A little scratch in the crotch once in a while isn’t a big deal, but when a man’s hand flies there frequently, or when he has to excuse himself to go somewhere private because of a big, long scratch, then chances are jock itch has reared its troublesome head. One of the most common penile health problems, jock itch is basically benign, but it’s a nuisance! Knowing how to treat jock itch is crucial, but prevention strategies for the condition are even more valuable. In this article, originally published on EzineArticles.com, we take a look at the cause of jock itch and explore some of the best strategies for treating or preventing it.
An itch by any other name
Jock itch, technically known as tinea cruris, is a fungal infection that is concentrated in the groin, inner thighs, and buttocks. It is essentially the same fungus that is responsible for athlete’s foot. So since it’s a fungus, prevention involves keeping that fungus off the penis or creating conditions in which it’s unlikely to thrive.
prevention strategies
With that in mind, the following are some typical prevention tricks to keep jock itch away:
– Keep dry. Mushrooms love damp, dark environments, which pretty much describes a typical male crotch. Since the penis is usually hidden under clothing, not much can be done with the “dark” part, so men should focus on keeping the penis and surrounding areas dry. Be sure to dry yourself well after a shower and before putting on underwear and pants. If necessary, use some powder to discourage moisture.
– Change clothes regularly. Wearing clean undergarments is an absolute must for jock itch prevention. Fresh underwear every day is a must; those who sweat frequently should be changed more often. A guy should never work out in the gym and still wear the same underwear he worked out in.
– Use clean towels. Only use clean towels, especially when you are at the gym or other public space. Never dry yourself with towels someone else has used (unless they have been laundered afterwards). One of the main routes of transmission of jock itch is the affected material; if a man dries his fungus-infected feet or garbage and then passes the towel to another man, jock itch is sure to spread. (Similarly, don’t wear another man’s clothing, unless it’s been washed, and never another man’s underwear, no matter how well it’s washed.)
– Do not ejaculate in socks. When many men masturbate, they prefer to ejaculate into a pair of socks that they just took off. If they have athlete’s foot, that’s a direct route of transmission. Use bandanas instead.
– Wear sandals to the gym (and sit on a towel). Wearing sandals helps a guy avoid athlete’s foot fungus in a public gym. Also, bring a towel to the sauna and sit on it; many saunas and steam rooms have several levels, so bare feet can step up and down them.
– put to dry. Find a time when it’s okay to be naked for a while, to let your penis and surroundings “air out.” This can help keep the area dry. Many men choose to sleep naked as a way to freshen up.
Another good tip for jock itch prevention: maintain penile health. This can be aided by the daily application of a top-notch penis health cream. (Health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil, which is clinically proven to be gentle and safe for skin.). Keeping penile skin healthy is crucial to help prevent jock itch, so look for a cream that contains a combination of moisturizing agents, such as shea butter and vitamin E. Overly dry penile skin can crack, making it easier to break. access to fungi. Also look for a cream with a powerful antioxidant, such as alpha lipoic acid. By fighting excess free radicals, alpha lipoic acid discourages oxidative stress and the damage it can cause.