Male yeast infection cream: Best antifungal treatments and how to use them

In this article:

• Symptoms of male yeast infections
• What male yeast infection creams are available?
• OTC yeast infection creams
• Rx yeast infection creams
• Other treatments and prevention tips

In this article

• Symptoms of male yeast infections
• What male yeast infection creams are available?
• OTC yeast infection creams
• Rx yeast infection creams
• Other treatments and prevention tips

Yeast infections aren’t just an issue for women. Many people think they don’t affect men, but around 3–11% of men will get one in their lifetime, according to the Cleveland Clinic. The fungus that causes them, Candida, doesn’t discriminate—and it can infect multiple parts of the body. Certain oral antifungal medications can treat severe infections, but topical antifungal creams are typically recommended as the first-line treatment. 

There are numerous topical yeast infection creams on the market, each with its own pros and cons. We’ve got the important information right here. 

Symptoms of male yeast infections

Male yeast infections have many of the same symptoms you might expect from other fungal infections. Some people might not experience any symptoms at all, while others might see only mild ones. But they can also be significant—it all depends on the person. 

When it appears on the genitals, some of the most common symptoms include:

• Skin irritation and itchiness
• Swelling or Inflammation
• Sores
• White discharge
• Discomfort during sex or urination
• A foul smell
• Peeling or flaky skin

Candida can also run rampant in the mouth, causing an infection called oral thrush. These infections typically cause redness or soreness in and around the mouth, a loss of taste, white lesions, difficulty swallowing, or a cottony sensation in the mouth. 

What male yeast infection creams are available?

There’s a range of antifungal drugs that can potentially treat a male yeast infection. Some of them are available over the counter, while others require a prescription from a healthcare provider. Choosing the best one for your condition might feel overwhelming with so many choices, but we’ve outlined some of the best options below. Of course, a health care provider can also help you choose the ideal option based on your specific condition. 

Over-the-counter yeast infection creams for males

“For most uncomplicated male yeast infections, over-the-counter antifungal creams such as clotrimazole or miconazole are effective first-line treatments,” says Dr. Martina Ambardjieva, MD, a urologist with Dr. Telx. “These medications work by inhibiting fungal growth and are generally safe and well-tolerated.” Here are a couple of the most widely available ones. 

Lotrimin (clotrimazole)

Lotrimin is a popular OTC medication that’s been proven effective for most cases of Candida balanitis. In a study of 57 men with the condition, it cured 91% of them and eradicated Candida albicans in 83%. The median time it took to relieve redness was around seven days. Lotrimin is typically a twice-daily medicine, and its possible side effects may include stinging, blistering, peeling, itchiness, hives, and burning.

As an OTC drug, it’s usually not too expensive. Without insurance coverage or coupons, brand-name Lotrimin can cost up to $149, although generic versions can be much cheaper. 

Monistat (miconazole)

Monistat topical is most associated with female yeast infections, and that’s the brand’s main target market. However, it can work for men too. There isn’t a lot of data specifically about men, but studies have shown miconazole to be one of the best options for yeast infections in women—and it usually takes around a week to work. Like Lotrimin, the most common side effects include burning, itching, or other irritation in the affected area. 

Even without insurance or other assistance, Monistat is generally pretty affordable; often around $14. And the generic can be even cheaper. 

Prescription male yeast infection creams

Over-the-counter creams should work for most male yeast infections, but particularly severe or persistent cases might require a stronger prescription antifungal. Here are a couple common options.

Nizoral (ketoconazole)

Studies have found that ketoconazole is safe and effective for reducing Candida albicans activity, and it’s effective for treating yeast infections. While some ketoconazole shampoos are sold over the counter, the 2% cream requires a prescription. Like the other creams on this list, it’s a twice-daily treatment and can potentially cause various types of irritation at the application site. 

Brand-name Nizoral can be pricier than some other antifungals—up to around $368 per bottle. But generic ketoconazole cream is cheaper, usually around $54. And that price can decrease even more with insurance coverage or coupons. 

Oxistat (oxiconazole)

Oxistat can treat a range of fungal infections, including yeast infections. There isn’t a lot of research on its use for male yeast infections—and it’s more commonly prescribed for athlete’s foot, ringworm, and tinea versicolor—but research shows that it’s effective against superficial Candida skin infections. Patients typically apply it once or twice a day, and it has all the same side effects as the other creams on this list. 

WIthout insurance or other discounts, brand-name Oxistat can cost $894 per bottle, while generic oxiconazole might cost $632. But again, free coupons or insurance can drop those prices significantly. 

Mycostatin (nystatin)

Nystatin creams aren’t as common as clotrimazole or miconazole, but they’re solid options for people who might have allergies or side effects to azole antifungals. It’s more commonly prescribed for oral thrush, and research has shown that it can reduce the size and volume of Candida albicans colonies in general. It can relieve symptoms in as little as a couple of days, although full treatment may take longer. Similar to its OTC counterparts, nystatin’s side effects are burning, red rash, itching, or irritation where it’s applied. 

A tube of Nystatin can go for $41 without insurance. But insurance coverage or SingleCare coupons can significantly reduce that price. 

Spectazole (econazole)

In a 2015 study of 100 Candida albicans isolates, econazole was more effective than than itraconazole or fluconazole, and in an older study, it showed it was just as effective as clotrimazole in treating vaginal yeast infections. It has the same potential side effects as other azole antifungal creams, and it’s applied twice daily. 

Generic econazole might even be slightly more affordable than some other prescription antifungals, often around $225 per bottle. 

Other treatments and prevention tips

The best way to treat a yeast infection is to avoid getting one in the first place. That’s easier said than done, but according to Dr. Steven Goldberg, MD, chief medical officer at HealthTrackRx and physician at University of Louisville Health, there are some precautions you can take to significantly lower your chances. They include:

• Keeping the groin area dry and clean, especially after bathing or exercise.
• Wearing breathable, moisture-wicking underwear.
• Avoid wearing damp clothes or underwear for too long.
• Practicing safe sex and urinating after intercourse reduces the risk of irritation or microbial imbalance.
• Controlling blood sugar levels—yeast infections are more common in men with diabetes.

“Diet also plays a supportive role in prevention and recovery. Yeast feeds on sugars, so reducing intake of high-sugar foods and refined carbohydrates can help limit fungal growth during an active infection,” Dr. Ambardjieva says. “Focusing on a balanced diet rich in fresh vegetables, whole foods, and probiotic-rich options like yogurt (which support gut health and immune function) can promote a healthier microbiome and aid the body’s defenses.”

What about home remedies?

Antifungal medicines are the most effective treatments for male yeast infections, but some people may be drawn to certain home remedies. That said, they aren’t always a solution. “While many home remedies circulate online, I caution against most DIY treatments due to a lack of clinical evidence and potential irritation,” Dr. Goldberg says. “For instance, tea tree oil and apple cider vinegar are commonly touted, but can cause skin burning or allergic reactions when applied to sensitive areas.”

Here are some common remedies touted online. While there’s some evidence of their antimicrobial properties, like Dr. Goldberg says, there isn’t much evidence specifically pertaining to male yeast infections. So speak with a healthcare provider before trying any. 

• Apple Cider Vinegar: Research from 2021 suggests that apple cider vinegar has antimicrobial properties and can prevent the growth of various fungi—including Candida. However, a study from 2019 found that it was less effective against Candida than other species. 

• Tea Tree Oil: A natural antifungal and antimicrobial, tea tree oil has many medicinal uses. Studies have found that it’s especially effective when combined with an antifungal medication like fluconazole. 
• Yogurt: A study from 2017 found that consuming yogurt that contains Lactobacillus acidophilus bacteria could potentially suppress Candida growth in women. However, other studies on probiotics don’t show the same effectiveness.

• Boric Acid: More research is necessary to determine if this is truly effective against yeast infections, but some doctors now recommend it as a natural treatment option.