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The Best Natural Soaps for Intertrigo

Written by Elizabeth Kessler • Updated on: 11/02/23

Intertrigo refers to skin fold rash usually found in areas like the armpits, groin, and underside of the breast. It can be itchy and painful but not contagious. Intertrigo itself is not a bacterial or yeast infection but a moist environment can breed bacteria, fungus, and yeast.

Alongside applying ointments and creams, your doctor may instruct you to wash the area with soap and dry the area. If you’re looking for the best soap for intertrigo, here’s a checklist:

  • Doctor’s recommendation: Healthcare websites provide plenty of information on diseases and illnesses but they are no substitute for a doctor’s visit. You may have accurately self-diagnosed intertrigo.

    However, doctors can check for signs of infection and accurately diagnose the cause by obtaining cultures or scrapings of your rash. In this way, they can give you a more targeted treatment. Whatever soap you put on your rash, be sure that your doctor approves it.

  • Ingredients: Treatment may involve different strategies and products depending on the cause and type of infection. Generally, keeping the area clean and dry is an effective remedy. Tea tree oil and coconut oil can soothe itching and avert infection.

    Some doctors may recommend bathing with chlorhexidine gluconate every day until the condition improves. Check the ingredients of the soap you intend to use to ensure they are appropriate for your skin type and condition.

  • Authenticity: Online ads showing discounted deals can be very enticing, especially if you want to save some money. Be extra careful about buying cheap soaps as they may contain ingredients that are harmful to your skin or rash. Scammers can imitate the packaging of original products. Purchase only from known brands and distributors.

Just a disclaimer: The following products are reviewed based on my experience and research. However, each of us has different skin types, allergies, and other sensitivities to certain ingredients. It is important to do a patch test before using the soap on your entire body. When in doubt, consult your doctor.

The Best Natural Soaps for Intertrigo

What is best soap to use for daily showers with intertrigo?

1. Truremedy Naturals GN-R9BG-KFJ4 Remedy Soap

By just reading the label, I knew this product is promising. As I mentioned in the introduction, soaps loaded with tea tree oil can soothe the itch. More importantly, its anti-inflammatory effect can help reduce swelling and redness. Meanwhile, its antibacterial properties promote wound healing. Luckily, Truremedy Naturals’ body wash contains this powerful ingredient alongside peppermint, eucalyptus, and coconut oil.

Personally, I have used this soap to deal with my sweat-induced rash. However, it is also best known for treating skin irritations like jock itch, candida, ringworm, and other infections. I’m amazed that this soap has also cleared up my acne.

Despite all that, the formula is gentle enough for everyday use. It has no parabens and other harmful chemicals. On a hot humid day or after work out, showering with this soap feels super refreshing thanks to its subtle scent. Even better, it keeps me odor-free throughout the day.

Pros

  • Can soothe an itchy rash
  • No harmful chemicals
  • Can treat most skin irritations
  • Mild for everyday shower
  • Can promote wound healin

Cons

  • The bottle is hard to squeeze
  • Rather expensive for its quantity

Impressively, this paraben-free body wash for skin folds can relieve the itching rash and other skin irritations. Furthermore, its all-natural ingredients can make you feel rejuvenated after showering.

2. Vanicream Z-Bar Medicated Cleansing Bar

Although many people refer to this product as a medicated soap for skin rashes, it is technically “soap-free” if you look closely at the label. Rest assured, its ingredients are mild enough for sensitive skin. After all, it does not contain fragrance, parabens, lanolin, dyes, and formaldehyde. Therefore, the chances of getting reactions are pretty low.

I love this particular cleansing bar for many reasons. Firstly, it is an excellent anti-dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis treatment. Secondly, I have found it especially useful for calming acne breakouts. For some folks, it has helped relieve intertrigo and eczema. In other words, I can rely on just one bar of soap to make my skin look clear, whether it’s my face, body, or scalp!

If you do not like to perform elaborate skincare routines, you will appreciate its ease of use. Note that your doctor may give you specific instructions. Otherwise, the manufacturer recommends applying it twice a week on the affected areas for best results.

Pros

  • Suitable for sensitive skin
  • Easy to apply
  • Helps with acne breakouts
  • Soothes itch and rash
  • Can get rid of dandruff

Cons

  • Tends to dissolve quickly
  • More on the pricy side

With this medicated cleansing bar, you can say goodbye to dandruff, eczema, acne, and itching rash caused by seborrheic dermatitis and intertrigo. Suitable for the face, body, and scalp, its formula will not harm even the most sensitive skin.

3. Aidance Tinea Antifungal Cleansing Bar

Commonly used for tinea and other fungal infection, Terrasil contains olive oil and coconut oil. Both ingredients can fight bacteria but coconut oil can also reduce inflammation, pain, and oxidative stress. Therefore, it cleans my skin well and aids in healing fungal intertrigo at the same time.

Another thing that I like is that this cleansing bar’s formula is non-drying. Alongside other ingredients, the shea butter keeps my skin well-moisturized. Fun fact: this ingredient alone is known for reducing the appearance of scars and stretch marks.

Regardless of the issue you are trying to treat, I assure you that this product is effortless to use. All I had to do was wash the affected area with it daily. In a matter of days, I began to notice some progress as the itch and redness begin to subside. Note that the brand recommends using it along with its ointment for best results.

Pros

  • Excellent antifungal cleansing
  • Does not dry the skin
  • Allows symptoms to subside in days
  • Very simple to use

Cons

  • Costly for small quantity
  • Melts away fast

Apart from moisturizing, this cleansing bar is your best defense in fighting fungal infection. Use it daily and you will surely get the results you want: soft, supple, and healthy-looking skin!

4. Hibiclens ND-MOL57532 Antimicrobial and Antiseptic Skin Cleanser

Typically used for bathing before and after surgery, this product may not be the first one that pops up in your head when looking for soaps for skin rashes.

However, thanks to its antiseptic and antimicrobial properties, this chlorhexidine gluconate can kill germs, bacteria, viruses, yeast, and fungi! Therefore, it keeps rashes from getting infected and allows them to heal properly. It’s no surprise that dermatologists also recommend this for intertrigo, acne, and other skin-related issues.

Gentle to the skin, this Hibiclens soap does not irritate even if you use it every day at home. In fact, the manufacturer encourages handwashing with it. According to the product description, the soap binds to the skin and adds a layer of protection. I must say that it does well in keeping my skin both clean and healthy. Yet, I noticed that it rinses off thoroughly without leaving any annoying residue.

Pros

  • Fights germs, bacteria, viruses, and fungi
  • Used for hospital and home
  • Protects harmed skin against infection
  • Does not leave residue
  • Safe for children

Cons

  • Pours out too much soap

From hospitals to households, doctors recommend this antiseptic soap for pre-surgery showers and cleaning wounds but it does so much more! For those with intertrigo, this product happens to be very soothing.

5. Basis 85700 Sensitive Skin Bar Soap

Because it does not contain fragrances, this bar soap has a distinct yet faint smell of chamomile. Admittedly, I find the scent very calming whenever I shower, which is why it’s an instant favorite. Beyond that, this ingredient tames inflammation due to rash and sunburn. Plus, it promotes wound healing.

Meanwhile, its aloe vera content alleviates eczema and psoriasis and treats acne. Although it is said to be ideal for sensitive skin, I think it suits most skin types thanks to its ultra-pure formula. I can use it to wash my face, hands, and entire body. It lathers and rinses off well. After a couple of days, I notice that my intertrigo rashes started to fade and the itch subsided.

Considering all its abilities, I expected this intertrigo soap to be expensive but thankfully, it’s not! For its price, I can stock up plenty at home without blowing up my savings in resolving skin issues.

Pros

  • Made of ultra-pure formula
  • Tames rash and sunburn
  • Helps treat different skin issues
  • Affordable bar soap
  • Suitable for most skin types

Cons

  • The soap dissolves quicker
  • Some users say it dries their skin

Capable of treating several skin problems, this low-cost soap bar is made of calming ingredients like aloe vera and chamomile. It works well as a facial, body, and hand soap!

6. Solpri Shield Antifungal Soap Bar

Coming in at number is six is this bar of soap touted as a product “designed by athletes for athletes.” If you consider yourself an athlete or a gym buff, then you can count on this product to combat various skin or odor issues due to excessive sweating. Of course, you don’t have to be an athlete to experience its benefits!

Loaded with lemongrass, it protects the user against jock itch, athlete’s foot, ringworm, and fungal intertrigo. Other ingredients include tea tree, orange, eucalyptus, and lime oil. They all work together to fight bacteria and fungus.

Unlike other soaps, this one is not supposed to be lathered on the skin directly. Rather, it should be rubbed on a shower sponge or washcloth then wiped on your body. I appreciate that the manufacturer provided this instruction as I managed to prevent the soap bar from melting away quickly.

Pros

  • Helps with fungal infections
  • Has a pleasant scent
  • Fights bacteria and fungi
  • No residue after rinsing
  • Made for athletes and gym-goers

Cons

  • Does not last very long
  • Has an expensive price

Perfect for athletes and those who frequent the gym, this antifungal body wash is pretty reliable in getting rid of odor and fungal infections like intertrigo. Apart from its awesome scent, it lathers up nicely for a refreshing shower!

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7. Naturasil SG_B006U7BL6O_US Tinea Versicolor Relief Soap

Summertime is almost synonymous with “intertrigo time” for many folks. Well, let this soap rescue you from that uncomfy itching rash. Though this product is primarily for tinea versicolor, it alleviates fungal intertrigo, as well as common fungi like candida and onychomycosis. Several users report improvements within the first two days of using this soap. I can confirm this as I’m also very satisfied with the results.

The soap’s ingredients include pure lavender oil, which is recognized for its antimicrobial properties. As such, it washes away the bacteria and fungi on my skin. Besides its ability to reduce inflammation, it diminishes blotchiness and redness. Just the same, the soap contains sulfur that has antibacterial and antioxidants.

Combined with other botanicals, this product is powerful in clearing blemishes when used according to directions. Yet, it is very gentle to my sensitive skin. Furthermore, it can treat mild to severe fungal infections without causing dryness.

Pros

  • Heals fungal infection symptoms
  • Washes away bacteria and fungi
  • Shows improvements in days
  • Appropriate for sensitive skin
  • Can clear blemishes

Cons

  • Strong sulfur smell

Despite the smell of sulfur, this soap bar delivers notable results within days, which is quite fast if you ask me. Safe to use on sensitive skin, its formula can clear bacteria and fungi for proper healing from both fungal infections and intertrigo.

8. Cetaphil AB-71488 Deep Cleansing Bar

Inexpensive yet effective, Cetaphil is a brand available in most pharmacies and groceries whether you are in the UK or USA. So, it is very easy to purchase. It saves me the trouble of driving from one pharmacy to another or waiting for it to become available on e-commerce sites and apps.

Anyway, let’s now focus on the soap itself. While it is not a “cure” to intertrigo per se, it is best paired with your doctor-prescribed ointment or steroid cream. Regardless of the skin type, its hypoallergenic formula will not irritate. Moreover, it can get rid of all impurities, such as dirt and oil, while simultaneously hydrating the skin. No wonder it’s recommended by dermatologists.

The soap lathers up well as I wet it with my hands. Hence, it is easier to spread it throughout the body. Not to mention, it does not leave any residue on the skin once I rinse it off.

Pros

  • Available in most countries
  • Great with intertrigo creams and ointment
  • Helps clean and hydrate the skin
  • Apt for face and body
  • Affordable for everyday use

Cons

  • Strong perfume-like smell
  • Prone to drying the skin

Popularity aside, this soap bar is indeed dependable for everyday shower and facial skincare routines. Its deep cleansing abilities can aid your ointment or cream in eliminating intertrigo.

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9. Marie’s Originals Soap Bar

When I first opened the box, I noticed that the soap has a coarse texture on the top and was smooth on the bottom. I followed the instructions indicated on the packaging, gently exfoliating the affected area with the rough side after wetting my skin with warm water. The process itself felt somewhat like scratching the itch, which is soothing in a way.

Next, I created a lather with the smooth side to rub it on the rash and left it for three minutes before rinsing with water. As promised, it provided instant relief thanks to sassafras, which is a natural antihistamine. Meanwhile, the bentonite clay and organic oat bran draw out the toxins.

Beyond that, this soap is nourishing and non-drying. Note that its vegan-friendly formula can cleanse well. In particular, it is recommended for irritated skin due to bug bites, chickenpox, poison ivy, eczema, and rashes. Though it’s not technically a cure, it made my intertrigo a little bit more manageable. Also, its fantastic smell makes washing a much more pleasant experience.

Pros

  • Soothes irritated skin
  • Can lather and rinse off well
  • No harmful ingredients
  • Has a wonderful smell
  • Provides immediate relief

Cons

  • The small soap bar melts quickly

Scrubbing and lathering this soap on the itching rash will surely put you to ease. Crafted with cruelty-free formula, it can help you with bug bites, chickenpox, eczema, and intertrigo without drying your skin.

10. REVITALE Salicylic Acid Scrub Soap

The refreshing scent of apricot is a real treat but this soap can deal with so many skin-related issues. What also makes it unique is that it has scrubs made of apricot kernels that help in exfoliating the skin. By unclogging the pores, it gets rid of the excessive oils and toxins that usually cause acne.

Even though it is not directly treating the intertrigo, this soap keeps my skin clean, which is important in treating intertrigo. More than that, it softens my calluses! Other people use it to smooth the rough areas of their skin. It is also effective in resolving Keratosis Pilaris and warts. Note that this soap is not necessarily used for showering. Instead, you just need to work up a lather and apply it to the affected area.

Pros

  • Thoroughly cleanses the skin
  • Can aid in intertrigo treatment
  • Can soften calluses and rough skin
  • Has a refreshing apricot scent
  • Can help in resolving acne

Cons

  • Small-sized soap bar
  • Feels abrasive on the skin

Keeping the affected area clean is crucial in treating intertrigo and this soap can help you with that. Aside from deep cleansing, it can leave your skin feeling soft and smooth!

What to Look for When Buying Soap for Intertrigo

Buying Soap for Intertrigo

Finding the right soap is not always easy. Sometimes we get lucky the first time we try as we see results immediately. Other times, the same soap we are using is out of stock in every store we look, prompting us to look for alternatives. Of course, things can get a little more complicated if you have to deal with sensitive skin and intertrigo. Well, it’s not impossible to make things easier. Just read my advice below:

Purpose

Not all soaps are formulated to treat intertrigo. Your physician may prescribe a combination of ointments, creams, or topical steroids along with soap. For instance, you might be instructed to wash with Cetaphil or Dial soap for intertrigo but you need to follow what your doctor prescribes.

Of course, some soaps can relieve you of the itch and rash that come with intertrigo. Be sure to check with your doctor regarding the purpose of buying a specific soap. In this way, you get a better understanding of what each product does to your skin and how often you can use it.

Skin Reaction

Here’s the tricky part: Most of the time, we can’t tell how our skin would react to the soap until we purchase the product and try it out. Thus, finding the right soap to treat intertrigo involve trial and error. We sometimes Google keywords like “intertrigo NHS” or “intertrigo treatment” in the hopes of finding appropriate products to use. However, the information is not enough for you to determine whether the remedy is truly effective.

I can’t stress this enough but getting the rash seen by a doctor is crucial to formulating a proper treatment plan. Furthermore, you can spot test the soap to check for reactions so you can decide whether to proceed in using it.

Age Appropriate

Intertrigo can happen to anyone irrespective of age. It is not uncommon for infants to have diaper rash. Unless your doctor instructed you, you cannot apply a steroid cream just because it worked on you. This type of product can irritate your baby’s skin. Moreover, skin care products for babies are gentler. Their soaps don’t lather as much as the ones that we adults commonly use.

Scent

Soaps with fragrances can be irritating for certain skin types or harm skin. Indeed, fragrance-free is your best bet. However, some products may have scents that come from the ingredients. They may not necessarily harm your skin but they can put you off.

Sulfur, for instance, provides plenty of benefits to the skin yet smells like rotten eggs! The sensitivity to smell varies from person to person. Some people can tolerate overpowering smells but others can’t.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Have a Bath With Intertrigo

Yes, bathing or showering with a doctor-recommended soap can help intertrigo rash. However, you need to thoroughly pat yourself dry with a towel instead of rubbing. Your healthcare provider may suggest blow-drying or fanning the affected area, as well as applying powder for skin folds. Remember, the key here is to keep the site clean and dry.

Does Antibacterial Soap Help With Intertrigo

Does Antibacterial Soap Help With Intertrigo

Yes, washing daily with antibacterial soap can help but it depends on the severity of the condition. With infants, for instance, the doctor may recommend washing the affected area with mild soap. On the other hand, doctors may prescribe adults who suffer from severe bacterial intertrigo with antibiotic soap or creams.

What Is the Fastest Way to Heal Intertrigo

There is no definitive answer to this question as it depends on the causes, the kind of intertrigo that you may have, and its severity. Note that soaps, creams, and ointments alone may not heal intertrigo. That’s because keeping the affected area dry is crucial in preventing it from turning into a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi.

Before giving you treatment, your healthcare provider will ask you about your skin conditions in the past and present. This includes any medications you have had, as well as allergies and sensitivities. As such, the doctor can recommend soaps, medication, and other products more suitable for you.

Conclusion

As a recap, let me reiterate that intertrigo treatment tips should not necessarily replace your doctor’s prescription. However, the product information and reviews can serve as a guide so you know which brands can be trusted. You cannot afford to gamble with unknown soap brands that may contain ingredients harmful to already damaged skin.

Lastly, bear in mind that we have different skin types. Furthermore, each of us is treating intertrigo that may have come from non-identical causes. What I consider as the best soap for intertrigo may or may not work for you.

Best Soaps for Intertrigo

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