The foot becomes a thriving breeding ground for such type of fungus because they provide a dark and humid environment which encourages fungus growth. Individuals may get the fungus from areas that are always damp and warm especially in areas around swimming pools, locker rooms and showers. Athletes make frequent use of such facilities and are therefore more likely to suffer from the disease, hence the popularity of the name. This fungus practically lives and grows everywhere just as long as the area is warm and moist. They can be found lounging around in areas where there is moisture such as in locker rooms in college gyms, the swimming pool area, the bathroom, and even the classiest spa houses in the country. This love for moisture is the reason why the fungus just loves the environment inside your footwear especially rubber shoes that are not often aired out and dried properly. So do people who frequent going to damp and warm areas such as common showers, locker rooms and swimming pools. Such areas also provide a good breeding ground for the fungus that people can easily get athlete's foot this way. Such infection is more common in athletes because they make use of such facilities on a regular basis, hence the origin of the term "athlete's foot". A dermatologist is a skin specialist so if there is anything wrong with our skin we rush to them. Usually dermatologists are just associated with face skin problems like acne problems but dermatologists actually care for skin problems on any part of one s body including the feet! Since Athlete s Foot start out with rashes or skin redness it is but normal to have a dermatologists check the irregularities in skin condition and usually the dermatologists are able to identify Athlete s Foot and suggest cures for the existing condition. Home Cure For That Common Foot Infection If you are suffering from a serious bout of athlete's foot, it is something that you should really be taking care of immediately. Athlete's foot is a fungal infection that is caused by dermatophytes. Also known medically as tinea pedis, athlete's foot starts as the fungus is gets its way into your foot through a variety of ways. You should also make sure that you wear clean socks all the time and you have a spare pair or pairs so you can change it right away once it gets soaked with sweat. Medical experts say that white cotton socks or those made from natural fibers are the most ideal for those who suffer from athlete s foot.