What Cream is Good for Skin Infections?
Several creams effectively treat various skin infections, depending on the infection's cause. The choice of cream depends on whether the infection is bacterial or fungal.
For bacterial skin infections, several topical antibiotic creams are available. These include:
- Mupirocin: This antibiotic cream prevents bacterial growth and kills existing bacteria on the skin. Cleveland Clinic describes it as a treatment for bacterial skin infections. It's also effective for secondarily infected traumatic skin lesions (Mayo Clinic).
- Bacitracin: Another topical antibiotic option.
- Bactroban (mupirocin brand name): A commercially available brand of mupirocin.
- Clindamycin: A topical antibiotic that can be used to treat certain skin infections.
Important Note: While topical antibiotics can be effective for some infections, infectious diseases experts generally recommend a limited role for them in clinical practice (BPAC). Always consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment of skin infections.
Fungal Skin Infections
Fungal skin infections require different treatments. Effective creams include:
- Clotrimazole: Available as a cream, spray, or solution (Canesten brand). It's used to treat various fungal infections, including athlete's foot (NHS).
- Nystatin: Another antifungal agent often prescribed for fungal skin infections.
- Ketoconazole: An antifungal cream effective against various fungal skin infections.
- Oxiconazole: An antifungal that can treat fungal skin infections.
- Econazole: Similar to oxiconazole, this antifungal cream can also address fungal skin infections.
Antiseptic Creams
Antiseptic creams can help kill bacteria and reduce the risk of infection, but they don't directly treat existing infections. They are often used as a preventative measure or in conjunction with other treatments.
Disclaimer: This information is for general knowledge and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment of any skin infection.
