Athlete's foot

What it is

A fungal infection of the feet.

How it works

Dermatophytes thrive in warm, damp shoes.

Why it matters on darker skin

Same in all skin tones.

Causes and triggers

Sweaty shoes, communal showers.

What helps — and why it works

Antifungal cream: kills fungus. Expected timeline: 2–4 weeks. Dry between toes: prevents return. Expected timeline: daily.

More detail

Athlete's foot (tinea pedis) usually starts between the fourth and fifth toes as white, soggy, peeling skin that itches or stings, and can spread to the sole as fine dry scale in a 'moccasin' pattern. Untreated, it can pass to the toenails, the groin (often via towels) and the hands. Cracks between the toes can let bacteria in, which is why people with diabetes or poor circulation should treat it promptly. Closed shoes worn all day in hot weather, nylon socks and sharing slippers in hostels or gyms are common sources in Nigeria. Treat both feet even if only one looks affected, keep using the cream for one to two weeks after the skin looks normal, and dry your feet with a separate towel. Alternating shoes so each pair dries out for a day, choosing cotton socks and wearing open sandals when possible all reduce the chance of it returning. Most cases clear within two to four weeks of consistent treatment.

What to avoid and why

Avoid sharing towels.

Common mistakes

• Stopping early.

Body care basics in a hot climate

Heat and humidity mean the body sweats more, which feeds the bacteria and yeasts that cause odour, rashes and some types of body acne. A daily lukewarm shower with a gentle, soap-free or mild cleanser, thorough drying of skin folds and between toes, and fresh, breathable cotton clothing prevent many problems. Moisturise straight after bathing while skin is still damp so water is sealed in; this matters even in humid months because frequent washing strips natural oils, and it matters most during harmattan. Avoid sharing towels, razors and sponges, which spread fungal and bacterial infections. When shaving, use a sharp blade, shave with the grain and do not stretch the skin; for curly hair a guarded trimmer is often better. Be cautious with body-lightening, 'carrot' or 'toning' lotions: many contain undeclared steroids or mercury. If a rash spreads, keeps coming back, or appears with fever, see a doctor rather than trying more creams.

Choosing body products

For most people an unscented, gentle cleanser and a plain moisturiser are enough. Antiperspirants containing aluminium salts are the most effective way to reduce sweating and are best applied at night to dry skin. Fragranced body sprays and deodorants are a common cause of allergy; fragrance-free options are kinder to sensitive skin. Aerosol products are easy to over-apply and some have been recalled for benzene contamination, so roll-ons and creams are a sensible default. For fungal rashes, plain antifungal creams such as clotrimazole are better than combination creams containing strong steroids, which can make infections spread. Always check for a NAFDAC number and a full ingredient list.

Questions to ask your doctor or pharmacist

Useful questions include: What do you think is causing this? Is it likely to come back, and how can I prevent it? Which products should I stop? How long before I should expect improvement, and when should I come back if it isn't better? Are there side effects to watch for? Is this treatment safe if I am pregnant, breastfeeding or for my child? Writing your questions down, bringing your products (or photos of their labels) and taking dated photos of the problem make an appointment much more useful.