Convenient, affordable jock itch treatment from home.

Jock itch is a fungal infection that causes an itchy rash, primarily in moist areas of the body like the groin. Jock itch signs and symptoms include:¹

• A spreading rash that begins in the crease of the groin.

• A clear center in the rash as it spreads.

• Full or partially ring-shaped rash.

• Small blisters on the edge of the rash.

• Itchiness.

• Scaly skin.

• Red, brown, purple or gray rash depending on your skin color.

Jock itch starts as a fungal infection in the creases of the groin. From there it often spreads to the upper thighs and buttocks.² It rarely affects the genitals. If left untreated, jock itch can spread to other parts of the body, including nails, hands and feet.³

With treatment, jock itch can resolve in one to eight weeks. During the early jock itch healing stages, the itchiness and irritation will fade. Sometimes the rash will resolve before you finish antifungal treatment, but you may still have jock itch or a fungal infection. Be sure to finish the full course of prescribed treatment to prevent a return of jock itch.⁴

Jock itch is a skin infection caused by a class of pathogenic (infectious) fungus known as dermatophytes.⁵ The scientific name for jock itch is tinea cruris. Tinea meaning ringworm and cruris meaning groin.⁶

If left untreated, jock itch will not go away on its own. With proper treatment, jock itch usually resolves within one to eight weeks.⁷

No, jock itch will not go away on its own. It requires antifungal treatment.⁸

Jock itch most commonly occurs in the groin area, starting at the creases and spreading out to the thighs and buttocks. It does not usually affect genitals like the penis, testicles or vulva. If left untreated, jock itch can spread to other parts of the body like hands, nails and feet.⁹

Jock itch is highly contagious. It thrives in warm, moist environments and is spread through skin-to-skin contact. Jock itch can spread across your own body by scratching the rash and touching other parts of the body. Athlete’s foot is caused by the same fungus and can be spread to the groin by touching infected clothing. For example, brushing feet against underwear while putting them on.

The fungus can spread from person to person through direct skin contact, including sexual contact. You can also get jock itch by touching infected surfaces like towels, clothing or floors.¹⁰

While not as common as in men, jock itch in women does happen. Jock itch on women will typically look like an itchy rash on the groin, inner thigh, and buttocks. Signs and symptoms of jock itch in women are the same as men.¹¹

Jock itch is characterized by an itchy rash with scaly, dry skin with sometimes bumps and blisters. Many other conditions can have similar symptoms but there are some key differences.

Jock itch vs. Herpes

Both jock itch and herpes can produce itchy blisters or bumps around the genital area. However, the sores from herpes does not include a rash. Herpes also can be accompanied by a fever, muscle aches or pain while urinating.¹²

Jock itch vs. Yeast infection

While jock itch occurs in the groin area, it is not commonly found on or in genitals.¹³ Yeast infections, on the other hand, affect primarily the vagina or vulva. A yeast infection is often accompanied by vaginal discharge as well.¹⁴

Jock itch vs. Scabies

Both jock itch and scabies produce an itchy rash with bumps. The main difference between the two conditions is the cause. Jock itch is caused by a fungal infection while scabies is caused by tiny mites. The key indicator that a rash might be scabies is that the itch gets worse at night.¹⁵

Jock itch vs. Groin eczema

Jock itch and eczema both cause itchy, dry rashes with bumps, so it can be difficult to tell the two conditions apart without professional help. Eczema is an immune condition and is not contagious.¹⁶

Try these tips to help prevent jock itch:¹⁷

• Wash groin with antibacterial soap.

• Dry groin after swimming or bathing.

• Apply talcum powder or antifungal powder to groin.

• Wear loose underwear and pants.

• Wear cotton or synthetic moisture-wicking underwear.

• Wash your clothes soon after use, especially sweaty clothes.

• Don’t share towels or clothes.

• Treat any fungal infections like ringworm or athlete’s foot immediately.

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To get rid of jock itch, you will need an antifungal ointment, cream or gel. Jock itch treatment options include over-the-counter and prescription strength topicals. In severe cases, oral prescriptions may be necessary.¹⁸

Jock itch treatments are the same for men and women. Any person with jock itch will need an antifungal treatment.

Yes, jock itch can be treated at home with over-the-counter topical antifungal treatments. If you need prescription treatment or want to confirm your diagnosis, you can start a low-cost $39 online doctor consultation with a RedBox Rx medical provider from the privacy of your own home.

Jock itch is primarily treated with over-the-counter antifungal creams, ointments, gels, sprays and powders. In severe cases, a prescription topical or oral medication might be necessary.

The active ingredients in prescription strength and over-the counter antifungal topical treatments for jock itch include:¹⁹

• Clotrimazole

• Miconazole

• Tolnaftate

• Terbinafine

Prescription-only jock itch medications include:

• Ketoconazole²⁰

• Fluconazole

• Itraconazole

• Terbinafine

Medication for jock itch will start working immediately after application. However, it can take anywhere from one to eight weeks for the fungal infection to completely clear up.²¹ If you don’t see any improvement within one week of treatment, please seek medical advice.²²

If left untreated, jock itch can spread to other parts of the body. Antifungal treatment is needed to clear up jock itch.²³

Jock itch spreads through direct contact with an infected person or surface. Follow these tips to avoid spreading the infection:²⁴

• Start antifungal treatment immediately.

• Avoid scratching or touching the rash.

• Thoroughly wash and dry groin area.

• Do not share clothing or other items with others.

• Avoid sexual contact until the infection is cleared up.
  
  

Jock itch is contagious as long as the infection lives on your skin. It usually takes a few weeks to clear up with treatment. If prescribed treatment, be sure to complete the full course of medication.²⁵

Yes! With RedBox Rx, you can connect online with a U.S. licensed medical provider about jock itch treatment. If medication is prescribed, it can be shipped directly to you, or you can select your local pharmacy for pickup.

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