How to treat athlete’s foot in children

Children sweat more rapidly than adults, primarily because they are more physically active. If sweat on the feet is not cleaned promptly, bacteria can easily proliferate, leading to tinea pedis (athlete’s foot). Children diagnosed with tinea pedis may soak their feet in calomel powder solution or potassium permanganate solution. So, how should tinea pedis in children be managed?

How to Manage Tinea Pedis in Children

Treatment for tinea pedis in children begins with foot soaks. A combination of potassium permanganate solution and rivanol (eosin) solution may be used for soaking. After soaking for an appropriate duration, gentian violet or antifungal foot powder can be applied to the affected areas twice daily. This regimen effectively alleviates symptoms. Tinea pedis manifests in several forms, among which vesicular tinea pedis is particularly common. To treat this type, first soak the feet in warm water, then gently rub terbinafine hydrochloride cream onto the affected skin.

For tinea pedis, topical application of compound benzoic acid ointment or compound salicylic acid alcohol may be alternated. After applying the medication, cover the treated area with plastic wrap (occlusion). Once the thickened, hyperkeratotic skin layers shed, symptoms of tinea pedis will improve significantly. For mild cases, treatment is relatively straightforward and carries a high cure rate—primarily involving nightly foot soaks in white vinegar.

If tinea pedis is detected in a child, it must be taken seriously and treated promptly. We hope this information proves helpful.