References UK clinical guidance from the NHS, the British HIV Association (BHIVA), and the British Association for Sexual Health and HIV (BASHH). Last updated: April 2026.
Nizoral is an antifungal treatment containing ketoconazole. It’s available as a cream (2%) and shampoo (2%). In the context of sexual health, Nizoral cream is sometimes used for genital candida (thrush) skin infections in men and for fungal infections in the groin area.
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What Does Nizoral Treat?
- Candida skin infections (thrush affecting external genital skin)
- Seborrhoeic dermatitis (flaky, scaly skin on face, scalp, chest)
- Ringworm and jock itch
- Pityriasis versicolor (discoloured skin patches caused by yeast)
Nizoral cream is for external use only. It is NOT for vaginal thrush. For internal vaginal thrush, use fluconazole or Gyno-Daktarin.
How to Use Nizoral Cream
- Apply a thin layer to the affected area once or twice daily
- Continue for 2-4 weeks depending on the infection
- Keep using for a few days after symptoms clear to prevent recurrence
Side Effects
Nizoral cream is generally well tolerated. Mild burning or irritation at the application site is possible. Serious side effects from topical use are rare.
Important: Oral ketoconazole tablets carry significant liver toxicity risks and are rarely used. Nizoral cream and shampoo are much safer because minimal ketoconazole is absorbed through the skin.
Where to Get Nizoral
- Nizoral shampoo: Over the counter at pharmacies
- Nizoral cream: Some strengths available OTC, some prescription-only
Read more: What is candida? | Fluconazole
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Nizoral treat genital thrush in men?
Nizoral cream can treat candida balanitis (thrush affecting the head of the penis and foreskin). Apply twice daily for 2-3 weeks. If symptoms don’t improve, see your GP.
Is Nizoral better than Canesten?
Both contain effective antifungals (ketoconazole vs clotrimazole). They’re similarly effective for most fungal skin infections. Canesten is more widely available over the counter.
Related reading
- Using Antibiotics to Prevent STIs: DoxyPEP Explained
- Azithromycin: Uses in Sexual Health
- Best Antibiotics for STIs: A Practical Guide
- Ciprofloxacin for STIs: Uses, Dosage, and Side Effects
- Clindamycin: Uses in Sexual Health
Sources
- NHS — Sexual health conditions
- BASHH — UK clinical guidelines for STI management
- British HIV Association (BHIVA) — HIV treatment guidelines
- Terrence Higgins Trust — sexual health information
- UK Health Security Agency — STI surveillance data
Steve Page is a recognised expert on Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) and STD treatments, having published numerous articles in peer-reviewed journals and presented his research at conferences around the world. He has an in-depth understanding of the latest medical research on STDs, and is an advocate for the development of new treatments and protocols to improve the health of those affected. In addition to his research, he has dedicated his career to understanding the causes and symptoms of STDs, as well as how to best treat those impacted.
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