Intertrigo
Intertrigo is a red, irritated rash that forms where skin folds rub together and trap moisture, such as under the breasts, in the groin, or beneath the belly.
Plain English
Patient-Friendly Explanation
Intertrigo is a common skin rash that develops in warm, moist skin folds — under the breasts, in the armpits or groin, and beneath an abdominal fold. Friction plus trapped moisture lets yeast and bacteria overgrow, causing redness, itching and sometimes an unpleasant odour. Carrying excess weight increases the number and depth of skin folds, making intertrigo more likely and harder to clear.
Medical
Clinical Definition
Intertrigo is an inflammatory dermatosis of opposing skin surfaces caused by friction, heat and maceration, frequently complicated by secondary infection with Candida albicans, dermatophytes or bacteria such as Corynebacterium minutissimum (erythrasma). Obesity predisposes to it through increased skin-fold surface area, higher local humidity and impaired lymphatic drainage. Management combines keeping folds clean and dry, barrier or low-potency topical corticosteroids, targeted antifungal or antibacterial therapy, and weight reduction to lessen fold burden and prevent recurrence.
Key Insight
Why It Matters
Recurrent intertrigo can be a sign that weight loss would meaningfully improve skin health. At Accord Medical we can address both the rash itself and the underlying weight problem, so the condition does not keep coming back.
Sources
Reviewed against standard medical references.
Medically reviewed by
Family Physician & Registered Acupuncturist, Accord Medical Clinic. MBBS (NUS), Graduate Diploma in Family Medicine (NUS), Graduate Diploma in Acupuncture (Singapore College of TCM).
Last reviewed: August 2026
This page is general health education, not medical advice. Whether any treatment is appropriate for you is a decision made in consultation after assessment.
