The Best Athlete’s Foot Creams

Athlete’s foot, or tinea pedis, affects the area between the toes, as well as the sides and bottom of the feet. Athlete’s foot creams contain antifungal and moisturizing ingredients to soothe itchy and burning skin. Plus, they are usually non-greasy and fast-acting. Take a look at our guide to the best athlete’s foot creams, and don’t let foot discomfort stop you in your tracks.

Symptoms of Athlete’s Foot

Commonly found in athletes, athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that affects the feet and toenails. It can also sometimes spread to the hands. Here are just some symptoms to look out for if you suspect that you may be suffering from athlete’s foot.

• Scaly and dry skin on the soles and sides of the feet, and in between the toes
• Cracking and peeling skin between the toes and on the soles of the feet
• Itching and burning sensation between the toes and on the soles of the feet
• Discolored and thick toenails that pull away from the nail bed
• Red blisters between the toenails and on the soles of the feet

Prevention of Athlete’s Foot

Cases of athlete’s foot are common. While the condition is not generally dangerous, it can be very uncomfortable. Luckily, athlete’s foot can be easily prevented.

• Keep Your Feet Clean and Dry

  If you are prone to sweaty feet, it is a good idea to wash your feet with warm water and soap twice a day. It is also important to clean the feet between the toes. Be sure to dry your feet thoroughly after cleaning. Applying antifungal talcum powder after each shower can help to keep them dry throughout the day.

• Air Your Feet

  If you don’t need to wear shoes, don’t. Going barefoot when you are home lets your feet air out, minimizing the risk of fungal infections. Alternatively, wear loose-fitting or ventilated shoes such as sandals.

• Wear Appropriate Footwear

  Wear cotton or wool socks, and change them regularly. If you are active or your feet get sweaty, you may even need to change your socks twice a day. Avoid shoes made of synthetic material, as these are likely to make your feet sweat. It is also a good idea to alternate your pairs of shoes to give them a chance to dry after each use.

• Protect Your Feet

  It is important to protect your feet in public places. Swimming pools, for example, can be a breeding ground for bacteria. As such, be sure to wear waterproof sandals or flip-flops in public pools, showers, and locker rooms. In addition, don’t share shoes with others as this increases the risk of catching a fungal infection.

Complications Associated with Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot complications are rare and mostly occur if the condition is left untreated. Nevertheless, it is important to be aware of the potential issues associated with the condition.

• Onychomycosis: Thick and crumbly toenails.
• Lymphangitis: Infection of the lymph system.
• Lymphadenitis: Infection of the lymph nodes.
• Secondary bacterial infection: Sore, hot, and swollen feet.
• Cellulitis: Infection that occurs deep in the skin. If left untreated, cellulitis can lead to blood poisoning or bone infection.
• Allergy: Allergic reactions to the fungus that causes athlete’s foot. The condition is usually characterized by blisters on the feet and hands.

Weighing All the Factors

The best athlete’s foot over-the-counter treatment cream on our list is Puriya’s tea tree oil balm. Formulated with plant-based ingredients, it is non-greasy and fast-absorbing. FineVine Organics’s antifungal balm and Lotrimin Store’s athlete’s foot treatment are also two great choices for their ability to promote healthy skin and fight fungus.