Treating Athlete’s Foot

What is athlete’s foot?

Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that mainly affects the feet. Although less common, athlete’s foot of the hand can also occur if the infection spreads.

The most common symptoms of athlete’s foot and hands include:

• Broken, scaly skin—especially between the toes
• Itchy, blistered feet
• Sweaty feet with occasional odour

Athlete’s foot can affect one or both feet and may flare up intermittently. It can cause a burning, itchy sensation or be pain-free but visually unappealing.

What causes athlete’s foot?

Athlete’s foot is most commonly contracted through skin-on-skin or skin-on-surface contact, with areas like communal showers, locker rooms and shared footwear leading to infection.

Athlete’s foot can also be caused by exposure to damp environments and tight footwear. The fungus thrives in dark, moist environments, which is why preventive care is essential for active and busy people.

How to diagnose athlete’s foot?

Athlete’s foot is typically diagnosed by a healthcare provider or a footcare specialist in a podiatrist clinic.

You don’t need an official diagnosis to begin at-home athlete’s foot treatment. It’s paramount to detect the signs of athlete’s foot and hands early so that it can be treated before the infection spreads.

If you are experiencing any of the previously mentioned symptoms, contact a healthcare professional immediately and review our recommended treatments below.

Athlete’s foot treatment

How to treat athlete’s foot at home

At-home athlete’s foot treatment is simple with Margaret Dabbs London’s specifically designed foot treatments.

Follow the steps below to get rid of athlete’s foot:

1. Exfoliate: Wet your feet and apply the Exfoliating Foot Scrub to the bottom of your feet, massaging it into the affected areas. Dip your hand in warm water and work the scrub between your toes and over your nails. The foot scrub contains ground tea tree oil which is effective in treating fungal conditions. Do this for three minutes per affected foot. Rinse thoroughly and dry your feet carefully with a clean towel, paying special attention to between the toes.
2. Night routine: Apply our Foot Hygiene Cream before bed. Warm it in your hands and apply it generously over your feet and nails. If you cannot sleep barefoot, wear our Luxury Hemp Socks to bed.
3. Morning care: If you’re prone to sweaty feet or odour caused by athlete’s foot, use our PURE Soothing Foot Powder before putting on your socks in the morning. This hero powder will also help reduce itchiness.
4. Ongoing treatment: Use the Professional Foot File once a week to remove hard, dead, dry skin and calluses. Use the Exfoliating Foot Scrub two to three times a week. After 14 days, switch to using our Intensive Hydrating Foot Lotion daily, reserving the Foot Hygiene Cream for when symptoms flare up.
5. Cleanse and protect footwear: Use the Shoe and Insole Cleansing Spray to kill bacteria and neutralise odour, keeping your footwear fresh and hygienic.

Professional treatment for athlete’s foot

Professional foot clinic treatments are available at Margaret Dabbs London clinics. A qualified podiatrist will diagnose the athlete’s foot condition, remove affected skin and recommend home care.

Book a medical pedicure treatment

Find a clinic for athlete’s foot

Preventing athlete’s foot

To prevent athlete’s foot and minimise the need for athlete’s foot treatment in the future, make sure you follow Margaret’s top tips:

Keep feet clean and dry: Wash your feet daily with soap and water and dry thoroughly before putting on socks. If you struggle with drying between your toes, use a hairdryer on a warm (not hot) setting and gently dry between your toes. Use your PURE Soothing Foot Powder every morning to prevent bacterial infections. For a luxurious clean, occasionally treat yourself to our at-home Luxury Foot Spa.

Wear breathable shoes and socks: When picking your footwear, choose shoes made from breathable materials. This will reduce sweating and promote ventilation of the feet. Regularly clean your shoes using our Shoe and Insole Cleansing Spray and the 3-in-1 Shoe Freshener. Change socks regularly and always wear clean socks.

Don’t share personal items: Items such as towels, socks or shoes should never be shared. Athlete’s foot is passed on through skin-on-skin and skin-on-surface contact.

Trim your toenails regularly: Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection, meaning it thrives in dark, warm areas. Trim your toenails with the Professional Curved Toe Nail Cutter, Stainless Steel Nail Scissors or Crystal Nail File to make the space under the nail less habitable for fungus.