Medication
The treatment for ringworm depends on its location on the body and how serious the infection is. Some forms of ringworm can be treated with non-prescription (“over-the-counter”) medications, but other forms of ringworm need treatment with prescription antifungal medication. Ringworm on the skin like athlete’s foot (tinea pedis) and jock itch (tinea cruris) can usually be treated …
Self-care
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. 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.
Nutrition
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.
What is the fastest treatment for ringworm?
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.
Which medicine is best for ringworm?
Griseofulvin (Grifulvin V, Gris-PEG), Terbinafine, and Itraconazole are the oral medicines doctors prescribe most often for ringworm....Prescription Treatments for RingwormTerbinafine. If your doctor puts you on these tablets, you'll have to take them once a day for 4 weeks. ... Griseofulvin. ... Itraconazole.Sep 2, 2020
How can I treat ringworm at home?
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.
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 causes ring worm?
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?
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...
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.Mar 9, 2018
How long does it take for ring worm 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.
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
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 causes red splotches on the skin?
Ringworm causes red, ring-shaped patches on the skin. The red splotches typically have a wavy border that’s raised or scaly, Dr. Vij says. The rash is usually a little itchy but not always.
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.
Where does tinea show up?
It can also show up anywhere on the body. In kids, the scalp is a common spot. But tinea can also infiltrate the feet (where it’s known as athlete’s foot) or the groin (hello, jock itch ). Advertising Policy.
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.)
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 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 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.
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 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?
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.
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.
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.
How to treat fungal infections with licorice?
Licorice has strong antimicrobial properties, and research has found that the extracts of licorice could be used as alterative treatment for fungal infections. Mix eight teaspoons of powdered licorice with a cup of water and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and simmer for ten minutes.
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 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 get rid of fungus on skin?
It’s also an effective antifungal that inhibits growth. Combine fresh-ground turmeric, or the turmeric spice, with a small amount of water and mix until it becomes a paste. Apply it to your skin and leave it on until it dries. You can also drink turmeric water or turmeric tea daily to get the internal benefits.
How to treat ringworm?
Body and groin — tinea corporis and cruris (“jock itch”) treatment includes: Over-the-counter (OTC) antifungal products. For tinea cruris: Keep the groin area clean and dry and wear cotton underwear. Extensive or recurrent infections may require systemic antifungal therapy.
Why is ringworm called ringworm?
The condition called “ ringworm ” because it can cause a circular rash shaped like a ring. There is no worm involved. Ringworm is named based on where it affects the body:
How long does it take for ringworm to appear?
Ringworm affects the skin, fingernails, and toenails. Symptoms of ringworm appear within 4 days to 2 weeks after coming into contact with the fungi that cause ringworm. Symptoms of ringworm include: Ring-shaped rash. Skin redness.
What is the best medicine for ringworm?
Some of the most popular ones are clotrimazole ( Lotrimin, Mycelex) and miconazole.
How long does it take for ringworm to clear up?
Your doctor will have to write you a prescription. Keep an eye out for symptoms that get worse or don’t clear up after 2 weeks. If they don’t, call your doctor.
How do you know if you have ringworm on your scalp?
Ringworm on your scalp tends to start out as a bump or small sore. It may turn flaky and scaly, and your scalp may feel tender and sore to the touch. You may notice that your hair starts to fall out in patches.
Can ringworm be found in cows?
It’s also very common in cows. By touching objects. The fungus that causes ringworm can linger on surfaces, clothes, towels, and in combs and brushes. From soil. If you’re working or standing barefoot in soil that’s infected with the fungus that causes ringworm, you can get it, too.
Is ringworm a worm?
Ringworm isn’t a worm. It’s a skin infection that’s caused by mold like fungi that live on the dead tissues of your skin, hair, and nails. You can get it in any of these places -- and on your scalp. When you get it between your toes, it’s what people call athlete’s foot. If it spreads to your groin, it’s known as jock itch.
How to prevent ringworm?
Do not share clothing, towels, hairbrushes, combs, hair accessories, sports gear, or other personal-care items. Wearing sandals or shoes in gyms, locker rooms, and at pools can help reduce your chances of contracting an athlete's foot.
What is ringworm?
Facts you should know about ringworm. Ringworm is a common fungal skin infection and is not due to a worm. The medical term for ringworm is tinea. The skin disease is further named for the site of the body where the infection occurs. Some types of ringworm infection include tinea corporis, tinea capitis, tinea pedis (" athlete's foot "), ...
What is the difference between Tinea faciei and Tinea manus?
Characteristically, it causes red scaly patches with indistinct edges. Tinea manus: ringworm involving the hands, particularly the palms and the spaces between the fingers.
What is the name of the ringworm that is itching?
The following are the different types of ringworm or tinea: Tinea barbae: Ringworm of the bearded area of the face and neck, with swelling and marked crusting, is often accompanied by itching, sometimes causing the hair to break off.
What is the name of the fungus that causes ringworm?
Tinea capitis, for instance, refers to scalp ringworm, tinea corporis to fungus of the body, tinea pedis to fungus of the feet, and so on. Several types of skin fungi cause ringworm. Source: iStock.
What is the ringworm infection?
Ringworm causes a scaly, crusted rash that may appear as round, ring-like red patch es on the skin. Other symptoms and signs of ringworm include patches of hair loss or scaling on the scalp, itching, ...
What are the red spots on my skin?
Tinea corporis: When fungus affects the skin of the body, it often produces the round spots of classic ringworm. The first stage of symptoms involves a red, scaly area of skin that may be slightly raised (plaque). This stage tends to worsen rapidly. The condition progresses to form the characteristic ring shape. Sometimes, these spots have an "active" outer border as they slowly grow and advance. Sometimes, scaling, crusting, raised areas, or even blister-like lesions can appear, particularly in the active border. It is important to distinguish ringworm of the body from other skin conditions, such as nummular eczema. This condition, and others, may appear similar to ringworm, but they are not due to a fungal infection and require different treatment.
Diagnosis
Treatment
Lifestyle and Home Remedies
Preparing For Your Appointment