Although it’s true that jock itch won’t endanger your life, it’s something that can cause a lot of discomfort and embarrassment. Just like what its name suggests, jock itch can cause severe itching down there — it can be very hard to resist scratching even in public!
Luckily, there are a number of creams and ointments available for jock itch. But regularly applying them is futile if you keep on doing certain things that are known to exacerbate the problem.
If you have jock itch, don’t stop reading now. Below you will come across some activities that can keep that jock itch from going away. Turning your back on them will of course help reduce the symptoms considerably, allowing you to enjoy a normal life once again despite of your secret.
Here are some of the things that you should avoid:
Using Harsh Soaps
Because of the itchiness, you may be tempted to use the harshest soap on the face of the planet that you can find just to put an end to your bout of jock itch. However, it’s something counterintuitive, experts say. Instead of controlling the problem, soaps with harsh chemicals can actually worsen it.
What you need to do is opt for the mildest soap that you can find instead. Containing mild ingredients only, it won’t cause irritation that will only leave you scratching even more. Ask a dermatologist which soap is best for you.
Applying Strong Creams
There are lots and lots of topical products for individuals who suffer from jock itch. Unfortunately, many of them can cause all sorts of side effects — they may get rid of the signs and symptoms of jock itch, but they can cause a bunch of other ones to appear. The same can be said for most orally-taken antifungal solutions.
When on the hunt for a jock itch medication, it’s a good idea for you to opt for something that contains nothing but all-natural ingredients. There are also plenty of home remedies for jock itch that are safe and effective.
Putting On Tight Garments
It’s not a good idea for you to wear anything that’s too tight if you have jock itch, in particular something that is worn from the waist below. Otherwise, the itchiness you experience will only end up worse.
Refrain from putting on underwear that’s too tight. Wear something that does not cause friction in order to keep affected areas of the groin from becoming irritated. Avoid tight shorts and pants, too! As much as possible, opt for garments that are out of cotton or other natural material in order to provide the area down there with much-needed ventilation.
Using Fabric Softeners
You may be tempted to use fabric softeners to make your underwear softer, and thus keeping your jock itch from worsening. But the fact is fabric softener use can actually exacerbate the problem, courtesy of harsh chemicals that may cause skin irritation, like fragrances.
Other than skipping the use of fabric softeners, you should also switch to laundry detergents that contain only mild ingredients. Also, see to it that you rinse your undies thoroughly to remove soaps.
Sharing Personal Items
Did you know that jock itch is a highly contagious skin condition? It is caused by a fungus that can easily spread from one groin to the other through contact, directly or indirectly.
It’s exactly for this reason why you should avoid sharing personal items such as underwear and towels. And if you are fully aware that you have jock itch, it’s a no-no to allow someone who doesn’t have it to borrow a personal item of yours in order to save the individual from having to go through the same ordeal as yours.
Eating Trigger Foods
According to skin experts, there are certain foods that are known to have unpleasant effects on jock itch. The said foods are those that trigger inflammation. Some of them include chocolates, dried fruits, and wheat and wheat-containing products. Anything that contains sugar should be avoided, too.
Consider having a food journal if you are suffering from jock itch. This way, it will be easier for you to identify foods that can cause your jock itch and its symptoms to worsen.
