Got athletes foot in Japan? We’ve got you covered with this comprehensive guide. 水虫 (mizumushi) in Japanese refers to the fungal infection commonly known as athlete’s foot. Symptoms like itching, burning, stinging, and peeling skin on the feet can cause significant discomfort and should not be left untreated.

While it’s recommended to visit a dermatologist, there are over-the-counter athlete’s foot medicines available in Japan. These treatments, when applied correctly, can effectively cure mild cases of athlete’s foot without the need for prescription medication.

If you’re wondering about the options available such as liquids, creams, ointments, or sprays, or how often to apply the medication and which ingredients to look for, don’t worry. We’re here to introduce the best athlete’s foot medicines in Japan, as recommended by local pharmacists. These products are widely available at most Japanese drugstores.

Please note that if you are dealing with nail fungus (often mistaken for athlete’s foot), several pharmacists in Japan have confirmed that over-the-counter treatments are unavailable, and prescription medication will be required.

Finally, keep in mind that this guide is for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate treatment for your specific condition.

Mentholatum Exiv W Edge of Toenails Care Gel (メンソレータム エクシブ Wきわケアジェル)

Summary: This gel-type medicine, containing the active ingredient terbinafine hydrochloride, penetrates the athlete’s foot fungus while effectively suppressing persistent itching and inflammation. Its easy-to-apply formula was specifically made to work well around the nails. In addition to its 24-hour lasting effect, it eliminates the bacteria that cause foot odor. The clean, soapy scent leaves your feet feeling refreshed. Mentholatum Exiv W Edge of Toenails Care Gel contains Glycyrrhetinic acid, Lidocaine and Isopopylmethylphenol. Mentholatum Exiv W Deep 10 Cream contains Chlorphenylamine, Lidocaine and Crotamiton.

Active Ingredient: Terbinafine hydrochloride (1g per 100g).

Dosage: Apply an appropriate amount to the affected area once a day. Not suitable for infants or pregnant women.

Price: Varies by pharmacy. Approximately ¥1,518 (for 15g).

Considerations: Pharmacists recommend observing symptoms closely to ensure they do not worsen. If there is no improvement after two weeks, discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.

Special Note: Pharmacists report that products from the Mentholatum Exiv range are particularly popular. Depending on your specific needs, you can also find creams from this range designed for the heels and soles of the feet (see below).

Mentholatum Exiv W Deep 10 Cream (メンソレータム エクシブ Wディープ10クリーム)

Mentholatum Exiv EX Spray (メンソレータム エクシブ EXスプレー)

Lamisil AT Night  (ラミシールAT液)

Summary: Lamisil AT Night is a liquid-type medicine that dries quickly and has a light texture, making it ideal for dry, flaky affected areas. Its active ingredient, terbinafine hydrochloride, is effective against athlete’s foot and eliminates tinea fungus while alleviating symptoms such as inflammation and itching.

Active Ingredient: Terbinafine hydrochloride (10 mg per 1g).

Dosage: Apply an appropriate amount to the affected area once a day. Not suitable for infants or pregnant women.

Price: Varies by pharmacy. Approximately ¥1,210 (for 10g).

Considerations: Drugstore staff recommend discontinuing use and consulting a healthcare professional if symptoms do not improve after two weeks. Additionally, to prevent recurrence, they advise continuing the treatment for one month even if the itching subsides.

Pyroace W Cream (ピロエースWクリーム)

Summary: Unlike the medications mentioned above, Pyroace W Cream contains active ingredients such as pyrrolnitrin and clotrimazole, which sterilize the fungus-causing athlete’s foot, and crotamiton, which soothes itching. This is a non-sticky cream that is easy to apply. It offers a dual effect by effectively eliminating tinea fungus while relieving unpleasant itching.

Active Ingredients: Pyrrolnitrin: 0.2g (potency), Clotrimazole: 0.4g, Crotamiton: 5g (per 100g). 

Dosage: Apply an appropriate amount to the affected area 2-3 times a day. Not suitable for infants or pregnant women.

Price: Varies by pharmacy. Approximately ¥1,078 (for 15g).

Considerations: If symptoms do not improve after two weeks, discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional. Drugstore staff noted that you might experience a temporary hot flash or sensation of heat immediately after application, but this should subside quickly.

General Tips and Considerations

Application: Wash your hands thoroughly before and after applying creams, gels, or liquid medications to prevent the spread of infection.

Prevention: To prevent recurrence, continue using the medicine for one month, even if the itching has subsided.

Consultation: If symptoms do not improve after two weeks or worsen, discontinue use and seek medical advice.

This information is based on interviews with Japanese drugstore employees and available product data as of January 2025. Always read the product packaging and instructions carefully, and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns or questions regarding treatment. 

For more information, read our full guide to drugstores in Japan.

This page has been brought to you as a public service of The Bluff Medical and Dental Clinic, Yokohama.