Athlete’s foot (tinea pedis) is a common fungal infection that usually starts between the toes and then spreads to the rest of your feet. Foot fungus isn’t just itchy and uncomfortable – it can also be embarrassing.
With sandal season just around the corner, now is the time to tackle your tinea pedis. The Rendon Center for Dermatology & Aesthetic Medicine offers athlete’s foot treatment from board-certified dermatologists. Read on to learn more, or book your appointment in Boca Raton at 561-750-0544.
How Does a Person Get Athlete’s Foot?
Athlete’s foot tends to thrive in moist, warm environments like locker rooms, gym showers, and swimming pools – hence the nickname. While you might be more likely to catch tinea pedis if you play sports, our practice treats kids’ athlete’s foot, women’s athlete’s foot, and men’s athlete’s foot. Anyone can get this contagious fungus.
Tinea pedis spreads through contact with infected skin or surfaces contaminated with fungi. It can live in your socks, shoes, towels, sheets, and bath mats. If you have excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis), you might also be more prone to athlete’s foot. Fortunately, there are effective treatments.
What Kills Athlete’s Foot Fungus?
Athlete’s foot treatment typically starts with over-the-counter products, but these often aren’t potent enough to completely eliminate the fungus. Instead, our board-certified dermatologists can prescribe stronger topical medications like clotrimazole, ciclopirox, or econazole. Additionally, we can prescribe an oral antifungal medication like Lamisil for stubborn infections.
In addition to using antifungals, you’ll need to take steps at home, including:
- Spraying all shoes with an antifungal like Lysol and letting them dry in the sun.
- Changing socks regularly and choosing moisture-wicking materials.
- Choosing well-ventilated footwear and alternating shoes to give them time to dry.
- Using a hyperhidrosis spray (prescribed by our doctors) to reduce foot sweating.
- Washing all socks, towels, sheets, and bath mats in hot water.
Find Athlete’s Foot Treatment in Boca Raton
With spring here and summer just around the corner, there’s no time to waste when it comes to treating your athlete’s foot. Our Boca Raton, Florida dermatologists have extensive experience treating this condition and have helped countless patients who had given up on ineffective over-the-counter options. Call 561-750-0544 to book your appointment at Rendon Center for Dermatology & Aesthetic Medicine.