Athlete’s foot, also known as tinea pedi and ringworm of the foot, is a fungal infection that affects the upper layer of the skin of the foot skin between the toes, especially when it is warm, moist, and irritated.
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- Itching, stinging, and burning between the toes and soles of the feet
- Blisters on the feet that itch
- Cracking and peeling skin on the feet, most commonly between the toes and on the soles
- Dry skin on the soles or sides of the feet
- Raw skin on the feet
- Discolored, thick, and crumbly toenails
- Toenails that pull away from the nail bed
- These fungi exist harmlessly on human skin but under damp and warm conditions, they multiply rapidly.
- Thick, tight shoes are more likely to trigger athlete’s foot because they squeeze the toes together, creating ideal conditions for the fungus to thrive.
- If socks are damp and the feet are warm, there is a greater risk of developing athlete’s foot.
- Direct, skin-to-skin contact, as may occur when an uninfected person touches the infected area of somebody with athlete’s foot
- Indirect contact – the fungi can infect people via contaminated surfaces, clothing, socks, shoes, bed sheets, and towels
- It commonly spreads around swimming pools and communal showers – these places are generally humid and warm.
- Keeping legs dry and clean
- Absorbent socks like cotton that wick water away from your feet are advised which need to be changed frequently
- Some individuals who sweat excessively benefit from the application of antiperspirants
- Anti-fungal/bacterial powders can help keep your feet dry
- Appropriate fitting shoes with deep toe box
- Advised not to walk barefoot or share clothing & shoes
- Therapeutic Socks with Anti-fungal/bacterial properties
- Correct Size Shoes
- Apricot Oil for dry, hard skin