undecylenic acid

Undecylenic acid is an unsaturated fatty acid derived from castor oil and also found naturally in human sweat. It is a topical antifungal agent used to treat superficial fungal skin infections such as athlete’s foot (tinea pedis), ringworm (tinea corporis), and jock itch (tinea cruris). Undecylenic acid works by inhibiting the growth of fungi through multiple mechanisms. It disrupts biofilm formation and hyphal growth in fungi like *Candida albicans* by interfering with morphogenesis—the transition from yeast to filamentous forms—thereby reducing virulence. The compound may also inhibit enzymes involved in lipid metabolism and alter cytoplasmic pH by acting as a proton carrier. Undecylenic acid is available over-the-counter in various topical formulations including powders, creams, ointments, solutions, sprays and soaps[1][3][5][7][8].

Brand names

CruexCaldeseneBlis-To-Sol powderDesenex soapFungoid AFFungicure Maximum Strength LiquidFungi-NailGordochomHongo CuraBioRx Sponix Anti-FungalElon Dual Defense Anti-Fungal

Other names

undecylenate