Treatment for fungal alopecia usually requires oral antifungal medicines, such as Itraconazole, Griseofulvin, or Terbinafine, prescribed by your doctor, as topical creams alone are generally not effective for infections deep within the hair follicles. You may also use a topical antifungal shampoo, such as Ketoconazole or Selenium sulphide, to reduce the spread of spores. Keep the scalp clean, avoid sharing combs or towels, and wash pillowcases and hair accessories regularly.

Generic or over-the-counter antifungal creams, such as clotrimazole or miconazole, are economical and effective treatments for most fungal infections on the waist and other skin areas. For fungal infections in the ear, consult your doctor for specific antifungal ear drops, as applying standard creams or drops in the ear canal can be harmful.

You should see a doctor for a proper diagnosis, as a fungal infection lasting a year may require stronger prescription antifungal creams or tablets. Keep the area clean and dry, avoid tight clothing, and do not self-treat with over-the-counter creams for long-term infections.