A podiatrist has told me about the vinegar more than a year ago. I was complaining about dry feet. Sometimes itchy, but mainly very dry, no matter how many times I've appplied lotion. She said, I have "moccasin tinea". Suggested to use vinegar and tea tree oil. Like you, at home, I had the same question. Why not just tea tree oil on it's own. Should be more effective. Did that, not much difference in two weeks. Than did it with vinegar for two weeks, dryness, itchiness gone, incredibly soft feet, they fel very refreshed too. It takes only two minutes after morning shower. After applying, I dry my feet quickly with hairdryer.