Antifungal creams are typically used as a topical medication to treat athlete's foot, yeast infections, jock itch and fingernail or toenail infections. Active ingredients in these creams work to reduce fungi presence to normal levels. Antifungal creams are available over the counter in several varieties and are sold under different brand names. They generally include common active ingredients such as econazole, miconazole, tioconazole, and clotrimazole. Many creams also include hydrocortisone, which can help to reduce itching associated with a fungal infection. Consult a doctor if you have unusual symptoms, or if symptoms persist after using a cream.
Lamisil
Lamisil is a topical cream with the active ingredient terbinafine hydrochloride to treat itching, cracking and burning of the skin, caused by fungal infections. Terbinafine kills fungi by disrupting cell membranes and causing the fungal cells to leak out. Lamisil should be applied twice a day for 1 to 2 weeks to treat fungal skin infections such as athlete's foot, jock itch, ringworm, pityriasis versicolor and external yeast infections. This medication is for external use only and is not appropriate for children or pregnant or breastfeeding mothers. Risks include occasional skin irritation and, more rarely, severe allergic reactions.
Lotrimin
Lotrimin is a topical cream that uses the active ingredient clotrimazole. It also kills fungi by weakening cell membranes and forcing fungal cells to leak out. Lotrimin provides relief from itching, burning and cracking associated with fungal skin infections such as ringworm, athlete's foot, jock itch and external yeast infections such as sweat rash or thrush. The cream should be applied to the affected skin two to three times per day for 2 weeks to a month, depending upon your condition. Lotrimin should not be used by women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. In addition, it can occasionally cause skin irritation and can decrease the effectiveness of condoms when used to treat infections of the vagina or penis.
Tinactin
Tinactin cream is an antifungal that uses the active ingredient tolnaftate. It works in the same way as Lamisil and Lotrimin to deconstruct cell membranes and kill fungal infections of the skin. Tinactin is reported to cure most cases of jock itch, ringworm and athlete's foot. The company claims that when used daily it can help to prevent cases of athlete's foot. Tinactin helps to relieve burning, itching and chafing and is best applied at bedtime. It should not be used by pregnant or breastfeeding women. Speak with a pharmacist before using it.
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