What is athlete's foot?
Athlete's foot is one of those irritating skin problems that just seem to appear and then stubbornly refuse to go away. Treated effectively though it doesn't have to hang around for long.
Athlete's foot is a common fungal infection of the skin, typically appearing between the toes but also on the soles and sides of the feet. Lots of us get it, in fact as many as 1 in 4 people will suffer at some point.
Active people, for instance, who take part in sports can be more susceptible, as well as those who work in warm, damp environments.
The infection and its symptoms are caused by a contagious fungus that thrives in warm, moist environments. The fungus can be picked up easily, for instance by walking through a communal shower or changing room at the swimming pool, gym or sports hall. In fact, any place where people walk barefoot can be a source of infection.
The most irritating symptom of athlete's foot is itchy feet, but if left untreated the skin may start to flake or become cracked and painful. Occasionally it may become infected with bacteria, which you notice by an unpleasant odour.
It is important to check your feet regularly because, despite the name, anyone can get athlete's foot and it's actually quite common. Some people leave their athlete's foot alone in the hope that it may vanish, but unfortunately without proper treatment this is not likely to be the case.
Canesten AF range
Canesten AF Dual Action Cream is a soothing and effective treatment for athlete's foot and its annoying symptoms. It is available in two sizes; 15g and 30g.
Canesten AF Dual Action Spray treats athlete's foot with a convenient cooling spray that's ideal for getting to those difficult to reach areas.
Canesten AF Dual Action Powder is a preventive drying powder that should be used to stop re-infection by applying to feet, socks and shoes. Used in conjunction with Canesten AF Cream or Spray it provides relief from the irritation and inconvenience of athlete's foot.