Athlete’s foot is one of the most common, yet most misunderstood, fungal infections which affects more than just athletes. However, many behaviours can minimise the risk of contracting athlete’s foot.
“Athlete’s foot is one of the most prevalent foot conditions that we come across, particularly among people who wear closed shoes for long periods, or who frequent public spaces like gyms and swimming pools which have common areas where people walk bare foot,” explained Lynsey Hammond, managing director of Kroko, a leading manufacturer of South African footcare products. “With the weather warming up, we’re likely to see the risk of athlete’s foot increase, so we want to share some key tips to minimise the spread.”
What is athlete’s foot?
Athlete’s foot – also known as tinea pedis – is caused by a group of fungi called dermatophytes, which thrive in dark, damp, and warm conditions. Once contracted, athlete’s foot can cause itching, flaking, redness, and even painful blisters. Fortunately, it’s preventable with simple hygiene practices and the right footcare choices. Here are some common mistakes that can lead to athlete’s foot.
Mistake #1: Wearing the wrong socks
One of the long-term preventative techniques for athlete’s foot is swapping out those synthetic socks for natural fibre socks such as cotton or bamboo. Synthetic materials trap heat and moisture, encouraging fungi to thrive, whereas natural fibres are breathable and regulate temperature and moisture. Sweaty feet are one of the primary causes of athlete’s foot.
Mistake #2: Not airing out shoes
Re-wearing the same shoes day in and day out without allowing them to air out is one of the fastest ways to contract athlete’s foot. It’s best to alternate between shoes to allow them to fully dry and air out before wearing them again.
Mistake #3: Not treating shoes
If athlete’s foot has been contracted, the fungus can linger inside the shoes for a while. That’s why it’s important to use a hygienic product such as Kroko Foot Spray in the shoes to disinfect them. These must then be left to air out before being worn again.
Mistake #4: Overlooking foot hygiene
Feet must be thoroughly cleaned daily, particularly between the toes where fungi can thrive. It’s best to use warm water and mild soap daily, before drying the feet completely.
Mistake #5: Not drying feet
It’s not just after cleansing that feet need to be dried. For people who wear closed shoes for an extended period, feet can get sweaty leading to fungal infections. Socks must be changed, and it’s best to use a drying product such as Kroko Foot Powder – used on both the feet and inside the shoes – to absorb sweat and kill bacteria.
Mistake #6: Going barefoot in public areas
Walking barefoot is vital for foot health, but it’s important not to go barefoot in public areas such as communal showers, changing rooms, and swimming pools. Fungi thrive in warm, damp areas like change rooms. Always wear sandals in wet public areas and dry feet immediately afterwards.
Mistake #7: Not letting feet breathe
While walking in public spaces is high risk, so is keeping warm, sweaty feet trapped in shoes all day. When at home, take off shoes and go barefoot, particularly on soft grass. This is not only good for preventing athlete’s foot, but great for foot health and mental wellbeing.
Mistake #8: Sharing personal items
In this instance, sharing is not caring! This is particularly problematic at schools with younger children who don’t consider the risk when sharing towels, socks, or shoes. These items can transfer the fungal infection from person to person.
Mistake #9: Ignoring early symptoms
If there are any early signs of itching or redness, it’s important to seek medical treatment. Athlete’s foot is highly contagious and can spread, not only to other people, but to other parts of the foot and can lead to nail fungal infections.
“Prevention really starts with awareness and the right habits. At Kroko, we’re proud to support South Africans with high-quality, affordable footcare products that make daily foot health simple and effective,” continues Hammond. “Our Foot Powder and Foot Spray are effective in keeping feet and shoes hygienic and fresh, assisting in preventing the risk of athlete’s foot.”
To find out more about Kroko products, visit www.kroko.co.za
