Fungal skin solutions
Fungal skin solutions are available for skin infected by fungi, at Zest Podiatry & Physio we are able to assess and treat Skin and nail conditions.
What can help fungal skin
- meticulous drying of feet (especially inbetween and back of toes)
- avoidance of occlusive footwear
- use of barrier protection (sandals) in communal facilities
What are the treatment options
- Topical antifungals
- Oral antifungals
What happens if left untreated?
If treatment of tinea pedis is unsuccessful or untreated the skin may become further broken down causing maceration or even allowing entry of bacterial infection. Reoccurring infection may lead to a coexistent untreated fungal nail infection.
How do we prevent recurrence of fungal skin infection?
To minimise recurrence of tinea pedis:
- Dry feet and toes meticulously after bathing
- Use desiccating foot powder once or twice daily
- Avoid wearing occlusive footwear for long periods
- Thoroughly dry shoes and boots
- Clean the shower and bathroom floors using a product containing bleach
- Treat shoes with antifungal powder/spray ie Lamisil spray
Topical treatments
A topical antifungal cream ie.Terbinafine 1% cream (Lamisil 1% cream) should be applied, according to instruction and for 1-4 weeks, as directed by the clinician.
Clinical studies have shown that Terbinafine Hydrocholoride 1% cream used once a day for 4 weeks is suitable to reduce the fungal load on the skin . Source : Hart R, Bell-Syer SEM, Crawford F, Torgerson DJ, Young P, Russell I. Systematic review of topical treatments for fungal infections of the skin and nails of the feet. Brit Med J. 1999;319(7202):79-82
For those who do not respond to topical therapy, an oral antifungal agent may be needed for a few weeks. These include:
Patients with the hyperkeratotic variant of tinea pedis may benefit from the addition of a topical keratolytic cream containing salicylic acid or urea (DermNet NZ).