Maintain a healthy balance between keeping your feet dry and clean in order to avoid tinea. First, remember to rinse your feet after taking a bath. Before wearing socks or shoes, wash your feet between your toes and dry them thoroughly. In order to avoid becoming wet, it is ideal to take your shoes off. It isn’t always possible to avoid the heat, so keep moisture at a minimum with sandals, slides, breathable shoes, or any other footwear you can. If you must wear shoes, try to use socks made of polyester, olefin, or a combination of the two. Cotton will absorb all of the moisture and keep your feet toasty and damp.
It should go without saying, but it bears repeating: do not share socks, towels, or shoes with other people. While you’re at it, don’t walk around barefoot in public. Change your socks if they get wet. Keep an extra pair at work, in your car, or in your bag to ensure you always have a clean, fresh pair on hand. To keep fungus at bay, use antifungal powders in your socks and shoes. You may also use various sprays and sanitizers in and on your shoes to keep them clean. These are particularly necessary on exercise sneakers, running shoes, or boots.
Consider visiting Dr. Arshia Roohian or Dr. Farshad Bathaee at All-in-one Foot Care Center. To schedule a consultation, please contact one of our offices in Irvine or Laguna Woods, CA, or book an appointment in real-time.