Toe fungal infections can be itchy, painful, and annoying. Whether it’s athlete’s foot or other tinea pedis, these thrive in warm, damp feet. If you can’t see a doctor, there are OTC treatments and home remedies.
This article covers symptoms, causes, risk factors, and OTC remedies for toe fungal infections.
Recognizing a Fungal Infection Between Your Toes
Before treating, confirm it’s a fungal infection. Look for:
- Itching, burning, or stinging between toes
- Red, scaly, or cracked skin
- Peeling or flaking skin
- Small blisters or ulcers
- Foul smell (if severe)
Toe fungal infections are contagious. They spread through direct skin contact, shared items, and contaminated surfaces.
Why Do Fungal Infections Develop?
These factors make you more likely to get a toe fungal infection:
- Wearing sweaty socks or damp shoes long
- Walking barefoot in public
- Weak immune system
- Poor foot hygiene
- Diabetes (harder to treat infections)
- Sweaty sports or intense activity
Best Over – the – Counter Treatments for Fungal Infections Between Toes
Good news! Many effective antifungal OTC treatments are available.
- Antifungal Creams and Ointments
Common and effective. Look for products with:
- Clotrimazole (Lotrimin)
- Miconazole (Micatin)
- Terbinafine (Lamisil)
How to use:
- Wash feet with soap and warm water, dry well, especially between toes.
- Apply a thin layer to the affected and surrounding skin.
- Use twice daily as directed.
- Keep applying for 1 – 2 weeks after symptoms go away.
- Antifungal Powders and Sprays
Great for sweaty feet. They absorb moisture and treat the area.
Popular ones are:
- Tinactin Antifungal Powder Spray
- Lamisil Spray
- Zeasorb Antifungal Powder
How to use:
- Sprinkle powder in socks and shoes daily.
- Spray between toes after showering and drying.
- Use for weeks to prevent reinfection.
- Medicated Foot Soaks
Medicated foot soaks with antifungal ingredients can help. You can also make home – made ones.
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