Ringworm, a fungal infection that develops on the top layer of the skin, appears as a red, circular rash with the center consisting of healthy, uninfected skin. A worm is not present, as the name would suggest. According to the Mayo Clinic, ringworm is a relation to various fungal infections such as athlete's foot and jock itch; it may even infect the scalp. Treatment of this condition is vital, as it is highly contagious.
Step 1
Practice good personal hygiene. Bathing every day won't completely cure ringworm, but it will prevent it from spreading to others. Bathing also helps relieve the itching that accompanies the fungus. Dermatologist Dr. Joseph Bark recommends using a mild soap, and recommends that you not scrub the affected area; this will only make the lesions worse.
Step 2
Switch to a medicated shampoo. For those suffering from ringworm of the scalp, medicated shampoos help relieve the itching while preventing the spreading of the fungus. For best results, Dr. Jack L. Lesher recommends lathering the shampoo first, and then letting it sit on your scalp for five minutes before rinsing.
Step 3
Use an antifungal cream. Dr. Lesher states that most mild cases of ringworm appearing on the upper body, groin and extremities can generally be treated with an over-the-counter antifungal cream. Lesher recommends using a cream that has azole as its active ingredient; this includes the family of clotrimazoles. Before applying, wash and thoroughly dry the affected area. Spread a thin layer of the cream once or twice a day for two weeks on the fungus.
Step 4
Choose your clothing carefully. Fungi, such as ringworm, grow best in warm, dark places. To increase the effectiveness of your treatment process, wear loose-fitting clothing, such as boxers instead of briefs; this allows for increased air flow. Dr. Paul Honig, director of pediatric dermatology at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, also recommends cotton clothing. Cotton keeps the skin exposed to air and free of moisture.
Step 5
Visit your doctor. The experts at the Mayo Clinic state that if your case of ringworm is severe, covering a wide area, or over-the-counter creams have not worked, it may be time for a prescription medication. There are a variety of prescription medications available, including lotions, creams, ointments, pills, tablets and capsules.
