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Skin foldsCommon practice

Absorbent powder

A fine drying powder for sweaty skin folds, feet, and other places that stay damp. Many are talc-free.

Why it helps

It soaks up sweat and cuts down on rubbing so skin stays drier and more comfortable. Keeping folds dry helps prevent chafing and the soggy, broken-down skin (maceration) that lets germs grow.

Look for

  • Talc-free formulas
  • Fragrance-free
  • Fine texture that does not clump
  • Shaker or pump that keeps dust low
  • Medicated versions only if a clinician advises it

Avoid

  • Talc products you could breathe in as dust
  • Powder packed onto wet, raw, or open skin
  • Heavily scented body powders

Caution

Never shake powder near the face, and keep it away from babies' faces, because inhaling fine powder can hurt the lungs.

Worth asking a clinician about

Medicated powders, such as antifungal ones, are best used when a clinician has confirmed what the rash is.

Products

These are products Dr. Haque has reviewed and recommends for different reasons. Unless a product is clearly marked 'Affiliate link,' it is not one. Most are not.

How to read the tags

    • Fragrance-free
    Free of: the product is made without this ingredient, as stated on the label.
    • NEA Seal
    Seals: an outside group has reviewed the product for its program.
    • USDA Organic
    Labeled natural / USDA Organic: what the label says about natural or certified organic ingredients. A label is not a guarantee of safety or fit.
    • Ceramides
    Ingredients and materials: notable ingredients or fabrics in the product.
    • SPF 30+
    Features: how the product is made or works, such as SPF or texture.
    • Hypoallergenic (brand)
    Brand claims: a claim made by the brand, not verified by me.