Athlete's foot
Athlete's foot is a very common fungal infection of the skin, usually between the toes. It is not serious, but it can be itchy and uncomfortable, and it spreads easily. It is straightforward to treat with products from the pharmacy.
- Caused by
- A fungus that likes warm, damp skin
- Treatment
- Antifungal cream, spray or powder
- Keep going
- For the full course, even if it looks better
Common symptoms
- Itchy, white, flaky or peeling skin between the toes, usually the last two toes
- Red, cracked or sore skin, sometimes on the soles or sides of the feet
- A stinging or burning feeling
- Sometimes small blisters, or a dry, scaly patch on the sole
How it spreads
The fungus grows in warm, damp places and passes on through contact with floors in changing rooms, showers and swimming pools, or by sharing towels and socks. Sweaty feet and shoes that do not let feet breathe make it more likely.
What you can do yourself
- Use an antifungal cream, spray or powder from the pharmacy. Keep using it for the full course on the pack — usually for at least a week after the skin looks normal — otherwise it can come back.
- Wash your feet every day and dry them thoroughly, especially between the toes.
- Change your socks daily, and choose cotton or other natural fibres. Wash them on a hot wash.
- Let your shoes dry out fully, and alternate pairs where you can.
- Do not share towels, socks or shoes.
- Wear flip-flops or shower shoes in changing rooms and pool areas.
- Try not to scratch, which can break the skin and let bacteria in.
How PRX Pharmacy can help
Our pharmacists can recommend the right antifungal treatment, and check it is suitable for you, including for children and people who are pregnant. Ask us if the problem keeps returning.
When to get medical help
Call 999 or go to A&E if:
- • The skin around the area is red, hot and swollen with a high temperature, and you feel confused, drowsy or extremely unwell
Contact your GP practice or call 111 the same day if:
- • You have diabetes, poor circulation, or a weakened immune system — get any foot problem checked promptly
- • The skin is red, swollen, painful or hot, or is oozing pus (this may be a bacterial infection)
- • It has not improved after 2 weeks of treatment, or keeps coming back
- • It is affecting your nails, or the nails look thickened, discoloured or crumbly
- • You have a fever, or a red streak is spreading up your foot or leg
If you are ever worried and unsure, ask us or call 111. Trust your instincts — it is always better to ask.
This guide is general information written by the PRX Pharmacy team. It does not replace advice from a pharmacist or doctor who knows your medical history.
Last updated 24 September 2026. Clinically reviewed by Milan Patel, Pharmacist on 24 September 2026.
More health guides
Sore throat
What causes a sore throat, how to ease it at home, when a pharmacist can help, and the signs that mean you need medical advice.
Earache and ear infections
Earache and middle ear infections in children: symptoms, what helps at home, when a pharmacist can help, and when to get urgent advice.
Sinusitis (sinus infection)
Sinusitis symptoms, how to ease facial pain and congestion at home, when a pharmacist can help, and when to get urgent medical advice.
Impetigo
Impetigo: what it looks like, how it spreads, how long to stay off school or work, and how a pharmacist can treat it.
Insect bites and stings (including infected bites)
How to treat insect bites and stings, how to tell when a bite is infected, what to do about ticks, and when to get urgent help.
Shingles
Shingles symptoms, why early treatment matters, how to protect others, and when a shingles rash needs urgent medical attention.
Urinary tract infection (UTI)
UTI symptoms, what helps at home, when women aged 16 to 64 can be treated by a pharmacist, and the signs of a kidney infection.
Earwax build-up
Earwax build-up: symptoms, what to do and not do at home, when to see a doctor, and how our Herne Bay branch can remove it.
Hay fever
Hay fever symptoms, practical ways to reduce pollen exposure, the treatments a pharmacist can recommend, and when to see a doctor.
Common cold
Common cold symptoms, how long a cold lasts, what helps at home, which medicines are safe for children, and when to get medical advice.
Flu
Flu symptoms, how it differs from a cold, how to look after yourself, who is at higher risk, and how to get the flu vaccine.
Conjunctivitis (red or sticky eye)
Conjunctivitis symptoms, the difference between infective and allergic types, how to care for your eyes, and warning signs that need urgent attention.
Cold sores
Cold sore symptoms, triggers, how to speed healing and avoid spreading them, and when to seek medical advice.
Head lice and nits
How to spot head lice, the treatment options, how to stop them coming back, and why you do not need to keep children off school.
Threadworms
Threadworm symptoms, how to treat the whole household, and the hygiene steps that stop them coming back.
Constipation
Constipation causes and symptoms, diet and lifestyle steps that help, how laxatives work, and the warning signs that need medical attention.
Heartburn and acid reflux
Heartburn and acid reflux symptoms, lifestyle changes and medicines that help, and warning signs that need medical attention, including chest pain.
High blood pressure (hypertension)
What high blood pressure is, why it matters, blood pressure readings explained, how to lower it, and how to get a free blood pressure check.