Treatment FAQ

what is the best treatment for athlete's foot

by Iliana McCullough Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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After washing and drying your feet, apply an antifungal product. The antifungal terbinafine (Lamisil AT) has been shown to be very effective. Another option is clotrimazole (Lotrimin AF). You may need to experiment to find the product and formulation — ointment, gel, cream, lotion, powder or spray — that work for you.Oct 15, 2021

What gets rid of athlete's foot fast?

Like hydrogen peroxide, rubbing alcohol can help kill off the fungus that's on the surface level of the skin. You can apply it directly to the affected area or soak your feet in a footbath of 70 percent rubbing alcohol and 30 percent water for 30 minutes.

How do you get rid of athlete's foot permanently?

Sprinkle antifungal powder on feet and in your shoes daily. Antifungal creams and sprays are also effective at managing the infection. Continue treatment for one to two weeks after the infection has cleared to prevent it from recurring. Make sure your feet get plenty of air.Jan 16, 2022

Why wont my athletes foot go away?

Athlete's foot doesn't typically go away on its own. If it's left untreated, it can spread to other areas of your body, including your: Nails: Fungal nail infections can be more difficult to treat. They are often more resistant to many treatments.Dec 1, 2021

Is spray or cream better for athlete's foot?

The spray pump and solution forms only cure the condition between the toes if used twice daily for 1 week, but the cream can also cure the infection on the bottom and sides of the feet when used twice daily for 2 weeks.Aug 19, 2010

What can be mistaken for athlete's foot?

Certain conditions, such as eczema and psoriasis, among other things, can also look very much like Athlete's foot. Sometimes, if the skin barrier is compromised, a secondary bacterial infection can occur.

How does baking soda cure athlete's foot?

To make a foot soak, mix about a half cup of baking soda in a large bucket or basin of warm water. Soak feet for 15 to 20 minutes, twice a day. When done, dry the feet thoroughly but do not rinse.

Does Vaseline help athletes foot?

Vaseline is a petroleum by-product and it certainly does have many properties that can be very helpful for your feet. It is slick and can be used to help keep body parts from rubbing and becoming irritated. It is a favorite of distance runners for its ability to prevent blisters.

Does Lamisil tablets cure athlete's foot?

Lamisil tablets are used to treat: Fungal infections of the fingernails and toenails; Tinea (ringworm) infections of the groin and body; Tinea infections of the feet, commonly called “athlete's foot“.

What causes athlete's foot to flare up?

Damp socks and shoes and warm, humid conditions favor the organisms' growth. Athlete's foot is contagious and can spread through contact with an infected person or from contact with contaminated surfaces, such as towels, floors and shoes.Oct 15, 2021

What cleaner kills athlete's foot fungus?

An anti-fungal disinfectant like Pine Sol helps kill any athlete's foot fungus left in the sock fibers. After soaking for a while, wash the socks as usual. Washing with hot water and a hot dryer also helps to kill germs.

Do I need to throw away my shoes if I have athlete's foot?

You do not have to throw away your shoes if you have athlete's foot unless they were worn without socks, have dirt in them, or you have another skin reaction to the material or color dyes.

What is better for athlete's foot Lotrimin or Lamisil?

Some studies have reported that products containing terbinafine (Lamisil) were more effective than those with clotrimazole (Lotrimin) and similar medications. Prescription oral medications may be required to treat more severe cases.

What is the best treatment for athlete's foot?

Across the board, Lamisil was recommended by almost all the experts we spoke to as the best topical product for treating athlete’s foot. Available in cream and gel form, it’s a powerful, broad-spectrum antifungal that Maral K. Skelsey — the director of the Dermatologic Surgery Center of Washington — says is helpful because it does double duty in killing fungus and stopping its growth. “It is well-absorbed into the outer layer of the skin, which is where athlete’s foot lives. A cream formulation is good for someone with dry skin, whereas the gel or spray is preferable for anyone whose feet perspire a lot.” Podiatrist Amnon Barnea, owner of Walk NYC Podiatry, adds, “ I usually advise patients to wash their feet with an antibacterial soap and then dry their feet well before applying the cream.”

What is athlete's foot?

Its technical name is tinea pedis — and athlete’s foot is actually a fungal infection, resulting in a sometimes red rash on the feet and in between toes, according to dermatologist Dr. Michele Green. “Often, but not always, it itches,” says Dr. Bruce Pinker, a board-certified podiatrist and foot surgeon.

Can athlete's foot be contaminated?

And because athlete’ s foot is often linked to toenail fungus — podiatrist Paul I. Belitz explains that bacteria, fungus, and viral pathogens from one part of the foot can easily contaminate and reinfect another area if left untreated — it’s helpful to use a two-pronged approach that will treat toe fungus, as well.

Can you get athlete's foot from too tight shoes?

Athlete’s foot is a pretty common condition. The culprit is usually what you put on your feet — so you can blame it on too tight sneakers and sweaty socks. Unfortunately, it can happen to anyone: “The gold standard to prevent fungal infection is to stop wearing enclosed shoes.

Can you use Lotrimin on athlete's foot?

Several of the experts we spoke to also recommended using Lotrimin’s popular foot products. Pinker explains that Lotrimin’s sprays are effective especially if athlete’s foot is treated early on — since they’ve been available for a while now, they’ve proven to be beneficial.

How to treat athlete's foot?

These tips can help you ease the symptoms of athlete's foot or avoid a recurrence: 1 Keep your feet dry, especially between your toes. Go barefoot to let your feet air out as much as possible when you're home. Dry between your toes after a bath or shower. 2 Change socks regularly. If your feet get very sweaty, change your socks twice a day. 3 Wear light, well-ventilated shoes. Avoid shoes made of synthetic material, such as vinyl or rubber. 4 Alternate pairs of shoes. Don't wear the same pair every day so that you give your shoes time to dry after each use. 5 Protect your feet in public places. Wear waterproof sandals or shoes around public pools, showers and lockers rooms. 6 Treat your feet. Use OTC antifungal product as directed daily. For example, creams may be applied to dry feet twice a day and used for a week even after the rash is gone. 7 Try not to scratch the rash. You can try soothing your itchy feet by soaking them in cool water. 8 Don't share shoes. Sharing risks spreading a fungal infection.

What doctor can diagnose athlete's foot?

Preparing for your appointment. Your primary care doctor or a skin specialist (dermatologist) can diagnose athlete's foot. You don't need any special preparations for an appointment to diagnose athlete's foot.

How to get rid of a swollen foot?

Wear light, well-ventilated shoes. Avoid shoes made of synthetic material, such as vinyl or rubber. Alternate pairs of shoes. Don't wear the same pair every day so that you give your shoes time to dry after each use.

How to get rid of itchy feet?

For example, creams may be applied to dry feet twice a day and used for a week even after the rash is gone. Try not to scratch the rash. You can try soothing your itchy feet by soaking them in cool water. Don't share shoes. Sharing risks spreading a fungal infection.

What is the best cream for athlete's foot?

One of the most popular over-the-counter products on the market for athlete's foot, Lamisil is a topical cream that got a thumbs up from both of our doctors. Says Dr. Barnea "I recommend Lamisil cream, as its fungicidal active ingredient (Terbinafine) has a long and proven track record of effectiveness. I usually advise patients to wash their feet with antibacterial soap and then dry their feet well before applying the cream. It should be applied just once daily (morning or night) for one to two weeks."

What is the best foot soak?

In fact, Dr. Sutera is a fan of foot soaks. For a great option, pick up Purely Northwest's tea tree Epsom salt soak. Powerful-yet-soothing thanks to its blend of tea tree, peppermint, cajuput, camphor, rosemary, eucalyptus, and lavender oils, this rich foot soak is a dip that will feel more like a spa treatment than a medical one.

What is a lotrimin spray?

Looking for a powder foot spray? Lotrimin gets both doctor's seal of approval. This powder-based spray contains the potent antifungal miconazole nitrate, a fungistatic treatment that helps to inhibit the growth of fungus that causes athlete's foot. It's an easy addition to your daily foot care routine that will keep your feet dry throughout the day.

Can tinea pedis be treated at home?

Luckily, though tinea pedis, the scientific term for the condition, is far from fun, it’s also something that can easily be treated at home with a little know-how. Woman’s World turned to New York-based podiatrists Dr. Amnon Barnea, DPM, of Walk NYC Podiatry and Dr. Jacqueline Sutera, DPM, of City Podiatry, for more on how to treat athlete’s foot and their favorite products for keeping feet looking and feeling their best.

What is the best treatment for athlete's foot?

Talcum powder, corn starch, or baby powder work to treat athlete’s foot by keeping the affected area dry and clean. This makes it difficult for the fungus to thrive and spread by keeping sweat and moisture under control.

What is athlete's foot?

Athlete’s foot, also known as tinea pedis, is a fungal skin infection that typically starts between the toes. It causes a scaly, itchy rash that may have painful or burning sensations. In some cases, people may also experience ulcers or blisters, which can be very painful. Fortunately, athlete’s foot can be extremely receptive to home treatment.

How to get rid of fungus on feet?

You can apply it directly to the affected area or soak your feet in a footbath of 70 percent rubbing alcohol and 30 percent water for 30 minutes. 6. Garlic.

How to get rid of a foot infection?

on the surface level of the foot, as well as any surface bacteria that could cause an infection. Pour hydrogen peroxide directly onto the affected area. Note that it may sting, and it should bubble, especially if you have open wounds. Do this twice daily until the infection subsides. 3.

How long does it take for garlic to cure athlete's foot?

One older study even found that a derivative of garlic, alone, resulted in a complete cure in 79 percent of participants. after just 7 days. To use garlic to treat athlete’s foot, crush four to five cloves of garlic. Once smashed, rub them over the affected area.

Can athlete's foot be a bacterial infection?

If untreated, athlete’s foot can result in a bacterial infection if skin is broken. This can happen due to scratching or when blisters pop or ulcers become infected. Any type of infection can be very serious and requires prompt treatment.

Does tea tree oil help with athlete's foot?

Tea tree oil has antifungal and antibacterial properties, which is part of the reason it’s commonly used to treat many fungal infections (including both ringworm and candidiasis). that applying tea tree oil daily could treat both the symptoms of athlete’s foot and the fungus that causes it within a few weeks.

Overview

Athlete’s foot is a common fungal (caused by a fungus) infection. Athlete’s foot is a form of ringworm. Tinea pedis is another name for athlete’s foot. Tinea is another name for ringworm, and pedis means foot or feet. Athlete’s foot causes an itchy, stinging, burning rash on the skin on one or both of your feet.

Diagnosis and Tests

Your healthcare provider can typically diagnose athlete’s foot by examining your feet and reviewing your symptoms.

Management and Treatment

Athlete’s foot rarely goes away on its own. If left untreated, it’s more likely to spread to other parts of your body.

Prevention

Thoroughly wash your feet and the skin between your toes with antibacterial soap.

How to cure athlete's foot?

Most cases of athlete's foot can be cured with over-the-counter antifungal products and basic good hygiene. Wash and dry your feet (including between the toes) every morning and evening, change socks or stockings daily, and don't wear the same shoes day after day to allow them time to dry completely before wearing them again.

How long does it take for athlete's foot to go away?

If not treated properly and promptly, athlete's foot can be very stubborn. Even when treated with antifungal drugs, the infection may take several weeks to disappear and may come back after treatment. Most of the time it responds well to these over-the-counter interventions. However, more severe cases may need to be seen by a doctor.

How to prevent foot fungus?

Don't go barefoot in public areas such as the pool or gym where many others are also barefoot. Cut your risk by keeping your feet clean, dry, and powdered with an over-the-counter antifungal foot powder. Other sensible steps: 1 Wear synthetic socks, and shoes that breathe; shoes that keep water out also keep sweat in. 2 Never share shoes, socks, or towels. 3 If you get athlete's foot, wash your socks and towels in the hottest water possible. 4 Be doubly cautious if you take an antibiotic. The medication can kill beneficial bacteria that normally control the fungus that causes athlete's foot. 5 Take your shoes off when you go home and let your feet get exposed to the air.

How to treat a foot infection?

Sprinkle antifungal powder on feet and in your shoes daily . Antifungal creams and sprays are also effective at managing the infection. Continue treatment for one to two weeks after the infection has cleared to prevent it from recurring. Make sure your feet get plenty of air.

What to do if you can't go barefoot?

If you can't go barefoot or wear sandals, wear synthetic socks which will wick away moisture. Cotton and wool tend to trap the moisture and promote fungal growth. Wear shoes made of a porous material. If not treated properly and promptly, athlete's foot can be very stubborn.

Can you share socks with athletes?

Never share shoes, socks, or towels. If you get athlete's foot, wash your socks and towels in the hottest water possible. Be doubly cautious if you take an antibiotic. The medication can kill beneficial bacteria that normally control the fungus that causes athlete's foot.

Can you go barefoot in the gym?

Don't go barefoot in public areas such as the pool or gym where many others are also barefoot. Cut your risk by keeping your feet clean, dry, and powdered with an over-the-counter antifungal foot powder. Other sensible steps: Wear synthetic socks, and shoes that breathe; shoes that keep water out also keep sweat in.

What is the best treatment for athlete's foot?

Mycota Powder: Best athlete’s foot treatment for kids. Powder offers a gentler, less invasive way to treat athlete's foot and other itchy skin infections. It's suitable for use on children, unlike creams and sprays, and lasts well in the bathroom cabinet for quickly dealing with occasional flare-ups.

How long after applying fungus cream can you wash?

The catch is you're not allowed to wash the affected area for the first 24 hours after application, but after that the cream creates an invisible protective layer over the anti-fungal chemicals, which can then carry on working while you get on with bathing and showering as normal.

How long does Lamisil work?

Apply the entire contents of the dinky 4g tube to the affected area, and its powerful terbinafine content will penetrate your skin and target the fungus, continuing to work for up to 13 days until the problem is eliminated .

Is Daktarin good for athlete's foot?

Daktarin is particularly good for moisturising your skin, so it's a great choice for soothing the cracked and flaky skin that can be an unpleasant symptom of athlete's foot. Key specs – Size: 30g; Format: Cream; Active ingredient: Miconazole Nitrate 2%.

Can you have athlete's foot?

You don't have to be an athlete to suffer from athlete's foot. The British Medical Journal says that, right now, nearly one-third of the general population is suffering from this condition (medical name tinea pedis), which brings itchiness, inflammation, cracked skin and nasty whiffs to your poor feet.

Can you spray on your shoes to disinfect?

This spray-on liquid also tends to penetrate better in awkward places, such as in between the toes and around the toenails, and is also really handy to use as a disinfectant inside your shoes to blitz any hibernating fungal spores that are lying in wait to reinfect you.

Can you get athlete's foot from walking on damp floors?

Athlete’s foot is a highly contagious fungal infection that you're most likely to catch (and spread) by walking barefoot on contaminated floors, especially damp floors such as those in swimming pools and changing rooms. It can also be spread by sharing towels and socks.

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Diagnosis

  • Over-the-counter creams work well to help in the treatment of athlete's foot. Usually, these over-the-counter products, when used properly, are sufficient in athlete's foot treatment. Prescription treatments are usually not needed. Some of the most popular brand names include Lamisil and …
See more on verywellhealth.com

Treatment

Lifestyle and Home Remedies

Preparing For Your Appointment

  • Your doctor may be able to diagnose athlete's foot simply by looking at it. Some types of athletes foot look like dry skin or dermatitis. To help confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions, your doctor might take a skin scraping from the affected area for testing in a lab.
See more on mayoclinic.org

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