What is it?

Athlete’s foot (tinea pedis) is a common skin condition of the foot that is caused by the fungus Trichophyton, and is sometimes also called ringworm of the foot. Typically found on the soles of the feet and in-between the toes, tinea pedis can also affect the sides or tops of the feet, leaving the skin itchy, dry and irritated. Medicine.net estimates that up to 70% of adults will have athlete’s foot at some point in their lives and it affects more men than women. Closely related to ringworm of the body, forms of athlete’s foot fungus can also affect other areas of the body such as the groin, inner thighs and even the scalp.

How do you get it?

Athlete’s foot is mainly found in warm, moist environments such as gyms, saunas, fitness centers, nail salons and swimming pools and can even live in damp, wet socks or clothing. Although the condition is contagious, not everyone who comes into contact with the fungus will develop symptoms. To minimize the risk of contracting athlete's foot, wet or damp clothing should be removed as soon as possible, especially gym shoes and socks, workout clothing and bathing suits. Feet should be kept dry, particularly between the toes, and calluses exfoliated regularly to keep feet smooth and free of dry, dead skin, which feeds the Trichophyton fungus. Wear moisture-wicking clothing or 100% cotton to absorb moisture and if your feet sweat profusely, change socks once or twice per day. Never share shoes and if using a community shower, wear protective flip-flops.

Product picks

To be certain the condition is athlete’s foot, visit a doctor or dermatologist for a correct diagnosis. Once determined the fungus is athlete’s foot, over-the-counter fungal treatments are available to treat tinea pedis including ointments, sprays and powders. Try NeoCeuticals Antifungal Problem Daily Foot Care Therapeutic Cream, Pedinol Fungoid Tincture or Stiefel Zeasorb AF Powder. For extra-efficient exfoliation, keep a Bliss Diamancel #10 Classic Buffer in the shower to smooth away rough calluses and dry heels.

Special Considerations

If left untreated, athlete’s foot can spread to other areas of the body or lead to a secondary bacterial infection so treatment must be started as soon as symptoms emerge. If you notice redness, itching between the toes or dry, flaky skin on the soles of the feet, immediately schedule a doctor’s appointment to have the area checked. Also, remember that the fungus can live in damp environments such as running or fitness shoes. In order to prevent re-infection, treat the inside of the shoes with an anti-fungal spray or consider replacing the shoes entirely.

See also:

Jock Itch (Tinea Cruris)

Scalp Folliculitis

Caring for Bruised Skin