Athlete's foot is a common fungal skin infection. Despite the name, you don't have to be sporty to get it. Anyone whose feet get warm and damp can pick it up.
Signs of athlete's foot
- Itchy, white, peeling skin between the toes
- Red, sore or cracked skin
- Dry, scaly skin on the soles or sides of the feet
- Small blisters in some cases
Treating it
Antifungal creams, sprays and powders from a pharmacy usually clear athlete's foot within a few weeks. Keep using the treatment for as long as the packet says, even after the itching stops, or it may come back.
Stopping it spreading
- Wash and dry your feet every day, especially between the toes
- Change socks daily and choose cotton or moisture wicking ones
- Wear flip-flops in communal showers and changing rooms
- Don't share towels, socks or shoes
- Let shoes dry out between wears
If athlete's foot isn't treated, it can spread to the toenails and cause a fungal nail infection, which is much slower to clear.
When to get help
Book in with us if it keeps coming back, has spread to your nails or the skin is very thick and cracked. See your GP if treatments haven't worked after a few weeks, the skin looks infected, or you have diabetes. Read more on our fungal infection page.
Athlete's foot and diabetes
If you have diabetes, take athlete's foot seriously. Cracks between the toes can let bacteria in, and infections can be slower to heal. Check between your toes every day, treat any signs promptly and speak to your GP or diabetes team if the skin is broken, red or not improving. Our diabetic foot care page has more advice.
Quick answers
Is athlete's foot contagious?
Yes. It spreads through damp floors, towels and shared footwear.
Can athlete's foot go away on its own?
Occasionally, but it usually needs treatment and can spread to the nails if left.
Why does it keep coming back?
Often because treatment stops too early, or because shoes and socks stay damp.