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Clotrimazole Cream 1% Fungal Treatment 50g

Clotrimazole Cream 1% Fungal Treatment 50g

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  • ✔️ Treats athlete's foot, ringworm, and vulval thrush effectively
  • ✔️ Kills fungal cells by disrupting their cell membrane structure
  • ✔️ Visible symptom relief often within the first few days
  • ✔️ Suitable for adults and teenagers aged 12 and over
  • ✔️ Large 50g tube provides a full four-week treatment course

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What Is Clotrimazole Cream and How Does It Treat Fungal Infections?

 

Fungal infections are more common than most people realise. Whether it's the persistent itch between your toes, a rash spreading across your skin, or the discomfort of vulval thrush, these infections can be stubborn and uncomfortable. Clotrimazole cream is a well-established, clinically proven antifungal treatment available over the counter in the UK, and this 50g tube gives you plenty to complete a full course. At just £5.89, it's an accessible option for treating a wide range of fungal skin conditions without needing a prescription. You can browse our full range of athlete's foot and fungal infection treatments if you'd like to compare options.

Clotrimazole belongs to the azole class of antifungals. It's been used in clinical practice for decades and is recommended by the NHS for conditions including athlete's foot (tinea pedis), ringworm (tinea corporis), and external vulval thrush caused by Candida species. The 1% concentration in this cream is the standard strength for topical use and is suitable for adults and children over the age of 12.

 

How Does Clotrimazole Cream Work Against Fungal Infections?

 

Understanding how a medicine works can help you use it more confidently. Clotrimazole targets the fungal cell membrane directly, which is what makes it so effective against a broad range of fungal species.

  • It inhibits an enzyme called lanosterol 14-alpha-demethylase, which fungi need to synthesise ergosterol — a key component of their cell membranes.
  • Without ergosterol, the fungal cell membrane becomes structurally unstable and leaky.
  • This disruption causes the fungal cells to die, clearing the infection from the skin surface.
  • Because it acts on a structure unique to fungi (not found in human cells), it is well tolerated on the skin.

This mechanism means clotrimazole is effective against dermatophytes (the fungi responsible for athlete's foot and ringworm) as well as Candida species (responsible for thrush). It's a broad-spectrum antifungal, which is why it's used across so many different conditions.

 

Who Is Clotrimazole Cream Suitable For?

 

This cream is suitable for a wide range of people dealing with fungal skin infections. It can be used by adults and children aged 12 and over. However, it's worth knowing who it's particularly well suited to before you start using it.

  • Adults and teenagers (12+) with athlete's foot, ringworm, or jock itch
  • Women experiencing external vulval thrush (itching and soreness around the vaginal area)
  • People with pityriasis versicolor (a yeast-related skin discolouration)
  • Anyone with a confirmed or suspected superficial fungal skin infection who has not responded to general hygiene measures alone

It is not suitable for use in children under 12 without medical supervision, and you should not use it near your eyes, mouth, or on severely broken or inflamed skin. Women who are pregnant should consult their doctor or midwife before use. If you're also dealing with intimate health concerns, our thrush treatments collection includes additional options that may be helpful.

 

How Does Clotrimazole Cream Compare to Other Antifungal Creams?

 

Feature Clotrimazole Cream 1% Miconazole Cream 2%
Active ingredient Clotrimazole 1% Miconazole nitrate 2%
Application frequency 2–3 times daily Twice daily
Antibacterial activity No Yes (some gram-positive bacteria)
Suitable for thrush Yes (external use) Yes (external use)
OTC availability in UK Yes Yes

 

How Should You Store Clotrimazole Cream and Is It Clinically Suitable for You?

 

Store this cream below 25°C, away from direct heat and sunlight. Keep the tube tightly closed when not in use and always keep it out of reach of children. Do not use the cream after the expiry date printed on the packaging. Once opened, the cream should be used within the period indicated on the tube.

If you have a history of hypersensitivity to clotrimazole or any other azole antifungal, do not use this product. People with diabetes or a weakened immune system may find that fungal infections are more persistent — in these cases, it's worth speaking to your GP if the infection doesn't clear within the expected timeframe. For broader skin health support, you might also find our skin care collection useful alongside your treatment.

This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking other medicines.

Clotrimazole Cream 1% Fungal Treatment 50g specifications
Treatment category Antifungal / Dermatology
Mechanism of action Inhibits ergosterol synthesis in fungal cell membranes
Effective against Dermatophytes, Candida species, Malassezia furfur
Suitable for Adults and children aged 12 and over
Active ingredient Clotrimazole 1% w/w
Pack size 50g tube
Strength 1%
UK classification Pharmacy (P) medicine
Drug class Azole antifungal
Preparation Topical cream
Route of administration Topical (applied to skin)

Specifications of Clotrimazole Cream 1% Fungal Treatment 50g

 

What Is Clotrimazole Cream 1% and What Is It Used For?

 

Clotrimazole Cream 1% is a topical antifungal medicine used to treat a variety of fungal and yeast infections affecting the skin. It contains clotrimazole as its active ingredient — an azole antifungal that kills the fungi responsible for common skin infections. The NHS lists clotrimazole as a first-line treatment for several conditions, and it is widely available without a prescription in the UK.

It is used to treat the following conditions:

  • Athlete's foot (tinea pedis) — fungal infection of the feet and between the toes
  • Ringworm (tinea corporis) — a circular, scaly rash on the body or scalp
  • Jock itch (tinea cruris) — fungal infection of the groin area
  • External vulval thrush — itching, soreness, and redness around the vaginal area caused by Candida
  • Pityriasis versicolor — a yeast infection causing patches of discoloured skin

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Clotrimazole Cream?

 

Before you start using this cream, there are some important things to be aware of. Read the following carefully.

Do not use this cream if you:

  • Are allergic to clotrimazole or any other ingredient in the cream
  • Have a known hypersensitivity to other azole antifungals (e.g. miconazole, fluconazole)
  • Are applying it to the eyes, ears, or mouth
  • Have severely broken, blistered, or infected skin (bacterial infection) at the site

Warnings and precautions:

  • Pregnant women should consult a doctor or midwife before use, particularly in the first trimester
  • If you are breastfeeding, avoid applying the cream to the breast or nipple area
  • People with diabetes or a weakened immune system should seek medical advice if the infection does not improve within 2 weeks
  • Do not use latex condoms or diaphragms at the same time as applying clotrimazole cream to the genital area — the cream can damage latex and reduce contraceptive effectiveness
  • For children under 12, use only under medical supervision

Drug interactions:

  • Topical clotrimazole has no clinically significant systemic drug interactions due to its minimal absorption through the skin
  • However, it may damage latex-based contraceptives (condoms, diaphragms) if applied to the genital area — use alternative contraception during treatment

 

How Should You Use Clotrimazole Cream Correctly?

 

Using the cream correctly is important to ensure the infection clears fully and doesn't return. Follow these steps each time you apply it.

  1. Wash the affected area gently with mild soap and water, then pat it completely dry.
  2. Squeeze a small amount of cream (roughly the size of a pea) onto your fingertip.
  3. Apply a thin layer to the affected skin and the area immediately surrounding it.
  4. Gently rub the cream in until it is absorbed.
  5. Wash your hands thoroughly after application, unless your hands are the area being treated.
  6. Allow the area to air dry if possible — avoid covering with tight clothing immediately after application.
Indication Age Group Dose Frequency
Athlete's foot Adults & children 12+ Thin layer to affected area 2–3 times daily for 4 weeks
Ringworm / jock itch Adults & children 12+ Thin layer to affected area 2–3 times daily for 4 weeks
External vulval thrush Adults Thin layer to external area 2–3 times daily for up to 2 weeks
Pityriasis versicolor Adults & children 12+ Thin layer to affected area 2–3 times daily for 2–4 weeks

If you're managing a fungal infection alongside other intimate health concerns, our women's health collection includes a range of relevant products that may support your recovery.

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Clotrimazole Cream?

 

Like all medicines, clotrimazole cream can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Most side effects are mild and localised to the area of application.

Common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 10 people):

  • Mild burning or stinging sensation at the application site
  • Temporary itching or irritation after applying the cream
  • Slight redness of the skin

Less common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 100 people):

  • Skin rash or hives at the application site
  • Blistering or peeling of the skin
  • Swelling or increased redness suggesting an allergic reaction

If you experience signs of a serious allergic reaction — such as widespread rash, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face or throat — stop using the cream immediately and seek urgent medical attention. This is rare but important to be aware of.

 

How Should You Store Clotrimazole Cream Safely?

 

Proper storage helps maintain the cream's effectiveness throughout your treatment course. Our creams and ointments collection includes other topical treatments that follow similar storage guidelines.

  • Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place
  • Keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources
  • Do not freeze the cream
  • Keep the tube tightly closed when not in use
  • Keep out of the sight and reach of children
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the tube or carton
  • Do not dispose of medicines via wastewater or household waste — return unused medicine to your pharmacy

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

Your safety and success are our highest priorities. Our medical team rigorously evaluates every product and piece of advice we provide, ensuring you receive only the most effective, science-backed solutions available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I buy clotrimazole cream online in the UK?

You can buy Clotrimazole Cream 1% 50g directly from Cured Pharmacy online for just £5.89, without needing a prescription. It's a Pharmacy (P) medicine, so it's available over the counter. Simply add it to your basket and it will be dispatched to your address. You can also browse our full athlete's foot and fungal infections collection for related treatments.

How does clotrimazole cream work in the body?

Clotrimazole works by blocking an enzyme that fungi need to produce ergosterol — a vital component of their cell membranes. Without ergosterol, the fungal cell membrane becomes unstable and the cells die off. Because this mechanism targets fungal cells specifically, it doesn't harm your own skin cells, making it well tolerated for topical use.

How do I apply clotrimazole cream step by step?

Start by washing and thoroughly drying the affected area. Apply a thin layer of cream to the infected skin and the surrounding area, then rub it in gently. Wash your hands after application unless your hands are the area being treated, and repeat two to three times daily as directed.

How long does clotrimazole cream take to work?

Many people notice an improvement in symptoms — such as reduced itching and redness — within a few days of starting treatment. However, it's important to continue using the cream for the full recommended course, which is typically two to four weeks depending on the type of infection. Stopping early can allow the infection to return.

What is the correct dose of clotrimazole cream for athlete's foot?

For athlete's foot, apply a thin layer of clotrimazole cream to the affected area and the surrounding skin two to three times daily. Continue treatment for four weeks, even if symptoms improve before then. Make sure to dry between your toes thoroughly before each application to help the cream work effectively.

Can I use clotrimazole cream for thrush?

Yes — clotrimazole cream can be applied to the external skin around the vagina to relieve the itching and soreness associated with vulval thrush. Apply it two to three times daily for up to two weeks. For internal vaginal thrush, a pessary or oral antifungal may be more appropriate — speak to your pharmacist for personalised advice, or explore our thrush treatments for additional options.

Is clotrimazole cream safe to use during pregnancy?

Topical clotrimazole is generally considered safe during pregnancy, but you should always speak to your doctor or midwife before using any medicine when pregnant. The NHS advises that it can be used in pregnancy for conditions such as thrush, though care should be taken with application method. Your healthcare provider can advise on the safest approach for your stage of pregnancy.

What are the side effects of clotrimazole cream and how do I manage them?

The most common side effects are mild burning, stinging, or itching at the site of application — these usually settle within a few minutes and improve as treatment continues. If you experience significant skin irritation, blistering, or swelling, stop using the cream and consult your pharmacist or GP. Serious allergic reactions are rare but require immediate medical attention.

Who should not use clotrimazole cream?

You should not use this cream if you are allergic to clotrimazole or any other azole antifungal. It is not suitable for children under 12 without medical supervision, and should not be applied near the eyes, mouth, or ears. People with severely broken or infected skin should seek medical advice before using it.

Can clotrimazole cream affect condoms or contraception?

Yes — clotrimazole cream can damage latex-based contraceptives, including condoms and diaphragms, if applied to the genital area. This can reduce their effectiveness at preventing pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections. If you are using the cream for vulval thrush, use an alternative form of contraception during treatment and for at least five days afterwards.

What happens if I miss an application of clotrimazole cream?

If you forget to apply the cream at your usual time, apply it as soon as you remember. If it's nearly time for your next application, skip the missed one and carry on with your regular schedule. Do not apply a double amount to make up for a missed application — just continue as normal.

How long can I use clotrimazole cream for?

The recommended treatment duration depends on the condition being treated — typically two weeks for thrush and up to four weeks for athlete's foot or ringworm. If your symptoms have not improved after the recommended course, or if they worsen at any point, stop using the cream and consult your GP. Prolonged use beyond the recommended period should only be done under medical supervision.

What are the alternatives to clotrimazole cream?

Common alternatives include miconazole cream (another azole antifungal), terbinafine cream (an allylamine antifungal often used for athlete's foot), and ketoconazole cream (used for seborrhoeic dermatitis and pityriasis versicolor). The best choice depends on the type and location of your infection — your pharmacist can help you decide. You can also explore our creams and ointments collection for further options.

What is the difference between clotrimazole cream and clotrimazole pessary?

Clotrimazole cream is applied to the external skin surface and is used for skin fungal infections and external vulval thrush. A clotrimazole pessary is inserted internally into the vagina to treat internal vaginal thrush. Both contain the same active ingredient but are designed for different sites of infection — your pharmacist can advise which is most appropriate for your symptoms.

What are the latest findings on clotrimazole for fungal skin infections?

Clotrimazole remains one of the most widely recommended topical antifungals in UK clinical guidelines, and its efficacy and safety profile are well established through decades of clinical use. The NHS and BNF continue to list it as a first-line treatment for dermatophyte and Candida skin infections. No significant new safety concerns have emerged in recent years, and it continues to be considered a reliable, effective option for superficial fungal infections.

How Should You Use Clotrimazole Cream 1%?

Using clotrimazole cream correctly gives you the best chance of clearing the infection fully and preventing it from coming back. Always read the label before you start, and follow these steps each time you apply the cream.

Avoid getting the cream in your eyes, mouth, or ears. If accidental contact occurs, rinse the area thoroughly with water.

What Is the Correct Dose of Clotrimazole Cream?

The dose is the same for all indications — a thin layer applied to the affected area. What varies is how often you apply it and for how long, depending on the type of infection you are treating. The table below summarises the recommended dosing by indication and age group.

When Is the Best Time to Use Clotrimazole Cream?

There is no single "best" time of day to apply clotrimazole cream, but spacing your applications evenly throughout the day helps maintain a consistent level of the medicine on the skin. A practical routine is to apply it in the morning, at midday or early afternoon, and again before bed. Applying it after bathing or showering — once the skin is clean and dry — is particularly effective, as the cream can absorb well into freshly cleansed skin.

If you are treating athlete's foot, applying the cream before putting on socks and shoes in the morning and again after removing them in the evening is a sensible approach. Consistency matters more than the exact time — try to build it into your daily routine so you don't forget.

How Long Can You Use Clotrimazole Cream For?

The length of treatment depends on the condition you are treating. For athlete's foot and ringworm, a full four-week course is typically recommended, even if symptoms improve sooner. For external vulval thrush, up to two weeks is usually sufficient. It is important to complete the full course — stopping early is one of the most common reasons fungal infections return.

If your symptoms have not improved after the recommended treatment period, or if they worsen at any point, stop using the cream and speak to your GP. Do not use the cream for longer than recommended without medical advice.

Do not exceed the recommended dose. If in doubt, speak to your pharmacist.

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What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Clotrimazole Cream?

Most people use clotrimazole cream without experiencing any significant side effects. When side effects do occur, they are usually mild and confined to the area where the cream has been applied. They often settle on their own as your skin adjusts to the treatment.

  • Mild burning or stinging sensation immediately after application
  • Temporary itching at the application site
  • Slight redness or warmth of the skin
  • Mild skin dryness or flaking

These reactions are generally short-lived and do not usually require you to stop treatment. If the burning or stinging is particularly uncomfortable, try applying a smaller amount of cream and see if that helps.

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Clotrimazole Cream?

Less commonly, some people experience more noticeable skin reactions. These are still relatively rare but worth being aware of before you start treatment.

  • Skin rash or hives (urticaria) at or around the application site
  • Blistering or peeling of the skin
  • Increased redness or swelling beyond what you'd expect from the infection itself
  • A sensation of skin tightness or discomfort that persists after application

If you notice any of these less common reactions, it may indicate that your skin is sensitive to one of the ingredients in the cream. Stop using it and speak to your pharmacist before continuing.

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Clotrimazole Cream?

Serious side effects from topical clotrimazole are rare, but they can occur. The most significant concern is a hypersensitivity (allergic) reaction. Because the cream is applied to the skin rather than taken orally, systemic reactions are uncommon — but not impossible.

Seek urgent medical attention if you experience any of the following after applying the cream:

  • Widespread skin rash or swelling beyond the application site
  • Difficulty breathing or swallowing
  • Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Dizziness or feeling faint

These symptoms may indicate anaphylaxis, which is a medical emergency. Call 999 or go to your nearest A&E immediately if you experience these symptoms.

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects?

For mild side effects such as temporary stinging or itching, you can usually continue treatment and monitor how your skin responds over the next day or two. Applying the cream to clean, dry skin and using only a thin layer can help minimise irritation. If side effects are persistent or worsening, stop using the cream and consult your pharmacist or GP.

You can also report side effects directly to the MHRA through the Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk. Reporting side effects helps improve the safety information available for all medicines used in the UK.

Can Clotrimazole Cream Interact With Other Medicines?

Because clotrimazole cream is applied topically and very little is absorbed into the bloodstream, it has no clinically significant interactions with other medicines taken orally or by injection. However, there is one important interaction to be aware of: clotrimazole cream can degrade latex, which means it can weaken condoms and diaphragms if applied to the genital area. This reduces their effectiveness as contraceptives and as protection against sexually transmitted infections. If you are using the cream for vulval thrush, use a non-latex or alternative form of contraception during treatment and for at least five days after finishing the course.

If you are concerned about any side effects, contact your pharmacist or GP immediately.

Patient Information Leaflet

Important - Before taking any medication, it is always important to read the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL)

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

GPhC Number: 2233073
Tarun Kumar

Reviewed by:

Tarun Kumar

Superintendent/ Clinical Lead

📖 Find out more about our team of medical content authors and how we ensure the accuracy of our content with our content guidelines.

Content last updated: 31 Mar 2025

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