Antifungal creams are essential over-the-counter medications designed to combat fungal infections on the skin, such as athlete's foot, ringworm, and yeast infections. Besides alleviating symptoms associated with these fungal infections, they also eradicate the underlying fungal problem.
To assist you in making informed decisions, we have compiled some tips in a comprehensive buying guide. This guide features valuable insights and recommendations from board-certified dermatologist Dr. Meg Sison, as well as our top 10 list of antifungal creams you can get from Lazada, Shopee, and Watsons.
Quick List - Top Antifungal Creams
Dr. Sison is a board-certified dermatologist who practices in the Philippines and sees both medical and cosmetic dermatological cases on skin, hair, and nails.
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Table of Contents
Fungal infections can be caused by various types of fungi, like dermatophytes and yeast, which can be present in the environment, in the air, in soil, or on contaminated surfaces. Common fungal infections in humans include the following:
Athlete's foot (alipunga)
If you're unsure whether what you have is a fungal infection or a simple rash, do not hesitate to consult a board-certified dermatologist. This way, you can receive the correct diagnosis and the best treatment choice, including the type of antifungal cream you should use. By doing this, you can also avoid using an ineffective antifungal cream that can exacerbate the problem.
When choosing antifungal creams, it is recommended to consult a board-certified dermatologist for further evaluation to avoid misuse of these medications.
When choosing an antifungal cream, it's best to consider the active ingredients it contains. You must also ensure that it is FDA-approved. Knowing what to avoid can help as well to prevent irritation. Learn more about this below:
To ensure efficacy, it's best to look for proven antifungal ingredients typically found in various antifungal medications, both over-the-counter and prescription.
Azoles like Ketoconazole, Clotrimazole, and Bifonazole are commonly used to treat fungal infections. They interfere with the production of ergosterol, a component responsible for strengthening and stabilizing the fungal cell wall. This process eventually weakens and kills the fungal cells.
Azoles can be used to treat yeast infections.
Terbinafine belongs to a class of antifungals known as allylamines. They impede an enzyme called squalene epoxidase, which is vital for producing ergosterol that protects the fungal cell wall. As a result, the fungal cell walls weaken and get damaged, eventually eliminating the infection.
Using an antifungal cream with zinc oxide can be beneficial for fungal infections in the diaper area. It forms a protective barrier, combats inflammation, supports skin barrier repair, and manages moisture levels, which can help address diaper rash that may be influenced by fungal overgrowth.
Zinc oxide cream functions as a barrier cream, especially for patients with diaper dermatitis. They can be used with antifungal creams.
When choosing an antifungal cream, it's equally important to steer clear of ingredients that can potentially pose risks like dryness and irritation to your skin. Continue reading to get familiar with the components you may want to avoid in an antifungal cream.
While steroids can effectively address skin inflammation symptoms, they do not treat the underlying fungal infection itself. Worse, there are instances where steroids can mask the signs of a fungal infection, making it harder to diagnose. It is due to their ability to suppress the body's immune response and reduce inflammation, temporarily relieving symptoms like redness and itching.
However, because of this, the fungal infection may continue to spread beneath the surface, making the condition worse over time. With this said, if you're using an antifungal cream containing steroids, it's important that you do it under the guidance of a board-certified dermatologist.
They should not be applied to fungal infections because they can mask the infection making it harder to treat.
When choosing an antifungal cream, going for FDA-approved products is important. Having FDA approval is an excellent indicator that the product went through proper and adequate testing. It also assures you that it has met specific quality standards, which can give you confidence in the product's reliability and effectiveness.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | ||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Key Ingredient | Percentage | Best for | Free from Harsh Ingredients | Net Weight | FDA Approved | |||||
1 | Bayer Canesten Antifungal Cream | ![]() | Treats Alipunga, An-An, and Buni Without Any Restrictions | Clotrimazole | 1% | Ringworm, Athlete’s Foot, Jock Itch, Tinea Versicolor, Fungal Infections, Eczema, Dandruff, Pimples, Skin Itch, Insect Bites | 10g | |||
2 | Dr. S. Wong Bioderm Ointment | ![]() | Quick and Effective Relief for Acne, Athlete's Foot, and More | Salicylic Acid, Zinc Oxide, Benzoic Acid, Sulfur | unknown | Ringworm, Athlete’s Foot, Jock Itch, Tinea Versicolor, Acne, Pimples, Blackheads, Dandruff, Eczema, Boils, Insect Bites, General Skin Irritation | 15g | |||
3 | Katialis Antibacterial/Antifungal Ointment | ![]() | Fights Bacteria While Calming Irritated Skin | Salicylic Acid, Sulfur, Zinc Oxide, Resorcinol | unknown | Dandruff, Pimples, Ringworm, Prickly Heat, Insect Bites, Underarm Odor, Minor Skin Irritations | 15g | |||
4 | Trosyd Dermal Antifungal Cream | ![]() | Kills Fungi and Relieves Irritation and Discomfort | Tioconazole | 1% | Tinea Versicolor, Athlete’s Foot, Jock Itch, Ringworm | 3.5g | unknown | ||
5 | Johnson & Johnson Nizoral Cream|3.5g | ![]() | Targets Itchy, Red, and Irritated Skin Fast | Ketoconazole | 2% | Tinea infection, Ringworm, Athlete’s Foot, Jock Itch | 3.5g | |||
6 | TRIMACORT Clotrimazole Cream | ![]() | Effective Fungal Infection Treatment at a Great Price | Clotrimazole | 1% | Ringworm, Athlete's Foot, Jock Itch, Tinea Versicolor, Fungal Infections, Diaper Rash, Eczema, Acne & Pimples, Skin Itch & Irritation, Seborrheic Dermatitis, Insect Bites | 20g | |||
7 | United Home Whitfield's Ointment Anti-Fungal Cream | ![]() | Exfoliation and Protection for Fungal Skin Care | Salicylic Acid, Benzoic Acid | unknown | Fungal Infections, Tinea Versicolor, Dandruff & Seborrheic Dermatitis, Skin Irritations, Boils & Insect Bites, Diaper Rash & Fungal Nappy Rash | 30g | |||
8 | Lamisil Anti-fungal Cream Athlete's Foot Cream | ![]() | Fast Relief From Fungal Infections With Just One Daily Application | Terbinafine Hydrochloride | 1% | Athlete’s Foot, Jock Itch, Ringworm, Tinea Infections, Fungal Infections, Dandruff & Seborrheic Dermatitis, Skin Itch & Irritation, Acne & Pimples, Diaper Rash, Boils & Insect Bites | unknown | 15g | unknown | |
9 | TINACTIN Tolnaftate Ointment | ![]() | Effective Treatment Without the Sting or Dryness | Tolnaftate | unknown | Athlete's Foot, Jock Itch, Ringworm, Tinea, Fungal Infections | 5g | |||
10 | Daktarin Miconazole Nitrate Antifungal Topical Cream | ![]() | Ideal for Humid Days and Sweat-Prone Areas | Miconazole Nitrate | unknown | Athlete's Foot, Jock Itch, Ringworm, Fungal Infections, Skin Itch, Pimples, Acne, Dandruff, Seborrheic Dermatitis, Diaper Rash, Insect Bites | 5g |
When it comes to managing fungal infections, Canesten has long been a household name. Backed by over a decade of trust, this antifungal cream targets conditions like athlete’s foot, ringworm, jock itch, and Pityriasis versicolor. Its active ingredient, clotrimazole, halts fungal growth and eases symptoms such as redness, swelling, and itching.
Many have shared that it not only lessens moisture and irritation but also accelerates the healing process. While a few mentioned minor sensitivity, the majority report visible improvement after consistent use over several weeks.
Key Ingredient | Clotrimazole |
---|---|
Percentage | 1% |
Best for | Ringworm, Athlete’s Foot, Jock Itch, Tinea Versicolor, Fungal Infections, Eczema, Dandruff, Pimples, Skin Itch, Insect Bites |
Free from Harsh Ingredients | |
Net Weight | 10g |
FDA Approved |
Infused with benzoic acid and salicylic acid, it works to exfoliate dead skin cells, clear impurities, and support healing for conditions like acne, eczema, athlete’s foot, and other skin irritations. Its antibacterial and anti-parasitic action helps stop flare-ups at the source.
Pimples visibly shrink without developing pus, while menthol provides a refreshing coolness that soothes the skin. The blend of zinc oxide and sulfur helps speed up recovery, minimizes scarring, and leaves the skin looking clearer and healthier with consistent use.
Key Ingredient | Salicylic Acid, Zinc Oxide, Benzoic Acid, Sulfur |
---|---|
Percentage | unknown |
Best for | Ringworm, Athlete’s Foot, Jock Itch, Tinea Versicolor, Acne, Pimples, Blackheads, Dandruff, Eczema, Boils, Insect Bites, General Skin Irritation |
Free from Harsh Ingredients | |
Net Weight | 15g |
FDA Approved |
KATIALIS is a multipurpose ointment that calms itchy skin while fighting infections. It combines sulfur, salicylic acid, resorcinol, and zinc oxide to exfoliate dead cells, kill fungi, and soothe irritation. Often used for dandruff and prickly heat, it’s also helpful against ringworm, insect bites, and pimples.
Customers find it effective for mosquito bites and minor wounds. Some even use it on kids with sensitive skin, thanks to its gentle formula. It’s a versatile tube to keep around for all kinds of skin flare-ups—especially in hot, humid weather.
Key Ingredient | Salicylic Acid, Sulfur, Zinc Oxide, Resorcinol |
---|---|
Percentage | unknown |
Best for | Dandruff, Pimples, Ringworm, Prickly Heat, Insect Bites, Underarm Odor, Minor Skin Irritations |
Free from Harsh Ingredients | |
Net Weight | 15g |
FDA Approved |
Key Ingredient | Tioconazole |
---|---|
Percentage | 1% |
Best for | Tinea Versicolor, Athlete’s Foot, Jock Itch, Ringworm |
Free from Harsh Ingredients | |
Net Weight | 3.5g |
FDA Approved | unknown |
Struggling with flaky or inflamed skin from fungal infections like an-an or buni? Nizoral’s 2% ketoconazole formula offers quick relief by tackling fungal overgrowth at the source and reducing itch and redness. Reviewers appreciate how fast-acting it is, with many using it for acne or other stubborn patches.
Just a daily application (twice for athlete’s foot) often yields visible improvement in no time. Its smooth texture and non-greasy feel make it easy to apply, making it a staple for those dealing with skin discomfort regularly.
Key Ingredient | Ketoconazole |
---|---|
Percentage | 2% |
Best for | Tinea infection, Ringworm, Athlete’s Foot, Jock Itch |
Free from Harsh Ingredients | |
Net Weight | 3.5g |
FDA Approved |
Key Ingredient | Clotrimazole |
---|---|
Percentage | 1% |
Best for | Ringworm, Athlete's Foot, Jock Itch, Tinea Versicolor, Fungal Infections, Diaper Rash, Eczema, Acne & Pimples, Skin Itch & Irritation, Seborrheic Dermatitis, Insect Bites |
Free from Harsh Ingredients | |
Net Weight | 20g |
FDA Approved |
United Home Whitfield's Ointment Anti-Fungal Cream uses a combination of salicylic and benzoic acids to treat mild fungal skin infections. These active ingredients work by gently exfoliating the skin while targeting the root cause of the infection, helping to relieve discomfort and prevent future flare-ups.
When it comes to eczema-related skin irritation or peeling, many customers have found it to be really beneficial. This ointment's straightforward but efficient recipe makes it a reliable option for people seeking a cost-effective, straightforward treatment that works.
Key Ingredient | Salicylic Acid, Benzoic Acid |
---|---|
Percentage | unknown |
Best for | Fungal Infections, Tinea Versicolor, Dandruff & Seborrheic Dermatitis, Skin Irritations, Boils & Insect Bites, Diaper Rash & Fungal Nappy Rash |
Free from Harsh Ingredients | |
Net Weight | 30g |
FDA Approved |
Dealing with fungal infections like athlete’s foot or jock itch doesn’t have to be a hassle. This terbinafine hydrochloride cream offers soothing relief while stopping the infection from spreading at its source. Unlike other treatments that require multiple daily applications, Lamisil works with just one application per day for seven days.
Praised for its fast-acting formula, many users report noticeable relief after only a few uses. It’s lightweight, non-greasy, and mess-free—ideal for busy lifestyles. A little goes a long way, making it a practical and cost-effective option for those prone to flare-ups or regularly on the move.
Key Ingredient | Terbinafine Hydrochloride |
---|---|
Percentage | 1% |
Best for | Athlete’s Foot, Jock Itch, Ringworm, Tinea Infections, Fungal Infections, Dandruff & Seborrheic Dermatitis, Skin Itch & Irritation, Acne & Pimples, Diaper Rash, Boils & Insect Bites |
Free from Harsh Ingredients | unknown |
Net Weight | 15g |
FDA Approved | unknown |
TINACTIN Tolnaftate Ointment offers targeted relief for stubborn fungal infections. It contains tolnaftate, a well-established antifungal that treats the root cause of the infection, helping to stop its spread and clear up the affected area.
Unlike some treatments that may sting or dry out the skin, Tinactin’s gentle, soothing formula makes it suitable for irritated or sensitive areas. It has minimal side effects and is safe for most users. Many report seeing quick results, with some noticing improvements in just a few days.
Key Ingredient | Tolnaftate |
---|---|
Percentage | unknown |
Best for | Athlete's Foot, Jock Itch, Ringworm, Tinea, Fungal Infections |
Free from Harsh Ingredients | |
Net Weight | 5g |
FDA Approved |
Key Ingredient | Miconazole Nitrate |
---|---|
Percentage | unknown |
Best for | Athlete's Foot, Jock Itch, Ringworm, Fungal Infections, Skin Itch, Pimples, Acne, Dandruff, Seborrheic Dermatitis, Diaper Rash, Insect Bites |
Free from Harsh Ingredients | |
Net Weight | 5g |
FDA Approved |
Below are some of the most asked questions on the web answered by Dr. Meg Sison.
Topical antifungal creams are generally safe for pregnant and lactating mothers, but it is recommended to consult a board-certified dermatologist or OBGYN first for further evaluation.
The lesions should no longer increase in size and cause itching to the patient.
Our top 10 list features products intended mainly for fungal infections. However, if you need more options for other skin diseases and conditions, you can check out the links below.
Re-editor: Danielle Trinidad
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
No. 1: Bayer|Canesten Antifungal Cream
No. 2: Dr. S. Wong|Bioderm Ointment
No. 3: Katialis|Antibacterial/Antifungal Ointment
No. 4: Trosyd|Dermal Antifungal Cream
No. 5: Johnson & Johnson|Nizoral Cream|3.5g
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
Beauty
Health
Household goods
PCs and laptops
Home appliances and electronics
Cameras
Food and drinks
Kitchen supplies
Clothing
Shoes
Accessories
Mom and baby
Interior and furniture
Hobbies
Outdoor
DIY and tools
Sports and fitness
Pets
Books, CDs, and DVDs
Games
Cars and motorcycles
Gifts
Home improvement and tools
Smartphones and tablets
Banking and finance
Insurance
Audio
Smartphone applications
Others