Yikes! Fungal skin infections sure ain’t fun, not to mention embarrassing at times. But fret not, skin infections are very common and they’re nothing to be ashamed about. Since we live in a hot and humid country, fungal infections are bound to crop up when our skin is exposed continuously to warm and damp conditions. If you’re dealing with a persistent skin condition that doesn’t seem to be going away on its own, do not hesitate to see a dermatologist to get the right diagnosis and treatment. However, if you’re thinking of looking for a cream to nip a mild infection in the bud, here are some of the top-rated antifungal creams available at our local drugstores.

What are fungal infections?

But before that, let’s talk about fungal skin infections. Also known as mycosis, a fungal infection is a skin disease brought about by various types of fungus. With over millions of species of fungi in our environment, our skin is bound to bump into them when we come into contact with dirt and infected surfaces.

Types and symptoms

Fungal infections can appear on any part of your body. However, the most common areas include the nails, feet, groin and areas where there are folds of skin like the inner part of the elbow. Fungi is very common in places with hot and humid climates and are typically found in warm and damp areas like closed-toe shoes, sweaty socks, public showers and swimming pools. Some of the most common fungal infections include:

  • Athlete’s foot: Caused by a fungus that thrives on the dead tissue of your skin and toenails.
  • Ringworm: Despite its name, this infection isn’t caused by a worm. Instead, it is brought about by a fungus that leaves lesions on the skin in the shape of a ring.
  • Jock itch: Typically found on the groin and inner thigh area, this fungal infection is common in athletes and people who are prone to sweating profusely.
  • Diaper rash: This rash occurs when a baby wears the same diaper for long periods of time. This leads to painful chaffing, redness and irritation. It’s quite similar to a pad rash when women wear sanitary pads for long hours in a hot and humid environment.
  • Yeast infection: Yeast infections stem from the fungus candida and cause severe itching and burning pain in the genitals.
  • Nail fungal infection: Also known as onychomycosis, this infection is common in toenails. As a result, nails become thick, yellow and extremely brittle.
  • Oral thrush: This is a candida fungal infection that affects the mucus membranes of the mouth area.

Additionally, most types of fungal infections generally result in the following symptoms:

  • Itching and irritation
  • Redness and rashes
  • Discolored patches of skin
  • Scaly and flaky skin
  • Painful cracks and open sores
  • General pain and discomfort
  • Lesions or pustules on the skin
  • Discoloration and brittleness in nails
  • Itchy scalp and hair loss in patches

8 Antifungal creams to treat fungal skin infections

Regardless of the severity of your fungal infection, it’s always a good idea to see a certified dermatologist to get a proper diagnosis and treatment for your skin condition. However, here are some treatment creams that you can find in local drugstores if you’re looking to treat a mild infection at home.

Disclaimer: When in doubt, always consult a certified dermatologist or skin specialist to recommend you the right oral or topical treatments specific to your skin condition. Also, as it is possible to be allergic to anything, always research the ingredients beforehand and do a patch test on your wrist to check for allergic reactions. If you face any form of pain or discomfort, discontinue use immediately and consult a dermatologist as soon as possible.

1. Ego Resolve Tinea for various infections

First on the list, we have this silicone-based cream by Australian brand Ego. Besides treating a multitude of fungal infections, this treatment cream functions as an occlusive to fortify the skin’s protective barrier and shield the skin from further itching and irritation.

Things to know:
  • Contains 2% Miconazole Nitrate to impair the growth of yeasts and fungi
  • Regular application is key
  • Use a soap-free cleanser before applying the cream onto affected areas
  • Continue using for 2 weeks after symptoms subside to prevent future flareups

Where to buy: Watsons, $14.90

2. Lamisil Cream for athlete’s foot

If you tend to wear socks and closed-toe shoes for long hours everyday, it’s imperative to wash and dry your feet as soon as you get home to avoid fungal infections. However, if you’re already dealing with a mild case of athlete’s foot, this treatment cream by Lamisil provides relief from itching, flaking and inflammation on the feet.

Things to know:
  • Suitable for treating athlete’s foot
  • Contains Terbinafini Hydrochloridum to weaken the fungus’ cell membranes and disrupt their growth
  • Always cleanse your skin with a gentle soap-free cleanser before use

Where to buy: Guardian, $22.85

3. Xepa Zarin Cream for ringworm

Next, we have this topical treatment by Zarin which is specifically used to treat ringworm. However, you can also use it to treat other fungal infections like athlete’s foot and white fungal patches on the skin.

Things to know:
  • Contains 2% Miconazole Nitrate to impair the growth of yeasts and fungi
  • A slightly cheaper alternative to the Ego Resolve Tinea cream

Where to buy: Guardian, $12.85

4. Sudocrem Antiseptic Healing Cream for moms and babies

Having been around for 85 years, this multifunctional antiseptic cream by Sudocrem is great for treating a variety of skin infections and conditions. Besides zinc oxide, it contains lanolin, beeswax and lavender to soothe and restore the skin.

Things to know:
  • Suitable for sensitive skin and even babies
  • Comes in a solid tub which makes it very portable for travel
  • Great for rashes, surface wounds, sunburns and even minor burns
  • Women can use it to soothe chaffed nipples and pad rash

Where to buy: Watsons, $9.90

5. Nizoral Cream for rashes

Typically, Nizoral Cream is prescribed over the counter to treat persistent skin rashes and relieve itching caused by seborrheic dermatitis and fungal infections.

Things to know:
  • Contains Ketoconazole to treat fungal infections and seborrheic dermatitis
  • Prevents the growth of fungi on the skin
  • Wash your hands after applying
  • Avoid contact with eyes

Where to buy: Woods Pharmacy, $21.50

6. Canesten Cream Clotrimazole 1% for jock itch

Normally, you would only be able to obtain this cream via a prescription. Because it contains an antibiotic antifungal ingredient, it is best for pregnant women to avoid using it as it has been shown to remain in the bloodstream for months after use.

Things to know:
  • Contains 1% Clotrimazole, an antifungal antibiotic
  • Treats fungal infections and soothes itching
  • Avoid use during pregnancy and when breastfeeding
  • Keep out of reach of children

Where to buy: Watsons, $21.90

7. Derma E Soothing Relief Lotion for sensitive skin

Okay, this relief lotion is a real diamond in the rough. Instead of harsh chemicals, this lotion uses natural plant extracts to heal and soothe the skin. Because it’s so lightweight and gentle, you can even use it on daily basis on the delicate skin on your face.

Things to know:
  • A natural alternative to other antifungal treatment creams
  • Suitable for sensitive skin and daily use
  • Soothes itching and irritation
  • Contains tea tree oil to prevent bacterial and fungal infections

Where to buy: Guardian, $25.50

8. Botani Phytoseptic Anti Fungal Cream for candida

Yet another natural alternative to chemical antifungal creams, this one by Botani has been proven to eliminate tinea, candida and golden staph infections within 30 minutes.

Things to know:
  • Fast-acting and safe for pregnant women
  • Treats fungal infections and even ingrown hairs
  • Soothes insect bites and yeast infections

Where to buy: Fit Lion, $29