Clotrimazole is used to treat skin infections such as athlete's foot, jock itch, ringworm, and other fungal skin infections (candidiasis). Clotrimazole is an azole antifungal that works by preventing the growth of fungus. This medication is also used to treat a skin condition known as pityriasis (tinea versicolor), a fungal infection that causes a lightening or darkening of the skin of the neck, chest, arms, or legs. 

When Candida albicans, a yeast that naturally lives on the skin, begins to overgrow, fungus infections on the face and lips develop. Although they are not frequent, yeast infections on the face can happen when your immune system is weakened by an infection, illness, or medication.

Clotrimazole is usually one of the compositions in skin products, most times it may come alone and it is available as a cream, spray, and solution that you can apply on your skin. The treatment you use will depend on where the infection is on your body.

How to use clotrimazole or any product containing it;

  • This medication should be used on the skin only. 
  • Clean and thoroughly dry the area to be treated. 
  • Do not apply this medication to the eyes, nose, mouth, or vagina.
  • Apply this medication to the affected skin, usually twice-thrice a day or as directed by your doctor. The dosage and length of treatment depend on the type of infection being treated. 
  • Use just as directed; do not apply more frequently. if you do, your condition will not clear faster, but side effects may be increased.
  • Apply enough medication to cover the affected area and some of the surrounding skin. 
  • After applying this medication, wash your hands. Only cover the area if directed to do so by your doctor.
  • Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Remember to use it at the same time each day.

It is crucial that you only take this medication as prescribed by your doctor. Use it only as directed by your doctor, and don't take more of it, use it more frequently, or use it for longer than recommended. This could result in unpleasant side effects or irritated skin.

Side effects of clotrimazole

Clotrimazole topical may have certain undesirable effects in addition to its necessary effects. Even though not all of these side effects are likely to occur, if they do, medical treatment may be required.

If any of the following side effects develop while using clotrimazole topical, speak with your doctor immediately.

The side effects include;

  • Skin rash
  • hives
  • blistering 
  • burning
  • itching
  • peeling
  • redness
  • stinging
  • swelling, and other skin irritation symptoms that weren't present before using this medication.

Other anti-fungal medications

There are other antifungal medicines that are similar to clotrimazole, including:

  • econazole (cream)
  • miconazole (cream, spray powder, powder)
  • ketoconazole (cream)
  • terbinafine (cream, gel, spray, solution)
  • griseofulvin (spray).

N.B: Endeavor to ask which is best for you before use.

Not everyone should use clotrimazole, you should tell your doctor or dermatologist if you've ever experienced an allergic response to clotrimazole or any other medication to ensure that it's safe for you.

Preventing Fungal Skin Infections

Lifestyle tips that may help treat fungal skin infection;

If you are prone to fungal infections or have a history of Candida rash, you can take steps to prevent future infections by keeping your microbiome healthy. You can do this by:

  • Eating a gut-healthy diet full of fruits and vegetables
  • Consuming foods and drinks like yogurt and fermented foods that contain live cultures
  • Avoiding any unnecessary antibiotic use
  • Talking to your doctor about taking a probiotic if you must take antibiotics or steroids
  • Practicing good hygiene and keeping your skin dry and clean
  • Avoid scratching the infected region because doing so could harm the skin's surface and cause the infection to spread
  • Keep the skin's afflicted regions clean
  • Wherever possible, keep the skin's affected areas dry; nevertheless, avoid overly rubbing them with a towel
  • Avoid lending other people your towels because you might infect them
  • After treating an infection, always wash your hands to prevent the infection from spreading.




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