Treatment FAQ

what is the most effective over the counter ringworm treatment

by Mr. Jedidiah Hodkiewicz Published 2 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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Apply a topical antifungal
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).

Can I buy over the counter Meds to get rid of ringworm?

There are many non-prescription products available to treat ringworm, including: Clotrimazole (Lotrimin, Mycelex) Miconazole (Aloe Vesta Antifungal, Azolen, Baza Antifungal, Carrington Antifungal, Critic Aid Clear, Cruex Prescription Strength, DermaFungal, Desenex, Fungoid Tincture, Micaderm, Micatin, Micro-Guard, Miranel, Mitrazol, Podactin, Remedy Antifungal, Secura …

What is the strongest OTC cream for ringworm?

Over-the-Counter Treatments for Ringworm If the infection is on your skin – as in the case of athlete’s foot or jock itch – your doctor will likely suggest an OTC antifungal cream, lotion, or...

What is the natural cure for ringworm?

Jul 08, 2019 · Ringworm treatment If you have signs of ringworm, you probably want it gone yesterday. Good news, says Dr. Vij: “It’s generally easy to treat.” 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.

Can ringworm be treated over the counter?

Skin: An antifungal ointment or cream often clears ringworm on the skin. Most of these medicines you apply twice a day for two to four weeks. 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.

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What is the best over-the-counter 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.Sep 24, 2021

What cures ringworm fast?

These treatments include:Apple cider vinegar. Some people apply cotton balls soaked in apple cider vinegar over affected areas of skin three times a day to treat ringworm.Coconut oil. People apply coconut oil to their skin to reduce the incidence of ringworm infections. ... Turmeric.

Can I get rid of ringworm without going to the doctor?

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. 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.Jul 8, 2019

What is the best product for ringworm?

Some examples of antifungal medications for treating ringworm on the skin include:Lotrimin cream, Cruex spray powder, Mycelex, Pedesil (clotrimazole)Desenex topical powder, Fungoid cream, Micatin cream, Lotrimin AF athlete's foot spray or powder, Lotrimin AF Jock Itch spray powder (miconazole)Lamisil (terbinafine)More items...•May 18, 2021

Does lamisil treat ringworm?

This medication is used to treat a variety of fungal skin infections such as ringworm, athlete's foot, and jock itch. This medication is also used to treat a skin condition known as pityriasis (tinea versicolor), a fungal infection that causes a lightening or darkening of the skin of the neck, chest, arms, or legs.

What kills ringworm on skin?

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)

What does ringworm look like when it starts?

Signs and symptoms of ringworm may include: A scaly ring-shaped area, typically on the buttocks, trunk, arms and legs. Itchiness. A clear or scaly area inside the ring, perhaps with a scattering of bumps whose color ranges from red on white skin to reddish, purplish, brown or gray on black and brown skin.

Is Lotrimin over-the-counter?

Lotrimin AF (clotrimazole) is an effective over-the-counter medication used for athlete's foot, ringworm, and jock itch, but it shouldn't be used for more serious infections.

Is Vaseline good for ringworm?

How do I keep from getting ringworm? The best defense against the itchy, scaly infection is to keep cool and dry and use a moisture barrier on the skin like Vaseline or Aquaphor.Nov 19, 2012

Is hydrocortisone good for ringworm?

Do not use steroid creams to treat rashes that may be ringworm. People who have ringworm don't always know what's causing their rash. For this reason, people sometimes apply over-the-counter creams or ointments containing medications called corticosteroids (or “steroids” for short) to their rash.

Does Benadryl help ringworm?

Antifungal pills may be prescribed for severe cases, which are resistant to other forms of treatment. Antihistamine pills may be advised to help reduce the itching.Sep 24, 2020

What are 3 symptoms of ringworm?

Recognizing ringworm symptomsitchiness.itchy or scaly patches that are red, brown, or gray, or raised areas of skin called plaques.a round, flat patch of itchy skin.patches that develop blisters or pustules.patches that resemble a ring with deeper color on the outside.patches with edges that are defined and raised.More items...

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.

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 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.

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.

Diagnosis

Your doctor might be able to diagnose ringworm simply by looking at it. Your doctor may take skin scrapings from the affected area so that they can be examined under a microscope.

Treatment

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.

Preparing for your appointment

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.

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.)

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.

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 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.

How to treat ringworm in beard?

Beard: Ringworm in the beard area requires prescription antifungal medicine and a tailor-made treatment plan. Your dermatologist may need to remove unhealthy tissue to help the area heal. You’ll also need to shave the infected hair.

How to get rid of ringworm on fingernails?

If the ringworm has spread to a fingernail, you will need to take an antifungal medicine to get rid of the infection. Nails: You need prescription medicine to clear ringworm from the nails. Because nails grow slowly, ringworm will take time to clear.

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 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.

How to treat jock itch?

To treat the itch, it often helps to apply a wet, cool washcloth to the area for 20 to 30 minutes. You may need to apply cool compresses 2 to 6 times a day. When washing the infected area or applying a cool compress, be sure to use a clean washcloth every time and use it only on the jock itch.

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.

What is the best treatment for ringworm?

The most common treatment option is an over-the-counter (OTC) fungal cream, spray, gel, or powder. If your ringworm doesn’t respond to an OTC treatment option, your doctor might recommend a prescription medication.

How to treat ringworm infection?

Wash your feet regularly with soap. Avoid sharing socks or shoes. Completely dry your feet before putting on your socks or shoes. Change your socks when they become moist or damp. It’s also a good idea to avoid touching your foot when treating a ringworm infection.

What is ringworm on the toes?

It’s thought that about 15 percent of the world’s population has a fungal foot infection. Ringworm most commonly affects the soles of your feet, between your toes, and around your toenails. The symptoms can range in severity from mild to very uncomfortable.

How long does it take for ringworm to go away?

Ringworm isn’t serious, but it can be persistent. With proper treatment, it usually goes away within about 2 weeks. The most common treatment option is an over-the-counter (OTC) fungal cream, spray, gel, or powder.

How do you know if you have ringworm on your feet?

Some of the specific symptoms of ringworm of the foot include: itching, burning, or stinging between your toes or on your soles. itchy blisters. cracking skin between your toes or on your soles. dry skin on your soles or sides of your feet. raw skin. discolored and crumbling toenails.

How to avoid getting ringworm?

Ringworm often lives in damp and moist environments, like on the floors of locker rooms. Avoiding direct contact with the floor of public showers and changing rooms is one of the best ways to avoid getting ringworm. Last medically reviewed on February 27, 2020.

How to prevent ringworm?

Here are some ways to prevent ringworm: 1 Wear flip-flops in public showers or locker rooms. 2 Wash your feet regularly with soap. 3 Avoid sharing socks or shoes. 4 Completely dry your feet before putting on your socks or shoes. 5 Change your socks when they become moist or damp.

Where does clotrimazole oil come from?

This oil comes from a tree in Australia. It’s a popular treatment for many conditions, including foot fungus. Research shows it works as well as clotrimazole, which is found in many OTC treatments.

Does baking soda help with fungus?

Baking Soda. In the lab, plain old sodium bicarbonate limited growth of the most common types of fungi that cause skin and nail infections.

What is the best nail polish for fungus?

Best Medicated Nail Polish: Arishine Toenail Fungus Treatment at Amazon. "Perfect for storing in your bag or pocket, the nail polish uses a mix of active ingredients to banish fungus and heal the damage.". Toenail fungus is a common fungal condition that often starts after a rash on the foot spreads to the nails.

What is the best soap for toenail fungus?

Fragrant oils may be overwhelming. A medicated soap is another way to address toenail fungus and other forms of fungus that can grow on the feet. The Remedy Soap specifically addresses fungal infections by combining all-natural ingredients: tea tree oil, aloe, peppermint, and eucalyptus .

How to treat toenail fungus?

Undecylenic acid works to kill the toenail fungus and prevent regrowth while tea tree and lavender oil soothe the skin. For optimal results, apply the solution on the cuticles and skin surrounding the nail. This helps the product penetrate underneath the nail bed to address the fungus.

Does zinc ointment kill fungus?

Once applied, the maximum-strength ointment kills the fungus with the active ingredients of zinc undecylenate and undecylenic acid to help treat toenail fungus. The ointment also soothes itching and burning that can come with an infection, all while healing the skin.

Can you use terbinafine for toenail fungus?

Only for mild infections. Prescription orals and topicals are the most effective way to treat toenail fungus, 1 but there are products over-the-counter that can also address mild fungal infections. Terbinafine Hydrochloride AntiFungal Cream works to address a variety of infections, including toenail fungus.

Can athlete's foot be treated with antifungal?

“It begins with a rash on the foot and spreads to the toenails,” she says. Treating athlete’s foot differs from toenail fungus, so pay attention to where your problem is on your foot. If it’s athlete’s foot, you can address the concern with antifungal ointments, sprays, and powders available over-the-counter.

Can toenail fungus be treated?

Toenail fungus, if left untreated, can become a tough problem to treat and will greatly influence what medications you need. If the toenails are thick, yellowed, and left untreated for a long time, that could indicate you need either a prescription-strength product or to seek help from a board-certified dermatologist.

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Diagnosis

Treatment

  • 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. This includes loose-fitting, long-sleeve shirts and pants. Because r...
See more on healthline.com

Lifestyle and Home Remedies

Preparing For Your Appointment

  • Your doctor might be able to diagnose ringworm simply by looking at it. Your doctor may take skin scrapings from the affected area so that they can be examined under a microscope.
See more on mayoclinic.org

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