Skin health
Athlete’s Foot: Treating a Fungal Infection
Clear athlete’s foot for good: the treatments that work, how long to use them and the habits that stop it coming back.
Signs of athlete’s foot
- Itchy, scaly or peeling skin between the toes
- Cracked or raw skin, sometimes with a burning feeling
- Dry, scaly soles (moccasin type)
- Sometimes small blisters
Treatment that works
- Wash and dry your feet thoroughly, especially between the toes.
- Apply an antifungal cream (terbinafine, clotrimazole or miconazole) as directed.
- Continue for 1 to 2 weeks after the rash clears.
- Use antifungal powder in shoes and socks.
- If it does not improve in 2 to 4 weeks, prescription treatment may be needed.
Preventing it from coming back
- Change socks daily, or more often if your feet sweat.
- Choose moisture-wicking socks and breathable shoes.
- Alternate shoes so they dry out.
- Wear sandals in gym showers and pool areas.
- Do not share towels or shoes.
How we can help
A quick video visit or photo is usually enough to confirm athlete’s foot and choose treatment. If you have diabetes, poor circulation or cracks that look infected, we see you promptly. See our diabetic foot care checklist.
Questions people ask
Is athlete’s foot contagious?
Yes. It spreads through damp floors, towels and shoes.
Can athlete’s foot spread to my nails?
Yes. Treating it early helps prevent nail fungus, which is harder to clear.
Why does it keep coming back?
Usually because treatment stopped too soon or shoes keep reinfecting the skin. Treat shoes and finish the full course.
Talk it through with Lydia
Itchy feet that will not quit? We can help clear it up. See a board-certified nurse practitioner virtually anywhere in Virginia, in our Woodbridge office, or straight to your front door in much of Northern Virginia.
Visits start at $85, and every membership comes with a 30-day trial.
Prefer to ask first? Text us at (571) 402-2102 or message us on WhatsApp.
