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What is jock itch?
Jock itch is a fungal skin infection that affects the groin, inner thighs, and sometimes the buttocks.
It is common in kids and teens who sweat a lot, especially during sports, but anyone can get it.
It is also called tinea cruris or ringworm of the groin, even though it is not caused by a worm.
What does jock itch look like?
Red or pink, raised, scaly rash on the inner thighs
Often begins in the groin crease and spreads outward
May form a circular or curved shape with a raised edge
Can spread to the buttocks or the skin around the anus
Usually on both sides
Itchy, and may sting or burn
In boys, the penis and scrotum are not affected
How does someone get jock itch?
Jock itch is caused by dermatophytes, a type of fungus that grows in warm, damp areas. These fungi normally live on the skin, hair, and nails but can overgrow when conditions are right.
Common triggers include:
Sweating during sports
Hot, humid weather
Wearing tight clothing or damp underwear
Not drying the skin well after bathing or swimming
Sharing towels or clothing
Having athlete’s foot, which can spread to the groin
Certain health conditions such as diabetes, obesity, or weakened immunity
Is jock itch contagious?
Yes.
Jock itch can spread by:
Skin‑to‑skin contact
Sharing towels, clothing, or sports gear
From other fungal infections, especially athlete’s foot
It can also spread to other parts of the body if someone scratches the rash and then touches another area.
How is jock itch diagnosed?
A healthcare provider can usually diagnose jock itch by looking at the rash and asking about symptoms. Sometimes a small skin scraping is examined under a microscope or sent to a lab.
How is jock itch treated?
Apply an antifungal cream (such as Lamisil, Micatin, Lotrimin) twice a day.
Cover the rash and 1 inch beyond the edges.
Jock itch usually starts improving and stops spreading after 2-3 days of treatment.
It usually clears up after 2-3 weeks of treatment.
Continue treatment for 7 days after the rash is gone.
Keep the area clean and dry.
Wash daily with plain water, then dry well.
Wear loose cotton underwear and wash sports clothing after each use.
Avoid scratching to prevent irritation.
Children with jock itch do not need to miss school or sports.
How can jock itch be prevented?
Keep the groin clean and dry
Wash the area daily with plain water, then dry well. Use a separate clean towel for the groin.
Dry completely after bathing, swimming, or sweating.
Change into dry underwear after sports
Avoid tight clothing. Wear loose cotton underwear.
If your child has athlete’s foot, use a separate towel for the feet. Have them put their socks on before their underwear.
When to Call the Doctor
Rash is not starting to get better after 1 week of treatment.
Rash is not gone after 4 weeks of treatment.
Rash is spreading or getting worse.
There are signs of a bacterial skin infection like pain or discharge.
You have concerns about your child’s symptoms.
📚 References
This content was adapted from HealthyChildren.org, The American Academy of Pediatrics Parenting Website, Rady Children’s Health Library. Images from DermNet, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education.
Reviewed by AR D.O., Patient Education Committee.