Fungal Infections Are Rising — Avoid These 7 Skin Hygiene Blunders, Says Expert

In India’s hot and humid climate, fungal infections surge and your everyday hygiene mistakes could be the hidden cause. One of the most common skin infections is Tinea, which is also known as ringworm. While many think that it's just a rash or allergy, the infection is highly contagious and spreads easily through shared items, moisture, and improper clothing.

"Tinea is a common fungal skin infection also known as ringworm that can affect various parts of the body like the feet, groin, scalp, and nails. It's caused by dermatophytes, a type of fungus, and is contagious, spreading through direct or indirect contact," says Dr. Rishi Parashar, Chairperson, Dermatology, Sir Gangaram Hospital, Delhi.

Dr. Parashar also mentions that the three conditions, dark, damp, and dingy form the perfect breeding ground for fungal growth.

Let’s look at the common mistakes that are unknowingly damaging your skin and feeding the fungal cycle.

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1. Wearing Tight, Non-Breathable Clothes Daily

Leggings, jeggings, and tight jeans may be trendy, but they're also a major trigger for fungal infections. Such clothing restricts the airflow and traps sweat and body heat, allowing fungi to thrive. Both Ayurveda and modern dermatology warn against synthetic and tight garments in tropical weather. Experts strongly recommend wearing loose, breathable, and moisture-wicking cotton clothing that allows your skin to stay dry and ventilated.

"Advice against wearing tight garments such as jeans, leggings, and jeggings. Wearing loose, cotton garments is preferred," advises Dr. Parashar.

2. Skipping Showers Or Wearing Clothes On Damp Skin

Post-workout or post-shower laziness can cost your skin. After a workout or shower, moisture always lingers in areas like the underarms, groin, inner thighs, and skin folds. It creates the ideal warm and damp environment for fungi to thrive. It increases the risk of infections like ringworm and athlete's foot. To prevent this, always pat dry your body with a clean towel paying extra attention to sweat-prone areas. If you're showering at the gym or after a run, avoid wearing socks or tight clothing immediately.

"Taking regular showers and wearing clothes only after thoroughly drying the body is essential," says Dr. Parashar.

3. Using Steroid Creams Without Medical Supervision

In India, many over-the-counter creams for skin issues like itching, rashes, or fungal infections contain a mix of steroids and antifungals. It's a combination that can be more harmful than helpful. While these creams may provide temporary relief, the steroid component weakens the skin's barrier, making it prone to recurring infections like steroidmodified tinea. Dermatologists warn that unsupervised use of such creams can worsen fungal infections and delay proper healing.

"Medicated creams containing steroids are available in our country which are banned in almost all countries—this leads to steroidinduced damage of the skin," warns Dr. Parashar.
"The abuse creates a large pool of inadequately treated patients who are a constant source of infection," he adds.

4. Sharing Personal Items Like Towels And Bed Linen

Tinea, or ringworm, is highly contagious and spreads quickly through indirect contact, especially in shared living spaces. One of the most common yet overlooked ways of transmission is through shared personal items like towels, clothes, undergarments, and bed linen. One of the most overlooked ways of transmission is through shared personal items like towels, clothes, undergarments, and bed linen. When an infected person uses these items, the fungus can linger and easily transfer to another person's skin. This is why dermatologists strongly advise using personal towels, bedsheets, and clothing, and washing them regularly in hot water to kill any fungal spores.

5. Not Applying Antifungal Creams Properly

Even when you’re using the correct antifungal treatment, improper application can significantly reduce its effectiveness and lead to recurring infections. A common mistake people make is stopping the antifungal cream as soon as the itching or redness subsides. What people don't realise is that the fungus often remains active beneath the surface of the skin, even after the visible symptoms disappear. For complete recovery, dermatologists recommend continuing the application for at least two weeks beyond the disappearance of symptoms.

"The topical antifungals should be applied 2 cm beyond the margin of the lesion for at least 2 weeks beyond clinical resolution," suggests Dr. Parashar.

6. Wearing Occlusive Footwear In Humid Conditions

Shoes, synthetic materials, and tight socks may look stylish, but they create a warm and moist environment. It serves as a breeding ground for fungal infections. The sweat gets trapped around your toes and soles, making it easier for fungi to grow. This can lead to itching, flaking, burning sensations, and even discoloured toenails. To protect your feet, choose open-toed sandals, breathable materials, and moisture-wicking socks. You can even use antifungal powder and rotate your footwear daily, if you're prone to sweaty feet.

7. Ignoring Small Rashes Or Self-Diagnosing

That minor itch, red patch, or small rash may look harmless at first, but ignoring it can lead to a full-blown fungal infection. Fungal infections spread quickly and delayed treatment allows the fungus to multiply and affect deeper layers of the skin. People often self-diagnose and use over-the-counter steroid creams, which can worsen the condition. Experts strongly advise against this. Instead, consult a certified dermatologist early and follow a proper antifungal treatment plan. It can help you prevent the infection from becoming chronic or recurring.

[Disclaimer: The information provided in the article is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.]

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