School-aged children and toddlers commonly get ringworm on the scalp.The fungal scalp infection, caused by tinea capitis, can lead to bald spots where the ringworms are present, but hair growth resumes after the fungus is dead. Mayo Clinic says there is no need to shave the head to get rid of ringworm on the scalp.
Step 1
Take your child to the doctor. He will prescribe an antifungal medication--either Griseofulvin or Terbinafine hydrochloride. Your child can take Griseofulvin orally as a tablet or a liquid. You can sprinkle Terbainafine hydrochloride on food because it is a granule medication. Either medication must be taken for six weeks. Mayo Clinic advises that you have your child continue taking the medication prescribed even if you do not immediately see improvement.
Step 2
Wash your child's hair with a medicated shampoo that contains selenium sulfide. The American Medical Association has found that selenium sulfide kills the tinea capitis spores. Lather the hair well, and then let the shampoo sit for three to five minutes. Rinse the hair well with warm water, removing all shampoo residue.
Step 3
Shampoo the hair daily for six weeks. Although you may see improvement earlier, it is important to continue use of the shampoo to make sure all fungal spores are dead. Any active fugal spores can continue to spread and cause more ringworms on the scalp or other areas of the body.
Step 4
Wash all bedclothes that have come in contact with the ringworm on the scalp. Throw away all combs and brushes. Ringworms are spread by direct contact. To prevent further spreading of the ringworm, clean or throw away any items that can possibly be a carrier of fungal spores.
Things You'll Need
- Antifungal prescription
- Medicated shampoo
