Antifungal Cream for Ringworm

Antifungal creams are topical antifungal medications that are employed for the treatment of fungal infections, which can affect nail and the skin of the feet, genital area and any other part of the body. Ringworm, athlete's foot, nail fungus, jock itch and candidiasis are some of the common conditions caused by fungal infection. Ringworm is usually caused by the fungi of the group dermatophytes. This fungal infection is characterized by the appearance of circular skin rash with slightly raised edges. The affected area of the skin becomes red, and it can itch a lot. Ringworm is an annoying condition, which can be treated with the help of several over the counter and prescription medicines.

Antifungal Medicines for Getting Rid of Ringworm

As mentioned already, there are several types of antifungal creams, which are available in different strengths. Sometimes, they are combined with steroid, in order to reduce the inflammation caused by fungal infection. Prescription as well as over the counter creams work by identifying and destroying the fungal cells without damaging the human cells. However, this is not a very easy task, as both human and fungal cells are eukaryotic cells and so, can look very similar. This is the reason why, one can experience a few side effects like, itching, skin irritation and redness while using these medications. Nevertheless, they are effective in treating ringworm.

Clotrimazole
It is used for the treatment of athlete's foot, jock itch and vaginal yeast infection as well. It is usually available as an over the counter medication for fungal infections.

Miconazole
Miconazole is a widely used antifungal cream which can provide great relief from the annoying symptoms of this fungal infection. This medication inhibits the synthesis of a compound, known as ergosterol. Ergosterol is essential for the formation of fungal cell membrane and by preventing its production, miconazole helps to cure ringworm.

Terbinafine
Terbinafine inhibits the production of ergosterol, which is an essential component of the fungal cell membrane. Terbinafine is a prescription antifungal cream and is also available as oral medication.

Ketoconazole
Ketoconazole is a prescription antifungal cream that can be used for ringworm treatment. Like terbinafine, ketoconazole can also be found in the form of oral antifungal medication. Along with ringworm, this medication can be used for the treatment of athlete's foot, jock itch and candidiasis.

Before applying these creams, it is important to clean the affected area with a mild soap and a soft clean towel. These topical medications can be required to apply several times a day.

Natural Treatment for Ringworm

Several natural remedies can prove immensely helpful in treating ringworm, especially if it is not very severe. One such ringworm remedy is tea tree oil, which has antifungal properties. Other important home remedies for this fungal infection are, garlic paste, a paste made from mustard seeds, castor oil, coconut oil, juice of raw turmeric, white vinegar and baking soda. You can mix both white vinegar and baking soda to prepare a homemade cream as well. Just add 6 to 7 teaspoons of white vinegar to about half cup of baking soda and mix them properly to make a fine paste. This homemade antifungal cream can be stored in the refrigerator and used two to three times a day to cure the fungal infection.

Some people can experience a few side effects like, itching, redness and skin irritation, as well as allergic reaction after using these antifungal creams. In such a situation, a physician should be informed at the earliest. Keep in mind that the suitability of the treatment depends on the severity of the infection. If the fungal infection is quite severe and has affected a large part of the body, then it is better to consult a physician for proper treatment.