Athlete’s Foot
Identify and treat athlete’s foot – with an experienced dermatologist at Derma Medical Clinic in Zurich – Sihlcity
Athlete’s Foot
Have chronic abscesses and painful nodules clarified and treated by an experienced dermatologist at the Derma Medical Clinic in Zurich - Sihlcity
Redness, itching and cracked skin between the toes – have athlete’s foot checked, treated and prevented early on
Examinations
Dermatological assessment
Skin swab or sample
Differentiation between athlete’s foot, sweaty feet or eczema upon request
Procedure
Initial consultation incl. dermatological assessment
Duration
Treatment lasts between two and four weeks
What Is Athlete’s Foot?
Athlete’s foot is one of the most common fungal skin infections, usually found between the toes, on the sole or on the heel. Typical signs include itching, redness, flaking and small cracks in the skin.
Often the infection starts unnoticed, for example through contact in swimming pools, changing rooms or via shared towels. If left untreated, the fungus can spread — including to the toenails (nail fungus) or other areas of the skin.
A medical check-up is recommended if you …
- notice itching, burning or cracks in the skin between your toes
- have flaky, red or moist skin on your sole or heel
- suspect that the fungus is spreading to your toenails
- find that home remedies or over-the-counter creams are not effective
- have recurring athlete’s foot or others in your household are also affected
- are unsure whether it is athlete’s foot, sweaty feet or an eczema
What Happens During Diagnosis and Treatment?
At Derma Medical Clinic we carefully examine the affected areas of your skin. We look not only at visible changes but also consider other possible causes – such as eczema, sweaty feet or contact reactions.
If the cause isn’t clear, we take a small skin sample or do a swab. This helps determine whether it’s truly a fungal infection and which organism is involved.
What does treatment involve?
For milder cases, treatment with special creams, solutions or sprays is usually enough. These contain antifungal ingredients that kill the fungus.
If the infection is more severe, long-lasting or affects multiple areas, tablets may be needed.
We’ll discuss the right treatment approach for you and advise you on how to prevent future infections.
How Does Treatment Proceed?
Initial consultation & examination
We begin by discussing your symptoms, any treatments you’ve tried, and potential causes. Then the dermatologist examines the affected skin in detail.
Finding the cause
If necessary, we take a skin sample or swab. In the lab, we can find out if a fungal infection is present and which pathogen is involved.
Personalized treatment plan
Depending on the findings, we may use creams, solutions or tablets. We explain how the treatment works, what to watch out for and how to avoid a recurrence.
At Derma Medical Clinic, athlete’s foot is treated exclusively by experienced dermatology specialists:
- Dr. Benjamin Miller, dermatologist and phlebologist
- Dr. Markus Dendorfer, dermatologist and pediatric dermatology specialist
Both have many years of experience diagnosing and treating fungal skin infections – even chronic or recurring cases.
Dr. Benjamin Miller
Board-certified Specialist in Dermatology and Venereology FMH
Dr. med. Markus Dendorfer
Board-certified Specialist in Dermatology and Venereology FMH
What to Expect From Us
Early detection by experienced dermatologists
Many patients try to manage athlete’s foot on their own – with mixed success. At Derma Medical Clinic, we determine whether a fungus is really present and start the right treatment from there.
Treatment tailored to your skin
Not every treatment works on every part of the foot. We choose the best-fit option – whether it’s a solution, spray or tablet.
Fast relief – lasting results
We aim not only for quick relief, but long-term resolution. That’s why we support you beyond the acute phase, if needed, with guidance to prevent future infections.
Everything under one roof
You receive diagnosis, medical treatment and skincare support in one place. This means dedicated contacts, short distances and coordinated care – from first visit to aftercare.
Is the skin between your toes itchy, red or flaky on the soles?
Book an appointment now to get checked and treated at Derma Medical Clinic in Zurich – Sihlcity.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions About Athlete’s Foot
What is athlete’s foot?
Athlete’s foot – medical term: Tinea pedis – is a common, contagious skin fungal infection on the feet. Typical signs are itching, redness and flaky skin – especially between the toes or on the sole.
What are the symptoms of athlete’s foot?
Common symptoms include:
- Itching, burning or redness (usually between the toes)
- Small blisters or cracks in the skin
- Flaky, dry skin on the sole or heel
- Unpleasant odor
Is athlete’s foot contagious?
Yes – athlete’s foot is contagious. Fungal spores spread through skin contact or contaminated surfaces, such as in swimming pools, gyms or hotel bathrooms. Walking barefoot increases the risk significantly.
How is athlete’s foot treated?
In most cases, treatment with creams, sprays or gels is enough. If the infection is persistent or widespread, tablets may be needed. It’s important to use the medication consistently over several weeks.
How long does it take to heal?
Improvement is often noticeable within a few days. However, treatment should continue for at least 2–4 weeks to prevent recurrence – or for as long as your doctor recommends.
How can I recognize athlete’s foot?
Common signs are redness, itching, flaking or cracked skin. If home remedies don’t help or symptoms worsen, see a dermatologist for a clear diagnosis – possibly including a swab test.
Do home remedies help, or do I need medication?
Home remedies like vinegar or tea tree oil are popular but not well-proven medically. Antifungal creams with ingredients like clotrimazole or terbinafine are effective and available over the counter.
How can I prevent athlete’s foot?
Dry feet thoroughly, wear breathable shoes, change socks daily and dry the spaces between your toes carefully. In public areas like saunas or pools, always wear flip-flops or shower shoes.
When should I see a doctor for athlete’s foot?
If symptoms don’t improve with self-treatment, the fungus spreads or causes weeping areas, you should see a doctor. Also seek early medical advice if you have health conditions like diabetes.
