Fungal infections could take the fun out of a perfect good summer vacation. Ringworm and athlete's foot are common afflictions during sunny seasons, when we sweat in our clothes and don't always have the chance to take them off as soon as they become drenched. Perspiration and heat helps fungal infections build on our skin. Because of this, Lamisil Cream should be part of your summer arsenal of medicines.

Lamisil Cream was specially formulated to treat not only common infections like interdigital-type pedis (athlete's foot) and tinea corporis (ringworm), but a wide range of fungal skin infections. Other examples are tinea cruris (jock itch) and tinea versicolor, which are also common in the summer, or in tropical regions. Tinea versicolor, also known as pityriasis versicolor, is a peculiar condition in which white, tan or brown blotches appear on the skin, sometimes changing color depending on one's body temperature. Fortunately, this is a temporary condition, one that is harmless and possibly even recurrent. It is usually treatable by applying Lamisil Solution or Cream twice a day, for one to two weeks. Other fungal infection treatments may take a month or more before they show any positive effects. This cream may also be used in relieving cracking, itching and burning sensations on the skin, as well as light scaling.

The active ingredient in Lamisil is terbinafine hydrochloride, a substance used primarily in treating fungal infections found in or under the human nails. It is often found in ointment form, although a pill form exists specifically for people who suffer from skin conditions that do not respond to topical treatments. In 1974, terbinafine hydrochloride was discovered as one of the first allylamine-class antifungals, but it is only in 1991 when it was first approved for systemic use, in the United Kingdom. The following year, it was approved for topical use in the United States.

Terbinafine hydrochloride works by interfering with the fungal cell membrane, and inhibiting the production of ergosterol, which is a vital component of the membrane. The chemical causes tears on the membrane, causing some essential cell components to leak out, thus killing the fungal cells effectively. The ingestible form of terbinafine hcl is absorbed within one's gastrointestinal tract, then distributed to the nails, hair follicle and dermal ducts.

There are a couple of things to remember before using Lamisil Cream. One of them is that if you are using this ointment for treating a fungal condition, it is important to apply it as directed by the label, or by your doctor. Note that the potency of this product may be diminished if the surface of the afflicted skin is not properly cleaned before applying.

If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember. If you fail to complete the treatment, your fungal infection may not disappear, or may return quickly. This often occurs in the case of tinea versicolor. Do not apply the medicine after the treatment period, which has usually ended by the fourth week.

Take care not to use this cream in or on sensitive parts of your body, such as the eyes, mouth, nose, or genital areas. Note that Lamisil Cream is for external use only! In case this cream comes in accidental contact with your eyes, rinse them out thoroughly with water. Call your doctor if irritation continues after washing.

It is possible that your skin is especially sensitive to the active ingredients in some over-the-counter (OTC) ointments, such as Lamisil. Should you contract a skin irritation, redness, blistering, oozing or swelling, contact a doctor immediately. Do not cover the afflicted areas unless directed to do so by your physician.

Pregnant mothers are cautioned to use this product only when absolutely necessary, preferably also with the recommendation of a doctor. In the case of nursing mothers, this ointment is generally safe to use in any part of the body, with the exception of the breasts. This product is also not recommended for use on children under the age of 12.

People with sebum-rich skin are prone to various types of skin conditions, including different kinds of acne. If you are acne-prone, you may also be vulnerable to fungal infections. Don't let fungal infections ruin your summer break! Take Lamisil Cream along with you on your outdoor trips and make sure you have exactly the kind of protection you need.