If you’ve ever experienced itchy, burning feet—especially between the toes—you might be dealing with athlete’s foot. Despite the name, you don’t need to be an athlete to get it. In fact, this common fungal infection affects millions of people every year, especially those who spend a lot of time in warm, moist environments.
In this article, we’ll break down what athlete’s foot is, what causes it, how to spot the symptoms, and the most effective ways to treat and prevent it.
What Is Athlete's Foot?
Athlete’s foot (also known as tinea pedis) is a fungal infection of the skin, typically starting between the toes or on the soles of the feet. It’s caused by dermatophytes—fungi that thrive in warm, damp places like locker room floors, gym shoes, and sweaty socks.
It’s highly contagious and can spread through direct skin contact or by touching contaminated surfaces such as towels, shoes, or shower floors.
Common Symptoms
Symptoms can vary from person to person, but here’s what to look out for:
Itching, burning, or stinging between the toes
Red, scaly, or cracked skin
Flaking or peeling skin, especially on the soles
Dryness or raw patches on the bottom of the feet
Small blisters or sores (in more severe cases)
Unpleasant odor
If left untreated, the infection can spread to other parts of the foot, toenails, or even to other people.
What Causes Athlete’s Foot?
The fungi responsible for athlete’s foot love moist, warm environments, which makes certain habits and places high-risk. Common causes include:
Walking barefoot in public showers, gyms, or pool areas
Wearing tight, sweaty shoes or socks for long periods
Sharing shoes, socks, or towels with others
Not drying feet thoroughly after bathing
How to Treat Athlete’s Foot
The good news? Athlete’s foot is very treatable, especially when caught early.
Over-the-Counter (OTC) Treatments:
Most mild cases respond well to antifungal creams, sprays, or powders. Look for products containing:
Clotrimazole
Terbinafine
Miconazole
Tolnaftate
Apply as directed—usually 1–2 times a day for up to 2 weeks, even after symptoms disappear to prevent recurrence.
Prescription Treatments:
If OTC treatments don’t work, a doctor may prescribe:
Stronger topical antifungals
Oral antifungal medication (for more stubborn or widespread infections)
Prevention Tips
Once you’ve treated athlete’s foot, keeping it from coming back is key:
Always dry your feet thoroughly—especially between the toes
Wear breathable shoes and change socks daily
Use antifungal powder if you’re prone to sweating
Avoid walking barefoot in communal areas
Don’t share shoes, socks, or towels
Final Thoughts
Athlete’s foot is uncomfortable, but it doesn’t have to stick around. With the right treatment and a few hygiene tweaks, you can clear it up quickly and keep your feet fungus-free. If you’re dealing with persistent or recurring symptoms, don’t hesitate to talk to a healthcare provider.
Need help choosing the right treatment? Stay tuned—our next post breaks down the best athlete’s foot products of the year, based on real results.