What is Daktarin?

Daktarin is an over-the-counter antifungal medicine containing miconazole, a broad-spectrum antifungal agent that treats and relieves a range of common skin infections caused by fungi and yeasts.

It is available as a cream making it easy to apply directly to the affected area. Daktarin stops fungi from growing and helps clear infection while soothing irritation, redness, and itching.

What is Daktarin Used For?

Daktarin products can be used to treat:

Athlete’s Foot (Tinea Pedis): Fungal infection between the toes or on the soles of the feet.
Intertrigo (Sweat Rash): Yeast or fungal rash in skin folds, such as under the breasts or between the thighs.
Ringworm (Tinea Corporis): Circular, itchy patches anywhere on the body.
Fungal Infections of the Groin (Jock Itch/Tinea Cruris): Itchy, red rash in the groin area.
Fungal Nail and Skin Overgrowth: Early or mild infections on or around nails or skin.

At 123Meds, Daktarin is supplied only for uncomplicated superficial fungal infections in adults.

If you have widespread, recurrent, or severe symptoms, or signs of infection in deeper tissue or the bloodstream, you must seek in-person medical care.

How Daktarin Works

Miconazole, the active ingredient in Daktarin, works by:

Disrupting Fungal Cell Membranes: It blocks the production of ergosterol, a vital component of fungal cell walls.
Stopping Growth: Without ergosterol, fungi cannot multiply or survive, allowing healthy skin to heal.
Relieving Symptoms: As the fungal population decreases, itching, redness, and irritation subside.

When to Use Daktarin

Use Daktarin when you have mild to moderate fungal skin infections, such as athlete’s foot or sweat rash, confirmed or strongly suspected by your symptoms (itching, redness, flaking, or a ring-shaped rash).
If your infection is severe, spreading, or not improving after 2 weeks of treatment, consult a GP or pharmacist for further assessment.

Can Daktarin Be Purchased Over the Counter?

Yes. Daktarin is a pharmacy medicine (P) in the UK and can be purchased without a prescription after a short consultation with a pharmacist or through a regulated online service like 123Meds.

Your pharmacist will check your symptoms to ensure the product and strength are appropriate.

Directions: How to Use Daktarin

Clean and Dry First: Gently wash and thoroughly dry the affected skin.

Apply Thinly: Spread a thin layer of cream or powder over the area twice daily (morning and night) or as directed on the pack.

Cover Surrounding Skin: Extend about 1–2 cm beyond the visible rash to catch unseen fungi.

Continue After Symptoms Improve: Keep using Daktarin for at least 7 days after symptoms clear to prevent relapse.

For Powder (Feet/Groin): Dust inside socks, shoes, or underwear daily to help keep the area dry.

If you miss an application, use it as soon as you remember. Do not double the amount at the next application.

Daktarin Ingredients

Active Ingredient: Miconazole nitrate (strength depends on product—usually 2% w/w)

Inactive Ingredients (vary by form): Cream: Liquid paraffin, benzyl alcohol, polysorbate 60, and other emollients

Always check the product packaging for the full list, especially if you have allergies.

Daktarin Side Effects & Safety Advice

Common, Usually Mild:

Mild burning or stinging where applied
Itching or redness that soon settles

Less Common:

Dryness or irritation

Serious—Seek Urgent Help (GP, NHS 111, or A&E):

Severe skin blistering, intense redness, or swelling
Local allergic rash (hives, swelling)
Sudden difficulty breathing, facial swelling, or throat tightness (possible severe allergic reaction)

Stop using Daktarin and get medical help if you develop a widespread rash, severe irritation, or any signs of an allergic reaction.

If symptoms do not improve after 2 weeks (or worsen at any time), consult a doctor or pharmacist.

Keep skin clean and dry, wear loose clothing, and wash bedding/towels regularly to avoid reinfection.