Symptoms Of Peeling Skin Between Toes
Your feet and the areas between your feet digits or toes are prone to infections and other conditions that can cause skin to become white, crack and peel off. The journal Nature Review Microbiology stated that the toe web area has high humidity and its easy for bacteria and other microorganisms to thrive there.1
The conditions that cause peeling skin on your feet can also cause a lot of discomfort and embarrassment. For example, fungal infections can damage the outer layer of skin, causing it to peel off. According to Dr. William Blahd on WebMD, this skin peeling from the toes will also be accompanied by itching, a burning sensation, and possibly blisters between the toes. It can even make walking very painful.2
Dr. Sandra Gonzalez Gompf on eMedicineNet says that as well as causing the skin to blister, some bacterial infections can cause inflammation and swelling in the affected part of your body. The swelling could also cause a tingling and itchy sensation between your toes if they are affected.3 Also, as the affected skin starts to heal from an infection, dermatologist Dr. Amy Stanway says that you may experience peeling and itchiness.4
If dry skin is causing flaking and peeling between your toes, you may find that you have small to large cracks in the skin. These cracks can start to bleed if they are deep or if you excessively scratch the toe web area.5
Home Remedies For Athletes Foot
Tea Tree Oil:
Touted for their strong antibacterial, antiseptic and anti-fungal properties, the essential oil obtained from tea tree leaves has been treating skin infections since ancient times. The presence of tannic acid in the oil not only gets rid of bacteria and germs but also acts as an astringent and helps dry out sweaty feet to prevent the growth and spreading of the infection. Also Read: Tea Tree Oil: 5 Health Benefits of This Incredible Essential Oil
Mix a few drops of tea tree oil combined with a carrier oil such as olive or coconut oil and apply it on the affected area 2-4 times a day to thwart off the infection.
Baking Soda:
Being a natural anti-fungal agent, they provide relief from many microbial strains that infect the skin and nails. This mixture of sodium and bicarbonate ions not only helps in absorbing unpleasant foot odours but also relieves the itchiness and burning sensation in between the toes or on the feet.
Make a paste of baking soda and water and apply in all over the infected skin to get rid of the foot infection.
Sea Salt:
Imbued with potent anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory properties, the sea salt granules provide an effective remedy for athletes foot. It also holds high significance in healing cuts and sores by reducing inflammation and prevents smelly foot.
Soak your feet in a tub containing warm water infused with sea salt for 5-10 minutes to assist healing and prevent the spreading of the infection.
Garlic:
Yogurt:
Foot Soak:
Green Tea:
Consider A Tea Foot Bath
Soaking your feet in tea may also ease symptoms of athlete’s foot.
A small 2013 clinical trial found that 12 weeks of foot baths containing green tea polyphenols micronutrients found in plant-based foods improved symptoms of athlete’s foot in elderly patients compared to a placebo.
Black tea may also alleviate symptoms of athlete’s foot, particularly the odor, due to the presence of a specific type of polyphenol called tannins.
“The tannins that are in black tea help with that foot odor,” says Galante.
Read Also: How To Stop Toenail Fungus Pain
A Pharmacist Can Help With Athlete’s Foot
Athlete’s foot is unlikely to get better on its own, but you can buy antifungal medicines for it from a pharmacy. They usually take a few weeks to work.
Athlete’s foot treatments are available as:
- creams
- sprays
- powders
They’re not all suitable for everyone for example, some are only for adults. Always check the packet or ask a pharmacist.
You might need to try a few treatments to find one that works best for you.
You Can Remedy Athletes Foot Naturally
Most minor infections can be remedied at home without using harmful or toxic over-the-counter or prescription drugs. Athletes foot is no exception, and with these natural remedies for athletes foot, youll be fungus-free in no time!
This article was medically reviewed by Cynthia Thurlow, NP, the CEO and founder of the Everyday Wellness Project, nurse practitioner, international speaker, and globally recognized expert in intermittent fasting and nutritional health. As always, this is not personal medical advice and we recommend that you talk with your doctor.
Have you tried any of these natural remedies for athletes foot? Which has worked?
You May Like: How To Get Rid Of Tree Fungus Naturally
Hydrogen Peroxide With Iodine
Peroxide and iodine are commonly used to disinfect cuts and wounds and to kill germs on the skin.
A recent study found that peroxide combined with iodine killed 16 different fungi. The two used together were more effective than using them separately.
To try this remedy, mix iodine solution and hydrogen peroxide in a bucket or large bowl. Iodine solution is available at most drugstores in the wound care section. Dip the feet directly in the solution or use a cotton pad to apply it to the affected areas.
Do not use iodine on the skin without diluting it because it can damage the skin if used by itself.
Peroxide may sting if the skin is broken or irritated, and it can bleach hair and fabrics. Iodine may also cause stains.
Applying this mixture in a bathtub or shower may prevent unwanted stains, bleaching, and spills.
Apple Cider Vinegar Remedy
The sour, tangy crunchy mama favorite that helps with everything from heartburn to dandruff can also be one of the best natural remedies for mild athletes foot.
Apple cider vinegar has been used since the times of Hippocrates, when it was prized for its medicinal properties. Its known to be especially beneficial against yeast and fungus, and many people take it internally to keep candida in balance.
To use ACV to remedy athletes foot, make sure youve got a good, high-quality, unpasteurized version . Of course, you can also buy in stores or online . I also love and use this brand.
In a foot bath container, mix together:
- 2 cups of water
- 1/2 cup of apple cider vinegar
Soak your feet for around half an hour. You can also apply plain ACV directly to the infection with a cotton ball. Apple cider vinegar will likely sting, so be aware and dilute more if necessary.
You May Like: How To Get Rid Of Fungus On Sunflowers
Hair Dryer And Talcum Powder
If fungi do not have an ideal environment to live in, they cannot continue to grow and thrive. Getting rid of moisture from the feet, especially between the toes, can help keep the fungus from spreading and getting worse.
People can remove moisture from their feet by thoroughly drying them with a hair dryer after bathing, making sure that no moisture remains but being careful not to burn the skin. People with loss of sensation or feeling in the feet should not use this method.
When the feet are dry, follow up by sprinkling them with talcum powder to help absorb sweat. Many foot powders contain talc and help keep the feet dry.
In addition to these steps, wearing socks that absorbs moisture away from the skin can help keep the feet dry. The following types of socks can help keep feet dry throughout the day:
- wool
- bamboo
- synthetic wicking fabric, often called tech socks
Changing socks at least once a day when feet feel sweaty or damp is also helpful. Or, in warmer weather, wear open shoes or sandals to increase airflow to the feet.
Tea Tree Oil Has Potent Anti
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
One of the most effective home remedies for skin fungi is tea tree oil. This essential oil has anti-fungus and antiseptic properties, which means that it will kill the microorganisms and keep the infection from spreading. Whats more, its perfect for getting rid of nail fungus.
However, tea tree oil is a strong substance and should be used carefully.
Necessary ingredients:
Notes: Under no circumstances, should you ingest tea tree oil because its toxic. In addition to this, even undiluted it can cause allergic reactions, so do a patch test first. Pregnant women also should avoid this home remedy for skin fungi.
Also Check: What Causes Black Toenail Fungus
Athletes Foot: Common Signs + 4 Home Remedies
Athletes foot affects 315 percent of the population every year. Its one of the most common types of fungal infections seen in humans. Up to to 25 percent of people will likely develop symptoms at some point.
Athletes foot has some things in common with other fungal infections youve probably had at some point in the past. These include toenail or fingernail fungus, jock itch, candida or other yeast infections, oral thrush, ringworm and even meningitis. What causes the growth of foot fungus, or fungal infections on the body? Sweaty or dirty feet and working out in shared spaces are two causes. Wearing thick, sturdy shoes that block air from reaching the toes is another cause. Research shows that men are more likely than women to develop athletes foot on one or both feet.
Its possible for symptoms of athletes foot to clear up on their own. However, treatment is usually needed to get rid of the itchiness, skin flaking and redness that most people experience. Home remedies for athletes foot include using essential oils to make a DIY anti-fungal cream. Avoid risky situations, like going barefoot in public showers. Boost your immune system to more easily fight off all types of microbes.
Potential Risks And Complications
If untreated, athletes foot can result in a bacterial infection if skin is broken. This can happen due to scratching or when blisters pop or ulcers become infected. Any type of infection can be very serious and requires prompt treatment.
Athletes foot is also very contagious. It can easily spread to your hands, especially if youre scratching at the affected area. This fungus can also infect the area under your nails, which can be more difficult to treat, or the groin area.
Recommended Reading: How To Cure Fingernail Fungus At Home
Sprinkle Cornstarch On Your Toes
Cornstarch, a common kitchen ingredient made from corn, can also treat athlete’s foot by absorbing excess moisture from feet, says Galante. That’s because keeping your feet dry prevents the spread of this fungal infection.
If you don’t have cornstarch, you can try drugstore foot powders like Dr. Scholl’s, which can be helpful as well, says Jon Sherman, DPM, a board-certified foot surgeon and fellow at the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons.
Dangers Of Traditional Treatment Options
Fungal nail infection is treatable with oral anti-fungal drugs, topical medications, surgery, or laser treatments. The problem with these modern treatments, however, is that they can sometimes cause complications. Depending on the chosen treatment, some of the possible side effects that may occur include skin rashes, blisters, loss of appetite, gastrointestinal issues, headaches, respiratory problems, abnormal nail growth, or liver damage.
Due to the many risks associated with modern treatments for fungal nail infection, many people are now opting for alternative remedies that are relatively safer. As an added bonus, its also possible to treat fungal nail infection using just a few basic ingredients one already has available at home.
Recommended Reading: How To Cure Yellow Toenail Fungus
Natural Home Remedies For Athletes Foot
Your feet have been attacked by tinea pedis. This stealthy intruder, which targets the nails, skin and hair, causes skin to redden, crack, burn, scale and itch. When the fungus invades the area between your toes, the classic symptom is itchy, flaking skin. Sometimes tinea stays between the toes. But it may also appear on the soles and sides of the feet and even spread to your toenails.
Severe cases of athletes foot can be accompanied by oozing blisters. The locker-room floor is one place where tinea hangs out, but it also loves warm, moist places. Your feet, often confined in sweaty shoes and socks, are an ideal breeding ground.
Effective Homemade Foot Soaks
Soaking the affected foot in one of the following solutions will help cure athlete’s foot. You need to be persistent and follow preventive measures for the treatment to be effective.
Gently wash and dry the feet before doing these. Repeat daily for effectiveness and continue for a couple of weeks after any sign of the infection has gone.
Read Also: Is Econazole Nitrate Cream Good For Toenail Fungus
What Causes Athletes Foot
Athletes foot occurs when the tinea fungus grows on the feet. You can catch the fungus through direct contact with an infected person, or by touching surfaces contaminated with the fungus. The fungus thrives in warm, moist environments. Its commonly found in showers, on locker room floors, and around swimming pools.
Anyone can get athletes foot, but certain behaviors increase your risk. Factors that increase your risk of getting athletes foot include:
- visiting public places barefoot, especially locker rooms, showers, and swimming pools
- sharing socks, shoes, or towels with an infected person
- wearing tight, closed-toe shoes
There are many possible symptoms of athletes foot, which include:
- itching, stinging, and burning between your toes or on soles of your feet
- blisters on your feet that itch
- cracking and peeling skin on your feet, most commonly between your toes and on your soles
- dry skin on your soles or sides of your feet
- raw skin on your feet
- discolored, thick, and crumbly toenails
- toenails that pull away from the nail bed
Choose Proper Shoes And Socks
Avoid plastic shoes and footwear that has been treated to be waterproof, says Dr. Levine. They trap perspiration and create a warm, moist spot for the fungus to grow. Natural materials such as cotton and leather provide the best environment for feet, while rubber and even wool may induce sweating and hold moisture.
Read Also: Does Listerine Kill Fungus On Feet
How To Identify Fungal Infection
- Brown Patches or colonies observed
- Powdery or threadlike coatings on a leaf or stem blades
- Dead and rough grass
- Enhanced rings and spots
- Various colors association visible
Now let us see specifics about identifying the patches and the fungus associated with them. We will talk here about the most commonly observed fungus that you can observe easily.
- Brown patches
- Red Thread
Wash With Soap And Water
Clean the affected area with soap and water twice daily before you apply any home remedies or any other medication. This will control the spread of infection. While soap and water may not always be able to eliminate a fungal infection entirely, it helps to keep the spread down and lower the intensity of the infection.
Don’t Miss: How To Get Rid Of Fungus In Toes
Which Type Of Athlete’s Foot Do You Have
There are three different types of athlete’s foot:
- Interdigital or toe web type is the most common and usually begins between the two smallest toes. It can cause itching and burning sensations, peeling or flaking skin, and can spread from between the toes to the underside of the foot.
- Moccasin can affect a more widespread area on the foot. Often the first symptoms are mild irritation and a feeling of skin dryness. This can affect the sole and sides of the foot and can be itchy and scaly. The affected skin may crack and become very sore.
- Vesicular athlete’s foot is less common. It’s characterized by fluid-filled blisters that can easily become infected. You should not attempt to treat this with home remedies as it could be cellulitis and would require antibiotics.
Other Ways To Stop Skin Peeling From Your Toe Web Area
Keeping your feet in good health is usually the best way to stop skin peeling from between your toes. Good foot health and hygiene can also prevent many conditions developing that can lead to cracked skin, itching, redness, and scaling.
Dr. Minesh Khatri on WebMD recommends various ways to prevent foot diseases and problems. Some of these are:19
- Dont soak your feet for long periods of time but wash them daily and dry thoroughly.
- Moisturize your feet daily, however, dont put lotions between your toes to avoid moisture building up there.
- Dont wear tight fitting shoes and make sure that your feet can breathe.
You May Like: What Medicine Is Used For Toenail Fungus
Can Iodine Be Used For Toenail Fungus
Natural Ways To Cure Fungus In Toenail Apple Cider Vinegar For Fungus Toe Overcounter Best Treatment For Toe Fungus, Toe Fungus Nursing Diagnosis Does It Matter If I Use Vicks Vaporub Or Generic To Treat Nail Fungus What Foot Fungus Do I Have.
Toenailfunguscurei.com
Manuka Honey And Hydrogen Peroxide To Treat Toenail Fungus Types Of Toenail Fungus With Pictures. Nail Fungus Treatment Karasal Chinese Homemade Cream Destroys Nail Fungus In One Day Fungus Under The Nail Of Big Toe Feels Like Ingrown. Fungus Under Toenail Images Toe Fungus On One Foot.
What Is Athlete’s Foot
Athlete’s foot is a type of fungal skin infection. Fungi are microscopic plant-like organisms that thrive in damp, warm environments. They’re usually not dangerous, but sometimes can cause disease. When they infect the skin, they cause mild but annoying rashes. Fungal skin infections are also known as tinea infections.
When fungus grows on the feet, it is called athlete’s foot . It got this name because it affects people whose feet tend to be damp and sweaty, which is often the case with athletes. But anyone can get this infection.
You May Like: How Do I Get Rid Of Fungus Between My Toes