How to Treat Foot and Nail Fungus Infections at Home

Lamar| The Foot Aftercare Institute
Jan 5
4 min read

Updated: Jan 8

Fungal infections are more common than most people realise. They are contagious and can easily be missed until symptoms become bothersome. Understanding the differences between foot skin fungus, such as athlete's foot, and nail fungus, known as onychomycosis, is crucial for effective treatment. This article covers the symptoms, causes, treatments, and preventative measures you can take to manage these infections at home.

What Causes Foot and Nail Fungus?

Fungal infections thrive in warm, moist environments. This is why sweaty feet, gym locker rooms, and communal showers are prime breeding grounds for fungi.

Poor foot hygiene can also contribute to the growth of these pathogens. Here are some key causes to consider:

Warm, Moist Environments: Think about how often your feet sweat during the day. If they remain wet, it can lead to an infection.

Poor Foot Hygiene: Neglecting basic foot care, like regular washing and drying, increases the risk of developing a fungal infection.

Nail Trauma or Damage: Any injury to your nails or the skin around them can provide entry points for fungi.

Tight Shoes and Synthetic Socks: These can trap moisture and restrict air circulation, creating an ideal habitat for fungi.

Underlying Health Issues: Conditions such as diabetes or poor blood circulation can increase susceptibility to infections.

Symptoms to Watch For

Recognising the symptoms of foot and nail fungus early can help you initiate treatment before the condition worsens. Here are some critical signs to be aware of:

Yellowing or Thickening of Nails: This is often the first sign of onychomycosis.

Cracked Skin Between Toes: This is a typical symptom of athlete's foot.

Peeling Soles: You may notice dry, flaky patches on the soles of your feet.

This could also indicate related skin conditions, such as callus formation or foot corns.

Itchiness, Odour, and Brittle Nails: These may indicate a fungal infection, particularly when accompanied by visible changes.

Foot and nail fungal infections commonly present as athlete's foot (tinea pedis) affecting the skin, and onychomycosis affecting the toenails.

Types of Foot Fungus vs Nail Fungus

Understanding the types of fungal infections affecting your feet and nails can aid in proper diagnosis and treatment.

Athlete’s Foot (Tinea Pedis): A highly contagious skin infection that usually appears between the toes or on the soles of the feet. It can be itchy and uncomfortable, leading to cracked and peeling skin.

Onychomycosis: This is a fungal nail infection characterised by white, yellow, or brown discolouration of the nail, often with thickening. It can distort the nail's shape and lead to pain.

Treatment Options

There are various treatments available for foot and nail fungal infections. Depending on the severity of your condition, you can choose from the following options:

OTC Creams and Sprays: For skin infections like athlete's foot, antifungal creams and sprays can effectively eliminate the fungus. Always follow the directions on the package.
Antifungal Nail Solutions or Oral Medication: For onychomycosis, over-the-counter nail treatments are available, but severe cases may require prescription oral antifungal medications.
Regular Clipping and Cleaning of Infected Nails: Keeping nails trimmed and clean can prevent the spread of the infection. You may find it helpful to invest in a high-quality nail clipper set.
Moisturising Socks and Urea Cream: These may soften the affected areas and facilitate management of thickened skin and nails.

Learn how to apply urea cream properly using our Urea Cream Guide.

At-Home Foot Care Routine

Implementing a daily foot care routine can significantly improve the likelihood of recovery from a fungal infection. Here are the steps to follow:

Daily Foot Washing and Drying: Clean your feet daily with soap and water, ensuring thorough drying, especially between the toes.
Use of Antifungal Creams After Drying: After your feet are dry, apply antifungal cream if you're dealing with athlete's foot.
Regular Exfoliation with a Foot File: Use a foot file to gently remove dead skin. This helps reduce the area where fungi can thrive.
Keeping Socks Dry and Breathable: Opt for cotton or moisture-wicking materials that keep your feet dry and free from sweat.

You might also want to consider our Daily Comfort Pack for a more comprehensive solution.

When to See a Podiatrist

While many foot and nail fungus infections can be managed at home, specific symptoms should prompt you to seek professional help:

If Nail Changes Persist: If your nails continue to change in colour or texture despite treatment, it may be time to consult a podiatrist.
If Skin Becomes Painful, Swollen, or Bleeding: Any new pain or visible changes in the skin around the toenails warrant immediate medical attention.

When to see a podiatrist

Prevention Tips

Preventing foot and nail fungus is often easier than treating it. Here are some key preventive measures to consider:

Never Share Nail Tools or Socks: This strengthens your defence against fungal infections.
Rotate Footwear: Give shoes time to air out and dry after each use by wearing different pairs each day.
Use Talcum/Antifungal Powder: Sprinkle powders in your shoes and on your feet to keep them dry.
Wipe Shoes with Disinfectant Spray: Regularly clean the insides of your shoes to eliminate any potential fungal spores.

A warm, moist shoe environment can aggravate symptoms and lead to fungal infections developing — A warm, moist shoe enviornment can appravate pompholyx symptoms and may be mistaken for fungal infection, although pompholyx itself is not contagious

Managing foot and nail fungus infections requires awareness, prompt treatment, and diligent care. By following the suggestions outlined in this article, you'll not only be able to treat existing infections but also significantly reduce the risk of future occurrences. Remember, healthy feet are essential for overall well-being.