Whether it starts between your toes, under your waistband, or in your armpits, a fungal infection can go from annoying to persistent if not treated early. With India’s humid climate and sweat-prone lifestyle, fungal skin infections like athlete’s foot, ringworm, and jock itch are more common than you might think.
Fungal infections account for 15–20% of all dermatology OPD cases in India, particularly in humid and tropical regions.
While creams are effective, antifungal powders offer a powerful solution for moisture-prone areas. They not only fight fungal growth but also keep the skin dry, control odour, and prevent recurrences, especially if you’re on the move.
In this article, we break down the top antifungal powders in India, explain how to use them correctly, highlight their benefits, and help you make an informed choice.
What is a Fungal Infection?
Fungi growing on the skin can lead to a widespread skin condition commonly known as a fungal infection. This condition can affect different body parts and present itself in various forms.
Individuals with poor hygiene habits, weakened immune systems, or who frequently come into contact with damp environments are more susceptible to this condition. Although most fungal infections are not life-threatening, they can cause severe discomfort and spread rapidly if left untreated.
Some of the most common fungal infections are athlete’s foot, scalp fungal infection, ringworm, and yeast infections. Over 30% of patients with tinea (ringworm) infections experience relapse within 3–6 months, especially when incomplete or incorrect treatment is used.
These infections present different symptoms, but the most common signs are itching, inflammation, and redness. Factors that can cause fungal infections include warm and humid environments, poor hygiene, weakened immune systems, and certain medical conditions or medications.
Tips to Prevent Fungal Infections
Prevent fungal skin infections with the following helpful tips:
- Prioritise proper hygiene: Take steps to reduce the likelihood of developing a fungal skin infection by maintaining good hygiene practices.
- Avoid sharing personal belongings: Do not share towels, clothes, or hairbrushes If you use shared objects, clean and dry them thoroughly before using them.
- Wear clean and breathable clothes: Always wear clean clothes, especially socks and underwear. Opt for cotton underwear with a relaxed fit, and opt for natural materials instead of synthetic ones.
- Choose breathable footwear: Avoid tight-fitting shoes. Opt for breathable fabrics and open-toed shoes to keep your feet comfortable. If you tend to sweat a lot, use antifungal powder in your shoes to keep your feet dry.
- Ensure thorough drying after bathing: After bathing, showering, or swimming, dry off completely with a clean, dry towel.
- Clean shared surfaces: Wipe down and clean surfaces shared with others to prevent the spread of fungal infections.
- Avoid contact with pets displaying fungal symptoms: Refrain from contact with pets exhibiting signs of a fungal illness, such as hair loss or excessive scratching.
- Keep skin clean and dry: Pay special attention to areas prone to moisture, such as folds, toes, and the genital region. Keep these areas clean and dry, as fungus thrives in damp environments.
Benefits of Antifungal Powder
Using powder for fungal infections can effectively prevent and treat them. By keeping the skin dry and reducing moisture, these powders can inhibit the growth of fungi and provide relief from itching, discomfort, and irritation. Furthermore, they can help control odour and prevent future fungal infections, improving overall skin health and hygiene.
How Do Antifungal Powders Compare to Creams?
Antifungal powders are especially useful in moisture-prone areas such as the feet, groin, underarms, and under skin folds. They help absorb sweat and reduce friction, preventing the fungus from spreading.
In contrast, creams and ointments may be more effective for localised, deep, or thickened lesions, such as tinea corporis (ringworm) or tinea cruris (jock itch).
For best results, doctors may recommend:
- Powder in the morning to absorb sweat and stay dry during the day
- Cream at night for deeper skin penetration while the skin is at rest
How to Use Antifungal Powder?
Here’s how to use the antifungal powder for optimal results
- Clean and dry the affected area thoroughly.
- Sprinkle a thin layer of antifungal powder directly onto the skin.
- Gently massage the powder into the skin to ensure coverage.
- Repeat the application 1-2 times daily or as a doctor directs.
- Avoid applying the powder on broken or irritated skin.
- If using on feet, apply the powder between the toes and inside socks and shoes.
List of the Best Antifungal Powders
We’ve compiled a list of the top options to help you find the best antifungal powder.
| Sr. No. | Product Name | Composition |
| 1 | Abzorb Powder 100gm | Clotrimazole (1 %) |
| 2 | Candid Dusting Powder 120 GM | Clotrimazole (1 %) |
| 3 | Canesten Dusting Powder 100gm | Clotrimazole (1 %) |
| 4 | Clocip Dusting Powder 100gm | Clotrimazole (1 %) |
| 5 | Zocon Dusting Powder 100gm | Clotrimazole (1 %) |
| 6 | Imidil Dusting Powder 100gm | Clotrimazole (1 %) |
| 7 | Texifen Dusting Powder 50gm | Terbinafine (1 %) |
| 8 | Keto Dusting Powder 100gm | Allantoin (0.2 %) + Ketoconazole (2 %) |
| 9 | Dkgel Dusting Powder 100gm | Miconazole (2 %) |
| 10 | Canesten Antifungal Dusting Powder | Clotrimazole (1 %) |
| 11 | Ketopz Antifungal Powder | Ketoconazole (2 %) |
| 12 | Texifen Dusting Powder | Terbinafine (1 %) |
| 13 | Keto Dusting Powder | Allantoin (0.2 %) + Ketoconazole (2 %) |
1. Abzorb Dusting Powder
Composition: Clotrimazole (1 %)
Abzorb antifungal powder is a specially formulated powder that helps treat fungal infections. Dry the affected area, then apply Abzorb powder 2-3 times daily. Avoid contact with eyes. It is best suited for areas where heat, friction, or excess moisture can cause rashes. Follow your doctor’s instructions.
2. Candid Dusting Powder
Composition: Clotrimazole (1 %)
Candid is an effective antifungal dusting powder for infections. It directly acts on the fungal cell membrane, inhibiting various fungi. The powder helps control fungal infections caused by sweat and moisture, relieving itching and skin irritation. It is safe to use and not addictive.
3. Canesten Dusting Powder
Composition: Clotrimazole (1%)
Canesten, 1% powder, treats fungal infections like ringworm, athlete’s foot, and diaper rash. It works by hindering the growth of fungi and damaging their cell membranes. Regular and consistent use of this powder is recommended for optimal results.
Keep the infected area clean and dry, wear clean footwear, and wash your hands before and after applying the powder. If your condition persists or worsens, consult your doctor.
4. Clocip Dusting Powder
Composition: Clotrimazole (1 %)
Clocip dusting powder treats fungal infections like athlete’s foot, ringworm, and jock itch. It works by modifying the cell membrane of fungi, making them dysfunctional. This powder effectively treats fungal skin conditions, such as flaking or scaling. Consult your doctor before using Clocip during pregnancy. To enhance its effectiveness, keep the affected area clean and dry, and wash your hands before and after applying the powder.
5. Zocon Dusting Powder
Composition: Clotrimazole (1%)
Zocon 1% dusting powder is an antifungal medicine for fungal skin conditions like ringworm, athlete’s foot, and diaper rash. It damages the fungus’s cell membrane, effectively killing it. Using it regularly will provide the best results. If the problem persists, consult your doctor. For athlete’s foot, ensure proper washing of socks or tights and change shoes daily if possible.
6. Imidil Dusting Powder
Composition: Clotrimazole (1 %)
Imidil is a powder for fungal infections that effectively treats skin conditions such as ringworm, athlete’s foot, and diaper rash. It damages the fungus’s cell membrane, leading to its elimination. Regular and proper usage will yield the best outcomes. If the problem persists, consult your doctor. For athlete’s foot, opt for clean and well-ventilated footwear.
7. Texifen Dusting Powder
Composition: Terbinafine (1 %)
Texifen dusting powder contains Terbinafine, an effective antifungal medication for treating nail and skin fungal infections like yeast infections, jock itch, athlete’s foot, and ringworm. It works by specifically targeting and eliminating the fungus responsible for the infection. Terbinafine disrupts the production of ergosterol, a vital component of the fungal cell membrane. This disruption leads to the accumulation of squalene and ultimately causes the death of the fungal cells, resulting in the eradication of the infection.
8. Keto Dusting Powder
Composition: Ketoconazole (2%)
Keto dusting powder is an antifungal medicine that treats fungal infections like athlete’s foot, thrush, and ringworm. It contains ketoconazole, which targets and eliminates the fungus causing the infection. Regular use of the powder is essential for optimal results. Most skin infections usually improve within 2 to 4 weeks. If the infection persists, consult your doctor for further guidance.
9. Dkgel Dusting Powder
Composition: Miconazole (2%)
DK Gel is a popular antifungal powder that contains miconazole nitrate. It is highly effective in treating various fungal infections of the skin. The powder works by eliminating the fungus that causes the infection. It is commonly used to treat conditions like athlete’s foot, jock itch, thrush, ringworm, and dry, flaky skin. By using DK Gel, you can effectively combat these fungal infections and promote healthier skin.
10. Canesten Antifungal Dusting Powder
Composition: Clotrimazole (1 %)
Canesten Antifungal Dusting Powder is formulated to treat and prevent fungal infections, including athlete’s foot, ringworm, and jock itch. It helps reduce itching, redness, and irritation caused by fungal growth while keeping the affected area dry and comfortable.
11. Ketopz Antifungal Powder
Composition: Ketoconazole (2 %)
Ketopz Antifungal Powder helps treat fungal infections by reducing itching, redness, and irritation. It is commonly used for conditions like athlete’s foot, jock itch, and ringworm. The powder absorbs moisture, preventing fungal growth in areas prone to excessive sweating.
12. Texifen Dusting Powder
Composition: Terbinafine (1 %)
Texifen Dusting Powder is an antifungal powder that helps relieve skin infections by controlling fungal growth and reducing excessive sweating. It provides a cooling effect and keeps the skin fresh.
13. Keto Dusting Powder
Composition: Allantoin (0.2 %) + Ketoconazole (2 %)
Keto Dusting Powder is a medicated antifungal powder used to treat fungal skin infections and prevent excessive moisture buildup. It helps reduce itching, irritation, and discomfort.
Side Effects of Fungal Infection Powder
- Skin peeling: Skin peeling on the hands can occur due to the powder’s active ingredients affecting the outer layer of the skin. It is typically a temporary and mild side effect.
- Headache: In rare cases, a headache may occur as a side effect of using fungal infection powder. It could result from an allergic reaction to the powder or sensitivity to its ingredients.
- Rash: While fungal infection powder is used to treat skin rashes caused by fungal infections, it can occasionally lead to a rash as a side effect. It could be due to an allergic reaction or sensitivity to the powder.
- Itching: Itching is a common side effect of the fungal infection powder. It can occur as the powder works to eliminate the fungus and restore the skin’s health. Mild itching is usually temporary and subsides as the treatment progresses.
- Nausea: Nausea is extremely rare unless accidentally ingested or inhaled in significant quantities
If any of the above side effects persist, contact your doctor immediately.
Contraindications to Use Fungal Infection Powder
Awareness of the safety precautions when using any powder for fungal infections is essential. Specific indications must be considered to ensure the safe and effective use of the product. Here are a few key factors to consider:
1. Allergic reactions
Before using an antifungal powder, it is essential to check for known allergies to its active ingredients. If an allergic reaction occurs, discontinue use and seek medical attention immediately.
2. Open wounds or broken skin
Avoid using powders on open wounds unless directed by a physician, as this may cause irritation or delay healing.
3. Pregnancy and breastfeeding
When you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional before applying any medication, including antifungal powders. Some powders may contain ingredients that could harm the baby or be transferred through breast milk.
4. Interactions with other medications
Inform your doctor about all the medications you are currently taking, including prescription, over-the-counter drugs, and supplements. Certain medications may interact with antifungal powders, affecting their effectiveness or causing adverse effects.
5. Underlying medical conditions
If you have any underlying medical conditions, such as diabetes, a compromised immune system, or skin disorders, you must inform your doctor before using any antifungal powders.
Conclusion
Fungal skin infections can be a frustrating and uncomfortable experience. However, numerous antifungal powders are available to help combat these stubborn invaders. The key is finding a powder that suits your needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a quick-drying formula or a powder that provides long-lasting relief, there are numerous options available.
By taking the time to research the best antifungal powders available, you can take control of your skin health and prevent further irritation and discomfort. So don’t let fungal infections get you down – try some of the top-rated powders and enjoy healthy, happy skin again.
You can download our user-friendly Truemeds app for easy access to medicine at low rates. Submit your prescription to our platform to receive branded and generic medications. Enjoy savings on purchases and the added convenience of free home delivery on relevant orders across India*.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Abzorb antifungal powder is typically not recommended for use in private areas. It is best to consult a healthcare professional for suitable antifungal treatments specifically designed for intimate areas.
Antifungal creams or ointments containing active ingredients like clotrimazole, miconazole, or ketoconazole are commonly used to treat fungal infections on the face. These medications effectively target and eliminate the fungus causing the infection.
Antifungal creams, ointments, or gels prescribed by a healthcare professional are typically used to treat fungal infections on the face. These topical medicines are applied directly to the affected area and help to eliminate the fungal infection.
Skin fungus is not necessarily a permanent condition. Most fungal infections can be effectively treated and eliminated with appropriate treatment and proper hygiene. However, recurrence is possible if the underlying causes or risk factors are not addressed.
It is generally advised to avoid direct contact with the fungus. Fungal infections are contagious and can spread through direct contact. It is vital to maintain good hygiene practices and avoid touching infected areas to prevent the spread of the infection.
Multani Mitti or Fuller’s Earth, is primarily used as a cosmetic clay for skincare purposes. While it may have some absorbent and drying properties, it is not a recognised treatment for fungal infections. It is advisable to consult a doctor for appropriate antifungal treatments.
Candid-V is a medication used to treat fungal vaginal infections. It can lead to symptoms like vaginal burning, itching, and abnormal discharge. It works by targeting and destroying the cell membrane of the fungi, effectively eliminating the infection.
Antifungal powders containing clotrimazole or miconazole are effective for treating fungal infections. They help reduce itching, redness, and discomfort while preventing fungal growth.
Yes, using antifungal powder daily is generally safe, especially in areas prone to moisture and sweating. However, prolonged use should be under medical advice to avoid skin irritation.
Powders with antifungal agents like clotrimazole or miconazole are suitable for the private areas of males. Choose a gentle, dermatologically tested formula to avoid irritation.
Some common home remedies to reduce fungus include keeping the affected area clean and dry, applying tea tree oil or apple cider vinegar topically, soaking in a diluted vinegar or saltwater solution, and practising good hygiene, such as regularly washing and drying affected areas and avoiding tight-fitting clothing.
References
- Ongsri P, Bunyaratavej S, Leeyaphan C, Pattanaprichakul P, Ongmahutmongkol P, Ariyatanasuporn N, Kulthanan K. EFFICACY OF ANTIFUNGAL CREAM VERSUS POWDER IN THE TREATMENT OF FUNGAL FOOT SKIN INFECTION AND UNPLEASANT FOOT ODOR AT MEDICAL DEPARTMENT OF THAI NAVAL RATING SCHOOL. Southeast Asian Journal of Tropical Medicine and Public Health. 2018 Mar 1;49(2):297-303. [Cited on 2023 July 3]. Available from:https://www.tm.mahidol.ac.th/seameo/2018-49-2/13-7367-17-297.pdf
- Kumar S, Khan R, Sharma B. CLOTRIMAZOLE: A REVIEW OF ITS STRUCTURE, THERAPEUTIC CLASS AND PHARMACEUTICAL PROPERTIES, PHARMACEUTICAL DOSAGE FORMS AND ADMINISTRATION AND ANALYTICAL STUDY. [Cited on 2023 July 3]. Available from:https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Bhawna-Sharma-20/publication/357656945
- Turner P. Ketoconazole. Used to treat internal and external fungal infections. Adverse effects include nausea, rashes, and jaundice. Ketoprofen. Anti-inflammatory/anal. [Cited on 2023 July 3]. Available from:https://link.springer.com/content/pdf/10.1007/978-1-349-13358-1_10.pdf
- Terbinafine – StatPearls. [Internet]. [Cited on 2023 July 3]. Available from:https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK545218/
- Yan Z, Liu X, Liu Y, Han Y, Lin M, Wang W, Guan X, Zhu S, Zhang H, Wang Q, Chou L. The efficacy and safety of miconazole nitrate mucoadhesive tablets versus itraconazole capsules in the treatment of oralcandidiasis: An open-label, randomised, multicenter trial. PLoS One. 2016 Dec 15;11(12):e0167880. [Cited on 2023 July 3]. Available from:https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5157999/
Leave a Reply