Tea Tree Cleansing Castile Bar surrounded by bubbly foam, showcasing natural skincare and refreshing cleansing power.

Clear Skin, Clean Conscience

Breakouts, odor, and irritation? Meet your match. Prep U’s Tea Tree Cleansing Bar gives teens a clean, confident start—powered by plants, never harsh chemicals.

What Causes Athlete’s Foot in Teens & How to Prevent It

Why Is Athlete’s Foot So Common for Teens?

If you’re a teen—or the parent of one—you know that funky feet can be a real problem. Athlete’s foot is one of the most common skin annoyances for active kids and teens. But why does it happen so often at this age?

Sports and gym class: Teens are always on the move, whether it’s soccer, basketball, or just hanging out in the locker room.
Shared spaces: Locker rooms, showers, and gym floors are perfect places for unwanted guests (like fungus) to hang out.
Sweaty shoes: Let’s be honest—how many teens actually let their sneakers dry out between wears?
Hormones: Puberty ramps up sweat and oil, making feet even more prone to feeling less-than-fresh.

Athlete’s foot isn’t just for athletes—it can happen to anyone, but teens are especially at risk because of all the above.

What Is Athlete’s Foot, Really?

Athlete’s foot (also called tinea pedis) is a common skin issue that usually starts between the toes. It can show up as:

Itching, burning, or stinging
Red, cracked, or peeling skin
Sometimes blisters

It’s contagious and spreads easily—especially in warm, damp places like shared showers or locker rooms.

Why Are Teens at Higher Risk?

Active lifestyles: More sweat, more time in sneakers, and more exposure to shared surfaces.
Hygiene habits: Teens are still learning the best ways to care for their skin and feet.
Sensitive skin: Young skin can react more strongly to different environments and products, especially harsh, chemical-laden soaps.

If your teen is dealing with itchy, uncomfortable feet, they’re not alone—and there are easy ways to support healthy, comfortable skin.

Tips: How to Help Keep Athlete’s Foot Away

Wash Daily with a Cleansing Bar
Regular soap isn’t always enough. Using a plant-based bar with tea tree oil—like Prep U’s Tea Tree Cleansing Bar—can help wash away sweat and impurities that can lead to funky feet. Lather up, especially between the toes, and let the soap sit for 30–60 seconds before rinsing.
Keep Feet Dry
Fungi love moisture. After showering, dry feet thoroughly, especially between the toes. Sprinkle on a talc-free powder like Prep U’s Active Dry Powder for extra moisture control.
Change Socks and Shoes Frequently
Wear fresh socks every day—more often if your feet get sweaty. Let shoes dry out between wears, and avoid sharing shoes with others.
Don’t Share Towels or Footwear
Sharing means sharing germs. Make sure everyone in the family uses their own towels and flip-flops, especially in shared showers.
Air Out Feet When Possible
At home, let feet breathe by going barefoot or wearing sandals.

Why Prep U’s Tea Tree Cleansing Bar Is a Smart Choice

Made with natural tea tree oil: Valued for its naturally cleansing and freshening properties.
Gentle, plant-based formula: Safe for daily use, even for sensitive skin.
No harsh chemicals: Free from parabens, sulfates, and artificial fragrances.

It’s a simple swap that supports your teen’s comfort and confidence—on and off the field.

When to See a Doctor

Most teens can keep their feet feeling fresh with good hygiene and the right products. But if symptoms are severe, don’t improve after a couple of weeks, or if there’s pain, swelling, or pus, it’s time to check in with a healthcare provider.

More Resources for Healthy, Happy Feet

Quick FAQ

Can athlete’s foot come back?
Yes—consistent hygiene is your best defense.

Can athlete’s foot spread to other parts of the body?
Yes! That’s why it’s important to practice good hygiene and care for your feet.

Is athlete’s foot contagious between family members?
Definitely. Athlete’s foot can spread through shared showers, towels, floors, or even socks and shoes. Everyone in the house should avoid sharing personal items and keep feet clean and dry.

Can you get athlete’s foot from swimming pools or public showers?
Absolutely. Warm, damp places like locker rooms, public showers, and pool decks are prime spots for the fungus to hang out. Always wear flip-flops or shower shoes in these areas to protect your feet.

How long does it take for feet to feel better?
With good habits and regular use of a gentle cleansing bar, most teens notice fresher, more comfortable feet within a couple of weeks. If symptoms stick around or get worse, check in with a doctor.

Is Prep U’s Tea Tree Bar safe for daily use?
Absolutely! It’s made for sensitive, growing skin.

What if my teen has sensitive skin?
Our bar is free from harsh chemicals and designed for all skin types.

Give Your Teen the Confidence to Go Barefoot

Athlete’s foot doesn’t have to be a rite of passage for teens. With the right habits and Prep U’s natural solutions, you can help your teen stay fresh, clear, and comfortable—on and off the field.