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Skin concerns

Athlete’s foot

Fungal infection very common in the feet. Itch, scaling and maceration between fingers are the typical signs. Answers topical treatment well.

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What is Athlete's Foot

The athlete’s foot — medically speaking, tinea pedis — is a very common fungal infection caused by dermatophyte fungi. It mainly affects the spaces between the fingers, but can extend to the plant and the back of the foot.

It is favored by prolonged humidity and heat, closed footwear, sports activity and contact on shared floors (bathrooms, swimming pools). It responds well to treatment and simple foot hygiene measures.

Signs and symptoms

  • Itch in the spaces between the fingers, especially between the 4th and 5th.
  • Scaling, with white scales and sometimes with fissures.
  • Maceration — white and soft skin between your fingers.
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  • In some forms, small vesicles appear on the plant or on the lateral face of the foot.
  • Redness and burning may arise if there is secondary bacterial infection.
  • It may be associated with onychomycosis (fungal in the nails).

CAUSES AND RISK FACTORS

  • Contact with dermatophyte fungi on moist pavements (bathrooms, swimming pools, gyms).
  • Closed footwear and excessive sweating.
  • Prolonged use of socks that do not allow evaporation.
  • Regular sporting activity.
  • Close contact with infected people.
  • Changes in immunity and diabetes (with increased risk of infection).

Diagnosis

The diagnosis is usually clinical. In an online consultation, the dermatologist evaluates photographs of the affected areas and a questionnaire on evolution, footwear and activity. In doubtful situations or without response to treatment, face-to-face mycological examination may be recommended.

Options for treatment

Most cases respond to continued topical treatment, associated with hygiene measures and careful drying of the foot.

Topical application

Antifungal formulations applied in affected areas, regularly and for the given time. The choice and duration are defined by the dermatologist.

systemic treatment

Reserved for extensive, recurrent or associated nail involvement. Evaluated individually by the dermatologist.

Complementary measures

Drying your feet thoroughly (especially between your fingers), switching shoes, wearing socks that absorb and allow evaporation, treating footwear and the environment simultaneously.

Talk to a dermatologist about your athlete's foot

No months-long wait for an in-person appointment. Each case reaches the dermatologist already prepared with photographs, history and questionnaire answers. Choose a report in under 24h or a booked video consultation.

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Prevention

  • Dry your feet thoroughly after bathing, especially between your fingers.
  • Wear slippers in locker rooms, swimming pools and public gyms.
  • To change shoes, allowing them to dry between uses.
  • Choose socks that absorb moisture (cotton, technical fabrics).
  • Do not share towels, slippers or sports material.
  • Treat early to avoid domestic contamination.

Frequently asked questions

Is it contagious?

Yeah. It is transmitted by direct contact and above all on shared wet floors. Simple measures (slippers in locker rooms, not sharing towels) reduce the risk.

If not, will it resolve on its own?

Rarely. Without treatment it tends to extend or resort, and can extend to the nails — where it is more difficult to treat.

Is online consultation for athlete's foot?

Yeah. It is a condition in which photography is usually sufficient for diagnosis and to guide treatment. The dermatologist defines the plan according to the presentation.

How long does it take to heal?

Usually 2-4 weeks of topical treatment. Interrupting too early is a common cause of relapse — fulfilling the indicated time is essential.

Treat Athlete's Foot Quickly

Send photos of the affected areas. A dermatologist evaluates and sends a treatment plan — an average of 24 hours.