Simply put, intertrigo refers to the infection of the skin folds. It is commonly brought about by fungi, and one them is what’s known as candida albicans.
At any given time or day, candida albicans is present on your skin. It does not cause any problem, however, because it is put under control by your immune system. A different story takes place if candida albicans multiply uncontrollably. Because when it does, the skin can become inflamed and itchy.
Candida albicans loves to thrive in warm and moist places, and skin folds provide the perfect environment for the fungus. It’s for this reason why intertrigo normally strikes the armpits, inner thighs, between the toes and underside of the breasts. Nappy areas of babies are target areas, too.
Overweight individuals and diabetics are prone to having intertrigo. Bedridden people and those who are wearing braces, artificial limbs and other medical devices are at risk of this skin infection, too.
Affected skin folds appear red and inflamed. Definitely, intertrigo can bring about severe itchiness. However, individuals with intertrigo are strongly advised against scratching. That’s because it can cause the skin to break, paving the way for an infection which is something that can only make matters worse.
Fortunately, there are a bunch of natural remedies proven effective against intertrigo. The following are some of those that you may try in order to attain relief from the signs and symptoms, as well as zap the infection itself:
Wear Loose-Fitting Clothes
Because candida albicans tends to strike warm and moist areas of the body, it’s of utmost importance for you to stay cool and dry. Such can be attained by putting on clothes that fit loosely. It will also help considerably if you opt for clothes that are out of cotton and other natural fabrics in order to promote ventilation.
Have Good Hygiene Practices
It’s a good idea for you to take a shower on regular basis. You may also soak in bathwater with a cup of baking soda dissolved in it. Don’t forget to use antibacterial soap to help get rid of those intertrigo-causing fungi. Make sure that you thoroughly dry your skin, especially where folds are, before putting on clean clothes.
Apply Aloe Vera Gel
You can regularly massage aloe vera gel on problem areas. That’s because the gel has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which means that it can soothe swelling and itchiness as well as put an end to the skin infection. If you don’t have access to aloe vera gel, 100 percent pure aloe vera juice will also help do the trick.
Place Used Green Tea Bags
Don’t throw away used green tea bags. You can stash them in the fridge, allowing you to have an all-natural remedy for various skin problems including intertrigo. Simply moisten used green tea bags with cool water, and then place them over affected skin folds. Leave them there for several minutes to give them plenty of time to do their job.
Lose Excess Pounds
As mentioned earlier, people who are overweight or obese are at high risk of having intertrigo. It’s exactly for this reason why you should get rid of unwanted pounds if you want to put an end to the skin condition. Healthy eating habits paired with regular dose of exercise can help you get in shape and zap intertrigo along the way.
Control Blood Sugar/Diabetes
Everyone knows that diabetes can come with all sorts of complications, and yeast infection such as intertrigo is one of them. If you have diabetes, it is very important to keep high blood sugar levels in check in order to keep at bay intertrigo. Make sure that you closely work with your doctor to have your diabetes managed effectively.
