The most common treatment for jock itch is topical application. You can purchase anti-fungal creams, powder and sprays over the counter. You don’t need a doctor’s prescription for these. The active ingredients in these creams are usually clotrimazole or miconazole. However, newer products containing butenafine are also becoming a more popular solution to this infection. These agents work by stopping the fungi from producing ergosterol. This substance is an integral component of the cell membranes of fungi. It also prevents these fungi from constructing an intact cell membrane, which leads to their death.
Anti-fungal drugs can also be used with glucocorticoid steroids for jock itch that causes skin inflammation and too much itching. This prevents it from developing further irritation when the patient keeps on scratching the area. It also minimizes the risk of additional bacterial infection caused by scratching. You have to be careful, though. If used alone, steroids can aggravate the condition of the fungal infection.
Make sure that you read the label before you apply anti-fungal cream. Although generally, all you have to do is apply the cream on the affected area, some products might require more careful applications. To be sure, always read the label carefully.
However, no matter what product you use, you should make sure that the affected area is clean before you apply the cream, powder, or spray. Wash the affected area carefully. Better yet, use the product after taking a shower. Before applying the cream, make sure that the area is clean and dry. Do not put some cream on it when it is still moist.
Continue using the cream for two weeks. Even when the rashes and itchiness have disappeared completely, applying the cream can still be very helpful. It prevents the infection from recurring. If after two weeks the rash is still there, you had better consult a physician and ask for a more effective medication.