Treatment FAQ

what is best treatment for ringworm

by Prof. Jovanny Dickinson Published 2 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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If the ringworm is on your skin, an OTC antifungal cream, lotion, or powder may work just fine. Some of the most popular ones are clotrimazole (Lotrimin, Mycelex) and miconazole. In most cases, you'll have to use the medicines on your skin for 2 to 4 weeks to make sure you kill the fungus that causes ringworm.Mar 15, 2021

Medication

Jul 08, 2019 · Most often, an OTC treatment works well to clear up ringworm. If it doesn’t, see a doctor, because you might have a deeper infection that requires prescription treatment.

Self-care

11 rows · The Oleavine soap, like the #1 rated product in our Best Treatment for Ringworm guide, is ...

Nutrition

Griseofulvin ( Grifulvin V, Gris-PEG), Terbinafine, and Itraconazole are the oral medicines doctors prescribe most often for ringworm. Terbinafine. If your doctor puts you on these tablets, you ...

What is the strongest medicine for ringworm?

Mar 07, 2019 · 6 ringworm treatments 1. Apply a topical antifungal. Most cases of ringworm can be treated at home. Over-the-counter antifungals can kill the... 2. Let it breathe. It may seem …

Are there home remedies for ringworm that work?

If you have ringworm, your dermatologist will treat it with antifungal medicine. This medicine comes in many different forms like creams, ointments, and pills. What you use will depend on …

What over the counter medication is good for ringworm?

PROVEN TO CURE MOST RINGWORM: Lotrimin AF Ringworm Cream clotrimazole cream is clinically proven to cure the fungus infection tinea corporis, commonly known as ringworm. …

What is ringworm and how to treat it naturally?

Aug 22, 2017 · Aloe vera. Aloe vera has long been used as a natural remedy for both bacterial and fungal infections, and ringworm is no exception. Aloe vera can treat the ringworm and may …

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How do you get rid of ringworm fast?

Ringworm is treated with antifungal medicines that you either rub on the skin or take by mouth. Ringworm of the scalp is treated with a special shampoo and an oral antifungal medicine. You may have to keep using whatever medicine you're prescribed for several weeks to fully get rid of the infection.Sep 2, 2020

What is the most effective medicine for ringworm?

Apply an over-the-counter antifungal lotion, cream or ointment such as clotrimazole (Lotrimin AF) or terbinafine (Lamisil AT) as directed on the packaging.

How long does it take for ringworm to go away?

Most mild cases of ringworm usually clear up in 2 to 4 weeks. But treatment might be needed for up to 3 months if the infection is more serious, or affects the nails or the scalp.

What is the main cause of ringworm?

Causes. Ringworm is caused by a type of fungus that eats keratin. These are called dermatophytes. Dermatophytes attack the skin, scalp, hair, and nails because those are the only parts of the body with enough keratin to attract them.

What are 3 symptoms of ringworm?

Symptoms of Ringworm Infections
  • Itchy skin.
  • Ring-shaped rash.
  • Red, scaly, cracked skin.
  • Hair loss.

How do I stop ringworm from spreading?

To get the best results and prevent the infection from spreading to other areas of your body, dermatologists recommend the following:
  1. Treat the area for as long as recommended. ...
  2. After touching the area with ringworm, wash your hands before touching another area of your body. ...
  3. Keep the infected area clean and dry.

What does ringworm look like when it starts?

Ringworm often causes a ring-shaped rash that is itchy, scaly and slightly raised. The rings usually start small and then expand outward. Ringworm of the body (tinea corporis) is a rash caused by a fungal infection. It's usually an itchy, circular rash with clearer skin in the middle.

What shampoo should I use for ringworm?

A shampoo such as Nizoral or Head and Shoulders Intensive kills ringworm spores. Lather and leave it on your child's scalp for 10Â minutes before rinsing. Use the antifungal shampoo twice a week for 1 month. On other days, use a regular shampoo.

What looks like ringworm but isn't ringworm?

Other conditions that occasionally look like ringworm include seborrhea, psoriasis, pityriasis, contact dermatitis (such as poison oak), drug reactions, tinea versicolor, vitiligo, erythema migrans (a rash seen in Lyme disease), and even lupus.

Is ringworm caused from being dirty?

Ringworm is an infection on the surface of the skin that is caused by a fungus. It is common in children but can also occur in adults. It is usually passed by direct skin contact with another person who has ringworm or by touching a contaminated surface such as dirty clothing or towels.Oct 12, 2009

Can ringworm go away on its own?

There's no set time limit for a ringworm infection. Without treatment, it may go away on its own in a matter of months in a healthy person. Or it may not. Ringworm on the body is usually treated with a topical ointment such as terbinafine.

Where did I catch ringworm?

People can get ringworm after touching an animal that has ringworm. Many different kinds of animals can spread ringworm to people, including dogs and cats, especially kittens and puppies. Other animals, like cows, goats, pigs, and horses can also spread ringworm to people.

Can you use apple cider vinegar to treat ringworm?

If it doesn’t, see a doctor, because you might have a deeper infection that requires prescription treatment. However, DO NOT treat ringworm with apple cider vinegar. Some people suggest applying this would-be home remedy and covering the spot with a bandage.

Is ringworm creepy?

The sound of ringworm is enough to make your skin crawl. Thankfully it’s not nearly as creepy (or as crawly) as it sounds. There aren’t even any worms involved. (Cue sigh of relief.)

Is tinea a fungus?

Ringworm, or tinea, is not a creature but an infection caused by fungus,” says dermatologist Alok Vij, MD. Here’s how to spot this common fungal infection — and how to wipe it out.

How to avoid red ring?

These strategies can help you avoid those telltale red rings (or prevent them from spreading from one part of your body to another): Wash up: After touching the rash, wash your hands before you touch another part of your body. (Or somebody else’s body. Your friends will thank you.)

How to get rid of tinea on dogs?

(Go ahead and crank up the water temp — you want to scorch those fungi.) Check Spot: Have a vet check your dog for fungal infections since they can spread tinea to people.

How to get rid of a rash on your body?

Wash up: After touching the rash, wash your hands before you touch another part of your body. (Or somebody else’s body. Your friends will thank you.) Boil the bedding: Wash all linens, towels and clothing that comes into contact with an infected person.

What to do if you have a fungus infection?

If your infection is particularly severe or extensive, your doctor might prescribe antifungal pills.

What to do if over the counter antibiotics don't work?

If over-the-counter treatments don't work, you may need prescription-strength antifungal medications — such as a lotion, cream or ointment that you apply to the affected skin. If your infection is particularly severe or extensive, your doctor might prescribe antifungal pills.

What is the best treatment for ringworm?

Most medical professionals recommend that you use both types of products to most effectively battle a ringworm infection – an antifungal soap when bathing or showering and then an antifungal cream or ointment applied to the infected areas.

Is ringworm contagious?

While kids are more likely to get the infection (probably because they spend more time in the places the fungus lives like pools and dirt) anyone of any age can be infected. Myth – Ringworm Is Not Contagious. As already noted, ringworm is very contagious and measures should be taken to avoid spreading it to others.

Can ringworm be passed from person to person?

The infection is contagious and once present, can be passed from person to person through shared hairbrushes, hats, combs or unclean, unwashed clothing. You are more likely to get ringworm if you come into contact with the fungus while you’re wet and when you have sores or abrasions on your skin.

Is there a myth about ringworm?

Myths About Ringworm. Now that you know the fundamental truth about ringworm and have been assured there are no worms involved, let’s address some of the other common myths. Myth – Ringworm Only Affects the Skin. While the infection does appear on the skin, it can also show up on fingernails or toenails.

Does ringworm cause red spots on fingernails?

Myth – Ringworm Only Affects the Skin. While the infection does appear on the skin, it can also show up on fingernails or toenails. Myth – Everyone with Ringworm Has Red Rings on Their Skin. Scaly red rings can develop when you’re infected with ringworm, but not everyone gets them. You may see only bumpy red patches.

What is the condition called when you have a red ring on your legs?

But, thankfully, the fairly common condition called ringworm does not involve an actual worm of any kind. The formal name for ringworm is Dermatophytosis and it is simply an infection of the skin caused by a fungus. The red rings or patches can appear on your legs, arms, scalp, feet, groin, beard, or other areas.

What is the name of the fungus that causes red spots on the skin?

The formal name for ringworm is Dermatophytosis and it is simply an infection of the skin caused by a fungus. The red rings or patches can appear on your legs, arms, scalp, feet, groin, beard, or other areas. Interestingly, ringworm affects both people and animals and, as is commonly thought, can be acquired from cats.

What is the best treatment for ringworm?

Most cases of ringworm can be treated at home. Over-the-counter antifungals can kill the fungus and promote healing. Effective medications include miconazole (Cruex), clotrimazole (Desenex) and terbinafine (Lamisil). After cleaning the rash, apply a thin layer of antifungal medication to the affected area 2 to 3 times per day or as directed by ...

How to get rid of ringworm quickly?

This includes loose-fitting, long-sleeve shirts and pants. 3. Wash bedding daily. Because ringworm is highly contagious, you should wash your sheets daily to get rid of the infection faster.

How to treat ringworm rash?

Early intervention is critical to prevent spreading the infection to others. Here are six simple ways to treat ringworm. 1. Apply a topical antifungal. Most cases of ringworm can be treated at home. Over-the-counter antifungals can kill ...

Is ringworm rash a common rash?

A ringworm rash can be uncomfortable, but it is common and treatable. Early intervention is critical to prevent spreading the infection to others. Here are six simple ways to treat ringworm.

How to stop ringworm from spreading?

2. Let it breathe. It may seem logical to keep ringworm covered with a bandage to prevent spreading the infection. However, bandaging the rash locks in moisture and slows the healing process. Instead, wear comfortable, breathable clothes to speed healing and avoid spreading the rash to other people.

Can you get ringworm from bed sheets?

Because ringworm is highly contagious, you should wash your sheets daily to get rid of the infection faster. Fungal spores can transfer to your sheets and comforter. If you sleep on the same sheets night after night, it can take longer for ringworm to heal, and the infection can spread to other parts of your body. Contaminated bedding can also infect your partner.

Can ringworm spread to other parts of the body?

Fungal spores can transfer to your sheets and comforter. If you sleep on the same sheets night after night, it can take longer for ringworm to heal, and the infection can spread to other parts of your body. Contaminated bedding can also infect your partner.

Can ringworm be treated with antifungal medicine?

Many of these approved medicines are safe and effective for children. If the ringworm covers a large area of skin, you may need to take a prescription antifungal medicine. When the ringworm starts to clear, you’ll likely see the scale clear before the redness.

Can ringworm be treated at home?

Ringworm can survive on objects for a long time. If the jock itch fails to clear with at-home treatment, be sure to tell your dermatologist. You may need stronger medicine. Scalp: On the scalp, ringworm requires prescription medicine. Children who have scalp ringworm often receive a medicine called griseofulvin.

How do you know if you have ringworm?

How do dermatologists diagnose ringworm? A dermatologist can often tell if you have ringworm by looking at the infected area. Your dermatologist may also examine other areas of your body. It’s common to have athlete’s foot and ringworm on one or both hands. Sometimes, the infection spreads to one or more nails.

Can ringworm be spread to nails?

Taking a sample is easy. If you might have ringworm on your skin, your dermatologist will scrape off a bit of the infected skin.

How long does it take for ringworm to clear?

A mild case usually clears in two weeks. If the athlete’s foot is more severe or fails to clear in two weeks, a dermatologist can prescribe stronger medicine. Jock itch: To treat this type of ringworm, your dermatologist may recommend an antifungal cream, spray, or powder that you can buy without a prescription.

How to treat ringworm without a prescription?

Jock itch: To treat this type of ringworm, your dermatologist may recommend an antifungal cream, spray, or powder that you can buy without a prescription. You typically apply the antifungal twice a day for 10 to 14 days. To treat the itch, it often helps to apply a wet, cool washcloth to the area for 20 to 30 minutes.

What is the best medicine for scalp ringworm?

Children who have scalp ringworm often receive a medicine called griseofulvin. Your dermatologist may prescribe the tablets, capsules, or liquid. Sometimes, another prescription medicine is prescribed. It is important to take an antifungal medicine exactly as prescribed, and for as long as prescribed.

10 ringworm treatment for humans Review

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Important Aspects to Consider When Choosing ringworm treatment for humans

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What is the best treatment for ringworm?

Pine and coal-tar soap are older home remedies that might be an option, but they can be irritating to sensitive skin. 2. Apple cider vinegar. Apple cider vinegar has strong antifungal properties, so it may help treat ringworm when applied topically to the affected area.

How to treat ringworm?

When using essential oils, test that you’re not allergic to them first. Dilute the essential oil by adding three to five drops per ounce of a carrier oil such as olive or mineral oil. Then, rub it onto healthy skin in an area the size of a dime.

What is ringworm caused by?

Despite its name, ringworm isn’t actually caused by a worm or any type of living parasite. Instead, it’s a skin condition that’s caused by a type of fungus called tinea. It lives on the dead tissues of skin, including your nails and hair.

What causes ringworm on the skin?

Despite its name, ringworm isn’t actually caused by a worm or any type of living parasite. Instead, it’s a skin condition that’s caused by a type of fungus called tinea. It lives on the dead tissues of skin, including your nails and hair. Ringworm causes a red, scaly, itchy patch on your skin.

How to get rid of ringworm rash?

1. Soap and water. When you have ringworm, you need to keep the area as clean as possible. This helps prevent the further spread of the rash and helps keep the affected area under control. Wash the affected area with water and antibacterial soap daily before applying other home remedies on top of it.

What to do when you have ringworm?

When you have ringworm, you need to keep the area as clean as possible. This helps prevent the further spread of the rash and helps keep the affected area under control.

How to treat ringworm on a cotton ball?

2. Apple cider vinegar. Apple cider vinegar has strong antifungal properties, so it may help treat ringworm when applied topically to the affected area. To use it, soak a cotton ball in undiluted apple cider vinegar and brush the cotton ball over your skin . Do this three times per day.

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Diagnosis

Treatment

Lifestyle and Home Remedies

Preparing For Your Appointment

Medically reviewed by
Dr. Rakshith Bharadwaj
Your provider will work with you to develop a care plan that may include one or more of these treatment options.
Treatment can be done by topical application of antifungal creams and taking care of personal hygiene.
Medication

Antifungals: Drugs which are used for topical application i.e. applied over the affected area.

Clotrimazole . Butenafine . Miconazole


Oral antifungals: Doctor may prescribe oral medications in severe infection.

Fluconazole . Griseofulvin . Terbinafine

Self-care

Always talk to your provider before starting anything.

  • Avoid clothing that irritates the infected area
  • Bandage can be used to cover infected area
  • Clean the infected area regularly
  • Wash hand regularly after touching pets
  • Keep pets clean and the area disinfected
  • Keep feet dry and clean

Nutrition

Foods to eat:

  • Vitamin A-rich foods such as spinach, carrots, and apricots
  • Vitamin E-rich foods such as eggs, hazelnuts, lentils, spinach, almonds, sesame seeds and whole-grain bread

Foods to avoid:

  • Processed food
  • Excessive intake of sugar
  • Excessive intake of gluten

Specialist to consult

Dermatologist
Specializes in the study of the skin and its disorders.

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