Skin Issues: From Athlete's Foot to Acne and Beyond

Regarding skin issues?

Hello Dr.
Cheng,
I have been struggling with athlete's foot, acne, and recurrent herpes simplex lesions around my mouth for a long time.
Recently, I have been paying special attention to the breathability of my feet and have been wearing sandals, but there has been no improvement; in fact, I have developed localized ulcerations that are oozing.
Although I am past my teenage years, my acne persists and continues to appear.
Occasionally, I also experience outbreaks of oral herpes.
I am unsure if this is due to hormonal imbalance, some dysfunction in my body, or other factors.

I have been quite troubled by these issues for a long time.
I also have a habit of smoking, and I wonder if that could be related.
Could you please provide me with some answers, improvement methods, and guidance on seeking medical help? Thank you, Dr.
Cheng!

Xiao Zhong, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2001/07/04

Dr. Zheng Lizhen reply Dermatology

It is recommended that you consult a nearby dermatologist for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Reply Date: 2001/07/04

More Info

It sounds like you're dealing with a complex set of skin issues that are affecting your quality of life. Let's break down the conditions you've mentioned: athlete's foot (tinea pedis), acne, and oral herpes (cold sores), and explore potential underlying causes and treatment options.

Athlete's Foot (Tinea Pedis)
Athlete's foot is a common fungal infection that thrives in warm, moist environments, often affecting the spaces between the toes. Symptoms can include itching, burning, and peeling skin, and in some cases, it can lead to blisters or sores. Given that you've noted a lack of improvement despite wearing sandals for better breathability, it may be worth considering a few factors:
1. Fungal Resistance: If you've been using over-the-counter antifungal treatments without success, it might be time to consult a dermatologist for a prescription-strength antifungal medication. Sometimes, the fungus can become resistant to common treatments.

2. Hygiene Practices: Ensure that you're keeping your feet clean and dry. After washing, thoroughly dry the spaces between your toes. Consider using antifungal powder to help keep the area dry.

3. Footwear Choices: While sandals can help with ventilation, ensure that they are made of breathable materials. Avoid sharing footwear and always wear flip-flops in communal areas like pools or gyms.

Acne
Acne can be influenced by various factors, including hormonal changes, diet, and lifestyle choices. Since you mentioned that you're no longer in your teenage years yet still experiencing breakouts, consider the following:
1. Hormonal Imbalances: Hormonal fluctuations can continue into adulthood, especially in women. Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can lead to persistent acne. A visit to an endocrinologist or dermatologist may provide insights into whether hormonal testing is necessary.

2. Skin Care Routine: Evaluate your skincare products. Look for non-comedogenic products that won't clog pores. Ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide can be effective in treating acne.

3. Diet and Lifestyle: Some studies suggest that high-glycemic foods and dairy may exacerbate acne. Keeping a food diary to track potential triggers could be beneficial. Additionally, smoking can negatively impact skin health, so reducing or quitting smoking may help improve your skin condition.

Oral Herpes (Cold Sores)
Cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV) and can be triggered by stress, illness, or sun exposure. Here are some tips for managing outbreaks:
1. Antiviral Medications: If you experience frequent outbreaks, a healthcare provider may prescribe antiviral medications to reduce the frequency and severity of outbreaks.

2. Avoid Triggers: Stress management techniques, such as mindfulness or yoga, can help reduce the frequency of outbreaks. Additionally, using lip balm with SPF can protect your lips from sun exposure, which can trigger cold sores.

Underlying Factors
You mentioned concerns about potential hormonal imbalances or other underlying health issues. It's crucial to address these with a healthcare professional. A comprehensive evaluation, including blood tests to check hormone levels and other potential issues, can provide valuable insights.

Smoking and Skin Health
Lastly, your smoking habit can significantly impact your skin health. Smoking reduces blood flow to the skin, leading to premature aging and exacerbating skin conditions. Quitting smoking can improve your overall health and skin appearance.

Conclusion
Given the complexity of your symptoms, I recommend consulting with a dermatologist who can provide a thorough evaluation and tailored treatment plan. They may also refer you to an endocrinologist if hormonal issues are suspected. In the meantime, focus on maintaining good hygiene, a balanced diet, and a consistent skincare routine. Addressing lifestyle factors, including smoking cessation, can also lead to significant improvements in your skin health.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Athlete's Foot: Insights from a Dermatology Consultation

Hello Dr. Chang, this is the student Zhang who previously had athlete's foot issues. 1. Today I visited the dermatology department at Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital. However, due to wearing sneakers, my feet were sweaty and the doctor couldn't see the areas wit...

Dr. Zhang Zhibo reply Dermatology
Hello: I believe it would be better to see photos for clearer communication. If there is usually peeling without itching, it is more likely to be "tinea pedis" (athlete's foot). If there is the presence of fluid and it is very itchy followed by peeling, this is ind...

Overcoming 26 Years of Athlete's Foot: Seeking Effective Solutions

I am a highly active office worker who sweats a lot. I contracted athlete's foot (only on my left foot) 26 years ago while serving in the military. Over the past 26 years, I have used various topical treatments, including ointments and solutions, but none have completely cur...

Dr. Zheng Lizhen reply Dermatology
Please consult a dermatologist for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Understanding Athlete's Foot Treatment: Concerns About Medication and Skin Reactions

Hello, I recently visited a dermatologist for athlete's foot. Initially, due to the symptoms, the doctor prescribed Clotrimazole cream. After the itching subsided, I was given Bolex Cleanser cream, which I continued to apply for three weeks. The doctor initially said I didn&...

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology
There are many causes of peeling skin, with fungal infections being just one of them. Other possible causes include dyshidrotic eczema, excessive sweating of the feet, and prolonged wearing of shoes. A visual examination is necessary for accurate diagnosis.

Effective Treatments for Athlete's Foot: Managing Itchy Blisters and Peeling Skin

I have athlete's foot, which only causes mild peeling, but the most bothersome part is that small blisters appear on my feet and they are itchy. I have previously used small scissors to puncture them, but they keep coming back. At one point, I had six blisters on one foot, a...

Dr. Chen Yiying reply Dermatology
Hello: In response to your question, there are many reasons why blisters may form on the feet. It is not necessarily limited to athlete's foot; conditions such as dyshidrotic eczema and foot eczema are also possibilities. If the issue persists, it is advisable to consult a d...