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?
• Side effects and safety considerations
• Expert takeaway

In this article

• Symptoms of male yeast infections
• What male yeast infection creams are available?
• Side effects and safety considerations
• Expert takeaway

Yeast infections aren’t just an issue for women. Many people think they don’t affect men, but around 3% to 11% of men will get one in their lifetime. The fungus that causes them, Candida, doesn’t discriminate—and it can infect multiple parts of the body, such as the genitals, skin, and mouth. 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. In men, yeast infections can often involve an overgrowth of Candida in the genital area or in the mouth. Some people might not experience any symptoms at all, while others might see only mild ones. They can also be significant—it all depends on the person. 

Some of the most common symptoms of yeast infections of the penis (balanitis thrush) include:

• Skin irritation and itchiness
• Redness or swelling
• Soreness on the head of the penis 
• White discharge, especially under the foreskin
• Areas of white skin on the shaft or head
• Discomfort during sex or urination
• A foul smell
• Peeling or flaky skin

Candida can also affect the mouth, causing an infection called oral thrush. These infections typically cause redness or soreness in and around the mouth, changes in taste, white patches on the tongue, difficulty swallowing, or a cottony sensation in the mouth. 

Jock itch is another common fungal infection that can affect moist areas such as the groin. Unlike most male yeast infections, jock itch is usually caused by tinea cruris, a different type of fungus. However, in some cases, jock itch may be caused by an overgrowth of Candida albicans.

Symptoms of jock itch may include: 

• Itchy, red, or irritated skin in the groin or inner thighs 
• A rash that’s raised or scaly 
• Burning or discomfort that gets worse with sweating 

What male yeast infection creams are available?

There’s a range of antifungal drugs that may help treat a male yeast infection. Some of them are available over the counter, while others require a prescription. A healthcare provider can help you choose from the best options based on your specific condition. Topical yeast creams start relieving symptoms within a few days, although it can take a week or two to completely clear the infection.

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.” In very mild cases, yeast infections can go away on their own and with proper hygiene, although antifungal creams may still be recommended. 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 randomized clinical study, 91% of men who were treated twice daily for seven days were cured or saw their symptoms improve, and Candida albicans was eradicated in 83% of men. The most common possible side effects of clotrimazole 1% cream include mild stinging, burning, itching, and irritation around the treated area.

As an OTC drug, it’s usually more accessible than other drugs. 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 treating female yeast infections, and that’s the brand’s main target market. However, miconazole 2% cream can also work for men. Even though it’s often used for vaginal yeast infections, miconazole is effective as a first-line drug for balanitis caused by a Candida infection. Like clotrimazole, miconazole is typically used twice daily for one or two weeks, and the most common side effects include burning, itching, or irritation in the treated 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 and oral options

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

Mycostatin (nystatin)

Nystatin creams aren’t as commonly used as clotrimazole or miconazole, but they’re solid options for people who might have allergies or side effects with azole antifungals. Research has shown that it can reduce the size and volume of Candida albicans colonies. 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. 

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. And that price can decrease even more with insurance coverage or coupons. 

Bacitracin 

Bacitracin isn’t an antifungal, so it’s not used to directly treat yeast infections. However, a bacitracin ointment (not Neosporin) may be used for children when a bacterial skin infection is suspected, in addition to a fungal one. It’s not typically recommended for adult yeast infections.

Diflucan (oral fluconazole)

For moderate to severe infections or cases that don’t improve with topical antifungals, an oral antifungal like fluconazole may be prescribed. It’s typically taken as a single dose by mouth, but it’s sometimes taken weekly for several months to manage recurrent balanitis.

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. 

In a 2015 study of 100 Candida albicans isolates, econazole was more effective than itraconazole or fluconazole, and an older study showed it was just as effective as clotrimazole in treating vaginal yeast infections. While it’s not a first-line option for male yeast infections, research suggests it may be used if other options don’t work. 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.

Topical steroids

When inflammation, redness, or swelling is severe, a healthcare provider may recommend combining a topical antifungal with a low-strength corticosteroid, such as hydrocortisone 0.5% to 1%. Combining a steroid with an antifungal can help manage irritation and itching while the antifungal treats the yeast infection. 

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. Good hygiene practices and other tips include:

• Keeping the groin area dry and clean, especially after bathing or exercise.
• Wearing moisture-wicking, breathable underwear.
• Avoid wearing damp clothes for too long.
• Practicing safe sex with condoms and urinating after intercourse may help reduce the risk of irritation or microbial imbalance.
• Controlling blood sugar levels, since 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, as 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, there’s no clinical evidence that shows it can help treat male yeast infections, and applying it to the skin without diluting it can cause irritation or chemical burns.
• 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. Still, it may cause irritation when applied without diluting it first.
• 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, with studies particularly lacking for male yeast infections.
• 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. However, it’s not typically used for male yeast infections and could be toxic if it isn’t used properly. 

Side effects and safety considerations

Most treatments for male yeast infections are safe when used as directed. However, side effects can still happen and should be discussed with a healthcare professional.

Common side effects of topical antifungal creams include:

• Mild burning
• Stinging
• Redness
• Itching 
• Irritation

Common side effects of oral antifungal medications include:

• Headache
• Nausea
• Upset stomach
• Dizziness

Side effects are usually mild and temporary. However, severe side effects are possible, especially with prolonged use and higher doses. 

Consult a healthcare provider if any of the following occur:

• Symptoms don’t improve after 7 to 14 days of treatment 
• The infection keeps coming back 
• Pain, swelling, cracking, or discharge is severe 
• Severe pain while urinating or during sexual activity
• You have certain health problems, like diabetes or a weakened immune system

Seek medical help for any serious symptoms of a male yeast infection. A healthcare provider can make an accurate diagnosis and give medical advice on the proper treatment for your condition. 

Expert takeaway

“OTC antifungals like miconazole, clotrimazole, and nystatin are the most common ways to manage male yeast infections,” notes Gerardo Sison, Pharm.D., and member of the SingleCare Medical Board. He goes on to say, “The key is to apply the medication consistently and to finish the whole treatment course. Otherwise, the symptoms could come back.”