Tinea. It probably won't be the first thing you bring up on your next date. However, tinea is a common and uncomfortable problem. It may also make you want to hide your feet from your date!
Tinea is a fungal infection that affects the skin. It usually changes the appearance of the skin and causes symptoms such as itchiness and stinging. You can find out everything you need to know about tinea here.
Tinea is quite common at this time of the year because we spend more time barefooted in places where other people do the same (e.g. the local swimming pool). As tinea is contagious, this gives fungi a great opportunity to move from one foot or surface to another.
Below are four tips that will help you beat tinea once and for all:
1. Avoid it in the first place
Whether you've had tinea before or not, it makes sense to wear shoes when in high-risk areas. Now you know why some people wear thongs in the shower at the local swimming pool.
2. Read the instructions
Most topical antifungals need to be applied for 2 weeks after the signs and symptoms resolve. This ensures that there are no survivors!
3. Clean everything that touches your feet
Normal washing, especially at cold temperatures, may not completely remove fungi from your socks, towels and bedding. If you want to avoid starting over, wash these items with Canesten Hygiene Laundry Rinse. You can buy it from Coles and Woolworths.
4. Don't forget about your shoes
Fungi thrive in warm moist environments like your shoes. Spray the inside of your shoes with Tinaderm Powder Spray to reduce the risk of reinfection.
Having trouble getting rid of tinea? Get in touch or book an appointment online if you need a hand.
Author: Shaun Bergin