Fungal skin infections are extremely common. They’re also often uncomfortable and persistent, leading many people to seek treatment options that go beyond what’s available at their local drugstore.
More and more, people are turning to natural remedies to treat a variety of skin conditions. One of the most promising of these natural treatments is garlic.
Garlic has long been known to possess potent antifungal properties, making it a potentially valuable tool in fighting skin fungal infections. But how do you use garlic on your skin to get rid of a fungal infection?
This article will help you understand how to use garlic for skin fungal infection effectively, safely, and in ways that are most likely to bring you relief.
Understanding Fungal Skin Infections
Before you reach for the garlic, it’s important to understand the enemy. Fungal skin infections are common and can be uncomfortable, but knowing what you’re dealing with is the first step to finding relief.
Common Types of Fungal Skin Infections
- Athlete’s Foot (Tinea Pedis): This pesky infection loves to hang out between your toes, causing itching, burning, and sometimes even blisters. It thrives in damp places like locker rooms and public showers.
- Jock Itch (Tinea Cruris): Similar to athlete’s foot, jock itch prefers the warm, moist environment of the groin and inner thighs. It’s more common in people who sweat a lot or wear tight clothes. It usually shows up as a red, ring-shaped rash.
- Ringworm (Tinea Corporis): Despite its name, ringworm isn’t caused by worms at all! It’s a fungal infection that can appear anywhere on the body, causing itchy, red, ring-shaped patches. It’s also highly contagious, so be careful.
- Yeast Infections (Candidiasis): These infections are caused by an overgrowth of the Candida fungus. They can affect the skin, mouth (thrush), or nails, and often pop up in warm, moist skin folds.
Identifying the Infection
Choosing the right treatment depends on knowing what kind of fungal skin infection you have. Pay attention to where the infection is, what it looks like, and what symptoms you’re experiencing.
If you’re unsure, or if your symptoms worsen, it’s always best to consult a dermatologist. They can give you an accurate diagnosis and create a treatment plan that’s right for you.
The antifungal power of garlic: Allicin and its benefits
Garlic’s strong smell and ability to fight fungus comes from a special compound called allicin. Allicin is the key ingredient that gives garlic its antifungal punch.
How does allicin work? Well, it gets in the way of the fungus’s ability to grow and thrive. Allicin inhibits the growth of a wide variety of different types of fungi.
People have used garlic for medicinal purposes for centuries. In the olden days, it was a popular treatment for infections of all kinds.
While there aren’t specific studies on garlic’s effect on ringworm, we do know it has general antifungal properties. That’s why some people try it as a home remedy for fungal skin infections.
How to prepare and use garlic for skin fungal infections
If you’re going to try using garlic on your skin to fight a fungal infection, here are some ways to prepare and apply it.
Preparation methods
Crushed garlic paste
Crush garlic cloves into a paste. You can mix the paste with olive oil or coconut oil to make it milder and easier to apply. The oil may also help reduce any irritation the garlic might cause.
Garlic-infused oil
Another method is to infuse olive oil or coconut oil with garlic cloves. This results in a gentler application method that you may find easier to tolerate.
Garlic water or compress
Steep crushed garlic in warm water to make a garlic-infused water. You can use this as a compress for sensitive areas or for areas of skin that are easily irritated.
How to apply
Patch test
Before applying any garlic preparation to a large area, it’s essential to do a patch test on a small, discreet area of skin. This helps you check for allergic reactions or sensitivities before widespread use.
Direct application
Apply a thin layer of garlic paste or infused oil to the affected area. Cover with gauze to keep it in place and prevent it from rubbing off on clothing or furniture.
Frequency and duration
Apply the garlic preparation two to three times daily. Continue until you see improvement in your symptoms.
Precautions
Keep in mind that garlic can irritate the skin or even cause a burning sensation. If the garlic paste causes stinging, swelling, or redness, rinse it off immediately and don’t use it again.
If you have sensitive skin, dilute the garlic paste or oil before applying it.
Do not apply garlic to broken skin or open wounds.
Garlic and other natural remedies
You can use garlic on its own, or you can combine it with other natural remedies, such as clove oil, to give your body an extra boost in fighting a fungal infection.
Tea tree oil
Tea tree oil has potent antifungal properties. You might apply garlic to the affected skin in the morning and diluted tea tree oil in the evening.
Coconut oil
Coconut oil is a great moisturizer with antifungal properties. Try using coconut oil as a carrier oil when you apply crushed garlic to your skin, or apply it separately to soothe your skin after the garlic has done its work.
Apple cider vinegar
The acidity of apple cider vinegar can help keep fungus from growing. Use garlic on your skin in the morning and soak the affected area in diluted apple cider vinegar in the evening.
Creating a holistic treatment plan
You can often get better results when you combine remedies. Just be sure to adjust your plan to fit your own needs and sensitivities. Pay attention to how your skin reacts, and adjust the way you’re using garlic and other remedies as needed.
As you’re treating a fungal infection, track your progress and adjust your plan along the way. If something doesn’t seem to be helping, try something else, or talk with a health professional.
Prevention and hygiene
Remember that you can’t just apply garlic and hope for the best! Here are some ways to prevent fungal infections and make sure any garlic treatment you try has the best chance of working.
Maintain proper hygiene
- Always clean the skin before applying any home remedy, including garlic or even decolorized iodine.
- Choose a gentle, antifungal soap that contains ingredients such as tea tree oil, ketoconazole, or selenium sulfide to wash any affected areas.
- Dry your skin thoroughly after washing.
- Change your clothes and towels regularly.
Prevent the spread of infection
- Avoid sharing clothing, towels, or bed linens with others.
- Wear loose-fitting clothes made from breathable fabrics, such as cotton.
- Don’t walk barefoot in public areas. Protect your feet by wearing shoes or flip-flops in locker rooms, showers, and pool areas.
Strengthen your immune system
Your immune system is your best defense. To keep it strong, be sure to eat a balanced diet, get enough sleep, and manage stress.
When to seek professional medical advice
Garlic can be a great home remedy, but it’s not a substitute for professional medical care.
You should see a doctor if:
- Your symptoms get worse or don’t go away after two weeks.
- You have a severe infection.
- You have an underlying health condition.
The most important thing is to get the right diagnosis and treatment plan from a dermatologist. Dr. Richardson and the Natura Dermatology & Cosmetics team are experts in diagnosing and treating all kinds of skin problems, including fungal infections.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to cure fungal infection on skin fast
While garlic might offer some relief, there’s no guaranteed “fast” cure for skin fungal infections. While garlic might offer some relief, prescription or over-the-counter antifungal medications, such as a fungus killer spray, are generally the most effective and quickest route to clearing up the infection. Always consult with a doctor or dermatologist for proper diagnosis and treatment.
What is the strongest natural antifungal?
Several natural substances exhibit antifungal properties, including tea tree oil, coconut oil, and garlic. However, their effectiveness varies depending on the specific fungus and the severity of the infection. It’s essential to remember that natural remedies might not be as potent as conventional medications and should be used with caution and doctor’s guidance.
What part of the body has the highest percentage of fungal infections?
Fungal infections commonly affect areas that are warm, moist, and prone to friction, such as the feet (athlete’s foot), groin (jock itch), and skin folds. These environments provide ideal conditions for fungal growth.
Can you absorb garlic through your skin?
Yes, some compounds in garlic, like allicin, can be absorbed through the skin. This is why garlic is sometimes used topically for its potential antifungal and antibacterial properties. However, it’s important to use garlic with caution on the skin, as it can cause irritation or allergic reactions in some individuals. Diluting garlic with a carrier oil (like olive oil or coconut oil) is recommended.
Why is skin fungus so hard to get rid of?
Skin fungus can be persistent for a few reasons. Fungi are resilient organisms, and some infections can be deep-seated. Re-infection is also common, especially if you don’t address factors like poor hygiene, damp environments, or weakened immunity. It’s vital to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully and maintain good hygiene practices to prevent recurrence.
In Summary
Garlic may offer a natural and effective option for treating fungal infections on your skin. But you need to prepare it carefully, apply it correctly, and maintain excellent hygiene to make sure your treatment is successful.
It’s important to use caution when trying new treatments, including natural remedies like garlic. If your symptoms don’t get better or if they get worse, talk with a doctor or other qualified healthcare professional.
If you decide to incorporate garlic into your skincare routine, do it responsibly. Remember that natural remedies work best when combined with a healthy lifestyle that supports your skin’s overall health and resilience.