The mainstay of treating fungal skin infections is to use a product containing an antifungal ingredient. A range of topical products are available OTC. They come in various formulations, including creams, ointments, sprays and powders. The best one for your customer will depend on the type of infection they have. Antifungal ingredients include:

Terbinafine

Terbinafine is 'fungicidal' €“ i.e. it kills the fungus that is causing the infection. It does this by stopping the production of ergosterol, a chemical essential for the growth of fungal cells.

Terbinafine binds strongly to keratin in the skin. As a result, levels of the agent remain in the skin for a week after treatment ceases. This helps prevent re-infection. One to two weeks of treatment is required. Examples: Lamisil AT 1% gel, spray and cream.

In addition, there is a product available for athlete's foot that requires only a single application. It should be applied to both feet. Pack instructions should be followed carefully. Example: Lamisil Once.

Imidazoles

These compounds are fungistatic €“ i.e. they work by inhibiting fungal growth, which stops the fungus from penetrating into the deeper layers of skin. If the outer layer of skin is shed faster than the fungus can penetrate deeper into the skin layers, then the infection will be cleared.

Imidazoles include clotrimazole, miconazole and ketoconazole. Products should be applied two or three times daily €“ in some cases for up to four weeks €“ to help prevent recurrence. Some might need to be applied for a further short period after the symptoms have disappeared. Examples: Canesten Cream, Daktarin Powder, Daktarin Gold.