Athlete’s foot and peeling feet

The infection is caused by fungi that thrive in warm, damp areas. Peeling alone does not identify the cause because irritation, eczema and dry skin can look similar.

Athlete’s foot may present with soft, whitish skin and cracks between the toes, or with dry-looking scale extending along the sole and sides of the foot. Itching, burning or an unpleasant odour may accompany the skin changes. Fungal changes can also involve a toenail, which may become thickened, brittle or discoloured.

A clinician can examine the pattern and may take a small skin sample if the diagnosis is uncertain or treatment has not worked.

Wash gently and dry carefully between every toe. Change damp socks, rotate shoes so they can dry, and avoid sharing towels or footwear. An antifungal product may be appropriate when the pattern fits athlete’s foot; follow its label and continue for the stated course rather than stopping as soon as the skin looks clearer.

Do not pull loose skin or scratch cracks, as this can create breaks that admit bacteria. Avoid applying a steroid cream alone to a suspected fungal rash because it can alter the appearance and allow the infection to spread.

Arrange an assessment if the peeling is widespread, keeps returning, involves the nails, or fails to improve despite correctly used antifungal care. Seek prompt help for rapidly spreading redness, warmth, swelling, pus, fever, severe pain or red streaks, which can indicate a bacterial infection.

Get advice early if you have diabetes, poor circulation, reduced sensation in your feet or a weakened immune system, particularly when the skin is cracked or open.

Ask whether the distribution looks fungal, whether testing would help, and which formulation suits the location. Mention nail changes, previous treatments, medicines, allergies and conditions that affect healing so the clinician can choose an appropriate plan.