Infections like Tinea and Candida surge during the monsoon season, doctors give tips on prevention and cure
Fungal infections are often triggered during monsoon, all due to the increased humidity, sweating, and damp skin. All the factors can affect skin health and immunity too. Common infections like tinea (ringworm) and candidiasis usually affect areas where moisture gets trapped. Dr Shilpa Patil, consultant dermatologist and cosmetologist and director, Ethoski Skin and Hair Clinic, Pune, says fungal infections affect skin folds such as the armpits, under the breasts, buttock folds, inner thighs and between the toes. “People who wear tight clothes for prolonged periods are more prone to these infections,” she adds.
Watch The Signs
Persistent itching, redness, burning, peeling, cracks, scaling or a ring-shaped rash are common signs of a fungal infection. “Also notice if the rash starts expanding, appears in multiple areas, develops oozing, or keeps returning after temporary relief, it requires addressing the root cause of it. As per Ayurveda, it is essential to maintain healthy skin balance rather than ignoring recurring symptoms,” says Shahnaz Husain, CMD, Shahnaz Husain Group.
Careful With Home Fixes
Avoid self-treatment for fungal infections. Common home remedies offer little relief for fungal infections. Turmeric, coconut oil and vinegar have limited or no proven effectiveness, while tea tree oil may have antifungal properties but can also trigger allergic reactions and dermatitis “The two biggest mistakes are totally depending on home remedies without diagnosis and doing trial and error. The second is using steroid creams blindly, which will delay the cure of fungal infections. Other than that, stopping antifungals in between, not completing the course of medicines, sharing clothes and razors, and using sweaty clothes for a longer time. Treating family members is important; otherwise, the recurrence of infections increases. Wearing wet clothes, or clothes on a wet body, increases the chances of fungal infections,” adds Patil.
Beware Of The pitfalls
A major mistake is stopping antifungal treatments too early. Ayurveda also highlights the importance of hygiene, lifestyle discipline, and supporting the body’s natural balance alongside treatment. “Medical advice is important when the infection spreads rapidly; returns frequently; causes pain, cracks, or swelling; or does not improve with basic care. Additionally, you can seek Ayurveda remedial measures, as often times application of too many chemicals and consuming medicine is a concern; a holistic approach that addresses the root cause is still better,” says Husain.
Stay Safe
Prevention is the best defence. Keep your skin clean and dry, change out of sweaty clothes promptly, avoid damp footwear, shower after workouts, and wear breathable fabrics like cotton. If you wear closed shoes for long hours, keep your feet dry. Good hygiene, a balanced lifestyle and consistent skincare remain the most effective ways to prevent fungal infections.
People with diabetes, weakened immunity, or extensive skin involvement should seek professional guidance early.”
— Shahnaz Husain
Most vulnerable parts are mostly skin folds like the axilla, below the breasts in females, buttock folds, inner thighs, and between the toes.”
— Dr. Shilpa Patil
