Copyright People’s Pharmacy

Q: I read with interest the letter from the large-breasted woman with a possible fungal infection under her breasts.  She mentioned that cornstarch hadn’t worked.  I was told by a doctor that the fungus actually FEEDS on the cornstarch and to avoid it.  Do you have any information on this?  I do use amber Listerine and also milk of magnesia.  Yes, the Listerine stings if I have a rash, but leaves me feeling cool and dry.  For me, the milk of magnesia seems especially effective in fighting the rash.  I wash my underwear after every wearing.

A: Thanks for sharing your experience with under-breast rash.  There is a medical term for this condition: inframammary intertrigo. However, relatively little research has been devoted to it.  Many doctors as well as patients are convinced that cornstarch can fuel skin fungus.  We have been unable to find studies confirming this belief.  The one study we found that addressed it directly found that “cornstarch and talc powders do not enhance the growth of yeasts on human skin” (Pediatric Dermatology, April 1984).  Keeping skin dry and reducing friction are pillars of preventing irritation.  Some people find that a diaper cream containing zinc oxide can be helpful.  Health care providers have recommended moisture-wicking textile with silver for under-breast rash, to keep the area dry (Wound Care Canada, Vol. 11, No. 2, 2013).  Silver also has antimicrobial activity, but these cloths are sold as wound care and are a bit pricey.  Listerine also has antimicrobial activity.  The menthol and methyl salicylate trigger a cooling sensation.  Washing underwear after each wearing seems like a sensible precaution to avoid repeat infections.