Athlete’s foot, that itchy, burning, sometimes scaly rash between your toes, is a common fungal infection. It’s often caused by a type of fungus called dermatophytes, which love to grow in warm, moist places like locker rooms, showers, and inside your shoes.
If you think you might have athlete’s foot, you’re probably wondering what to do about it. One convenient and effective treatment option is an antifungal foot spray. These sprays contain over-the-counter (OTC) antifungal medications that can kill the fungus and relieve your symptoms.
While these sprays are often very effective, it’s important to use them correctly. And, if your symptoms don’t improve or get worse, it’s always a good idea to see a doctor or podiatrist to make sure it’s nothing more serious.
So, what are the best antifungal foot spray options out there? Keep reading to find out!
What’s in antifungal foot spray?
Antifungal foot sprays use active ingredients to kill the fungi that cause athlete’s foot and other fungal infections.
Terbinafine
One of the most effective over-the-counter (OTC) treatments is terbinafine. In one study, a single application of terbinafine cleared up 97% of cases. Terbinafine works by stopping fungi from creating ergosterol, a key part of their cell membranes.
Clotrimazole
Clotrimazole is another common antifungal ingredient that offers a broad spectrum of activity against a variety of fungi. It’s usually applied twice a day for two to four weeks.
Tolnaftate
Tolnaftate is a synthetic antifungal that comes in gels, creams, lotions, and sprays. You’ll want to apply it twice daily for two to six weeks. Some people use tolnaftate to prevent fungal infections as well as to treat them.
Miconazole
Miconazole is another widely available antifungal. Miconazole is another widely available antifungal. It comes in creams, lotions, sprays, and powders. You’ll typically apply it twice a day for four weeks. Miconazole also has some antibacterial properties.
Undecylenic acid
Undecylenic acid is a fatty acid with antifungal properties. It’s usually applied two times a day for four weeks. Often, you’ll find undecylenic acid combined with other antifungals in a single product.
How to choose the right antifungal foot spray
With so many antifungal foot sprays on the market, how do you choose the right one for you? Here are a few things to consider:
- How severe is your infection? If you only have a mild case of athlete’s foot, a milder antifungal might do the trick.
- How often do you want to apply the spray? Some sprays need to be applied multiple times per day, whereas others, like terbinafine, only require a single daily application.
- Do you have any sensitivities to certain ingredients? Some people find that certain ingredients in antifungal sprays irritate their skin.
- Read the label carefully. Look for the active ingredients, application directions, and any warnings.
Proper Application Techniques for Antifungal Foot Sprays
Okay, you’ve got your antifungal foot spray. Now what? Here’s how to use it effectively:
- Wash and dry your feet. It’s important to start with a clean slate. Make sure you dry your feet completely, especially between the toes where fungus loves to hang out.
- Spray liberally. Don’t be shy! Cover the entire affected area, and even a little bit of the skin around it, just to be safe.
- Let it dry. Give the spray enough time to dry completely before you put on socks or shoes. This helps the medication absorb properly.
- Wash your hands. Before and after you apply the spray, give your hands a good wash. You don’t want to spread the fungus to other parts of your body (or to other people!).
Preventing athlete’s foot and reinfection
Even with the best antifungal foot spray, you’re going to be fighting an uphill battle if you don’t practice good foot hygiene and take steps to prevent reinfection. Here are some tips:
- Wash your feet every day with soap and water.
- Dry your feet thoroughly, especially between your toes.
- Wear socks made of breathable materials like cotton or moisture-wicking fabrics. When possible, choose 100% cotton socks.
- Wear shoes that allow your feet to breathe. Loose-fitting shoes or sandals are great choices.
- Avoid walking barefoot in public places like locker rooms, gyms, and swimming pools.
- Use antifungal powder spray in your shoes to help keep them dry and free of fungus.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lamisil or Lotrimin better?
Both Lamisil (terbinafine) and Lotrimin (clotrimazole) are effective antifungals, but Lamisil is generally considered stronger and may work faster. The “better” option depends on the specific fungal infection, its severity, and individual response to the medication. Consulting a doctor or pharmacist is always the best approach.
What shoe spray kills fungus?
Several shoe sprays are designed to kill fungus. Look for products containing ingredients like undecylenate, tolnaftate, or tea tree oil. These sprays help eliminate fungal spores that can cause reinfection. Always follow the product instructions carefully.
How do you disinfect fungus from shoes?
To disinfect shoes from fungus, you can use antifungal shoe sprays, as mentioned above, or even consider using the best UV shoe sanitizer for fungus. You can also try soaking the inside of the shoes with a diluted bleach solution (1 part bleach to 10 parts water), but test a small area first to avoid discoloration. Allow shoes to air dry completely in sunlight.
Do antifungal sprays work?
Yes, antifungal sprays can be effective in treating and preventing fungal infections, especially when used consistently and in conjunction with other hygiene practices. However, for severe infections, a doctor may recommend oral antifungal medication or stronger topical treatments.
What permanently kills foot fungus?
While some treatments can effectively eliminate foot fungus, reinfection is always possible. Oral antifungal medications, prescribed by a doctor, often provide the most thorough and long-lasting results. Consistent hygiene practices, such as keeping feet clean and dry, wearing breathable socks, and using antifungal sprays, are crucial to prevent recurrence. There’s no guarantee of permanent eradication, but proper treatment and prevention significantly reduce the risk.
Key Takeaways
Antifungal foot sprays are a convenient and effective way to treat athlete’s foot. They’re easy to use and can help clear up the infection quickly.
To get the most out of your antifungal spray, be sure to follow the directions carefully and take steps to prevent the spread of the infection, such as wearing breathable socks and shoes.
If your symptoms don’t improve after a few weeks of using an antifungal spray, or if they get worse, see a doctor. You may need a prescription-strength medication to clear up the infection.