Scientists from Sweden say that a chemical found in some anti-fungal skin creams available in major drug stores can harm marine life by combining in wastewater runoff.

Microalgae are affected by the chemical clotrimazole, in conjunction with anti-depressants and other pharmaceuticals, because it affects their ability to grow and reproduce, said researcher Tobias Porsbring.

Algae dysfunction could cause more wide-ranging consequences because they are the bottom rung of the marine food chain, and any disruption by the skin cream chemical could "affect the complete ocean ecosystem," added Porsbring

Future research will determine the risks to the environment of "cocktail effects" that arise from different chemicals combining and leading to ecosystem interference.

People with skin conditions may consider natural alternatives, such as those that include herbal supplements like garlic or tea tree oil, which Cal Poly San Luis Obispo researchers say may inhibit certain fungal diseases when applied to the skin.

Americans looking for treatment advice for various skin diseases made more than 35 million visits in 2006, according to government statistics.