Athlete's foot---or tinea pedis---is a fungal infection of the skin. Its symptoms include red, cracked and itching skin on the soles and between the toes. The fungus particularly flourishes when the skin is moist---sweaty feet, socks made of synthetic material and/or shoes that don't breathe can all contribute to the right conditions for a case of athlete's foot, and going barefoot or wearing sandals as often as possible can help fight or prevent an infection. After showering or bathing, make sure to towel dry between your toes. Don't share towels or socks and wash both in extra-hot water. Switch shoes daily and choose natural, breathable materials for both shoes and socks. If you still get athlete's foot, there are some things you can do to make it go away.
Soaks
A simple salt soak can help fight a mild case of athlete's foot. Use a teaspoon of salt per cup of warm water and soak your infected foot or feet for 10 minutes each day. Another method to try is a cinnamon soak. Place eight to 10 broken cinnamon sticks in four cups of water, bring to a boil, simmer for five minutes and then let it stand for 45 minutes. Soak your feet in the resulting liquid for 10 to 15 minutes a day. Remember to rinse and dry your feet thoroughly after soaking no matter which method you try.
Powders
Powdering your feet can help keep them dry and help fight athlete's foot infection. You can use simple cornstarch or baking soda, which has the additional benefit of counteracting foot odor. Baking soda can also be used to powder the inside of your shoes and socks. This method can be particularly effective when combined with a soak.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is often used topically for treating skin conditions. It is naturally anti-septic and anti-fungal, which makes it an effective choice for home treatment of athlete's foot. Swab a little undiluted tea tree oil directly onto affected areas of the foot twice daily for best results and make sure to continue for two weeks after symptoms disappear to prevent any recurrence. It's a good idea to add a few drops to the laundry when washing your socks, too.
Garlic
Garlic, too, has known anti-fungal properties that make it an effective remedy for athlete's foot. A paste of crushed garlic, mixed with a little olive oil, can be applied directly to affected skin. Taking garlic supplements orally during the treatment period is also a good idea; you also can simply eat a clove of garlic a day.
Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is anti-septic and can be used topically to treat athlete's foot as well. Dilute it with one part water to one part vinegar and dab onto the affected skin with a swab or cotton ball once daily. Vinegar also can be used as a soak: Use one cup vineger in two quarts of water and soak for 15 minutes a day. Be aware that either method will sting if the skin is cracked or raw.
