home remedies athletes foot

Rub on cornstarch

Cornstarch absorbs moisture like nobody’s business. If you brown the cornstarch first so much the better, as that sucks out any moisture that may have been present in it before.

Let ‘em breathe!

The key is to remember that a warm, moist, environment attracts fungi. Go barefoot when you’re not in a moist environment, and if possible when going out where sandals or open-toed shoes. You may not be keen on the idea of flaunting your feet if they look less-than-appealing, but it may be worth it if it means healing them up faster.

Use a PVPI soak

Povidone-iodine (PVPI) is more commonly known by its main brand name, Betadine. It is a chemical complex used to treat and prevent infection in wounds. It is also used for the prevention of treatment of skin infections, and is an effective bactericide. Expanding from that, it is helpful to combat yeasts, molds, and fungi, among other things. The key word here is fungi-like the kind causing your athletes foot. Soaking your feet in Betadine can help get rid of it.

Note: If you are pregnant, do not attempt this remedy.

You will need…
-Poviodone-iodine (or PVPI)
-A large bowl or basin
-Warm water
-Clean towel
-Hairdryer (optional)

Directions
Fill a bowl or basin large enough to comfortably soak your feet with one quart of warm water, and add 2 capfuls of PVPI into it. Soak your feet 2 times day for 20 minutes each (a total of 40 minutes a day) and make sure to dry them completely afterwards.

Dunk them in hydrogen peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide is ideal for killing off bacteria and fungus, so soaking your feet in it can help clear up the little buggers that are making you so dang uncomfortable. It will also help with any fungus that may be clinging around or under your nail as well. Just remember that it can sting, and this may be especially true if you have cracked skin.

You will need…
-1 pint 3% hydrogen peroxide
-1 gallon of clean, distilled water
-Spray bottle (optional)

Directions
Mix one pint of 3% hydrogen peroxide into 1 gallon of clean, lukewarm water. Soak for 20-30 minutes morning and night daily as needed to clear up your athletes foot. Let air dry or rinse off and dry completely. Make sure you’re using 3% hydrogen peroxide (food grade) which is mainly what is sold in stores. More concentrated forms don’t equal wiping out the fungus any faster and may be harmful to the skin. In fact, 90% hydrogen peroxide is used to produce rocket fuel, which is not what you want on your feet!