Rash on inner thigh: 11 causes, symptoms, and treatments - Medical News Today

A rash on the inner thigh is a fairly widespread complaint. The lack of heat and airflow around the inner thighs allow bacteria and other germs to flourish. This area is also easily irritated by friction or contact with clothing.

This article lists 11 common causes of a rash on the inner thigh, along with possible treatment options and preventive techniques.

There are many possible reasons for an inner thigh rash. Both women and men are susceptible to inner thigh rashes, although the causes may vary between the sexes.

Potential causes include:

1. Atopic dermatitis

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A rash on the inner thigh may be accompanied by itchiness, oozing lesions, and scaly patches.

Atopic dermatitis, more commonly known as eczema, causes red, itchy, and dry skin. The condition is more common in children, although it can occur at any age.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association, an estimated 10 to 20 percent of children worldwide have eczema, while just 1 to 3 percent of adults do.

Eczema may begin in the creases of the elbows or knees, but it often spreads to other areas of the body, including the inner thighs.

Over time, this skin condition may cause:

• a leathery appearance
• dry skin
• lightening or darkening of the skin
• permanent bumps

2. Chafing

The inner thighs are especially prone to chafing because they can rub against one another or be irritated by clothing and pantyhose. Physical activities, such as running, may also lead to chafing.

Chafing is characterized by redness and blistering, although these symptoms should clear up once the cause of the chafing is addressed.

3. Contact dermatitis

Contact dermatitis causes a rash to flare up following skin exposure to an irritant (irritant contact dermatitis) or an allergen (allergic contact dermatitis).

Irritant contact dermatitis may be caused by a variety of substances, including:

• bleach
• detergents
• fragrances
• soap

Allergic contact dermatitis is less common and results from exposure to substances such as:

• latex
• nickel
• poison ivy

The inner thighs may be especially prone to contact dermatitis because they come into close contact with clothing and detergents on a regular basis.

4. Heat rash

Heat rash, also known as miliaria or prickly heat, occurs when the pores become blocked and trap the sweat in the skin. Although it can be itchy and irritating, this skin rash is not dangerous.

It appears as tiny bumps on the skin and can affect any area of the body, from the back and chest to the groin and inner thighs. Symptoms usually resolve once the skin cools down.

Heat rash occurs in hot and humid environments and most commonly affects infants, children, and people on bedrest.

5. Hidradenitis suppurativa

Hidradenitis suppurative (HS) is a rare rash that presents as blackheads or pimple-like bumps under the skin, which may burst and ooze pus. It occurs where skin rubs against skin, so it is common in the inner thighs, groin, and armpits.

The cause of HS is unknown, but it is most common in people who:

HS affects three times more women than men, and it usually begins between puberty and menopause, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.

6. Jock itch

Despite the name, anyone can get jock itch, not just athletes. It is more common in men than women because men tend to sweat more, especially around the groin.

Caused by the same fungus that leads to athlete's foot, jock itch can itch, burn, and cause a flaky and scaly rash on the genitals, inner thighs, and buttocks.

This rash is highly contagious, especially through direct contact or by sharing towels or other items.

7. Pityriasis rosea

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Rashes that get worse or do not fade after a couple of weeks should be assessed by a doctor.

This common rash often appears in the spring and fall, with symptoms including small, scaly patches on the thighs, neck, upper arms, back, or chest.

Approximately 75 percent of all cases of pityriasis rosea begin with a "herald patch," which is a single oval, scaly patch, followed within 2 weeks by more patches.

The condition affects women more than men and is more common in younger people. It rarely affects those over 60.

The cause of pityriasis rosea is not known, but the rash usually disappears completely within a few months.

8. Razor burn

Razor burn is caused by shaving, especially with unclean or dull razor blades, or when using improper shaving techniques.

Razor burn can develop on any part of the body that is shaved.

9. Swimmer's itch

Swimmer's itch, medically known as cercarial dermatitis, is an allergic reaction to certain parasites that live in some lakes, ponds, and oceans.

Symptoms include tingling or burning skin, reddish pimples, and small blisters that arise within days of swimming in infected water. Most cases do not require medical attention unless symptoms persist or get worse.

Swimmer's itch can occur anywhere in the world but occurs more often during the summer months. However, there is no risk of getting swimmer's itch from properly chlorinated pools.