Antifungal creams for athlete’s foot, jock itch and ringworm fall into two groups. Some kill the fungus, and others stop it growing. That difference mostly affects how long you need to use them.
The main options
- Butenafine 1% (sold as Lotrimin Ultra, and as Mentax): kills the fungus.
Athlete’s foot between the toes: twice a day for 1 week, or once a day for 4 weeks. Jock itch and ringworm: once a day for 2 weeks. - Terbinafine 1% (Lamisil AT): kills the fungus.
Athlete’s foot between the toes: twice a day for 1 week. On the bottom or sides of the foot: twice a day for 2 weeks. Jock itch and ringworm: once a day for 1 week. - Clotrimazole 1% and miconazole 2%: stop the fungus growing.
Usually twice a day for 2 to 4 weeks.
All of these are available without a prescription and are suitable for adults and children aged 12 and over (2 and over for clotrimazole and miconazole). Ask a doctor for younger children.
Which is best?
All work well when used correctly. Butenafine and terbinafine clear infections in a shorter course, which makes it easier to finish treatment. Clotrimazole and miconazole are cheaper and widely available, and they also work against yeast (Candida) infections in skin folds.
The most common reason treatment fails is stopping too early, when the skin looks better but the fungus is still there.
Tips for using antifungal creams
- Wash and dry the area thoroughly, including between the toes, before applying.
- Apply a thin layer to the rash and about 2 cm (1 inch) of the skin around it.
- Wash your hands afterwards.
- Finish the full course on the label.
- Keep the area dry, change socks and underwear daily, and don’t share towels.
See a doctor if
The rash hasn’t improved after the full course, it’s spreading, the skin is cracked, oozing or very painful, it affects the scalp or nails, or you have diabetes or a weak immune system.
Related guides: how to get rid of athlete’s foot and jock itch vs ringworm.
Shop Butenafine cream.
More in our Skin and Fungal Infections guide: all our articles and products on this topic in one place.
This article is for general information only and isn’t a substitute for advice from a doctor or pharmacist. Always read the label before using any medicine.
