Fungal infections, blisters, damaged nails: what you need to know to save your feet this summer!
Summer is the perfect time to enjoy the outdoors, beaches, and swimming pools. But for our feet, it's also a season of stress: heat, sweat, humidity, unsuitable shoes, and contaminated floors increase the risk of infections and irritation. Skin fungal infections, painful blisters, thickened nails... Prevention is better than cure.
Why summer puts our feet to the test
In summer, environmental conditions change dramatically: temperatures rise, perspiration increases, and our footwear habits evolve. We wear sandals more often or go barefoot, especially in public places. This summer lifestyle exposes our feet to more pathogens, particularly fungi that thrive in warm, humid environments. Skin weakened by friction and maceration becomes an ideal entry point for infections.
Understanding summer fungal infections
Dermatophytosis (athlete's foot)
This is the most common fungal infection in adults, most often found between the toes. It causes itching, redness, flaking, and even painful cracks or blisters. The fungus responsible, a dermatophyte, feeds on keratin and grows rapidly in the presence of moisture.
Onychomycosis (nail fungus)
When the infection reaches the nail, it becomes yellow, brittle, thickened, and sometimes painful. This condition is also caused by dermatophytes, sometimes combined with yeasts such as Candida. Progression is slow but difficult to stop without appropriate treatment, especially if the nail matrix is affected.
Blisters: mechanical injuries that should not be ignored
Repeated friction caused by long walks, poorly fitting shoes, or excessive sweating can cause blisters. Although benign, they can become a gateway for bacteria or fungi if not treated properly. It is essential not to pierce them unnecessarily, to disinfect them thoroughly if they break, and to protect them with suitable dressings (hydrocolloid).
Essential tips for keeping your feet healthy
- Wash your feet daily with soap and water and dry them thoroughly, especially between the toes. Drying them thoroughly significantly reduces the risk of infection.
- Change socks every day, or even several times a day if you sweat excessively. Use natural fibers (cotton, bamboo) or technical fabrics that are effective at wicking away moisture.
- Let shoes dry, alternate pairs, and do not wear the same shoes several days in a row to avoid creating an environment conducive to fungus growth.
- Avoid walking barefoot in showers, swimming pools, locker rooms, and saunas. Flip-flops or sandals are essential in these high-risk areas.
- Apply a moisturizing cream specifically designed for feet, containing approximately 10% urea, to maintain skin suppleness.
- Remember to protect the tops of your feet with sunscreen, an area that is often overlooked.
In case of infection: recognize and act quickly
If you notice any changes in your skin or nails (persistent itching, redness, thickening, discoloration, or unpleasant odor), it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional.
Treatments vary depending on severity:
- For localized skin fungal infections, antifungal creams containing clotrimazole or terbinafine may be sufficient.
- For moderate nail infections, antifungal nail polishes based on amorolfine or ciclopirox olamine are used.
- In cases of severe infection or resistance to local treatment, oral antifungal medications may be prescribed, with close medical monitoring.
Prevention of recidivism : disinfecting shoes, regularly washing clothes and towels, avoiding sharing personal items, being careful around contaminated environments such as gym mats or hotel carpets.
