Fungal Skin Infections

Athlete's foot is caused by a fungus that grows on or in the top layer of skin. Fungi (plural of fungus) grow best in warm, wet places, such as the area between the toes.

Athlete's foot spreads easily. You can get it by touching the toes orfeetof a person who has it. But most often, people get it bywalkingbarefoot on contaminated surfaces nearswimmingpools or in locker rooms. The fungi then grow in your shoes, especially if your shoes are so tight that air cannot move around your feet.

Athlete's foot can make your feet and the skin between your toesburnanditch. The skin may peel andcrack. Your symptoms can depend on the type ofathlete's footyou have. Read more aboutathlete's foot.