Athlete’s foot (tinea pedis) is a fungal skin infection that usually starts between the toes. It’s very common, it spreads easily in warm, damp places like changing rooms and pool areas, and you don’t have to be an athlete to get it. The good news: it usually clears up with an over-the-counter antifungal cream.
Symptoms
- Itching, stinging or burning between the toes or on the soles
- Red, scaly, peeling or cracked skin
- Skin that looks white and soggy between the toes
- Small blisters, in some cases
How to treat it
Antifungal creams kill the fungus causing the infection. Butenafine (the ingredient in Mentax) is one of the fastest-acting options:
- Between the toes: apply twice a day for 1 week, or once a day for 4 weeks.
- Bottom or sides of the foot: apply twice a day for 4 weeks.
Wash and dry your feet thoroughly before each application. Keep using the cream for the full course, even if your skin looks better sooner, or the infection is likely to come back.
How to stop it coming back
- Dry your feet carefully after washing, especially between the toes.
- Wear breathable cotton or moisture-wicking socks and change them every day.
- Alternate shoes so each pair dries out fully between wears.
- Wear sandals or flip-flops in shared showers, gyms and pool areas.
- Don’t share towels, socks or shoes.
- Wash socks and towels at 60°C (140°F) to kill the fungus.
Related fungal infections
The same fungus can cause jock itch (in the groin) and ringworm (a red, ring-shaped rash on the body). Butenafine cream treats both, applied once a day for 2 weeks. To avoid spreading athlete’s foot to the groin, put your socks on before your underwear.
When to see a doctor
- No improvement after 2 weeks of treatment, or it’s not gone after the full course
- The infection has spread to your toenails (thick, yellow or crumbly nails need different treatment)
- The skin is very red, swollen, hot, painful or leaking pus, which may be a bacterial infection
- You have diabetes or a weakened immune system. Foot infections need extra care.
Shop antifungal treatment
This article is for general information only and isn’t a substitute for advice from a doctor or pharmacist. Always read the label before using any medicine.