Athlete's Foot: Fast Relief, Treatment & Prevention Tips
Athlete's foot (tinea pedis) is a common fungal infection that usually starts between the toes. It itches, peels, and can sting when you walk. Good news: most cases clear with simple steps at home. This guide tells you what to try first, when to see a doctor, and how to stop it coming back.
How to treat athlete's foot now
Start by keeping the area clean and dry. Wash feet daily with soap and water, dry well—especially between toes—and change socks every day or more often if your feet sweat. For treatments, over-the-counter antifungal creams, sprays, or powders that contain clotrimazole, miconazole, or terbinafine work for many people. Apply as directed and keep using the product for the full time listed (often 2–4 weeks) even if the rash improves.
If the infection is severe, spreading, painful, or returns after OTC treatment, see a doctor. They may prescribe a stronger topical or an oral antifungal like prescription terbinafine or itraconazole. Oral meds usually clear tougher cases faster but need monitoring for interactions and possible side effects.
Don’t share towels, socks, or shoes with others while you’re infected. Avoid walking barefoot in public showers and locker rooms or wear slip-on shower shoes. Clean shower floors and mats with a mildew-killing cleaner to cut down on fungal spores.
Preventing athlete's foot and stopping re-infection
Prevention focuses on controlling moisture and fungus in shoes and socks. Wear breathable shoes (leather or mesh) and moisture-wicking socks. Rotate shoes so each pair dries fully between wears. Use an antifungal powder or spray in shoes if you sweat a lot or had repeated infections.
Wash socks and towels in hot water and dry them completely on high heat if the fabric allows. If your toenails are thick or discolored, treat or get them examined—nail fungus can hide and keep reinfecting your skin. Consider cutting nails short and cleaning under them regularly.
For athletes or gym-goers: wear shower sandals, bring a clean towel, and store shoes in a ventilated area instead of a closed gym bag. If a family member has athlete's foot, treat their infection at the same time and disinfect shared surfaces to prevent ping-ponging the fungus back and forth.
If you have diabetes, poor circulation, or a weakened immune system, call your doctor at the first sign of foot redness, swelling, or open sores. Those conditions raise the risk of complications and need faster medical care.
Simple hygiene, the right OTC antifungal, and shoe care fix most cases. If things don’t improve in 2–4 weeks, get a professional check—quick action saves time and keeps your feet comfortable.