Fungal Infection Treatment

Fungal infections are common conditions that affect the skin, nails and intimate areas, often causing itching, redness, flaking and discomfort. The Welzo fungal infection treatment collection brings together trusted antifungal creams, sprays, nail lacquers and hygiene products so you can treat athlete’s foot, ringworm, thrush and fungal nail infections at home, with discreet delivery and the option to buy online whenever you need support.

What are fungal infections?

Fungal infections occur when naturally occurring fungi on the skin or in the environment overgrow and invade the outer layers of the skin, nails or mucous membranes. Warm, moist areas of the body – such as between the toes, skin folds and the groin – are particularly vulnerable. While most superficial fungal infections are not dangerous, they can be uncomfortable, contagious and persistent if not treated correctly.

People who exercise frequently, wear occlusive footwear, work in warm environments or share changing rooms and showers are at greater risk of fungal skin problems such as athlete’s foot. Certain health conditions, including diabetes, can also make infections more likely or harder to clear, so it is important to choose the right treatment and use it for long enough.

Common types of fungal infections treated with Welzo products

The Welzo range includes treatments for the most frequently seen fungal infections affecting the feet, body, nails and intimate areas.

Athlete’s foot (tinea pedis)

Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection between the toes or on the soles of the feet, typically causing itching, burning, peeling and cracked skin. It is particularly common in people who wear tight shoes or use communal changing rooms and showers. Our dedicated athlete’s foot collection includes antifungal creams, sprays and powders designed to clear infection and keep feet dry.

Fungal nail infections (onychomycosis)

Fungal nail infections develop slowly and can cause nails to become thickened, discoloured, crumbly or brittle. Because nails grow slowly, they often require longer treatment than skin infections. Welzo offers medicated lacquers and nail treatments, which can be combined with targeted nail health products to support stronger, healthier-looking nails during and after treatment.

Ringworm (tinea corporis)

Ringworm is a contagious fungal infection that appears as circular, red, scaly patches on the body or scalp. Despite the name, it is caused by dermatophyte fungi rather than a worm. It can be passed on through contact with infected skin, towels, clothing or animals. Antifungal creams and sprays can help clear ringworm when applied regularly to the affected area and surrounding skin.

Yeast infections and thrush

Yeast infections such as thrush are commonly caused by Candida species. They can affect the mouth, skin folds and intimate areas, causing itching, soreness and discharge. Welzo offers products that support intimate health, including targeted treatments within our vaginal health range and soothing washes from collections such as feminine wash & wipes, to help maintain comfort alongside antifungal therapy.

Typical symptoms of fungal skin and nail infections

Different fungal infections cause slightly different symptoms, but common signs include:

• Red, scaly or flaky patches of skin
• Itching, burning or stinging sensations
• Soft, white, peeling skin between the toes
• Ring-shaped or well-defined rashes on the body
• Thickened, discoloured or brittle nails
• Soreness, discharge or changes in odour in intimate areas

Because fungal infections can resemble other conditions such as eczema or psoriasis, some people also use supportive skincare from ranges like body skincare or skin care for comfort while the antifungal treatment works.

Causes and risk factors for fungal infections

Fungi thrive in warm, damp environments. Anything that increases moisture against the skin can raise your risk of infection. Common risk factors include:

• Wearing tight or non-breathable footwear for long periods
• Walking barefoot in communal showers, gyms and swimming pools
• Not drying thoroughly between the toes or in skin folds after bathing
• Wearing sweaty clothing for extended periods, especially sportswear
• Recent antibiotic use, which can disrupt normal microbial balance
• Conditions such as diabetes or a weakened immune system

Good hygiene – including regular washing with gentle products from our handwash and household cleaning collections – and keeping skin dry can significantly reduce the likelihood of recurrent infections.

Fungal infection treatment options on Welzo

Welzo stocks a wide selection of over-the-counter antifungal medicines and support products so you can manage mild to moderate fungal infections at home.

Topical antifungal creams, sprays and powders

For many skin infections such as athlete’s foot and ringworm, topical treatments are the first line. These include creams, gels, sprays and powders containing antifungal ingredients. Popular brands in the Welzo range include Canesten, Daktarin and Lamisil, which are formulated to target the cause of infection and provide relief from itching and irritation.

Nail lacquers and specialised nail treatments

Fungal nail infections usually need long-term treatment. Medicated nail lacquers and solutions are designed to penetrate the nail plate and reach the site of infection. These can be used alongside nail-care tools and strengthening products within our best nail care products collection to support the appearance of affected nails.

Intimate and skin-soothing products

When fungal infections affect sensitive or intimate areas, comfort is just as important as clearing the infection. Alongside antifungal treatments, many people choose gentle cleansers and soothing moisturisers from ranges such as moisturisers and menstrual care to help maintain skin barrier health and reduce irritation from friction or sanitary products.

Supportive first aid and hygiene

Broken or scratched skin is more vulnerable to infection. Products within our first aid, plasters and antiseptics collections can help protect minor cuts or abrasions, while good everyday hygiene reduces the risk of fungi spreading to new areas.

How to use antifungal treatments effectively

Using antifungal medicines correctly is essential for successful treatment:

• Apply creams, sprays or solutions exactly as directed on the pack or by a healthcare professional.
• Continue treatment for the full recommended duration, even if symptoms improve earlier, as fungi can remain in the skin after itching settles.
• Clean and thoroughly dry the affected area before each application.
• For foot infections, change socks daily and choose breathable footwear.
• Do not share towels, footwear or nail tools with others while you have an active infection.

If you are using more than one product (such as an antifungal cream plus a moisturiser from our body skincare range), apply the antifungal treatment first and allow it to absorb fully before adding any additional products.

When to see a doctor or pharmacist about fungal infections

While many mild fungal infections can be managed with over-the-counter products, you should seek professional advice if:

• Symptoms are severe, widespread or very painful
• The infection affects the face, scalp or a large area of the body
• You have diabetes or a condition that affects your immune system
• You are pregnant, breastfeeding or taking multiple medicines
• There is no improvement after using an antifungal product as directed
• You experience systemic symptoms such as fever, shortness of breath or chest pain

A pharmacist or doctor can confirm the diagnosis, rule out other causes such as eczema or psoriasis, and, where appropriate, recommend prescription-strength antifungal treatments.

Preventing future fungal infections

Once an infection has cleared, prevention focuses on keeping the skin clean, dry and protected:

• Dry thoroughly between your toes and in skin folds after bathing or exercise.
• Wear breathable socks and change them if they become damp.
• Alternate footwear to allow shoes to dry fully between uses.
• Use flip flops or pool shoes in communal showers and around swimming pools.
• Avoid sharing towels, nail clippers or foot files with others.
• Consider using targeted products from our foot care range to keep skin in good condition.

Why choose Welzo for fungal infection treatments?

Welzo brings together pharmacy-approved antifungal medicines, everyday hygiene products and supportive skincare into one convenient online destination. Our curated collections make it easier to find treatments for specific concerns such as athlete’s foot, fungal nail infections or intimate yeast infections, along with related categories like mouthcare and hand sanitisers & antibacterial hand gels for broader infection control.

With fast UK delivery, discreet packaging and access to a wide range of trusted brands, you can manage fungal infections from home while protecting your privacy. Where additional medical support is needed, Welzo’s wider ecosystem of health products and services can help you take a more joined-up approach to your skin, nail and overall health.

Fungal infection FAQs

How do I prevent fungal infections?

To reduce your risk of fungal infections, keep skin as clean and dry as possible, particularly between the toes and in skin folds. Wear breathable shoes and socks, change out of damp clothing promptly after exercise and avoid walking barefoot in communal areas such as gym showers or swimming pools. Do not share towels, shoes or nail tools with other people, and use appropriate hygiene and foot care products, such as those in our infection-control and foot care ranges, to support healthy skin.

What is the best treatment for a fungal infection?

The best treatment depends on the type and location of the infection. Mild skin infections such as athlete’s foot or ringworm often respond well to topical antifungal creams or sprays from clinically trusted ranges like Canesten, Daktarin or Lamisil. Fungal nail infections may need medicated nail lacquers used for several months, while recurrent or severe infections might require prescription-strength medicines. If you are unsure which product to choose, a pharmacist can advise based on your symptoms and medical history.

How can I remove a fungal infection completely?

Clearing a fungal infection fully usually requires consistent treatment over the recommended time period. Apply antifungal products exactly as directed, even after symptoms begin to improve, as stopping too soon can allow the infection to return. Combine treatment with preventative steps – such as drying the skin thoroughly, rotating footwear and treating both feet, not just visible patches – to reduce the risk of reinfection. For stubborn or recurrent infections, speak to a healthcare professional, as laboratory tests or stronger medicines may be needed.

What kills fungus the fastest?

No treatment can guarantee instant results, but using an appropriate antifungal medicine at the right strength and frequency will clear most superficial infections as quickly as possible. Ingredients in products within our Canesten, Daktarin and Nizoral ranges are specifically designed to disrupt fungal cell membranes and stop the organisms from multiplying. Starting treatment early, applying it regularly and following hygiene advice are key to achieving faster improvement.

Are your fungal infection treatments safe?

Welzo only supplies antifungal products from reputable manufacturers that meet UK quality and safety standards. Most topical treatments are suitable for adults and older children when used as directed, but there may be restrictions in pregnancy, breastfeeding or in people with certain medical conditions. Always read the patient information leaflet before use and check with a doctor or pharmacist if you are taking other medicines or have long-term health conditions such as diabetes.

How soon will I see results from antifungal treatment?

Some people notice an improvement in itching and irritation within a few days of starting antifungal treatment, but complete clearance of the infection can take longer. Skin infections may need two to four weeks of regular application, while fungal nail infections often require several months for a healthy nail to grow through. Continue using your treatment for the full course recommended on the pack or by your healthcare professional, and combine it with preventative measures to support lasting results.