Canesten Antifungal Cream Clotrimazole 20g

Canesten Antifungal Cream is a clotrimazole skin cream that treats fungal skin infections such as athlete's foot, ringworm and fungal sweat rash, supplied in a 20g tube by Ways Pharmacy (UK).

Key facts

Who it is for

• People with athlete's foot — itchy, flaky, cracked skin between the toes
• People with ringworm or fungal rashes in skin folds, the groin or under the breasts
• People with fungal sweat rash who need a thin-layer cream applied a few times a day

Not suitable for: anyone allergic to clotrimazole or any ingredient on the label. Not for use in the eyes or inside the mouth. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, ask your pharmacist before use. See a doctor if the rash is widespread, weeping, infected, or does not improve.

How to use

1. Wash and dry the affected area thoroughly, including between the toes if treating athlete's foot.
2. Apply a thin layer of cream and smooth it gently over the area 2-3 times a day.
3. Wash your hands after applying, unless your hands are the area being treated.
4. Keep using the cream for 1-2 weeks after the skin looks normal again, to stop the infection coming back.
5. For external use only. If there is no improvement after the recommended time, speak to your pharmacist or doctor.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Canesten Antifungal Cream take to work?

Itching often starts to settle within a few days, but the skin needs longer to clear fully. Athlete's foot and ringworm usually need at least two weeks, and you should keep applying the cream for one to two weeks after symptoms clear to prevent the infection returning.

Can I use Canesten cream on my face?

Only use it on fungal infections where the cream is indicated, and avoid the eyes and the inside of the mouth. If you think you have a fungal rash on your face, ask your pharmacist for advice before treating it, as facial rashes have many causes.

Can I use Canesten cream in pregnancy?

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, ask your pharmacist or doctor before using it. Clotrimazole skin cream is widely used, but it is best to check that it is right for your situation.

Does the cream affect condoms?

If you use it around the genital area, clotrimazole can weaken latex condoms and diaphragms, so they may not be reliable. Use alternative precautions for at least five days after treatment.

What is the difference between this and a thrush cream?

Both contain clotrimazole. This general antifungal cream is used for skin infections such as athlete's foot, ringworm and sweat rash, while dedicated thrush products focus on external genital itching, sometimes paired with an internal pessary. Ask your pharmacist if you are unsure which to use.

Safety and storage

• For external use only. Avoid contact with the eyes and the inside of the mouth.
• Clotrimazole can damage latex products such as condoms and diaphragms — use alternative precautions for at least five days if used near the genitals.
• Fabric such as clothing and bedding in contact with the cream can burn more easily — keep away from naked flames.
• See a doctor if the area is weeping, infected, spreading or not improving with treatment.
• Store below 25 degrees C, away from direct sunlight, and keep out of the sight and reach of children.

References

• NHS — Athlete's foot
• Canesten Clotrimazole Cream Patient Information Leaflet (emc)

This page provides factual information about an antifungal skin cream and is not a substitute for medical advice. If your skin infection is widespread, weeping or does not improve, speak to your pharmacist or GP. Always read the Patient Information Leaflet before use.