Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis is a common skin condition that is caused by a fungus that thrives on the moist areas of your feet, such as between the toes. You can pick up this fungus in several ways, such as from infected locker room floors and shower floors, or by sharing items, such as bedding or shoes, with other people who carry the fungus on their feet. When dealing with a case of athlete's foot, several treatment options are available, ranging from over-the-counter and home remedies to prescriptions.
Step 1
Wash your feet with a mild soap and warm water. Dry your feet thoroughly, being sure to get between each toe where athlete's foot is more prone to take hold.
Step 2
Refrain from scratching the affected area. Although athlete's foot can cause an extreme need to scratch, scratching can irritate the skin even further and may even break the skin and leave your feet open to infection.
Step 3
Purchase a topical athlete's foot medication that contains the active ingredient clotrimazole, miconazole, terbinafine or tolnaftate. Apply a thin layer of the medication, depending on which type of product you buy--either by spraying or applying the cream. Cover the treated area by putting on a clean sock. Apply the medication twice a day for a minimum of two weeks, suggests the MayoClinic.com.
Step 4
Wear ventilated shoes and be sure to change your socks regularly. Dirty socks hold sweat and moisture to your feet, while unventilated shoes prevent air from getting to your feet and promote fungus growth.
Step 5
Talk to your doctor about a prescription topical medication to kill the fungus, such as prescription-strength terbinafine or clotrimazole. Apply the medication following the exact instructions provided by your doctor or on the medicine's package.
Step 6
Talk to your doctor about prescription oral products for severe cases of athlete's foot that do not respond to topical applications, such as oral itraconazole or fluconazole.
Things You'll Need
- Clean socks
- Well-ventilated shoes
