Jock Itch: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Medically reviewed by Sumiran Racherla, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 23, 2026.
What kind of doctor treats Jock Itch?
A primary care doctor can often diagnose and treat jock itch, and a dermatologist, a doctor who treats skin conditions, can help if it does not clear up. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What is jock itch?
Jock itch is an infection of the groin area caused by a fungus. The medical term is tinea cruris, or ringworm of the groin. Ringworm is caused by a fungus, not a worm. These infections are usually not serious, but they can be uncomfortable.
Symptoms
Jock itch causes an itchy, burning rash in the groin area. The rash can look like this:
- Red, raised, scaly patches that may blister and ooze.
- Sharply defined edges, with scale at the edges.
- A ring shape, since ringworm causes an itchy, ring-shaped rash.
- Skin that looks red on light skin and gray or brown on darker skin.
- Skin that turns darker or lighter than normal. Sometimes these changes are permanent.
The rash usually stays around the creases of the upper thigh and does not involve the scrotum or penis. It may spread to near the anus, causing anal itching and discomfort.
Causes and who gets it
Jock itch happens when a fungus grows and spreads in the groin area. The fungus thrives in warm, moist areas. Friction from clothes and long periods of moisture, such as from sweating, can trigger it. It occurs mostly in adult men and teenage boys. It is more common in overweight people with deep, moist skin folds.
Jock itch can pass from one person to another by direct skin-to-skin contact or by touching unwashed clothing. Shared objects such as towels and bedsheets can also spread ringworm. Some people who have jock itch also have athlete's foot or another kind of ringworm. A fungal infection of the feet can spread to the groin if the waistband of your pants picks up the fungus from your feet. Anyone can get ringworm, but people with weakened immune systems may be especially at risk.
How doctors diagnose it
A health care provider can usually diagnose jock itch by how your skin looks. Tests are usually not necessary. Other skin problems can look like ringworm, so testing can help make sure you get the right treatment.
If tests are needed, they may include a KOH exam, which is a simple office test to check for fungus. A skin culture may also be done. A provider may also take a small skin scraping for testing.
Treatment
Jock itch usually responds to self-care within a couple of weeks. Self-care steps include:
- Keep the skin in the groin area clean and dry.
- Do not wear clothing that rubs and irritates the area. Wear loose-fitting underwear.
- Wash athletic supporters often.
- Use over-the-counter antifungal creams or powders. These contain medicine such as miconazole, clotrimazole, terbinafine, or tolnaftate.
Do not use steroid creams on a rash that could be ringworm. You may need treatment from your provider if the infection lasts longer than 2 weeks, is severe, or keeps coming back. A provider may prescribe stronger antifungal medicines, applied to the skin or taken by mouth. A provider may also prescribe antibiotics for bacterial infections that can start from scratching the area. If you tend to get jock itch, keep using antifungal medicine after bathing, even when you do not have it. Losing weight may help keep it from coming back. Changing underwear every day and not sharing towels also help prevent ringworm.
When to see a doctor
Contact your provider if jock itch does not improve with home care after 2 weeks, or if you have other symptoms. Also get treatment from a provider if the infection is severe or keeps coming back. Because many skin problems look alike, go to a provider for testing if you have a rash or symptoms of ringworm.
How a direct primary care or concierge doctor fits in
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance, while a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. Either kind of doctor can look at the rash, order a simple skin test if needed, and refer you to a dermatologist if the problem keeps coming back.
Common questions
Is jock itch serious?
No, jock itch is usually not serious, but it can be uncomfortable. It usually responds promptly to treatment.
Is jock itch the same as ringworm?
Yes, jock itch is a form of ringworm. Ringworm on the groin is often called jock itch, and a fungus causes it, not a worm.
How do you get jock itch?
You can get jock itch from skin-to-skin contact with an infected person or from unwashed clothing. Sweating and clothes that rub the groin can also trigger it.
How long does jock itch take to go away?
Jock itch usually responds to self-care within a couple of weeks. See your provider if it does not improve with home care after 2 weeks.
Can I use a steroid cream on jock itch?
No, do not use steroid creams on a rash that could be ringworm. Over-the-counter antifungal creams or powders can help control the infection.
Sources
- MedlinePlus - Jock itch
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - Ringworm Basics
- MedlinePlus - Tinea Infections
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
