]
Onion Juice
You can extract onion juice from grated or chopped onions by placing them in a blender and then straining out the pulp. This highly concentrated juice has sulfuric compounds and other antioxidants that can quickly kill fungal infections and prevent inflammation. Gently apply this juice to the sensitive area with a washcloth, but dilute it with water, as it can cause additional inflammation or irritation. [5]
Oatmeal Baths
As with so many inflammatory skin infections or conditions, brewing a bathtub of oatmeal is an excellent remedy. It can soothe inflammation and pain, while also delivering key minerals to the affected areas that will fight against the infection and speed healing time. [6]
Underwear Choice
Wearing 100% cotton underwear is the best recommendation for people who suffer from jock itch or get it regularly. Also, this not-so-tight, cotton underwear will ‘breathe’ and allow air flow to your groin, which will cut down on perspiration and make it more difficult for the infection to take hold. Also, change your underwear every day. [7]
Essential Oils
Oils like calendula, tea tree, myrrh, and lavender have all shown their effects against fungal infections like jock itch. However, due to the sensitive areas where this infection may be found, it is important to always dilute these oils with water or other carrier oils (coconut oil) before applying. Only 5-6 drops will be needed for you to see the effects. [8]
Mouthwash
Using mouthwash on your teeth helps to kill many different strains of bacteria and fungus, and the same thing is true of using mouthwash on your jock itch symptoms. Simply pour a bit of mouthwash on a cotton ball and gently dab it on the inflamed or rash area. Do this 2-3 times per day and the symptoms should clear up very quickly. [9]
Lemon Juice
The high citric acid content and other antioxidants in lemon juice make it ideal for eliminating jock itch, ringworm, and many other fungal infections. Simply mix the juice from half a lemon with a bit of water and apply this nutrient-rich, immune-boosting mixture to the rash on your groin or genitals. [10]
Detergent Choice
Some people are more prone to irritation or perspiration based on the detergent they use, as it can weaken the immune system of the skin in that area and make fungal infections easier to contract. If you are regularly experiencing jock itch, despite treating it in the past, your cleaning products, soaps, shampoos or detergents may be to blame. [11]
Aloe Vera
Legendary for its anti-inflammatory abilities, aloe vera gel is often turned to by those who want to clear up a particularly irritating case of jock itch. Only a small amount of this gel is required, and you should apply it 1-2 times per day, when the skin is dry, to quickly clear up the rash. [12]
