Preventing Fungal Infections: Practical, Easy Steps You Can Use Today
Fungal infections are common, annoying and usually preventable. A few simple changes in how you dry, dress and clean can cut your risk a lot. This guide gives clear actions you can use every day—no jargon, just what works.
Everyday habits that really help
Keep skin dry. Fungi love warm, moist places like between toes, under breasts, and in groin folds. Pat dry after showers, use a towel just for that area, and let feet air out before putting shoes on. If you sweat a lot, use a drying powder or moisture-wicking socks and change them when they get damp.
Choose breathable clothes. Swap tight, non-breathable fabrics for cotton or moisture-wicking materials, especially for underwear and workout gear. Don’t sit around in wet swimwear or sweaty gym clothes—change as soon as you can.
Mind your footwear. Wear sandals in public showers, pool areas and locker rooms. Alternate shoes so each pair gets a full day to dry. Avoid sharing shoes or socks, and replace old footwear that stays damp or smells musty.
Keep nails short and clean. Trim nails straight across and avoid injuring the skin around them. Fungal nail infections often start after tiny cuts or trauma. If you get manicures or pedicures, choose salons that sterilize tools or bring your own.
Practice good hygiene with shared items. Don’t share towels, razors, socks or nail clippers. Wash workout clothes, towels and bed linens regularly in hot water when possible. Disinfect gym mats and common surfaces before use if you can.
Medical tips: OTCs, prescriptions, and when to see a doctor
Use over-the-counter antifungal creams for simple skin infections. Clotrimazole and miconazole work well for athlete’s foot, jock itch, and ringworm—apply as directed, usually once or twice daily for 2–4 weeks. Keep using the cream for the full recommended time even after the rash fades.
Get a doctor if the problem comes back, affects nails or scalp, or if it spreads despite treatment. Nail and scalp fungi often need prescription oral meds like terbinafine or fluconazole, which a clinician must approve. Don’t self-prescribe oral antifungals—there can be side effects and drug interactions.
See urgent care if you have fever, spreading redness, severe pain, or signs of a bacterial infection on top of the fungus. Also get checked early if you have diabetes, a weak immune system, or take medications that raise infection risk.
Travel smart: wear flip-flops in communal water areas, dry swimwear quickly, and avoid tight shoes on long trips. Small steps prevent most fungal issues and keep you more comfortable. Want more on treatment options or safe online pharmacies? Check our related guides for clear, up-to-date advice.
Tips for preventing fungal infections and the need for ketoconazole treatment
In my latest blog, I've shared some handy tips for preventing fungal infections so you can potentially avoid the need for treatments like ketoconazole. We dive into the importance of maintaining good hygiene, keeping your skin dry and clean, and wearing breathable fabrics to prevent a conducive environment for fungi. We also touch on the importance of a healthy diet to boost your immune system. If you do get an infection, don't panic because treatments like ketoconazole are there to help. But remember, prevention is always better than cure!