What kills skin fungus fast

By Isabella Storyclaire

last updated September 16, 2024

Contributions sourced from

10 natural remedies for fungal skin infections

1. Apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar (or ACV for short) is one natural remedy that I shout quite a lot about here at A.Vogel Talks Fungal Skin Infections, and thats for good reason. Its antibacterial and antifungal, so its ideal for combating a fungal overgrowth, whether its internally or externally. It also helps that these benefits are backed up by research.

A recent study found that mildly diluted ACV could help prevent the growth of the candida yeast.¹Since this particular type of yeast is responsible for many fungal infections, this is a really positive feature of ACV.

You can take apple cider vinegar in a variety of ways: some people prefer to swallow a small amount each day; some would rather dilute it with water and apply to the affected area. Just make sure you choose a reliable, high quality, organic brand, like Braggs, and be aware that, if your symptoms dont improve within a week, you may need to speak to your doctor.

2. Plain yoghurt

Plain yoghurt is full of live bacteria cultures, particularly the lactobacillus strain. This is important as this friendly bacteria can help to regulate the environment in your gut, preventing the small of amount of candida yeast that live there from overpopulating. It does this by releasing hydrogen peroxide, a compound that can kill the candida yeast.²In fact, one study found that plain yoghurt could be more effective than a popular antifungal cream.³

If youre going to try this remedy, though, there are a few key things to bear in mind. By plain yoghurt, I mean unflavoured yoghurt that is organic and completely free of sweeteners. If you apply anything other than this, you might end up doing more harm than good! Make sure that once youre finished with this remedy, you wash it off thoroughly nobody wants old yoghurt lingering for too long on their skin!

3. Tea tree oil

Tea tree oil is naturally antiseptic and antifungal, so its hardly surprising that its popular in the cosmetic industry. While studies thus far have been inconclusive about the benefits when it comes to fungal skin infections, there have been a few promising signs.

For example, there was a randomised control study conducted on sufferers of Athletes footthat produced positive results. Here, participants were split into groups: those who took 20% tea tree oil concentrations, those that took 50%, and a placebo control group. Compared to the control group, those that used tea tree oil found that after a month, their symptoms improved by 70% compared to the 40% noted by the control group.⁴

When taking tea tree oil, try to mix a couple of drops with a carrier oil like coconut oil as applying this directly to your skin is not advised and could cause some extreme irritation.

4. Turmeric

Is there nothing that turmeric cant do? This vividly coloured root has been used in Indian cuisine for centuries but its only recently that people have caught on to the spices potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

A study looking at the widespread potential of turmerics antiviral and antifungal qualities found that curcumin, an active compound found in turmeric, was effective not just against the Candida species, but also against various fungi.⁵

If you are going to try turmeric then, like tea tree oil, make sure you mix it with a carrier oil like coconut oil first. Dont be surprised if this paste initially gives your skin a yellow stain this should diminish after washing.

5. Cranberry juice

Our Womens Health Advisor Emma often recommends cranberry juice when it comes to supporting your bladder health due to its antibacterial properties. However, studies have found that cranberry juice could possess some antifungal benefits too.

Its thought that cranberry juice may inhibit the production of yeast and one study in particular certainly seems to support this idea. There, cranberry juice was found to exert a significant antifungal influence on eight different species of dermatophytes (fungus), although it did not impact the Candida albicans strain.⁶

Interesting! If you do want to try cranberry juice, please be aware that often, it is full of added sugars. It might be best to opt for an organic brand like Biotta. Their Wild Mountain Cranberry Juice is completely free from refined sugars and is actually fermented, meaning that it contains plenty of gut-friendly L+ lactic acid. This would be a purely internal remedy so please do not attempt to apply to your skin.

6. Garlic

A smelly solution, but one that can be effective! Garlic has known antifungal properties which makes it a popular natural remedy for fungal skin infections. It can also work to support your immune system too, so this is definitely an added bonus!

You can always use your diet to increase your garlic intake or try taking a supplement like Allicin Max. If you are determined to use this topically, though, then try crushing a few cloves and applying to the affected area.

7. Coconut oil

Ive already mentioned coconut oil several times in this list, so here Im going to shed a proper spotlight on it. Coconut oil, as most of you are probably aware, is a great source of healthy fatty acids and vitamin E. Thats why the substance is so popular in the skincare industry already its extremely nourishing and soothing for dry, sensitive skin.

When it comes more directly to fungal skin infections, coconut oil is naturally antifungal and studies thus far have produced positive results. One trial, conducted in 2015, found that mice fed coconut oil experienced a 10-dolf drop in the fungus C. albicans, plus the substance was found to produce very few negative side effects.⁷ Although more human-based trials are needed, so far things seem to be going the right way.

Now, as with cranberry juice and everything else, quality really matters here. You really want to opt for extra virgin, 100% pure, organic coconut oil to get the best results possible. You can use this topically when coconut oil is in its liquid stage (try warming gently first and apply once it has cooled down) and apply gently to the affected area.

8. Aloe vera

Aloe vera is often used in skincare creams and lotions and this is because this plant is rich in antioxidants and antibacterial properties! Studies have even found that it may give your production of collagen a boost, so this is something definitely worth bearing in mind when it comes to ageing skin.

If you have a fungal skin infection, though, then this ingredient can help to inhibit the growth of yeast spores as it contains compounds capable of combating the Candida albicans strain. This is especially useful when you combine this antifungal action with the benefits that aloe vera can have for the digestive system. This helps to prevent constipation and a build-up of waste products within the body that could negatively impact your gut environment.

9. Spilanthes

Spilanthes is a herb thats traditionally used when it comes to oral problems and fungal skin infections. This is because studies have found that the herb possesses potent antimicrobial and antifungal properties which can make it an effective treatment.⁹Here at A.Vogel, we do offer a spilanthes tincture that could be useful, although we recommend taking it in tandem with our Molkosan prebiotic.

10. Oregano oil

Oregano is a popular cooking ingredient in many dishes, but it also has potent antifungal properties. Research has found that it can help to fight against certain strains of the candida yeast, which is extremely useful considering how prevalent this type of yeast is in most fungal skin infections.¹⁰

However, since oregano oil is classified as an essential oil you really dont want to go applying this directly to your skin. Instead, try to dilute this first with water a nice idea, if you have a fungal toe nail infection, for example, could be to prepare a foot bath and add a few drops of the oil to this!

¹https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5788933/

²https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321254.php

³https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4803919/

⁴https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12121393

⁵https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4022204/

⁶https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC547696/

⁷http://msphere.asm.org/content/1/1/e00020-15

⁸https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0141813010002904

⁹https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26672426

¹⁰https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18997851

Everything You Need to Know About Fungal Skin Infections

Many common fungal infections can affect the skin.

Yeast infection (Candida skin infection)

Yeast is a type of fungus.

A yeast called Candida is naturally present on the skin and inside the human body. When it overgrows, an infection can occur, including on the skin. The most common species of Candida is Candida albicans.

Other names for a yeast infection of the skin include:

The infection occurs in warm, moist, and poorly ventilated areas. Areas that are typically infected include the folds of the buttocks (as in certain types of diaper rash) and under the breasts.

The symptoms of a yeast infection of the skin can include:

Other yeast infections
The mucous membranes are another common site of fungal infections. Some examples of yeast infections in the mucous membranes are vaginal yeast infections and oral thrush.

How its diagnosed

A primary care doctor should be able to diagnose a yeast infection of the skin during a physical examination. They may also swab the skin and use a skin culture to confirm that yeast is the organism causing your symptoms.

If you see a dermatologist instead, they may perform a skin scraping of the rash and then view the sample under a microscope to determine if theres Candida growth.

How its treated

An important step in treating any yeast infection is keeping the skin clean and dry.

Some yeast infections will go away on their own. Prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) antifungal drugs are also available. These drugs can either kill fungi directly or prevent them from growing and thriving.

Topical versions include:

clotrimazole
econazole
ketoconazole
nystatin
oxiconazole

To help reduce itching, you can also use a corticosteroid cream such as hydrocortisone.

Powders may help you keep your skin dry. Its important to apply them 2 to 3 hours before or after applying any creams.

If the infection doesnt resolve or improve, a doctor may prescribe oral antifungal medications, such as:

To help treat diaper rash, consider using zinc oxide creams to soothe your babys skin. OTC options include products from the brands:

A+D
Balmex
Desitin
Triple Paste

Home remedies such as changing diapers more frequently and using disposable diapers may also relieve symptoms.

Ringworm of the body (tinea corporis)

Ringworm is a common fungal skin infection. Its highly contagious but not serious.

Despite its name, ringworm is caused by a fungus and not a worm. It typically occurs on the torso and limbs, in a subtype known as ringworm of the body (tinea corporis). Ringworm on other areas of the body can go by different names, such as jock itch and athletes foot.

The main symptom of ringworm is a ring-shaped rash with slightly raised edges. The skin inside these circular rashes usually looks healthy. The rash can spread and is often itchy.

Ringworm can come from petting an animal infected with the fungus or from gyms and gym mats.

How its diagnosed

A doctor can usually diagnose ringworm by sight or after performing a skin scraping.

Some doctors may also perform a fungal culture to help them determine a diagnosis.

How its treated

Ringworm of the body thats limited to a few areas can usually be treated with a topical antifungal medication, such as:

clotrimazole (Lotrimin AF Ringworm Cream)
econazole
ketoconazole (Extina, Ketozole)
luliconazole (Luzu)
naftifine
oxiconazole (Oxistat)
sulconazole (Exelderm)
terbinafine (Lamisil AT Cream, Silka Antifungal Cream)

Doctors often recommend oral antifungals for a deeper or more extensive infection. They include:

fluconazole (Diflucan)
itraconazole (Sporanox)
terbinafine

Ringworm of the scalp (tinea capitis)

This fungal infection affects the skin of the scalp and the associated hair shafts. Its most common in children and teens 3 to 14 years old.

You can contract ringworm of the scalp from animals, soil, or other humans (via hairbrushes or hats).

Symptoms of ringworm of the scalp (tinea capitis) can include:

broken hair shafts
localized bald patches that may appear scaly or red
associated scaling and itching
associated tenderness or pain in the patches
patches that ooze or crust over
permanent hair loss, in some severe cases

It may resemble severe dandruff.

It can also cause symptoms unrelated to the scalp, such as fever and swollen lymph nodes in the neck.

How its diagnosed

A doctor can diagnose ringworm of the scalp during a physical examination.

They usually perform a skin scraping, such as a skin lesion KOH exam. In the skin lesion KOH exam, skin scrapings are mixed with potassium hydrochloride (KOH) to determine if fungi are present.

How its treated

Ringworm of the scalp requires prescription oral medication, which may come in the form of a tablet, capsule, or liquid. Examples include:

fluconazole (Diflucan)
griseofulvin (Fulvicin, Gris-PEG), which is typically the drug of choice and is safe for children
itraconazole (Sporanox)
terbinafine

Everyone with ringworm of the scalp should use an antifungal shampoo. All members of their household should use it too. Examples include ketoconazole shampoo (Nizoral Anti-Dandruff Shampoo).

Jock itch (tinea cruris)

Jock itch happens in the area near your groin and thighs. Its most common in men and adolescent boys.

The main symptom is an itchy, red, and sometimes painful rash that typically starts in the groin or around the upper inner thighs. The rash may worsen after exercise or other physical activity and can spread to the buttocks and abdomen.

The affected skin may also appear:

scaly
flaky
cracked
moist and possibly macerated, in the case of an open sore

The outer border of the rash can be slightly raised and darker.

How its diagnosed

A doctor can diagnose jock itch during a physical examination or after examining a sample under a microscope.

How its treated

Treatment often begins with OTC or prescription creams.

OTC creams, sprays, and powders include:

butenafine (Lotrimin Ultra Jock Itch Cream)
clotrimazole (Lotrimin AF Jock Itch Antifungal Cream)
miconazole (CareALL Miconazole Cream, Lotrimin AF Jock Itch Antifungal Powder Spray)
terbinafine (Lamisil AT Cream for Jock Itch, Silka Antifungal Cream, Silka Jock Itch Cream)

Prescription creams include:

econazole
ketoconazole (Ketozole)
luliconazole (Luzu)
oxiconazole (Oxistat)
sulconazole (Exelderm)

Applying a cool compress can also help soothe the skin.

If topical treatments dont work, a doctor may prescribe oral antifungals, such as:

fluconazole (Diflucan)
itraconazole (Sporanox)
terbinafine

Oral medications are typically reserved for recurrent, treatment-resistant, or chronic infections.

Tinea versicolor (pityriasis versicolor)

In tinea versicolor, small oval discolored patches develop on the skin. Its sometimes called pityriasis versicolor.

This infection is caused by an overgrowth of a fungus called Malassezia. Malassezia is naturally present on the skin of most adults.

The discolored skin patches mostly occur on the back, chest, and upper arms, but they can also affect the scalp. They may look lighter or darker than the rest of the skin and can be red, pink, tan, or brown. On people with darker skin, the patches may appear white. These patches can be itchy, flaky, or scaly.

Tinea versicolor is more likely to appear during the summer or in areas with a warm, wet climate. Its also common in people who work out or sweat often. The condition can sometimes return following treatment.

How its diagnosed

A doctor can diagnose tinea versicolor with a:

physical examination
Woods lamp examination, in which a healthcare professional uses a handheld blacklight to confirm the presence of fungi or bacteria
skin lesion biopsy, which involves removing a small skin sample and having it tested in a laboratory
skin lesion KOH exam

How its treated

The standard treatment for tinea versicolor is topical products such as soaps, creams, lotions, and shampoos. Ingredients to look for include:

ketoconazole, found in products such as prescription-strength shampoo and Extina foam
pyrithione zinc, found in products such as Vanicream Z-Bar Medicated Cleansing Bar, Vanicream Dandruff Shampoo, and Selsun blue Itchy Dry Scalp Antidandruff Shampoo
selenium sulfide, found in products such as Selsun blue Moisturizing Antidandruff Shampoo and Selsun blue Medicated Antidandruff Shampoo

If tinea versicolor returns following treatment, a doctor may recommend you use a medicated cleanser once or twice a month.

Oral medication is rarely needed. A doctor may prescribe a short course of oral antifungals if tinea versicolor is recurrent, treatment-resistant, widespread, severe, or creates thick scales.

They include:

fluconazole (Diflucan)
itraconazole (Sporanox)

Athletes foot (tinea pedis)

Athletes foot affects the skin on your feet, often between your toes. It can also appear on the soles of your feet.

Typical symptoms of athletes foot include:

itching or a burning, stinging sensation between your toes or on the soles
skin that appears red, scaly, dry, or flaky
peeling skin
thickened soles
cracked or blistered skin
deep blisters on the soles, in rare cases

In some cases, the infection can also spread to other areas. Examples include the:

nails, as in onychomycosis
groin, as in jock itch (tinea cruris)
hands, as in tinea manuum

How its diagnosed

A doctor can diagnose athletes foot by observing your symptoms or performing a skin test such as the skin lesion KOH exam.

How its treated

You can treat athletes foot with a variety of OTC topical products, such as:

butenafine (Lotrimin Ultra Athletes Foot Cream)
clotrimazole (CareALL Athletes Foot Cream, Lotrimin AF Cream for Athletes Foot)
miconazole (Desenex Athletes Foot Shake Powder)
terbinafine (Lamisil AT Cream, Lamisil AT Cream for Athletes Foot, Silka Antifungal Cream)
tolnaftate (Dr. Scholls Odor-X Antifungal Spray Powder, Lotrimin AF Athletes Foot Daily Prevention Deodorant Powder Spray, Tinactin Athletes Foot Cream)

Terbinafine tends to be the fastest-acting of these medications.

If OTC products dont help clear up athletes foot within 2 weeks or so, a doctor may prescribe:

prescription-strength topical clotrimazole
sulconazole (Exelderm)

Doctors usually prescribe oral antifungals when the infection is recurrent, causes blisters, or involves the tops of the feet, soles, or heels. They include:

fluconazole (Diflucan)
griseofulvin (Fulvicin, Gris-PEG), which is safe for children
itraconazole (Sporanox)
terbinafine

Did you know?
Athletes foot tends to recur, so its important to dry the toes and feet thoroughly after showering or bathing. Use a powder, especially in between the toes.

Onychomycosis

Onychomycosis is a fungal infection of the nails. It can affect the fingernails or the toenails, although infections of the toenails are 7 to 10 times more common.

Symptoms of onychomycosis include nails that:

How its diagnosed

A doctor will usually take a nail clipping and some subfungal debris and send them off for a periodic acidSchiff (PAS) stain or culture.

On some occasions, they may perform a skin lesion KOH exam. However, the PAS stains and cultures are more accurate.

How its treated

Prescription medications are often required to treat this type of infection. The standard treatment is oral terbinafine. Its typically prescribed for 6 or 12 weeks, depending on whether you have a fingernail or toenail infection.

Treatment is notoriously tricky due to factors such as prolonged treatment time and the likelihood of recurrence.

Other oral antifungals that may be used include: