Does athlete's foot cause peeling skin?

The fungus that causes athlete's foot lives on the outer skin and can trigger scaling, softening and separation of surface skin cells. Peeling may be most noticeable between the toes, where moisture collects, or in a dry, spreading pattern across the sole and sides of the foot. Cracks can sting and provide an opening for bacteria. Peeling skin can also follow irritation, eczema or excessive moisture, so its appearance alone does not establish the cause.

Do not pull loose skin or scrub aggressively, as this can create raw areas. Wash gently, dry between the toes, and use a clean towel that is not shared. Keep socks dry and rotate footwear so shoes can air. If a pharmacist or clinician recommends an antifungal treatment, use it exactly as directed and apply it to the surrounding affected skin as instructed. Moisturiser may help dry sole skin, but avoid leaving thick ointment between damp toes.

Arrange a review when peeling persists, affects one foot repeatedly, involves the nails, or fails to settle with suitable treatment. Seek prompt care for spreading redness, warmth, swelling, pus, increasing pain or fever. A clinician can check for bacterial infection, eczema and other causes when the pattern is unusual or treatment has not helped.

Ask whether the peeling pattern fits athlete's foot or another condition, whether testing is needed, and how to protect cracked skin. Ask when it is safe to return to shared changing rooms or pools and how to clean or replace footwear.