Tight Clothes, Towels, and Jock Itch

Are you experiencing discomfort in the groin? Nangangati ka ba after wearing tight clothes? You might have what is known as “jock itch.”

Here’s what you need to know about this skin condition known locally as hadhad, its causes, symptoms, treatments, and prevention methods.

What is jock itch?

Jock itch, also known as tinea curis or hadhad, is a fungal infection that mainly affects the groin, the buttocks and the lower abdomen.¹

This infection comes as a result of a group of fungi called dermatophytes.² These fungi can lead to infection in warm and wet environments, which could include the parts of your body compressed by wet and tight clothing. Continued use of contaminated clothing and contact with infected people can transmit jock itch. Aside from this, dermatophytes can also spread through scratching.

Though anyone can catch jock itch, it tends to affect people assigned male at birth, especially adolescents.² As the name suggests, jocks or athletes may also be prone to this condition. Because of the kinds of physical activities that they engage in, it could mean more frequent use of tight, compressed clothing that builds up with sweat over an extended period of time.² On the other hand, overweight, obese, sweat-prone, and immunocompromised people also have an increased risk of infection, due to the sweaty environments that can develop on their body.²

Common symptoms of jock itch include a red, flaky or scaly appearance in lighter skin (namumula), a gray or brown-looking rash bordered by raised edges on darker skin, as well as persistent itching (kati) or burning sensations (hapdi).²

How can I prevent and treat jock itch?

In order to prevent a jock itch infection, here are a few recommendations:

• Wear looser clothing when exercising or when the weather is hot or humid
• Avoid synthetic fabrics
• Maintain proper hygiene and keep the groin area dry, especially after cleaning and exercising
• Regularly change your undergarments and towels, and avoid the use of towels provided in communal spaces
• Avoid sharing personal items, especially those mentioned above.²

If the symptoms of jock itch are evident, treat the area as soon as possible to avoid spreading. Here are the steps on treating jock itch:²

• Cleaning of the infected area using soap and warm water
• Drying of the infected area after washing or exercising
• Regular changes in clothing and undergarments
• Use of an over-the-counter (OTC) antifungal medication, such as Bifonazole (CanesPro®)

What are the benefits of Bifonazole (CanesPro®)?

Bifonazole (CanesPro®) is an antifungal cream that can treat a broad spectrum of skin infections, especially jock itch.³ Due to its active ingredient Bifonazole, it only needs to be applied to the affected area once a day for a short duration (about 2-4 weeks). Not only will it help soothe the itch, but it will also help stop fungal growth and kill the fungi thus treating the infection (when used as indicated). Results may vary. Learn more about the key ingredient Bifonazole here.

Bifonazole (CanesPro®) is helpful for people who are busy or forgetful. However, prematurely stopping the treatment can lead to a recurrence in jock itch and other infection symptoms, so it is recommended to use the product throughout its intended duration.

If symptoms persist, consult your doctor.