Why Athlete’s Foot Keeps Coming Back—and How to Stop It

So you treated your athlete’s foot. The itching stopped. The redness faded. Everything seemed fine.

But a few weeks later… it’s back.

Why does this stubborn skin infection keep coming back—and what can you do to finally get rid of it for good?

Let’s break it down.

What Is Athlete’s Foot, Really?

Athlete’s foot (also called tinea pedis) is a fungal infection. It loves to grow in warm, damp places—like between your toes, around your heels, and even inside your shoes.

Once the fungus settles in, it causes:

• Itching and burning

• Red, peeling skin

• Blisters or cracking, especially between the toes

It can feel annoying, uncomfortable, and sometimes even painful. But here’s the tricky part—it doesn’t always go away completely the first time.

Why It Keeps Coming Back

Here’s what might be happening:

1. You Didn’t Fully Kill the Fungus

Some over-the-counter creams only treat surface symptoms. The skin might look better, but the fungus can still be living in the deeper layers—just waiting to flare up again.

2. You Got Reinfected from Your Shoes or Socks

Fungal spores can hang out in your socks, shoes, shower, and even your bedsheets. If you don’t clean or change these regularly, the fungus just finds its way back to your skin.

3. You Caught It Again—from Yourself or Someone Else

Athlete’s foot spreads fast—especially in shared showers, pools, gyms, and locker rooms. You can also spread it from one foot to the other, or from your feet to your toenails.

How to Stop Athlete’s Foot From Coming Back

Good news: you can beat athlete’s foot for good. But you’ll need a mix of smart habits and, sometimes, professional help.

Here’s what works:

1. Treat It Long Enough

Even if symptoms disappear quickly, keep using antifungal treatments as directed—usually for 1–2 weeks after your skin looks normal. This helps make sure every last trace of fungus is gone.

2. Keep Your Feet Dry and Clean

Fungus loves moisture. So after showers, dry your feet well—especially between the toes. If your feet sweat a lot, change your socks midday.

3. Disinfect Shoes and Socks

Use an antifungal spray or powder inside your shoes. Wash socks in hot water and dry them completely. You can even try alternating shoes so each pair has a chance to dry out between uses.

4. Avoid Going Barefoot in Shared Spaces

Wear sandals or flip-flops in gym showers, pool decks, and hotel bathrooms. Don’t share towels or shoes.

5. See a Podiatrist if It Keeps Coming Back

Sometimes, athlete’s foot needs a prescription-strength treatment—or it may be combined with toenail fungus, which requires a different approach. At Pomona Valley Podiatry, we can help you figure out exactly what’s going on and create a treatment plan that works.

You Don’t Have to Live with Athlete’s Foot

Recurring athlete’s foot isn’t just annoying—it can really impact your comfort and confidence. But you don’t have to keep going in circles.

With the right care and a few daily habits, you can finally kick the fungus for good. And if you need a little help? We’re just down the road.

Call us at Pomona Valley Podiatry or book online. We’re here to get your feet healthy, happy, and itch-free again.