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Remedies for fungal skin infections

Prepared by the LekCheck team · Last reviewed: 2026-07-15 · How we create our content

Mild fungal skin infections (e.g. between the toes) often respond to topical antifungal creams and sprays. Treatment usually continues for some time after the complaints disappear. Below are the commonly used ingredients; choose one to see products and prices. For extensive, stubborn or suspicious changes, see a doctor.

This guide was prepared by the LekCheck team and has not been reviewed by a doctor or pharmacist. This article is for general information only and is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Do not start, stop, or change any treatment without consulting a doctor or pharmacist.

Types of fungal skin infections

Fungal skin infections are caused by different fungi and look different depending on the site. The most common are those on the feet and between the toes (dermatophytosis, "athlete's foot"), the circular red and flaky patches on the body (tinea), and the rashes in skin folds associated with candida. An exact diagnosis sometimes requires an examination — if in doubt, consult a doctor or pharmacist.

Topical antifungal remedies

Clotrimazole, miconazole and terbinafine are among the most commonly used over-the-counter ingredients for topical application in mild skin mycoses. They are applied to clean, dry skin, catching a little of the surrounding healthy skin too. Choose an ingredient below to see available products and prices from online pharmacies in Bulgaria.

Clotrimazole, miconazole or terbinafine — what is the difference

Clotrimazole and miconazole are broad-spectrum azoles and are usually applied twice a day for several weeks. Terbinafine is from a different group (allylamines) and for some foot infections a shorter regimen is used. Which is appropriate depends on the type and site of the infection — if unsure, ask a pharmacist and follow the leaflet.

How long treatment lasts

Topical treatment usually lasts from about 1 to 4 weeks depending on the ingredient and site. It is important to continue for some time AFTER the complaints disappear, since stopping early is a common cause of recurrence. Infections of the nails and the scalp usually do not respond to topical creams and require a doctor's judgement.

Hygiene and prevention

Keeping the skin dry and clean, changing socks daily, drying well between the toes after a bath and avoiding shared shoes, slippers and towels help to limit spread and re-infection. Fungal infections are contagious, including via shared wet surfaces in pools and changing rooms.

When to see a doctor

See a doctor for involvement of the nails or the scalp, extensive or rapidly spreading changes, no improvement after a few weeks, signs of a bacterial infection (marked redness, swelling, pus, pain), or if you have diabetes or a weakened immune system.

Commonly used active ingredients

Pick an ingredient to see products and prices.

Related categories

Products with current prices

Lowest prices from online pharmacies in this guide's categories — cheapest first.

Frequently asked questions

Which cream is best for skin fungus?

There is no single universal "best" product — the appropriate ingredient depends on the type and site of the infection. Azoles (clotrimazole, miconazole) are broad-spectrum, and terbinafine is often used for foot infections. If unsure, consult a pharmacist and read the leaflet. This is information, not medical advice.

How long does skin fungus take to treat?

Topical treatment usually takes between 1 and 4 weeks depending on the ingredient and site, and it is advisable to continue for some time after the complaints disappear. Fungus of the nails and scalp requires longer treatment and a doctor's judgement.

What should I do for fungus between the toes?

Keep the skin dry, dry well between the toes, change socks daily and apply a topical antifungal as directed. If there is no improvement or the condition worsens, see a doctor.

Are fungal skin infections contagious?

Yes, many skin fungal infections are contagious — including via shared towels, shoes and common wet surfaces such as pools and changing rooms. Avoid sharing personal items while treatment lasts.

Sources and official information