Summer brings sunshine, vacations, mangoes, and unfortunately, skin infections too. Dermatologists notice a spike in fungal infections as temperatures rise and humidity increases. The reason is simple: fungus thrives in warm, sweaty, and damp environments.According to the NIHsuperficial fungal infections are among the most common skin conditions seen in tropical countries like India, where humidity and sweating remain high for long periods.Dr Nidhi Rohatgi explains, “So, the summers are almost here and so are all kinds of infections, bacterial, fungal and viral. All the infections, they increase little bit during the summer weather.”The infection commonly affects areas where sweat gets trapped: underarms, groin folds, under the breasts, feet, and even between the toes. Ringworm, athlete’s foot, and fungal rashes around skin folds become increasingly common during this season.“Fungus likes to grow in hot and humid environment. You must have seen fungus growing on food items, on your clothes, and that happens more in summer rainy seasons. Similarly, we get fungus infections in summers and especially on those areas where you are sweating a lot and there is warmth,” says Dr Rohatgi.
The everyday habits that may unknowingly worsen fungal infections
Sometimes, the infection is not just about the weather. It’s about routines that seem harmless.One major trigger is staying in sweaty clothes for too long. Tight jeans, synthetic gym wear, damp undergarments, and socks that trap moisture can create the ideal environment for fungal growth. Long commutes during summer only make matters worse.Dr Rohatgi advises, “Avoid wearing shoes and socks whenever possible in summer weather, also wear loose fitting cotton clothes, especially when you’re traveling long distances. You should avoid wearing tight fitting jeans or even the tights.”Another overlooked mistake is not drying the body properly after bathing. Many people quickly towel off and dress up while skin folds still remain damp.“Make sure that you dry all your folds, especially your underarms, under the breast groins nicely. Also, you have to dry your feet properly, especially the webs of your toes,” she says.There is also a hidden hygiene mistake many families overlook: sharing towels and soaps. Fungal infections can spread through contaminated fabrics and moist surfaces.“Do not share anyone’s soap or towel after taking bath,” Dr Rohatgi adds.
Dermatologists say simple daily mistakes, from staying in wet clothes too long to self-medicating with steroid creams, are worsening the problem. Here’s what triggers these infections, how to prevent them, and the habits that may unknowingly be feeding the fungus.
Why steroid creams may actually make the infection worse
One of the biggest concerns among dermatologists today is the misuse of over-the-counter creams. Many people buy combination creams from local chemists without medical advice. These creams often contain steroids that temporarily reduce redness and itching, making the infection appear “better” for a short time.But underneath, the fungus continues to grow.The NIH has previously warned against irrational use of topical steroid combinations because they can worsen fungal infections and make treatment difficult.Dr Rohatgi strongly cautions against self-treatment. “Never try to self medicate for fungus infection. Especially, you know, some people apply steroid based ointments and when they come for the treatment, it becomes even more difficult to treat their fungus.”This growing problem has led to stubborn and recurring fungal infections across India, especially in urban areas where pollution, sweating, and crowded public spaces add to the risk.
The small preventive habits that can actually help
Prevention often sounds boring until it saves weeks of discomfort.Dermatologists say simple habits can significantly reduce fungal infections during summer. Bathing daily, wearing breathable cotton clothes, changing sweaty garments immediately, and drying clothes under direct sunlight can all make a difference.“Always wear sun dried underwear,” says Dr Rohatgi.She also highlights a less discussed issue related to prolonged dampness. “Especially for women, you should not wash after passing urine. Because every time when you pass urine, you wash, your panty becomes wet and by the time the panty dries, you again pass urine… so it’s wet all the time. So after passing urine, just dab it dry with the tissue paper.”Men, too, are advised to avoid tight undergarments during humid nights to improve airflow around the skin.Dr Rohatgi further recommends paying attention to overall immunity and nutrition. “Make sure that your vitamin D3 levels are normal.”Low vitamin D levels have been linked in several studies with weakened immune responses, although more research is still ongoing regarding direct fungal infection susceptibility.
Skin health in summer is often about consistency, not expensive products
There is a tendency to search for miracle creams and expensive skincare products during summer. But fungal infections rarely need fancy solutions. In most cases, the basics matter more: dryness, hygiene, breathable fabrics, and timely medical consultation.Fungal infections may appear minor at first, but untreated cases can spread quickly, recur repeatedly, and affect quality of life. In a season where sweat becomes unavoidable, awareness becomes the first layer of protection.Medical experts consultedThis article includes expert inputs shared with TOI Health by:Dr Nidhi Rohatgi, Principal Consultant, Dermatology, Max Multi Specialty Centre, Panchsheel Park.Inputs were used to explain why fungal infections tend to rise during hot and humid summer months, the everyday habits that may unknowingly worsen them, and why seeking timely medical advice instead of self-medicating is important for proper treatment.
