Ringworm is a type of fungal infection that can affect the skin, nails and scalp, states MayoClinic.com. It is characterized by a red, itchy ring-shaped rash. It is a mild but highly contagious infection.
Children can easily spread the infection if they are in close settings with other children, such as school or daycare. Members of the same household can also spread the fungus by physical contact and sharing contaminated objects, like a towel or hair brush. Treatment should be overseen by a health care professional, but many over-the-counter medicines are safe for children.
Step 1
Consult a health care professional before purchasing an over-the-counter antifungal medication. Various types exist including powders, lotions and shampoos.
Step 2
Select the right product for the child's affected area, such as a lotion for the extremities. For face ringworm, caregivers should consult a health care professional about appropriate treatment. Scalp ringworm can be treated with a powder antifungal or shampoo made with selenium sulfide. DrGreene.com explains that miconazole or clotrimazole are effective antifungal medications that are available over-the-counter and are safe for children.
Step 3
Cleanse the affected area with a mild soap and warm water. Rinse the area thoroughly and pat it dry with a fresh towel. Be sure to wash this towel after using on the affected area, otherwise the fungus can attach to the towel and spread to other people.
Step 4
Apply a thin layer of the cream or lotion once or twice daily according to the doctor's recommendations or the specific medication instructions. For young children, the dose and frequency should be confirmed with a health care provider to avoid skin irritation.
Step 5
Shampoo the hair one to three times per week with selenium sulfide shampoo when the child has ringworm of the scalp. Lather the child's hair with the shampoo and allow it to sit for five minutes before rinsing. On the days when the medicated shampoo isn't used, use a mild shampoo to cleanse the child's hair.
Step 6
Avoid reusing any items on another individual after using them on the affected child. This includes towels, wash cloths, clothing and hairbrushes. Washing these items in the washing machine with hot water or rinsing hard objects in a warm sink of water with vinegar can fight the fungus. To create a cleansing solution, mix one part vinegar with five parts warm water. This solution can be made into a larger batch and sprayed onto surfaces to kill the fungus.
Step 7
Advise the child to avoid touching the area as this can spread the fungus to other parts of the body and to other people.
Step 8
Continue home treatment for up to four weeks or as long as recommended by a health care professional. Prescription antifungal medicine, such as an oral tablet or liquid, may be recommended for a stubborn infection.
Things You'll Need
- Antifungal product made with miconazole or clotrimazole
- Selenium sulfide shampoo for scalp infection
- Mild soap
- Water
- Towel
- White vinegar
