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Dear Sun Doc
My skin keeps peeling and itching on the thighs from time to time and may occasionally get painful. I’ve tried the home-made remedies such as applying baby powder and Vaseline but it’s futile, especially on a sweaty day. What could be the issue and solution?Cliff
Dear Cliff,
The inner thigh is prone to developing rashes because the area is hot and sweaty and there is usually friction during movement. There are several possible causes of the rash:
1) Tinea cruris, otherwise known as jock itch. This is a fungal infection of the skin of the genitals, buttocks and inner thighs. It is more common in men, and tends to affect those who sweat a lot, wear tight underwear, have a weak immune system, or are obese. It causes itching, or a burning sensation, and skin lesions with thickening or flaking of the skin, darkening or reddening of the skin, and/or small blister like swellings on the edge of the lesion.
The fungus spreads from person to person through close contact or from shared clothing or towels. The same fungus causes athlete’s foot and it can spread by using the same towel for wiping feet to wipe the rest of the body. It is diagnosed just by looking at it or by examining skin scrapings in the laboratory. Treatment includes antifungal creams/ointments or powder, or tablets
2) Heat rash, also known as prickly heat. The skin has itchy red pimples that usually appear when the weather is hot and humid
3) Friction/chaffing, which develops when skin rubs against skin, or against rough fabric
4) Contact dermatitis, where the skin is inflamed because of coming into contact with something that the individual is allergic to e.g. clothing, detergent, etc
5) Pityriasis rosacea, a scaly rash, that may be caused by viral infection
6) Eczema, an inflammatory skin condition that causes itching and scaly skin lesions
Since there are many possible causes and you have had these rashes for a while, it is advisable for you to be reviewed by a skin specialist/dermatologist, for examination, and sampling of the skin scrapings for an accurate diagnosis. Some causes do not require specific treatment, while some may require antihistamines, and/or topical ointments. In addition, clean and dry the area well. You may use powder to keep the area dry. Wear clean loose-fitting cotton underwear, preferably boxers; avoid tight trousers; do not share personal items and treat athlete’s foot and any other infections. You can use a cold compress on the area when it is hot and uncomfortable.