A fungus causes the skin condition known as athlete's foot, which targets the foot area because of the warm, dark, humid conditions that support fungus growth. Locker room floors and showers also promote the growth of the athlete's foot fungus. Athlete's foot symptoms typically include dry skin, itching, blisters, inflammation and cracking skin, according to the California Podiatric Medical Association. Techniques at home help support the treatment method for athlete's foot.
Try Home Remedies
Home remedies offer a more natural approach to healing athlete's foot. Tea tree essential oil placed on the affected areas four times a day may help clear up the fungus, according to the Safe Natural Cures website. Continue with the treatment for at least two weeks after it disappears so it doesn't come back.
The site also recommends soaking your feet in tea so the tannic acid can kill the fungus. The tea also soothes the feet. Add six tea bags to a quart of boiling water. Wait until the tea is cool enough to put your feet in. Soak your feet for at least 30 min.
Dry Feet Completely
Drying your feet after showers and keeping them dry throughout the day discourages the fungus growth. Towel off your feet completely, particularly the area between your toes. Using baking soda or talcum powder on your feet helps keep them dry. Choose socks that help keep your feet dry. You should also change your socks frequently if they become wet with perspiration.
Wash Socks on Hot
Because they touch your feet all day long, socks may end up with the athlete's foot fungus on them. The Safe Natural Cures website recommends washing your socks with hot water to get rid of the fungus. The site also recommends placing clean socks in the microwave to kill the fungus.
Prevent Future Outbreaks
Once you get rid of athlete's foot, take precautions to prevent future outbreaks. Wearing shower shoes or flip flops in the locker room and near wet pool areas helps you avoid athlete's foot fungus that may be growing there. Shoes that allow your feet to breathe help prevent athlete's foot. Wash your feet at least once a day with soap and warm water.
