Over the weekend, I noticed red bumps on both of my thighs in the groin area. They kind of look like acne almost. I showed it to my parents and they didn't think it was anything to worry about. I had ran out of detergent and borrowed my roommates to use once or twice. Could that be it? I was also using a peppermint body wash while home from school that I didn't normally use. What about that? Applying lotion seems to slowly be working. I am currently sexually active and was wondering if I should refrain from such activity until this irritation clears up?

Thanks,
Hugh

It sounds like you narrowed down the suspects. Changing soaps and detergents can definitely lead to skin irritation. The dyes and perfumes in these products can cause adverse reactions to sensitive skin.

If the lotion is calming down the outbreak, I would keep watching it, ensure I stop using the new detergents and soaps. Stick to what you have been using.

If you are concerned that it might be an STD, the easiest way to ease your mind is to go see a Doctor. No website will be able to ease your mind like a visit to the Doctor. If you go on the assumption that it is only a skin irritation, then as long as you are not irritating or adding irritants to the area, sex shouldn't be an issue.

But, see a Doctor to make sure.