Rash from loose skin

It does not solve everything, but keep the skin folds clean by not skipping showers and switch underwear at least twice daily. Heat and sweat only worsen the rubbing. Cortisone cream might calm it down. Also keep records with photos and send them to your doctor so the issue is noted in your chart now instead of waiting until weight loss ends. A paper trail and pictures of the rashes can sometimes help get insurance to cover apron skin removal.

See your doctor and have the rash documented. That record can support getting insurance coverage for skin removal later. The doctor may also determine it is something treatable such as yeast, which often appears in these folds.

Topical hydrocortisone can ease symptoms for a while, yet extended use risks thinning the skin. Amlactin is sometimes paired with it to reduce that thinning. If bacterial growth seems likely, washing with hibiclens soap can kill bacteria and leave a residue that continues to act. After drying, make sure the area is completely dry, perhaps using a blow dryer. At night one layer of gauze netting wrapped around the body might hold the folds open and dry, though that is just an improvised idea without medical backing.

I dealt with bright red inflamed skin and a strong burning sensation. Triple antibiotic cream, hydrocortisone, and cornstarch together helped considerably. It took a couple of weeks to clear but required consistent application. After the first week I kept using cornstarch after every shower. Products with calamine powder can soothe as well, and diaper rash cream or miconazole may also be useful.

My wife applies baby powder to reduce moisture and add a bit of protection, which gives some relief.

GHK Cu comes up often for skin repair, though I am unsure how much supporting evidence exists. Others who have looked into it may know more.

When I was heavier my inner thighs rubbed while walking. I tried a lubricant made for that purpose and it resolved the issue. It might be worth testing.

Use hydrocortisone cream very sparingly, only a thin layer once or twice a day and no longer than a week at a time. I would save it for last resort because skin thinning is not something anyone wants. A good moisture barrier may give better relief, especially one with an anti-fungal ingredient. Apply two or three times a day if fungus is present and keep using it for at least two weeks after the rash is fully gone. Once cleared you can switch to the plain version without the anti-fungal.