Cutis Cream is an Ayurvedic herbal topical cream used to treat fungal and bacterial skin infections. It contains Neem Oil, Karanj Oil, Purified Sulphur, Purified Borax, and Purified Copper Sulphate. Applied directly to the skin, it contains no corticosteroids, making it a non-steroidal topical treatment.
Many people in the UK experience persistent fungal skin infections. These include ringworm, athlete’s foot, and dhobi’s itch.
Some patients explore Ayurvedic remedies alongside conventional treatments. Widely used within South Asian communities throughout the UK, Cutis Cream has become a recognised topical product.
This guide explains what Cutis Cream is, how its ingredients work, and what patients should consider before using it.
What Is Cutis Cream?
Cutis Cream is a herbal topical cream made by Vasu Healthcare, an Indian Ayurvedic brand. It is formulated using traditional plant-based and mineral ingredients.
Its formulation is designed to act on the skin. Both fungal and bacterial infections are targeted by its active ingredients. Because it contains no corticosteroids, it is classified as a non-steroidal preparation.
It is available as a herbal product through specialist retailers and online stores.
Key Product Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Product Type | Herbal / Ayurvedic topical cream |
| Medicine Class | Antifungal, Antibacterial, Antiparasitic (herbal) |
| Form | Topical cream |
| Pack Size | 30g |
| Therapeutic Use | Fungal and bacterial skin infections |
Active Ingredients and Strengths
| Ingredient | UK Equivalent Therapeutic Class | Strength |
|---|---|---|
| Mahamarichyadi Tailam (Polyherbal Ayurvedic Oil) | Topical Antifungal / Anti-inflammatory / Wound Healing Oil (cf. Neal’s Yard Remedies) | 10.00% |
| Neem Oil (Azadirachta indica) | Topical Antimicrobial / Antifungal (cf. Naissance) | 3.00% |
| Karanj Oil (Pongamia pinnata) | Topical Antiseptic / Antiparasitic (cf. Lush Karanja Oil) | 3.00% |
| Shuddh Gandhak (Purified Sulphur) | Keratolytic / Antiparasitic (cf. Harrogate Sulphur Soap) | 2.00% |
| Shuddh Tankan (Purified Borax) | Antiseptic / Anti-inflammatory | 1.50% |
| Shuddh Tuttha (Purified Copper Sulphate) | Dermo-cosmetic Antiseptic (cf. Bioderma Cicabio) | 0.20% |
How the Active Ingredients Work in the Body
Because every component serves a distinct clinical purpose, the ingredients in Cutis Cream work together to address skin infections. Together, they create a broad-spectrum antimicrobial effect on the skin.
Neem Oil (3.00%)
Contains active compounds called nimbidin and azadirachtin. These disrupt the cell membranes of bacteria and fungi, helping to clear the infection.
Karanj Oil (3.00%)
Contains karanjin, a natural flavonoid. Peer-reviewed research has demonstrated that Candida and related fungal strains at the skin surface are suppressed by its active components.
Shuddh Gandhak — Purified Sulphur (2.00%)
Acts as a keratolytic agent. Dead skin cells are broken down in the process. This removes the surface conditions on which fungi depend to thrive.
Sulphur is converted in the skin into pentathionic acid. This compound is toxic to parasites and mites, making sulphur effective in scabies and similar conditions.
Shuddh Tankan — Purified Borax (1.50%)
Acts as a mild antiseptic and pH-balancing agent. It helps soothe inflamed skin and reduce exudation, which is the weeping seen in eczema.
Shuddh Tuttha — Purified Copper Sulphate (0.20%)
It is present in a microdose. Even at low concentrations, copper sulphate has strong antimicrobial and astringent properties. Bioderma’s Cicabio range uses copper sulphate as a skin repair ingredient for the same reasons.
When a GP or Practitioner May Recommend Cutis Cream
Cutis Cream is used within Ayurvedic practice for a range of skin conditions.
Practitioners may recommend it for the following:
- Ringworm (Tinea corporis) — a common fungal infection causing ring-shaped rashes
- Dhobi’s Itch (Tinea cruris) — a fungal infection affecting the groin area
- Athlete’s Foot (Tinea pedis) — a fungal condition that develops between the toes.
- Oozing Eczema — a form of eczema marked by weeping or crusting of the skin.
- Allergic Dermatitis — an inflammatory skin response triggered by exposure to allergens.
- Pediculi (Lice Infestation) — parasitic lice on the skin or scalp
- Contact Dermatitis — inflammation caused by skin contact with irritants
- Scabies — a parasitic mite infection causing intense itching
A registered GP or dermatologist should always assess persistent skin conditions first. Under professional guidance, it may be introduced alongside or following conventional treatment, allowing both approaches to complement each other.
Benefits of Cutis Cream
Broad-Spectrum Antimicrobial Activity
Cutis Cream targets both fungi and bacteria simultaneously. This dual-action approach is useful for mixed skin infections, where multiple organisms are present.
Non-Steroidal Formula
Unlike many conventional topical creams, Cutis Cream contains no corticosteroids. Because steroid-related skin thinning is not a concern, longer-term use is considered appropriate where clinically indicated.
Keratolytic and Healing Properties
Purified Sulphur helps remove dead skin layers. Healthier skin regrowth beneath the surface is encouraged, while the absorption of co-applied active ingredients is also enhanced.
Antiparasitic and Antipruritic Effect
The combination of Sulphur and Karanj Oil helps relieve intense itching. This is called an antipruritic effect, and it provides symptomatic relief whilst the infection clears.
Alternative Treatments Doctors May Consider
For fungal skin infections, doctors commonly prescribe or recommend the following licensed treatments:
- Clotrimazole 1% cream (Canesten) — first-line antifungal for most superficial fungal infections
- Terbinafine 1% cream (Lamisil) — a licensed topical antifungal, used widely for both athlete’s foot and ringworm.
- Miconazole cream (Daktarin) — used for mixed fungal and bacterial infections
- Sulphur ointment 6% — referenced in UKHSA and NICE guidance for scabies management in the UK and used in UK dermatology for scabies
- Permethrin 5% cream — a preparation prescribed for scabies.
All of the above are licensed medicines.
Their safety and quality are overseen by the MHRA. Before deciding between licensed medicines and herbal preparations, a conversation with your GP or pharmacist is strongly advised.
Possible Side Effects
Most people find Cutis Cream suitable for their skin without significant discomfort.
However, some patients may experience the following:
| Side Effect | Frequency | Cause |
|---|---|---|
| Mild burning or stinging | Common | Application of active herbal ingredients |
| Skin redness at treated area | Common | Temporary local skin response |
| Warmth or tingling sensation | Common | Sulphur content (Shuddh Gandhak) |
| Skin dryness | Less Common | Prolonged use of sulphur |
| Allergic skin reaction | Less Common | Sensitivity to any ingredient |
| Increased skin irritation | Less Common | Application to broken or sensitive skin |
Should severe redness, swelling, or a worsening of your skin condition occur, the cream should be discontinued at once. Contact your GP if you notice these symptoms and seek pharmacist guidance promptly.
A simple remedy for mild burning is to apply 1–2 drops of plain coconut oil over the affected area after the cream.
Important Safety Advice
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Purified Borax (Shuddh Tankan) is classified as a reproductive toxin under UK REACH regulations, administered by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). Specific medical advice should be sought before use by women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, as caution is required in these groups.
During pregnancy, your doctor or midwife should be informed of all topical products being applied to the skin.
Children
Sulphur-based treatments are not generally recommended for children under 6 without medical supervision. Do not use Cutis Cream on young children without consulting a paediatrician.
Skin Conditions and Open Wounds
Open wounds, severely broken skin, and mucous membranes are areas where Cutis Cream must not be applied. The copper sulphate and sulphur content may cause additional irritation on damaged skin.
Borax Regulatory Status
Raw borax (sodium borate) is a restricted consumer substance under UK REACH regulations. Shuddh Tankan used in Cutis Cream is the Ayurvedically purified Shodhana-processed (an Ayurvedic purification method) form. In traditional medicine, this purification step is used to reduce the toxicity of raw mineral ingredients. However, patients with concerns should consult a pharmacist.
Allergies
Perform a patch test before the full application. A small amount applied to the inner forearm should be left for 24 hours, meaning any reaction can be identified before broader skin application.
Medicine Interactions
No formal clinical medicine interaction data exists for Cutis Cream as it is not a licensed UK medicine. Unless directed otherwise by your GP or pharmacist, simultaneous use with other medicated topical creams should be avoided.
Long-Term Use
Cutis Cream is described as safe for long-term use due to its non-steroidal formula. However, any skin condition that does not improve within 2–4 weeks of treatment should be reviewed by a GP.
When Is It Important to Contact Your GP?
Prompt medical advice should be sought if any of the situations below apply to you:
- Your skin condition shows no improvement after 2–4 weeks
- The infected area spreads or worsens
- You develop a fever alongside the skin infection
- You experience significant swelling, pain, or discharge
- You have an allergic reaction, such as rash, hives, or facial swelling
- Pregnancy, breastfeeding, or use of the cream on a young child are all circumstances that require GP advice before continuing
Can Cutis Cream Be Used With Other Medicines?
When two active topical products are applied together, skin irritation may result and the efficacy of both preparations can be reduced. Applying them at separate times is therefore recommended.
If you are using a prescribed antifungal cream from your GP, complete that course first. Before any herbal topical product is introduced into your skincare routine, your pharmacist should be consulted.
Always disclose all medicines, supplements, and herbal products to your GP or pharmacist. This includes topical treatments that you may not consider to be medicines.
Storage and Handling Advice
- Cutis Cream should be kept in a cool, dry location, away from direct sunlight, where the temperature does not exceed 25 °C.
- Bathrooms and areas near heat sources are unsuitable for storage.
- The original packaging should be kept intact throughout use.
- The product must be stored away from children.
- After the expiry date shown on the pack, the cream should not be used.
- If the texture, colour, or smell changes significantly, do not use the product
Responsible Access to Treatment
The product is available as a herbal product through specialist Ayurvedic retailers and online.
Patients should approach its use with this awareness.
If you have a persistent or worsening skin infection, a licensed antifungal treatment from your GP or pharmacist is the recommended first step in the UK. Herbal products may be considered as complementary options under appropriate guidance.
Before beginning or adjusting any skin condition treatment, a qualified GP or pharmacist must be consulted.
FAQs
Q: What is Cutis cream used for?
A: Fungal and bacterial skin infections are among the conditions for which Cutis Cream is used. It helps with ringworm, athlete’s foot, eczema, and scabies. It relieves itching and soothes irritated skin.
Q: What skin type is cutis cream best for?
A: Cutis Cream suits all skin types. It is non-steroidal and gentle enough for sensitive and infection-prone skin. Because skin sensitivity varies between individuals, testing the cream on a small area first allows any reaction to be identified before wider application.
Q: Can we use Cutis cream on the face?
A: Cutis Cream can be applied to facial skin infections. The cream should be kept away from the eyes and mouth at all times. Your GP or pharmacist should be consulted before the cream is applied to the face.
Conclusion
Cutis Cream is an Ayurvedic herbal topical cream containing five active ingredients. These include Neem Oil, Karanj Oil, Purified Sulphur, Purified Borax, and Purified Copper Sulphate.
Each ingredient brings a distinct therapeutic action, from antifungal and antibacterial activity to keratolytic and antiparasitic effects. The formula is non-steroidal, which supports longer-term use without steroid-related skin thinning.
You should always seek professional advice for skin infections before using any topical product, herbal or otherwise. Correct diagnosis and the most suitable course of treatment are best assured when care is provided under medical supervision.
References
- NHS. Fungal skin infections. Available at: www.nhs.uk
- MHRA. Herbal medicines regulation in the UK. Available at: www.gov.uk/mhra
- Biswas K et al. Biological activities and medicinal properties of neem (Azadirachta indica). Current Science. 2002;82(11):1336–1345.
Medical Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a registered healthcare professional before starting or changing any treatment. No herbal product should be used as a substitute for a proper medical diagnosis or a course of prescribed treatment.