Ways To Treat Athlete's Foot

Athlete's foot, otherwise known as tinea pedis, is a common contagious fungal foot infection causing itchy, scaly, peeling, and cracked skin, that can be painful and inflamed if it is severe. It may also cause blisters or ulcers if it sets in deep enough. It usually starts in between the toes because this skin is more moist, sensitive, and easier to penetrate. It is most often acquired in public showers, swimming pools, and from certain types of footwear habits that promote growth. There are a variety of medicinal and natural home remedies to prevent athlete's foot from de-feeting you.

Keep Feet Clean And Dry

When you keep feet clean and dry, the environment for fungus to begin growing is eliminated. If you already have athlete's foot, it is important to prevent it from spreading into other sensitive skin areas. Use antibacterial antifungal socks for athletes foot. Thoroughly washing feet, especially in between the toes, and drying them with a towel will decrease the possibilities of fungus growth.

Wearing waterproof shoes will prevent feet from getting wet or consider using a waterproof spray on shoes. Putting your socks on first before underwear will prevent the infection from spreading. Also be careful when touching infected feet to prevent transferring the contagion. Avoid althete's foot by wearing shower shoes whenever you take a shower or go to public swimming and bathing areas.

Tea Tree Oil

Although tea tree oil has many uses, one of the more popular treatments is for athlete's foot. Tea tree oil is native to Australia and has been used as a topical antibacterial treatment for millennia. Today, this essential oil is believed to also possess antifungal properties. Tea tree oil is in shampoos for individuals with thinning hair and was even included in World War Two Australian military and naval first aid kits.

Patients can simply add a few drops of tea tree oil to a carrier oil like coconut oil and spread it around the feet after they have been cleaned and dried. If you immediately cover your feet with clean, dry socks, the fungal infection should clear up in a few days.