The arising of fungus infections in the skin can be favoured by numerous factors. Individual predisposition, changes in the hormonal balance, the climate, excessive sweating, stress, poor eating habits as well as poor or excessive body hygiene are all part of these factors. Particular diseases and medication leading to an impaired immune response can aid this process. In the course of a treatment using antibiotics, the skin's or mucous membrane's natural microflora suffers, facilitating a spreading of fungi. All factors having a negative influence on a person's natural skin flora, the skin pH value and the immune system can prepare the way for a fungal infection.

A moist micro-climate due to increased sweating and clothing that is too tight and doesn't breathe can promote fungal growth

especially at the feet or at folds in the skin. The increase in moisture causes a softening of the skin, making it easier for fungi to penetrate.

Due to a change in conditions, harmless fungi that are part of the natural skin flora can turn into pathogens and multiply excessively. Infections can also arise from contact with exogenous fungi found in soil, water, plants or animals of the outdoors.
Spreading from human to human usually happens through contact with scales contaminated with fungi. Pets can be transmitters of fungi, too. Frequent contact with fungi on the job, as is the case with, e.g. a baker, a life guard at a swimming pool or the veterinarian, can favour an infection.