Foot mycosis prophylaxis. How can I prevent ringworm infection?

One of the basic mistakes made by people who have cured mycosis is excessive care for foot hygiene. It is mainly about washing them too often. When we do this several times a day, we deprive the skin of the lipid coat, i.e. its natural protective barrier. This condition is exacerbated by the overuse of deodorants and alkaline soap. After mycosis, the feet should be washed twice a day – in the morning and in the evening, using soap with a neutral pH of 5,5, preferably with the addition of an antifungal agent.

No matter how long ago you suffered from mycosis, only buy footwear that provides good ventilation and a free space between your toes. Avoid shoes with rubber surfaces and those with felt lining or made entirely of synthetic materials. It is best to wear shoes made of natural materials, and if the weather permits – sandals or flip-flops. In the swimming pool, gym or sauna, do not forget about flip-flops or specialized anti-skid shoes.

When you have a choice, use the shower instead of the bathtub. The constant flow of running water makes it much more hygienic, it also prevents any spore residues from being transferred to other parts of the body in the water.

Even after the mycosis has healed, a separate towel should be used to dry the feet after bathing. Otherwise, after a possible relapse of athlete’s foot, we can transfer it to other parts of the body. If for some reason, e.g. in a hotel, we only have one towel, wipe the face first, then the intimate areas, and finally the feet. The same applies to dressing – first underwear, then socks. Thanks to this, we avoid the possible transfer of a recurring infection to equally sensitive parts of the body. Remember to boil the towel after each wash.

It is best to prevent the recurrence of ringworm by using powder to keep feet dry or by putting sheep’s wool between your toes to separate them. These types of specifics are available in most pharmacies or shoe stores. Proper absorption of sweat eliminates moisture, which, together with the increased temperature of the feet in the footwear, is an ideal environment for the development of fungi. After the bath, it will not hurt to dry the space between your fingers, e.g. with a hair dryer.

Always complete your course of antifungal medications, regardless of the form of application. The fungus spores remain on your skin for up to a dozen days after symptoms have subsided. Therefore, even if you think that the ailment has resolved, take your medications on time. It will definitely not hurt you, and thanks to that you will avoid recurrences of infections.

Washing your bedding in warm, soapy water may not kill most of the fungus causing it. If you deal with it, make sure to replace the bedding you sleep in, if possible. If this is not possible, wash it in hot water with a little bleach. After the infection, it will also be a very good solution to replace underwear, especially socks. Mushrooms retain their vitality especially on clothes for a long time.

When you are going through the final phase of ringworm treatment, change your socks and tights at least once a day. Avoid synthetic fiber linen as it stores sweat, is airtight, and absorbs moisture poorly. In such conditions, it is easiest for mycosis to return. The best solution for the future will be to give up tights on hot days and to replace socks with cotton ones. For safety, you can additionally spray them with an antifungal agent, but remember about the regularity of this treatment.

If you are concerned about the recurrence of mycosis, regularly spray the inside of your shoes with special disinfecting fungicides, or sprinkle them with talcum powder or fungicidal powder. Under no circumstances should you share footwear with other household members.

According to hygiene specialists, the best solution is to wear the same shoes every two days. If you suffer from hyperhidrosis of the feet, which may be conducive to a relapse of mycosis, change the pairs you wear appropriately to allow them to dry before putting them on again. 48 hours is the time to get rid of moisture from inside.

Absolutely avoid using the same hygiene tools as your household. Cured mycosis can recur, so in order to protect the people closest to you from infection, you must have your own towels, scissors, files and clippers.

Do not disregard micro-injuries to the skin, even if your feet are healthy. Abrasions, a crack in the heel or a small cut are places where bacteria and fungi often develop. Do not rely on home remedies that can be unreliable. In such cases, dry the wound and spray it with disinfectant. Wounds on the feet, in a humid and warm environment, may be the beginning of the return of mycosis.