Treatment FAQ

what is the best treatment for ringworm in humans

by Prof. Jonatan Donnelly III Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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Ringworm on the skin like athlete's foot (tinea pedis) and jock itch (tinea cruris) can usually be treated with non-prescription antifungal creams, lotions, or powders applied to the skin for 2 to 4 weeks. There are many non-prescription products available to treat ringworm, including: Clotrimazole (Lotrimin, Mycelex)

Medication

Ringworm on the body is usually treated with a topical ointment such as terbinafine. A four-week course is common, but the time can vary. With treatment, a ringworm infection on a part of the body without hair (glabrous skin) is likely to clear up within two to four weeks of the start of treatment.

Self-care

  • You should consume plenty of water. ...
  • You need to eat raw vegetables regularly to prevent the ringworm. ...
  • After a shower, dry yourself carefully. ...
  • Do not touch animals and people who have ringworm.
  • Wash towels and bedding frequently with hot water.
  • Do not scratch your skin if you have ringworm. ...
  • Avoid public bathrooms and pools, or wear sandals as using them.

Nutrition

Ringworm is an unsightly, mildly infectious fungal infection of the skin. Over-the-counter ringworm treatment is readily available and comes in the form of anti-fungal drying powder, creams, and lotions. The more effective treatments contain miconazole and clotrimazole.

How long does it take to cure ringworm in humans?

  • Fungal sweat rash
  • Athlete’s foot
  • Thrush
  • Jock itch
  • Nappy rash
  • Intertrigo (fungal infection of the breast fold)
  • Ringworm

How to cure ringworm in human with natural remedies?

What is the best over the counter treatment for ringworm?

What is the strongest OTC cream for ringworm?

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What cures ringworms fast?

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 the package.

What is the strongest treatment for ringworm?

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'll have to take them once a day for 4 weeks. They work in most cases.

How do I stop ringworm from spreading?

Don't walk barefoot in areas like locker rooms or public showers. Clip your fingernails and toenails short and keep them clean. Change your socks and underwear at least once a day. Don't share clothing, towels, sheets, or other personal items with someone who has ringworm.

What kills ringworms on humans?

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.

Which is the best cream for ringworm?

For a mild case of ringworm, try these self-care tips.Keep the affected area clean and dry.Apply an over-the-counter antifungal lotion, cream or ointment such as clotrimazole (Lotrimin AF) or terbinafine (Lamisil AT) as directed on the packaging.

What are 3 symptoms of ringworm?

Symptoms of Ringworm InfectionsItchy skin.Ring-shaped rash.Red, scaly, cracked skin.Hair loss.

Why do I keep getting ringworms on my body?

You're at higher risk of ringworm of the body if you: Live in a warm climate. Have close contact with an infected person or animal. Share clothing, bedding or towels with someone who has a fungal infection.

What kills ringworm in laundry?

Answer. That's too bad about the ringworm! To disinfect white or safely bleachable colored laundry, wash in the hottest water recommended on the care label using detergent and 3/4 cup Clorox® Regular Bleach2. For extra-large or heavily soiled laundry, use up to 1 ¼ cups.

Why is my ringworm not going away?

See a doctor if the rash doesn't go away after two weeks of home treatment. A ringworm infection that doesn't improve or that spreads may require a prescription-strength topical cream or oral antifungal medication. Make an appointment with your primary care doctor or see a dermatologist.

Which soap is best for fungal infection?

Soaps play an important role in the treatment of skin infections. Aactaril is a medicated soap, designed for the effective management of common, superficial bacterial and fungal infections of the skin.

What does ringworm look like on a person?

It may look red, silver or darker than surrounding skin, depending on your skin tone. The rash may be scaly, dry, swollen or itchy. Ringworm can appear anywhere on the body, including the scalp (tinea capitis) and groin (jock itch). The rash is usually ring-shaped, but it may look different on your face, neck or scalp.

What is the best medicine for ringworm?

Griseofulvin ( Grifulvin V, Gris-PEG), Terbinafine, and Itraconazole are the oral medicines doctors prescribe most often for ringworm.

How long does it take to get rid of ringworm on scalp?

Your doctor will write you a prescription for an antifungal medication that you’ll have to take by mouth for 1 to 3 months.

How long does it take for ringworm to go away?

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. It’ll also lower your chances of it coming back.

Can you buy ringworm pills over the counter?

The treatment you need for ringworm depends on where the infection is on your body and how serious it is. In many cases, your doctor may recommend a drug you can buy over the counter (OTC) at your local drugstore. Others need a prescription.

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 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 ...

What is ringworm on the scalp?

Sometimes, ringworm develops on the scalp. Symptoms of a scalp infection include severe itching, patches of hair loss, scalp boils, and severe dandruff. If you have ringworm on your scalp, wash your hair with an over-the-counter medicated antifungal shampoo.

What shampoos kill fungus?

Look for shampoos with antifungal active ingredients, such as ketoconazole, selenium sulfide, and pyrithione zinc. Use shampoos according to the directions on the package.

How long does it take for ringworm to go away?

See a doctor if the rash doesn’t go away after two weeks of home treatment. A ringworm infection that doesn’t improve or that spreads may require a prescription-strength topical cream or oral antifungal medication. Make an appointment with your primary care doctor or see a dermatologist.

How to treat a rash after cleaning?

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 the package. Spread the treatment beyond the border of the rash by a couple of centimeters and allow the medication to absorb into your skin. Shop for the following products online:

How to get rid of fungus in clothes?

Hot water alone can kill the fungus. As an extra precaution, add borax or bleach to your wash along with regular laundry detergent.

Who can diagnose ringworm?

Your family doctor or a skin specialist (dermatologist) can diagnose ringworm of the body. Here are some tips to help you get ready for your appointment.

What to do if you have a fungus infection?

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

10 ringworm treatment for humans Review

Treats ringworm and kills fungus up to 6 times faster than other major skincare creams

Important Aspects to Consider When Choosing ringworm treatment for humans

Most of the items mentioned are not hand-picked. The list was generated by AI. But we can guarantee that every product included here has been tried and tested by real people, reviewed by experts, and recommended by real people.

What is the best medicine for ringworm?

ConvaTec products are used widely in hospitals and long-term care facilities and are well-known and trusted among nurses so it is no surprise that the ConvaTec antifungal ointment comes in at number 2 in our best medicine for ringworm list.

How to treat ringworm in the shower?

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. Be sure to dry your skin thoroughly before applying the topical medicine and spread it well beyond the border or outer edge of the ring or rash.

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.

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 Oleavine soap good for ringworm?

The Oleavine soap, like the #1 rated product in our Best Treatment for Ringworm guide, is organic and all-natural with no chemicals, preservatives, detergents or dyes. It, too, is a liquid formula that is highly concentrated but gentle enough for daily use in the bath or shower.

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 miconazole nitrate work?

It contains miconazole nitrate which is the ingredient that is most effective in treating fungal infections and because the formula is petroleum-based, it stays on the skin all day and does not have to be reapplied as often as some cream products. It also rubs in clear so there are no staining concerns and it relieves itching and burning on contact.

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.

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.

How to treat ringworm with lemongrass oil?

To use lemongrass oil, mix a few drops of lemongrass oil with a carrier oil. Apply it directly to the skin twice per day.

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.

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.

How long does it take for ringworm to clear up?

Most cases of ringworm clear up within two weeks.

What is the best oil for ringworm?

If you have sensitive skin, it may be helpful to dilute the tea tree oil in a carrier oil like coconut oil , which has its own antifungal benefits. 4. Coconut oil. Coconut oil has both microbial and antifungal properties that can help treat ringworm infections.

How to get rid of ringworm?

Wipe it out: Keep using the cream morning and night for a month to fully wipe out the fungus and prevent it from making a repeat performance, he says. “Using the creams consistently is the key.”. Most often, an OTC treatment works well to clear up ringworm.

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.)

What is the best cream for athlete's foot?

Look for over-the-counter antifungal creams such as Tinactin® ( tolnaftate topical) or Lotramin® ( clotrimazole ). These products are often found in the foot care aisle and marketed for athlete’s foot. These creams will:

How to get rid of fungus in bed?

Boil the bedding: Wash all linens, towels and clothing that comes into contact with an infected person. (Go ahead and crank up the water temp — you want to scorch those fungi.)

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.

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.)

What is the best treatment for ringworm?

When treating a ringworm infection, it’s important to use an anti-fungal medicine. To get the best results and prevent the infection from spreading to other areas of your body, dermatologists recommend the following:

How to get rid of ringworm?

When cleaning the area with ringworm, wash the affected area (s) and dry it (them) with a clean towel. Use another clean towel to dry the other parts of your body.

What to do if ringworm doesn't clear?

If treatment fails to clear the rash, tell your dermatologist. Virtually every case of ringworm can be successfully treated. Keep all follow-up appointments with your dermatologist. Ringworm often clears with the first treatment a dermatologist prescribes.

How to prevent ringworm from spreading?

Touching or scratching the area with ringworm and then touching another area can spread ringworm from one part of your body to another. Washing your hands well can help prevent this.

How long should you treat ringworm?

By treating ringworm for as long as recommended, you help ensure that the ringworm does not re-appear a few weeks after you stop treating it.

Can dogs catch ringworm?

It’s possible to catch ringworm from an animal. Dogs, cats, and other animals can pass ringworm to humans. Just as there are effective treatments for people, there are effective ringworm treatments for pets. If your pet is diagnosed with ringworm, you’ll want to take some preventive measures for a few weeks.

Can you get ringworm on your hands?

Treat all ringworm at the same time. If you have athlete’s foot and ringworm on your hands, it’s important to treat both your feet and hands. If you treat only one area, you’ll still have a ringworm infection. The infection can quickly spread to other areas again.#N#Because ringworm is very contagious, you can also spread ringworm to other people.

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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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