Ringworm is a contagious fungal infection involving the skin. The condition may affect the body, foot, groin or scalp. Ringworm on the scalp, also referred to as tinea capitis, is most common for children, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Symptoms of ringworm on the scalp include round, reddened areas of scaly skin with hair that breaks off creating bald patches. Complications such as inflammation with a yellow, crusty scab may from and cause permanent scarring and hair loss. With early treatment, the inflammation may not occur and the bald areas grow hair again. Even with proper treatment, ringworm may reoccur.
Step 1
Visit a physician for proper diagnosis and treatment options. The most effective treatment for ringworm on the scalp is a prescription oral antifungal medication.
Step 2
Get a prescription for the antifungal medication. Common drugs used to treat tinea capitis include griseofulvin and terbinafine hydrochloride. Take the medications as prescribed by the physician. It may take six or more weeks of taking the antifungal medication to get rid of the infection, according to MayoClinic.com.
Step 3
Wash the hair with a medicated shampoo. Using a shampoo containing ketoconazole selenium sulfide may help kill the ringworm and prevent spreading the infection to other areas of the person or to other people. After lathering with the shampoo, wait at least five minutes before rinsing. Repeat the shampooing several times each week for a month.
Step 4
Apply an antifungal cream to the areas on the scalp affected by ringworm. The antifungal cream will help prevent the spread of the fungal infection, according to The Merck Manuals Online Medical Library Home Edition.
Things You'll Need
- Antifungal medications
- Medicated shampoo
