Skin Yeast Infection – How Do You Get Rid Of It?

A skin yeast infection can be alarming to say the least, and cause significant discomfort and self consciousness. 

As we’ve discussed, yeast is a naturally occurring fungus we already have within out bodies, and a yeast infection is just an overgrowth of the fungus that is now out of control.  It is most commonly found in the vaginal or genital areas, but may also occur on the skin as a result of an underlying internal yeast infection.

Candida or yeast organisms are naturally found on our skin.  However, a yeast overgrowth may occur due to an underlying internal yeast infection, as well as because of a deterioration of the outermost skin layers (cuts or abrasions) which allows for yeast to penetrate and develop. 

These superficial skin infections may resemble a flat red rash with sharp edges—similar to a diaper rash.  You may also notice smaller nearby rash patches that appear similar in appearance—these are referred to as satellite lesions.  The rash itself will most likely cause skin tenderness and itching.

A skin yeast infection can occur just about anywhere, and especially in moist, dark places where it can grow and multiply.  The underside of the breast is a typical spot for Candida to grow, as well as the crease of your buttocks, within the creases of excess fat, beneath the arms, as well as creases in the legs and inner thigh and between fingers and toes.  You can even get yeast beneath your fingernails.

Antibiotics, tight clothing, poor hygiene, humidity, a low immune system, and some skin diseases can contribute to a this type of skin infection.  Steroids and birth control can also contribute to Candida overgrowth. 

It is highly recommended to keep the affected area clean and dry.

Recommendation
In most cases, a yeast skin infection can be treated using natural methods that will better prevent the infection from returning, as opposed to masking the symptoms with over the counter anti-fungal creams and ointments.

One home remedy that may help involves a simple concoction of 6 ozs. distilled or purified water, 4 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar (anti-fungal) and a pressed or minced garlic clove to ease any itching.  Put all ingredients in an 8 oz. plastic spray bottle and spray on the yeast infected area at least twice daily.  This yeast remedy may become more effective over time as the garlic completely permeates the mixture.  It may take a little longer to work than the following suggestions, but may be worth a try if you’re on a tight budget…and these days, who isn’t?

Oxy Balm is a very effective product for fungal and yeast skin infections that actually contains activated oxygen, organic olive oil and trace minerals.  Oxy Balm is a ozonated olive oil skin cream that has wonderful healing and anti-fungal properties.  It’s also very popular among Europeans as an anti-aging skin moisturizer and is used for oxygen facials!  It has several uses for various skin conditions from cold sores to sunburn.  No home should really be without it!

Secondly, I recommend a product called Hydra-Tone–which may be used along with Oxy Balm for maximum effectiveness.  Hydra-Tone is an all natural anti-fungal, anti-bacterial spray toner.  It is typically used as a facial toner, but also contains Taichoseki Mineral Stone which is a natural disinfectant with anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties.  It also contains several other all natural skin soothing agents such as aloe vera and vitamin E which will aid in “calming” irritated “yeast” skin.

Finally, Latero-Flora is a wonderful probiotic that is usually taken orally to re-balance the intestinal flora and fight internal or vaginal yeast infections.  However, it’s also quite effective when used topically for skin yeast infections.  Simply mix with water to form a paste and apply to the rash area at least twice daily.  Specific directions and other useful tips for curing yeast infections can be found here. 

A Candida cleanse diet is also recommended to treat the underlying causes of yeast infection.  This consists of changing your diet to avoid unnecessary sugars, cutting out yeast laden foods like wheat, beer, peanuts, among other foods.  It also involves cutting out acid producing foods, and enriching your diet with alkaline foods that will make your body an inhospitable host to Candida colonies. 

A skin yeast infection can be painful and embarrassing to some, but you can get rid of it for good if you take practical steps to do whatever it takes to boost your immune system and improve your health.  It’s all about balance, and once your body is in the proper balance, your skin yeast infection will be a thing of the past.