Chafing, Irritation and Skin Care
Practical steps for reducing friction and knowing when a rash needs medical assessment.
Friction, sweat, detergent, tight clothing and product ingredients can irritate genital skin, but infection and other skin conditions can look similar.
Reduce friction
Change restrictive or damp clothing, use breathable fabrics and allow irritated skin to recover.
Simplify products
Avoid fragranced soaps, harsh scrubbing and new lubricants until the trigger is clearer.
Do not guess at treatment
Steroid, antifungal and antibiotic products are not interchangeable and can worsen some conditions.
Get help
Seek assessment for persistent rash, ulcers, blisters, discharge, severe swelling, fever or STI concern.
Editorial sources
This page is written as general education. Health and safety guidance is aligned with public-health and clinical resources, including the CDC condom-use guidance and clinical information on painful intercourse. Product instructions should always be followed.