Athlete’s foot, or tinea pedis, is a common fungal infection that can cause itching, scaling, and inflammation on your feet. If you’ve ever experienced it, you know it can be a real nuisance!
Luckily, there are over-the-counter treatments available to help clear up mild to moderate cases. Two popular options are undecylenic acid and tolnaftate.
So, which one is better? This article will compare and contrast undecylenic acid vs tolnaftate, looking at how they work, how effective they are, and other important factors to help you make the best choice for your athlete’s foot.
How do they work?
Undecylenic Acid
Undecylenic acid is a short-chain fatty acid that kills fungi. In fact, short-chain fatty acids have been known to be antifungal since people started using them to keep food from spoiling.
It works by disrupting the membranes that form the outer walls of fungal cells.
Tolnaftate
Tolnaftate is a synthetic antifungal medicine that belongs to a group of drugs called thiocarbamates.
It works by distorting the hyphae, the long, branching filaments that make up the mycelium, or body, of a fungus. The distortion stunts the fungus’s growth.
Efficacy in Treating Athlete’s Foot
So, which one works better for athlete’s foot? Studies show that undecylenic acid and tolnaftate are pretty comparable. One double-blind study showed no real difference in how well they worked to treat the infection, either clinically or when looking at it under a microscope.
Luckily, there are tons of over-the-counter options for minor foot problems.
Now, for more serious infections, prescription allylamines are sometimes more effective than azoles or undecylenic acid, but they’re also pricier. For a first-line treatment that won’t break the bank, azoles or undecylenic acid are often a good place to start.
Safety and side effects
Both undecylenic acid and tolnaftate are pretty safe to use. You might get some mild skin irritation, like redness or itching, with either one.
Undecylenic acid rarely causes side effects beyond that. Tolnaftate is also well-tolerated, but, in rare instances, some people might have an allergic reaction to it. If you’re concerned, test a small area of skin before widespread use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is tolnaftate better than undecylenic acid?
“Better” depends on the specific situation. Tolnaftate is a synthetic antifungal, while undecylenic acid is a naturally derived fatty acid with antifungal properties. Some studies suggest tolnaftate may be slightly more potent against certain fungi, but undecylenic acid is often favored for its milder nature and broader spectrum of action. The best choice depends on the severity of the infection and individual sensitivities.
Does undecylenic acid cure toenail fungus?
Undecylenic acid can be effective for treating mild to moderate toenail fungus, but it’s not always a guaranteed cure, especially for severe infections. It works by inhibiting fungal growth. Success often depends on consistent application and the severity of the infection. For stubborn cases, prescription antifungals might be necessary.
What happened to undecylenic acid?
Undecylenic acid is still widely available! You can find it in many over-the-counter antifungal creams, liquids, and sprays. It’s a common ingredient in products designed to treat athlete’s foot, ringworm, and other fungal skin infections, including toenail fungus.
How long does it take for undecylenic acid to work?
Patience is key! It can take several weeks to months to see noticeable improvement with undecylenic acid. Consistency is crucial. You should apply it as directed, usually twice daily, for the entire recommended treatment period, even if symptoms seem to improve early on. Toenail fungus, in particular, takes a long time to clear due to the slow growth of nails.
How long can you use undecylenic acid?
Undecylenic acid is generally safe for long-term use as directed. However, if you don’t see improvement after several months of consistent use, or if you experience any irritation, it’s best to consult with a doctor or podiatrist. They can assess your condition and recommend alternative treatment options.
Key Takeaways
Undecylenic acid and tolnaftate are both topical medications that treat athlete’s foot (tinea pedis) effectively. Studies show that both are similarly effective at clearing up athlete’s foot infections. The right choice for you will likely depend on things like cost, where you live, your personal preferences, and any sensitivities you may have to inactive ingredients in either product.