Itching in the groin: what it can be and what to do

Itching in the groin can be caused by hair growth after epilation, allergy to panties or underwear material and, in these cases, applying a moisturizing cream or anti-allergic ointment, such as Polaramine or Fenergan, can help relieve itching and end discomfort quickly.

However, itching in the groin can also indicate a skin problem, most often mycosis of the groin, which is more common in men. This itching can also happen in women, happening not only in the groin, but also in the vagina. In addition, itching in the groin may also be due to the presence of lice on the pubic hair, but this situation is more rare.

It is important to consult a dermatologist if the itch does not improve after 3 days with proper hygiene care, use of cotton underwear and application of ointments, as it may be necessary to perform tests to identify other causes that are causing itchiness in the groin.

1. Allergy to panties or underwear

Allergy, or contact dermatitis, is one of the main causes of male and female itching, as there are many pieces of underwear that are made of synthetic materials, which makes it difficult for the skin to breathe and causes the itching and irritation sensation.

In addition to itching, allergies to panties or underwear cause symptoms such as redness, flaking and the presence of white or red balls on the skin of the groin and this is caused by contact with a substance present in the underwear or panties of which the person is allergic.

What to do: in these cases, it is recommended to apply an anti-allergic ointment, such as Polaramine or Fenergan, for example, wash your panties or underwear before using and give preference to using cotton underwear. If the itch does not improve after three days of this care, it is important to consult a dermatologist to identify the cause and start the most appropriate treatment.

2. Ringworm of the groin

Ringworm is mainly responsible for itching in the male groin, as it is very common for men to produce more sweat and have more hair than women, being more susceptible to the growth of fungi in this region. In these cases, the area becomes red, itchy, the skin may appear to be peeling and even spots and small bubbles or lumps may appear on the skin.

What to do: To end the itchiness in the groin caused by ringworm, it is recommended to go to the dermatologist for the region to be observed and the appropriate treatment indicated, which can be done with ointments, creams or antifungal lotions. In more advanced cases, the doctor may prescribe oral antifungal remedies. Learn about other treatment options for ringworm in the groin.

3. Hair growth

Epilating with a blade, or even with wax, causes irritation in the skin of the groin, making it more sensitive and this can lead to the appearance of itching in the region. After a few days, when the hairs start to grow, the pores in the skin may become clogged and the hairs can become ingrown, also causing itchiness in the groin.

What to do: To end the itchiness in the groin caused by hair growth after epilation, a good tip is to use a moisturizer, as in addition to moisturizing the skin, the cream relieves the irritation caused by the itching and, consequently, the desire scratching decreases.

Other tips to avoid itching due to hair growth include exfoliating before shaving, using a shaving foam and shaving the hair in the case of razor shaving.

4. Candidiasis

Candidiasis is the main cause of itchiness in the groin in women and is usually associated with symptoms in the intimate area, such as itching in the vagina, pain or burning during intimate contact, redness, swelling in the vulvar region and white discharge. Despite being more frequent in women, candidiasis can also happen in men and lead to the appearance of itching in the groin.

What to do: to relieve itching in the groin caused by candidiasis, it is recommended to go to the gynecologist or urologist, in the case of men, so that the region is observed and the appropriate treatment is indicated, which can be done with antifungal creams or antifungal remedies. oral. Also check out the care you can take at home to treat vaginal candidiasis.

5. Pubic lice

Pubic lice, also known as pubic or flat pediculosis, are more frequent in cases of poor intimate hygiene or sharing towels and underwear, and can appear in both men and women and cause redness, irritation and itching in the groin area.

What to do: To stop this type of itch in the groin, you should consult a dermatologist to be prescribed a remedy for lice, such as ivermectin, for example. Other tips to help relieve itchiness and eliminate annoying groin is to shave the genital area, use forceps to remove lice and wash sheets, pillows and underwear in water with a temperature above 60ºC.