Whitefield medicine, specifically Whitfield's ointment, is a topical antifungal treatment primarily used for various fungal skin infections such as athlete's foot and ringworm.
Composition
Whitfield's ointment contains two active ingredients:
Salicylic Acid (3%): A keratolytic agent that helps in softening and shedding dead skin cells.
Benzoic Acid (6%): Acts as a fungistatic agent, inhibiting the growth of fungi.
Uses
Effective for treating dermatophyte infections like athlete's foot and ringworm.
Reduces inflammation and relieves itching associated with fungal infections.
Application Guidelines
Dosage: Typically, it is applied in a thin layer to the affected area twice daily on clean, dry skin. Treatment duration can range from 3 to 6 weeks depending on the severity of the infection.
Precautions: Should not be applied to mucous membranes or open wounds. It may cause mild skin irritation or a burning sensation upon application, which usually subsides quickly.
