The cause of tinea are dermatophytes that grow on the dead keratin cells skin. These cells multiply in warm, damp environments on the body and can be transmitted by touch from human or animal.
Prevention of tinea
In general, to avoid or control Tinea where infection is likely:
avoid exposure to infections by avoiding places such as public baths where the fungi commonly are prevalent
prevent contact with the fungi when visits to such places are necessary
remove possibly invading organisms from the skin by suitable personal hygiene
deny fungi favourable conditions for growth by avoiding either moisture or high humidity on the skin
discourage spores and fungal threads by keeping clothes and equipment dry, clean and aired.
In detail:
Keep body clean with regular washing, perhaps with medicated antifungal soap
Dry the body thoroughly and quickly after washing; suitable powder can help with the drying
Launder clothing with hot water and aggressive detergents, and dry it thoroughly before stowing
Store clothing as dry as may be, perhaps with antifungal powder in highly unfavourable conditions
Change underwear daily at least
In public showering areas and locker rooms, wear shower shoes or socks
When possible change shoes often and powder them to prevent moisture and fungal growth
Avoid socks that retain moisture; change and dry socks as frequently and thoroughly as practical
Wear shoes that are well ventilated to help keep the feet dry
Do not share clothes, brushes, combs, socks, underwear and other intimate articles
Where close contact is a problem in shared quarters, keep combs, razors etc. in antiseptic liquid when not in use
Treatment
Antifungal creams or medication can be prescribed by a physician or even bought over-the-counter.
These steps should be taken to treat tinea.
Wash and then dry the area.
Apply the antifungal cream, powder, or spray as directed on the label.
Continue this treatment for 2 weeks, even if symptoms disappear, to prevent the infection from coming back tolerant.
Keratin – family of fibrous structural proteins. Keratin is the key structural material making up the outer layer of human skin. It is also the key structural component of hair and nails.