How to Use Aloe Vera to Treat Athlete's Foot

Athlete's foot is a common fungal infection that is usually found on the bottom of the feet. The infection is characterized by red, flaking and blistering skin that is often swollen and painful. While there are several over-the-counter and prescription ointments to treat Athlete's foot, it can also be treated naturally using aloe vera.

Things You'll Need

• Cotton socks
• Aloe vera gel
• Tea tree oil
• Foot powder

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Instructions

Treat an Athlete's Foot Infection Naturally

• 1

  Visit a dermatologist to diagnose your Athlete's foot properly. Athlete's foot is often mistaken for eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis and other skin conditions. A doctor can rule out these conditions.

• 2

  Mix aloe vera gel and tea tree oil to create a topical ointment. Four oz. of aloe vera combined with 1/2 tsp. of tea tree oil is a common recipe. Aloe vera gel and tea tree oil are widely available at health food stores and online.

• 3

  Put the mixture into an empty spray bottle for easy application. Empty spray bottles are easily found at beauty supply stores.

• 4

  Use the mixture of aloe vera and tea tree oil on your feet twice daily and let it dry completely.

Prevent Athlete's Foot From Recurring

• 5

  Wash the feet regularly with aloe vera soap and dry thoroughly. Pay particular attention to drying between the toes.

• 6

  Use foot powder to minimize foot sweat. Fungus thrives in a moist environment, but keeping your feet dry will help prevent recurrent infections.

• 7

  Wear clean cotton socks. Cotton socks are the best for moisture absorption, but they have to be changed every day.

• 8

  Avoid walking barefoot in areas where Athlete's foot infections are prominent. These areas include public restrooms, locker rooms and pools. Wear shoes or sandals to protect feet from coming in contact with the fungus.

• 9

  Switch your closed-toed shoes every other day to give them an opportunity to air out and dry out. Wearing the same sneakers and other shoes multiple days in a row can expose your feet to the exact moist environment that allows fungus to flourish.