Have a round, red rash this summer? Here’s what to know

Summer in Miami means heat and humidity and, for a lot of people, a reddish rash that seems to appear out of nowhere. If you’ve noticed a round, pink or red patch with smaller “satellite” spots around the edges cropping up under your breasts, in your groin or tucked under your arms, you may be dealing with candidiasis, or a yeast infection.

What is candidiasis?

Candida is a fungus that lives on the skin naturally, but it thrives in warm, moist environments, like South Florida summers. When sweat gets trapped in skin folds, Candida quickly multiplies, causing a skin rash. Candidiasis is more common than most people realize and nothing to be embarrassed about, but it does need to be treated with an antifungal to get it to go away.

What should you do if you have it?

First, talk to your dermatologist for an accurate diagnosis, as other skin conditions can look similar to a rash from candidiasis.

For mild cases, over-the-counter topical antifungals can work well. You can even apply Monistat to the affected skin folds. The active ingredient, miconazole, targets the same fungus, regardless of where it shows up. For more stubborn or widespread infections, your doctor may prescribe an oral antifungal to clear things up faster.

If you’re prone to this type of rash, washing with the CLN body wash may help to prevent these pesky summer yeast infections. In addition, try to keep skin folds as dry as possible and wear loose, breathable clothing, especially when outdoors or performing strenuous activity. Shower and change into clean, dry clothes as quickly as possible after sweating.

Bottom line

Summer yeast infections are uncomfortable, but they’re common and treatable. With the right antifungal and a few simple habit changes, you can enjoy the Miami summer without the miserable itch.

I am seeing patients Wednesdays at Body + Beauty Lab in Bay Harbor. Have questions for me? Come join the conversation on Reddit at r/skintypesolutions.