How long does topical antifungal treatment take to work for tinea manuum?

Tinea manuum can cause dry scale, cracking, redness, or a defined patch on one or both hands. The skin may look rough after fungal activity has reduced because the outer layer needs time to recover. Persistent scale on the palm can also be mistaken for eczema, so appearance alone cannot confirm the diagnosis.

Apply the prescribed product to clean, fully dried skin and cover the affected border as directed. Wash hands after treatment unless the hands themselves are the treatment site. Keep gloves, towels, and tools clean and dry; avoid sharing them. Complete the course, and use a plain moisturiser at a separate time if cracking needs support.

Arrange an examination if the hand becomes increasingly painful, swollen, warm, or wet, or if cracks drain. Seek review when there is no clear change after the advised course, when both hands are involved with a foot rash, or when the diagnosis is uncertain.

Ask whether the rash is fungal rather than eczema, whether your feet or nails also need assessment, and how long to continue treatment after symptoms begin to settle.