Frequently Asked Questions

Athlete's foot  is an infection, also called tinea pedis, caused when various types of fungus invade the skin. It usually occurs between the toes but can also occur on the bottom and sides of the feet, and it is contagious. It can spread to other parts of the body on contact, and can cause jock itch. Learn more about athlete’s foot.

Athlete's foot is most commonly contracted by coming into contact with an infected person or an object/surface that has a fungus on it. Walking barefoot in locker rooms, public pools, or shower areas may increase the risk of contracting athlete's foot.

People are most susceptible to athlete's foot when their feet are sweating or lack proper ventilation. Shoes create the ideal environment for fungus growth, as they provide a warm and moist environment.

Athlete's foot can present as any one or a combination of these symptoms: 

• Itching
• Burning
• Scaling
• Inflammation
• Cracking
• Discomfort

See what athlete's foot looks like.

Tinactin^® offers a full line of products to treat athlete's foot. Treatment directions vary by product. Follow directions on the package.

• Tinactin^® Athlete's Foot Cream
• Tinactin^® Athlete's Foot Liquid Spray
• Tinactin^® Athlete's Foot Powder Spray
• Tinactin^® Athlete's Foot Deodorant Powder Spray

• Use Tinactin^® athlete's foot products as directed for preventing athlete's foot.
• Wash feet daily with soap.
• Keep feet dry, including between the toes.
• Avoid walking barefoot in public areas.
• Wear shoes, flip-flops or sandals in locker rooms or common shower areas.
• Use powder to wick out moisture and reduce perspiration.
• Wear well-fitting, ventilated shoes.
• Alternate your shoes to allow for air drying.
• Wear socks that keep your feet dry.
• Change shoes and socks each day or more often when they get wet.
• Do not share shoes or towels with others.

Tinactin^® products contain tolnaftate, a highly active fungicidal agent. Clinical studies have shown that the active ingredient in Tinactin is effective in preventing athlete’s foot when used once or twice daily.

Yes, you can get athlete's foot even if you've had it before. Early treatment can result in a faster cure.

The active ingredient in Tinactin^® (tolnaftate) prevents fungus development. Symptoms like itching and burning normally resolve quickly upon treatment. As the fungus is eliminated, the redness will also improve. Use as directed to achieve a complete cure and minimize the risk of a new outbreak.

To treat athlete's foot, apply a Tinactin^® athlete's foot product twice a day for four weeks. Disappearing symptoms does not imply that the condition is cured. If the fungus hasn't been killed, it is likely to reappear. Following label directions for use will minimize risk of a new outbreak.

See what athlete's foot looks like.

Athlete's foot is highly contagious and can spread to other parts of the body.

Tinactin^® products are available in a variety of forms (cream, spray and powder). All available forms of Tinactin^® athlete’s foot products are equally effective when used as directed.

Our creams contain moisturizers and can be beneficial to dry areas. They are perfect for bedtime application since they adhere well to the skin and do not easily rub off. 

Tinactin^® sprays provide a quick, convenient, no-touch application. Our deodorant powder spray fights tough odors. 

Powders absorb moisture and are useful in treating infections that cover large areas of the body.

Please find links to additional information below. 

• Mayo Clinic
• WebMD
• American Podiatric Medical Association