Athlete’s Foot vs Dry Skin: Symptoms, Causes, and Natural Treatment Tips

If you have cracked and itchy skin on your feet, you might assume it is just dry skin. Though dry skin can be the reason, sometimes it can be more serious like an athlete’s foot.

Both conditions look similar but if you pay attention to their symptoms and causes, you will find significant differences.

In this article, we will help you learn the key differences of athlete’s foot vs dry skin. Additionally, we will share some natural remedies to get rid of both frustrating situations. 

Dry Skin on Feet vs Athlete’s Foot

Before diving into details of key differences, let’s have a look at a quick comparison between both dry skin on feet and athlete’s foot: 

Athlete’s foot, also known as Tinea Pedis, is a fungal infection that badly affects the skin on your feet. This fungal infection can spread from person to person and is very common in public places like gyms, swimming pools, etc. 

This infection starts between the toes and eventually spreads to the soles or sides of your feet. 

If you ignore this condition and do not treat it properly, you may suffer from painful blisters, swelling, and even bacterial infections.

On the other hand, dry skin on the feet is also known as xerosis and it is a very common condition that does not cause infection. In fact, it occurs because of the loss of moisture in the skin. Your foot skin becomes rough, cracked, and sometimes flaky. 

How to Recognize the Symptoms of Dry Skin vs Athlete’s Foot 

It is important to know the differences of both conditions well so you can identify what your feet are suffering from.

Symptoms of Athlete’s Foot

• Persistent itching between the toes
• Red, inflamed skin on the feet
• A burning sensation in affected areas
• Peeling or flaking skin
• Fluid-filled blisters
• Thickened or discolored toenails

Symptoms of Dry Skin

• Rough or uneven skin texture
• Persistent itching
• Tight or stretched feeling in the skin
• Flaky or peeling patches of skin

What Causes Athletes's Foot and Dry Skin?

Just like symptoms, it is essential to understand the causes of athlete’s foot and dry skin as well. This is how you can have an idea what is actually happening to your feet.

Causes of Athlete’s Foot

• Fungal Infection (Dermatophytes)
• Walking barefoot on public places
• Wearing tight shoes for long time

Causes of Dry Skin

• Exposure to dry or low-humidity air
• Genetic predisposition to dry skin
• Frequent or prolonged hot showers
• Underlying skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis

Natural Remedies for Athlete’s Foot Heal vs Dry Skin

Whether you are dealing with dry skin on your feet or struggling with an athlete's foot, it is helpful to know a few natural ways to treat it. These simple home remedies can ease discomfort and help your skin repair faster. 

Let us take a closer look at what you can do.

For Athlete’s Foot

• Apple Cider Vinegar Soaks

You might be aware of the antifungal properties of apple cider vinegar.

Take equal amounts of vinegar and water and soak your feet for 15-20 minutes. This will help you fight the infection.

• Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil is another important antiseptic agent. You must dilute it with some carrier oil like coconut oil. Apply it to your feet twice a day for remarkable results.

• Baking Soda Foot Baths

Baking soda can help relieve the symptoms by reducing moisture in your feet. To try this remedy, simply mix 2 to 3 tablespoons of baking soda into a bowl of warm water. Soak your feet in it for about 20 minutes. This can help soothe itching and provide noticeable relief.

• Garlic Paste

Garlic is also effective to treat an athlete's foot as it contains ajoene that has strong antifungal properties. Make a paste of fresh garlic and apply to the affected area for 30 minutes. After that, rinse it off with warm water.

• Talcum Powder

This is a very simple remedy to get rid of an athlete's foot. Just apply talcum powder to your feet daily. It will absorb excess moisture and keep your feet dry.

For Dry Skin

• Coconut Oil or Shea Butter

You can use either coconut oil or shea butter to manage dry skin. They are considered natural moisturizers so they soothe your cracked skin effectively. After you take a shower, apply one of them regularly for soft feet.

• Oatmeal Foot Soaks

Oatmeal has anti-inflammatory properties and is best to relieve dry skin. Take ground oats and add them to the basin of warm water. Soak your feet for 10-15 minutes. Do it daily and get relief from dry skin.

• High Quality Moisturizer

A simplest home remedy to overcome dryness is using a high quality moisturizer. But you need to choose it wisely. 

Use moisturizer with organic ingredients twice a day on your cracked feet. For example, Sweet Bee Magic’s Foot and Heal Balm is a trusted product that helps repair cracked heels and keeps your feet well-moisturized.

Conclusion

We hope this guide has helped you understand the differences between athlete's foot and dry skin. Though they look similar, both of them require different treatments.

You can treat an athlete's foot with antifungal natural products whereas dry skin requires effective moisturization techniques discussed above.

Treating both conditions on time is necessary to prevent long-term health issues. However, if the natural remedies do not work properly on your feet, it is better to consult a healthcare professional.

FAQs

What will happen if an athlete's foot is left untreated?

If you do not treat an athlete's foot, this fungal infection can spread to other parts of your body. Also, it can cause permanent damage to your toe nails.

What is the difference between moccasin athlete's foot vs dry skin, and how can I prevent each naturally

For a moccasin athlete's foot (that extends to soles and sides of feet), you can take some preventive measures like wearing breathable socks and changing them regularly. Additionally, use antifungal powder in advance to protect your feet from athlete’s feet. You can prevent dry feet by moisturizing them daily. Also, avoid hot showers as they can strip away the body's natural oils. Using a humidifier can also save you from dry feet.

When should I see a doctor for an athlete's foot?

If the infection spreads to other parts of the body or you see no improvement with home remedies, you must consult a doctor. Also, if there is unbearable pain or excessive swelling, it is time to seek professional help.