How do I know if the scaly, dry skin on my feet athlete’s foot or just dry skin?
You can feel very uncomfortable with these conditions experiencing painful fissures, unsightly flaking and uncomfortable itching.
You often ask me these questions about fungus and dry skin.
Sometimes your symptoms are obvious and sometimes they are not. These two conditions can even happen at the same time. Dry skin, especially dry skin that cracks can be a portal for a fungal infection. Fungus can cause the skin to feel dry and flake. You can have both conditions at the same time!
Here is the lowdown on symptoms.
Athlete’s Foot symptoms:
- Usually starts between the toes.
- Has an angry red rash that spreads.
- Is uncomfortably itchy.
Dry Skin symptoms:
- Cracked heels.
- Flakey or rough skin.
- Itching.
Athlete’s Foot and dry skin require different types of treatments and….
If you have both dry skin and fungus you have to treat both.
Why is this happening?
One of the major culprits of this condition is excessive sweat. Wetness causes both the skin to dry and is the ideal environment for fungus to thrive.
We often hear the following:
“I know nothing can be done about the fungus and scaling skin on my feet.”
This is not true.
How can I find a solution?
Try self-care for three weeks. Our selection of premium quality foot care products works. It’s sold to real patients.
Dry Skin:
- Cleanse without drying soaps.
- Exfoliate flakes. You can try a 2 in 1 product that cleanses and exfoliates. Options for every budget available.
- Hydrate your skin.
- Control Sweat.
Athletes Foot:
- Wash your feet every day.
- Wear socks that wick away moisture.
- Use an antifungal cream until two weeks after symptoms disappear.
- Throw out old shoes.
- Disinfect your shoes using a shoe spray or UV light.
- Alternate shoes.
- Keep your feet dry with an antiperspirant formulated for your feet. This product is available in our office with free shipping to patients.
- Avoid walking barefoot in public areas. Especially wet ones.
If you have tried creams to soften your skin or antifungal OTC products for three weeks and symptoms persist make an appointment in our office. Your feet need stronger prescription strength medication and other medical treatments to restore healthy skin on your feet and nails.
Dr. Baldinger keeps you moving with healthy feet.