How is a yeast infection on the skin treated?

Yeast can overgrow in warm, moist areas and cause redness, soreness, burning, or itching. Around the vulva, vaginal symptoms may include unusual Vaginal Discharge or Vaginal Itching, but irritation can also come from contact dermatitis, bacterial infection, eczema, or another condition. A diagnosis based only on appearance can be unreliable, especially when symptoms are new, recurrent, or different from previous episodes.

A clinician or pharmacist may recommend an antifungal cream, pessary, or another form of Antifungal Treatment for Thrush, depending on where the symptoms are and whether the vagina is involved. Use the product for the advised course and avoid applying products internally unless they are intended for that use. Keep the area clean and dry, choose breathable underwear, change out of damp clothing, and avoid perfumed washes or harsh scrubbing. Do not share treatment or use leftover medicine for a new rash.

Arrange a medical review if this is your first suspected infection, symptoms do not improve after treatment, episodes keep returning, or you are pregnant, immunocompromised, or living with diabetes. Seek prompt help for severe Vulval Pain, fever, sores, pelvic pain, or rapidly spreading redness.

Ask whether the rash is yeast-related, whether a swab or examination is needed, which treatment suits the affected area, and how to prevent irritation while the skin heals.