Finding a good anti-fungal fix isn’t always easy. It’s about selecting the right one that would best alleviate your symptoms, and hopefully get rid of that itchy, irritating problem altogether.

One of the top anti-fungal creams in the Philippines is Chinese BL cream. And while this cream is effective, the Chinese BL cream has many counterfeit counterparts available on the internet, so be wary of unregistered creams [1].

And before we dive into the nitty gritty of this effective anti-fungal cream, it’s important to talk to your doctor before using any over-the-counter cream. Inform your physician about the current list of medications, allergies, over-the-counter products, current health conditions, and pre-existing diseases before using this cream. We at Knoji are anti-fungal cream experts, but we aren’t doctors, so consult yours first.

What is Chinese BL Cream?

Chinese BL cream contains ketoconazole – an active constituent that’s also found in the brand Nizoral (Janssen), Ketovid (Hovid) and Dezor (Hoe). 

Ketoconazole is a broad-spectrum antifungal agent. While the oral dosage form of ketoconazole is indicated for vaginal yeast infections, systemic yeasts infections, and other infections unresponsive to topical forms, anti-fungal creams are mainly for fungal skin diseases like athlete’s foot, ringworm, and jock itch. [2]. 

Fungus live in the air, soil, water, plants, and even naturally within the human body. Fungal infections are known to cause blisters, swelling, scaly skin, itching, irritation, and redness. The BL cream works by preventing yeasts and fungi from reproducing; reducing certain immune responses to reduce redness and itching of the skin [3].

Can This Cream Be a Skin Whitening Agent? 

BL cream is not indicated for skin lightening or whitening. BL is only to be used to treat fungal infections.

Psoriasis, Pimples, and Acne’s Link to Fungal Infections

The precise cause of psoriasis is still unidentified, but medical experts believe that there are factors that contribute to the development of this disease. For one thing, psoriasis is said to be caused by genetic mutations, which trigger cells in the immune system to attack the skin. Other factors also include skin injury, infections and some drugs like chloroquine, ace inhibitors, beta blockers, indomethacin and corticosteroids [4].

Regarding infections, aside from bacterial or viral origin, psoriasis can also result from systemic candidiasis like from an untreated vaginal yeast disease. Systemic fungal infections generally affect the whole body, thus triggering psoriasis.

Like psoriasis, acne can also be produced by systemic candidiasis.

Pimples, on the other hand, are skin lesions usually caused by acne, inflammation of hair follicles and sebaceous glands [5]. With the inflammation of hair follicles, one underlying disease can be folliculitis, which is a fungal infection in the hair caused by Tinea barbae.

Can BL Cream / Ketoconazole Cure Psoriasis, Pimples, or Acne? 

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease found on scalp, elbows, knees, chest and the lower back. It is similar to seborrhea and eczema in its symptoms of thick or raised skin, red or pink patches, and dry skin with flakes similar to dandruff.

Ketoconazole shampoos like Nizoral are used to aid scalp psoriasis. However, the efficacy of ketoconazole usually focuses on the flakes or dandruff and not on the disease itself. Ketoconazole shampoo, although indicated as an anti-fungal treatment, can also get rid of dandruff.

Other than for scalp psoriasis, ketoconazole is not indicated for other types of psoriasis.

As for pimples, ketoconazole may be effective depending if it is of fungal causative like folliculitis. Ketoconazole is not for acne, since acne is a result of excessive sebum production and not from a direct fungal cause.

Psoriasis and acne can be triggered by systemic candidiasis. But with this, systemic yeast infections being the source is treated with an oral anti-fungal treatment. Psoriasis or acne on the other hand, is cured with other medications.

Dangers of BL Cream

As a ketoconazole, BL cream should only be applied once a day. It has been known as teratogenic and can harm a fetus. Although creams are only for localized effect and not systemically, pregnancy should also be considered. Ketoconazole is not for pregnant and breastfeeding mothers. Care should be provided for young children to avoid hypersensitivity reactions. Ketoconazole may cause skin irritation and burning sensation. Individuals may also develop contact dermatitis — a condition characterized by severe itching.

Consult with your doctor before using this medicine on open wounds, irritated or sunburnt skin. Wash your hands before and after applying the cream. Warning labels are placed on the packaging for a reason.

Buying Guide

• If you find yourself contracting athlete's foot often, consider getting shower sandals. This will help keep your feet dry and prevent the need for fungal cream. OCM’s Black Showaflop Slides are just what the doctor would have ordered if he could prescribe shoes.

• Jock itch can be prevented by changing your underwear daily. MeUndies sends undergarments in bulk straight to your door. 

• Ringworm can spread through direct contact with infected people or animals. You can also pick it up off clothing or furniture. Heat and humidity can help spread the infection. Prevent this by getting the Global Industrial LGR Dehumidifier for your home.

• Prevent yeast infections early on by buying Bare Necessities Under Armour Pure Stretch panties. They’re lightweight and breathable and your vagina will thank you. 

• Store your LS BL cream in one of Pottery Barn’s Brass Vintage Rounded Recessed Medicine Cabinets.